Home Blog Page 6

‘An Ahmadi Muslim should be a perfect Muslim’: Members of MKA USA’s Southeast Region Meet Huzoor

‘An Ahmadi Muslim should be a perfect Muslim’: Members of MKA USA’s Southeast Region Meet Huzoor

Islamabad, Tilford, 29 November 2025: A delegation of khuddam from the Southeast Region of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya USA had the blessed opportunity of a mulaqat with Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa.

The meeting commenced as Huzooraa graced the hall with his presence and extended his salaam. Huzooraa first addressed the amir-e-qafilah, who is currently pursuing studies in archaeology. Following this, each of the khuddam had the opportunity to introduce himself. After the introductions, the khuddam were graciously granted permission to ask questions for their guidance on spiritual and worldly matters.

The duty of a new khadim

A young man who had just joined Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya at the start of the month asked for advice.

Huzooraa advised him to be regular in his five daily prayers, to read the Holy Quran and to strictly avoid negative content on social media and the internet, nurturing a hatred for such things. Huzooraa reminded him that Allah promises in the Quran that prayer protects one from indecency and evil. (Surah al-‘Ankabut, Ch.29: V.46) If he honestly strives in this, Allah will protect him.

Huzooraa cautioned against the mindset that sometimes develops at the age of 16, where youth feel they are now mature and free to disregard the wisdom of their parents and elders. Instead, he should maintain the good habits he had as a tifl. The simple teaching, Huzooraa stated, is to be pious, refrain from bad deeds, offer the five daily prayers on time and in congregation if possible and recite the Quran daily. Regardless of whether one is a waqif-e-nau or not, every Ahmadi Muslim should strive to be a perfect Muslim.

Researching cures for cancer

A khadim asked for advice for Ahmadi students wishing to research cancer cures, specifically enquiring if the Quran and Hadith provide guidance on foods like honey.

Huzooraa affirmed that the Quran instructs us to consume pure, i.e., tayyib and lawful, i.e., halal, foods. (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V. 169) Regarding honey, Allah states that it contains healing for mankind. (Surah an-Nahl, Ch.16: V.70) Huzooraa noted that several Ahmadi scientists are already researching the medicinal properties of honey and encouraged the khadim to do so as well. He explained that since bees tend to visit specific types of flowers, different honeys have unique properties; one type might be effective for stomach ailments, while another might aid in treating blood diseases or cancer.

Huzooraa narrated an incident from the life of the Holy Prophetsa where a man complained of a stomach ailment. The Holy Prophetsa advised him to take honey. The man returned twice, claiming it had worsened his condition. On the third visit, the Holy Prophetsa declared that God’s word is true and the man’s stomach was false; eventually, the man was cured. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab at-tibb, Bab ad-dawa’i bi l-‘asl, Hadith 5684) This illustrates that while honey has healing properties, research is needed to identify the specific types suitable for specific diseases.

Finding motivation to get closer to Allah

A khadim asked how one who lacks motivation can self-motivate to become closer to Allah.

Huzooraa asked the khadim if he desired a good future and success in his studies. When the khadim replied in the affirmative, Huzooraa explained that just as one is motivated to work hard for worldly success, if one loves Allah, they should be motivated to strive for His nearness. Allah commands us to struggle hard in His path and promises guidance to those who do. (Surah al-Hajj, Ch.22: V.79) The fundamental method is to pray fervently in the five daily prayers for guidance and for Allah to instil the desire for His love in one’s heart. Just as effort is required for academic targets, spiritual closeness requires hard work and obedience to Allah’s commandments.

Huzooraa said, “For getting nearness to Allah, you will have to work hard, as you are working hard for achieving your worldly targets, like your studies and other things. See, the same thing – you will have to struggle hard. Allah the Almighty says in the Holy Quran, ‘If you work hard, I will show you the right path.’ So, this is the only way. Pray to Allah the Almighty in your five daily prayers; never leave your prayer. If you are obeying Allah’s commandments, then Allah will guide you.”

Balancing waqf with family obligations

A question was asked regarding waqifeen-e-nau who wish to dedicate their lives but face external pressures, such as family financial problems or parental expectations.

Huzooraa advised that if one has a true desire to do waqf or devote one’s life, they should place their trust in Allah, as He is the One who feeds everyone, not we ourselves. (Surah al-An‘am, Ch.6: V.152) However, if one is double-minded or hesitant, it is better to seek permission to work and support the family. Huzooraa clarified that the Jamaat does not accept every waqf; there are specific needs for missionaries, doctors and engineers. Therefore, at present, he may pursue his studies or job while fulfilling his duties as a waqif-e-nau: being regular in prayer, reading the Holy Quran with meaning, studying Jamaat literature and the books of the Promised Messiahas and listening to the Khalifa-e-Waqt. Dedicating spare time to the Jamaat is also a form of waqf that allows one to support their family simultaneously.

Avoiding greed while pursuing a career

A khadim asked how one can pursue a successful, high-earning career without becoming greedy.

Huzooraa explained that if one earns wealth but follows Allah’s command to spend not only on oneself but also on orphans and the needy, then that wealth becomes a means of attaining Allah’s pleasure. Allah blesses such wealth manifold. This act of giving prevents greed because it keeps one connected to the pain of others. If one meets their own expenses but also sacrifices for the Jamaat and charity, Allah appreciates this and protects the heart from greed.

Reconnecting with distant khuddam

Guidance was sought on how to help khuddam who were once active but have become distant, specifically citing a case where personal grievances were involved.

Huzooraa advised that beyond official contact, there should be a personal connection. A friend of the same age should reach out to the distant khadim to remove misunderstandings with the same concern one would have for a brother. Huzooraa noted that sometimes people develop grudges against office-bearers – whether a Murabbi, President, or Secretary – and then distance themselves from the faith. He stressed that office-bearers must be extremely humble to avoid causing such stumbling blocks.

He mentioned that sometimes even members from well-established families drift away because they hold an idealised view of how office-bearers should be and when reality falls short, they blame the entire Jamaat. Huzooraa pointed out that even in the time of the Holy Prophetsa, there were hypocrites, but that did not falsify the message of Islam. Such individuals should be counselled with love and understanding, helping them realise that the Jamaat truly cares for them.

Moving to established jamaats vs. pioneering

A khadim asked if Ahmadis should move to places where the Jamaat is not yet established to spread the message, or stay where there is an established jamaat.

Huzooraa guided that families with young children should prioritise living near a mosque and an established jamaat to ensure their children’s moral upbringing. However, those whose children are grown, or who are single, can and should move to new areas to establish the Jamaat and do tabligh. The decision depends on the individual circumstances of each family and one must use their own judgement to decide what is best for their spiritual well-being.

Strengthening faith amidst distractions

A question was raised about how Ahmadi youth, facing modern distractions, can strengthen their bond with Allah and Khilafat despite their passion for service.

Huzooraa identified the root cause as the consumption of worldly distractions like social media, TV and useless games. Spending hours on these things after work or school ruins time and spiritual focus. The Tarbiyat Department must educate youth that these are vain pursuits [laghw] which the Quran forbids. (Surah al-Mu’minun, Ch.23: V.4)

Secondly, for those who have a genuine passion and fear of Allah, the remedy is worship. Allah promises that prayer keeps one on the right path. (Surah al-‘Ankabut, Ch.29: V.46) Therefore, the habit of prayer must be instilled. If someone is distracted, they should not be defamed but treated like a brother whose shortcomings are concealed. They should be lovingly reminded that their actions will cause them trouble. Huzooraa said, “This is a very big challenge; those working in Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya and the office bearers of the Jamaat and other auxiliary organisations should take this on as a personal challenge and take care of others as though they are their relatives. If you do so then you will see results. Explain things to them and bring them closer.”

Huzooraa observed that many youth come to the UK, get emotional and even cry during meetings, but revert to old habits months later because they lack the right environment. It is the duty of active khuddam to create that supportive environment for them.

The best Surah to recite

A khadim asked which Surah of the Quran is the best to recite.

Huzooraa stated that Surah al-Fatihah is the best. It contains the comprehensive prayer اِہۡدِنَا الصِّرَاطَ الۡمُسۡتَقِیۡمَ “Guide us in the right path”, which covers all aspects of moral training and spiritual guidance. Huzooraa advised reading its translation and the commentary available in the Jamaat’s Tafsir to fully understand its depth and importance.

Responding to anti-Islam sentiment

The final question addressed how to respond to rising anti-Islam sentiment and the mocking of Muslims on social media, specifically those praying in public.

Huzooraa advised ignoring abusive language, as we cannot compete in vulgarity. Regarding praying in public, he stated that there is no need to offer prayers on footpaths or roads where it disturbs others or blocks pathways. Prayers should be offered in mosques or at home. If one is out and time is short, they should find a secluded corner or an isolated place, not a public thoroughfare.

However, Ahmadis must be firm in their faith and not care about people’s mockery regarding their beliefs. The best response to anti-Islam sentiment is to practise true Islam. When people see the good behaviour of Ahmadis and their message of peace, love and harmony, they will naturally be curious and respectful. 

Huzooraa stressed that opponents exploit the actions of terrorists to defame Islam; our duty is to counter this by spreading the true, peaceful message through our own conduct and by distributing literature. 

Huzooraa said, “When they are using abusive language, we cannot compete with them […], so ignore it. And why should we pray in public? We have mosques; you should go to the mosque or offer your prayers in your homes. And if you are bound and short of time to pray the Zuhr or Asr prayer on time, then you try to find a corner and pray there. And if you are in a group, then you should also go to an isolated place and offer your prayer there, not that you start offering your prayer on the footpaths or on the roads; that is not advisable. [Otherwise, you may be] breaking the rules and regulations of that society or that country. You are disturbing the convenience of the people there, right? You are destroying their peace. So why should you offer your prayer in public places? So avoid that, but be firm in your faith. Be determined that you have to offer your five daily prayers on time. And don’t bother about what the people say. 

“Try to learn more about your religion. What is Islam? What is the practice and sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa? Why do we Ahmadis claim that we are Ahmadi Muslims? Only a claim is not enough until and unless we practice the true teaching of Islam. So when we are portraying our good behaviour and conveying the true message of Islam to the people and practising what we say, then people will obviously ask you, ‘Why are you different from other people?’ And they will try to learn more about Islam. In this way, you will open more doors to preaching. Right? So in this way, you should also try to explore more avenues for preaching. To let the people know, because people are ignorant. They don’t know much about Islam. Only those who are opponents of Islam have exploited this thing, that Muslims are not good. And you see, they will take the examples of terrorists or militants and tell the people that this is the behaviour of Muslims. So, actually, tell the people that this is not the true teaching, which these people are doing. The true teaching of Islam is peace, love, and harmony, and to respect each other. And that is what we pray, we practise, and we convey. It’s a great challenge. This is why I say that you should try to spread the true message of Islam through pamphlets and through your own behaviour. And this is how you can overcome this situation.”

The mulaqat concluded with the khuddam having the honour of a group photograph with Huzooraa.

(Summary prepared by Al Hakam)

Smile: Your life depends on it

0
Muhammad Abdul Hayee Nasir, Jamia Ahmadiyya International, Ghana
Smile: Your life depends on it

Did you know that the secret to living a longer, healthier and a more peaceful life is not as complicated as you might think it is? The secret is not entirely about making complicated diet plans, or going to the gym regularly, or just generally following routines which are difficult to maintain. Every now and then, the real change comes with things that are easy and more natural.

A smile.

Yes! You read that correctly, a smile. There is a lot of research which has proven that when you smile, it helps in reducing stress levels, blood pressure levels and most essentially uplifting your overall well-being. It is something so simple yet its benefits reach far beyond our imaginations.

Smiling does not only make us feel better; it also finds its way to the hearts of the people around us. For instance, when your father or mother gives you a smile; you feel warmth and safety.

Or when your doctor smilingly tells you not to worry and that you’ll be fine. At that moment you become so relieved that you forget about the pain or sickness you’re having.

Or, for those who are married, when your wife gives you a loving smile, it can brighten your whole day in an instant.

Thus, a simple smile possesses incredible strength. It provides comfort, motivation, and lets the people you love know they matter. Even an ordinary moment can become special when it’s shared with a genuine smile.

From an Islamic lens, we can learn a lot from the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammadsa and what he taught about smiling, as well as the benefits of smiling backed up by scientific research.

The Sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa

The Holy Prophetsa had to face numerous hardships and difficulties in his life; he lost his parents at a very tender age and was brought up as an orphan, he lost many of his children during his lifetime, he lost so many devoted companions in the various battles; upon all these hardships the smile never faded away from the face of our beloved Mastersa.

Hazrat Ibn Jazra narrates about the Holy Prophetsa that: “I have not seen anyone who smiled more than the Messengersa of Allah.” (Jami’ at-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-manaqab, Hadith 3641)

The Holy Prophetsa usually met his devoted companions with a gentle smile, filling the air with comfort and love.

Hazrat Jarir bin Abdullahra narrates: “Since I embraced Islam, Allah’s Messengersa never refused to see me, and whenever he saw me, he received me with a smile.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab fadaʾil al-sahabah, Hadith 2475b)

This narration shows how the Holy Prophet’ssa gentle smile made his companions feel honored and loved.

Then Hazrat Abu Dharrra narrated that the Holy Prophetsa said: “Don’t consider anything insignificant out of good things even if it is that you meet your brother with a cheerful countenance.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitabul birr was-sila wal-adaab, Hadith 2626)

This teaches us an important thing, that greeting others with a cheerful and pleasant expression is a righteous act, which has a reward.

Smiling is also counted among those deeds that the Holy Prophetsa described as acts of charity.

Hazrat Abu Dharrra narrated that the Messengersa of Allah said:

“Your smiling in the face of your brother is charity, commanding good and forbidding evil is charity, your giving directions to a man lost in the land is charity for you. Your seeing for a man with bad sight is a charity for you, your removal of a rock, a thorn or a bone from the road is charity for you. Your pouring what remains from your bucket into the bucket of your brother is charity for you.” (Jami’ at-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-birr wa as-sila ‘an rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wasallam, Hadith 1956)

This beautiful narration shows us that even a simple smile contains spiritual value. It is considered an act of charity, an easy yet great way to spread goodness, uplift hearts and earn the pleasure of Allah the Almighty.

Advice from our beloved Imam

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned the above hadith during his Friday Sermon on 18 July 2003 and stated that:

“It is first stated that keep smiling. Smiling does not cost you anything, nor do you lose anything. When you meet one another, meet with a smile. If there were any grievances, then remove them within these three days through your smiles.” (Khutbat-e-Masroor, Vol. 1, p. 188)

Once, Huzooraa was asked by a child how he found time to rest and do other activities whilst managing his very busy schedule. Huzooraa stated that: “I work in my office and also manage to perform other work too, such as listening to the news.”

He added, “It is all in the mind; if man becomes lazy and says that he does not get enough sleep, then nothing can be accomplished. You must be firm and tell yourself that you need to get such and such work done.” He further said: “Always smile; this will keep you active.”

Similarly, it is mentioned in an article that Huzooraa once said to the author: “You don’t laugh very often. You should always keep smiling.”

From this we learn that smiling is important when we meet people and it also helps us to be active.

Physical benefits of smiling

After presenting the Sunnah of our beloved Prophetsa and the advice of our beloved Huzooraa about the benefits of smiling, I will now mention some physical benefits of smiling backed up by modern science. Smiling – an act which the Holy Prophetsa has described as a form of charity – regarding which science is now proving its physical benefits as well and telling us that a simple smile may seem small, but its effect on our body is surprisingly powerful.

Smiling can help you live longer

Every person must have wished to live a long life at a certain point in their lifetime, from movies about elixirs of life to scientific research of our time, humankind has always been fascinated with the topic of longevity. Surprisingly, the simplest contributors to longer life are at our disposal, and the most unexpected among them is a smile.

According to Harvard Health Publishing, one study showed that individuals with more optimism usually live longer. These individuals have a far greater chance of living past age 85, which proves the strong relationship between a positive outlook and health over a long period.

Smiling elevates mood and relieves stress

A large population of the world suffers from stress. In 2022, more than three-quarters of adults reported symptoms of stress, including headache, tiredness and depression. Stress has a deep effect on our whole being, even our faces.

A study showed that smiling does not only prevent us from looking tired, weary and exhausted, but it also actively helps in reducing our stress. When we smile, our body releases endorphins and other “feel-good” chemicals, which calm the mind, lower tension, and improve overall well-being. Smiling can also boost your happiness. The next time you feel down, try putting on a smile, chances are your mood will improve.

Smiling may lower blood pressure

While smiling is proven to lower heart rate during stressful moments, research also points out that it can help reduce blood pressure. One of the studies even found out that laughter therapy which encourages you to smile, can help some heart-patients reduce their dependency on heart medications. This makes sense, given the powerful connection between positive expressions and cardiovascular health.

Smiling can boost your immune system:

Smiling also boosts our overall health by supporting our immune system. Smiling activates the parasympathetic nervous system, this activation helps in controlling the secretion of certain gut hormones and antibodies that create the anti-inflammatory effect, improving the immune response.

If you’re trying to maintain good health or boost your immunity, try smiling, it offers a simple yet meaningful benefit.

Smiling can make you look attractive:

We feel more comfortable around those who smile, you can feel a natural radiance coming from within them and we usually avoid someone with negative expressions like frowns and scowls. Let’s be real, no one likes to be around someone who is always frowning and spreading negativity.

So, as negative expressions tend to push people away, positive expressions like a smile does the complete opposite, it attracts people towards you, it makes you feel warm and approachable. People usually link a smiling face with positive personality traits, which means you are more likely to draw others toward you.

Apart from smiling makes you look more attractive; it can also make you look younger. When we smile the muscles on our face gently lift, giving us a more youthful appearance. So, try to smile more often, it’s a natural way to look younger and feel better.

Conclusion

In a world full of depression, anxiety and noise, we must try our best and remain positive no matter the challenges life throws at us. We should try to follow the smiling Sunnah of our beloved Prophetsa and face every difficulty with a smile on our faces.

The Holy Prophetsa described smiling as an act of charity, so let’s spread love and comfort in the world with our smiles. Learn to smile more frequently, for your own peace of mind and also for the people whose lives you brighten along the way.

Digital amnesia: The phone number we forgot

Daniyal Mahmood Ahmad, Al Hakam
Digital amnesia: The phone number we forgot

There once was a time when humans had a remarkable quality. In this day and age, it might be considered a superpower, or maybe even a sign of genius. This is the ability known as “memory”.

I’m not referring to the legendary gift of memorisation that the Arabs were known to possess around the time of the advent of Islam. What I’m referring to is, on the contrary, relatively recent. It’s about a time when we could, believe it or not, memorise entire phone numbers.

Somewhere along the path of technological progress, we’ve lost this capability. Ask anyone around you whether they remember anyone’s phone number aside from their own and maybe one close relative’s. This figure declined from 70% in 2015 to 60% by 2019. That’s only four years. Most people will struggle to recall any more than that, and this figure is declining even further. (Digital Amnesia Revisited, Kaspersky Lab, 2019, p. 2)

What has led to such a drastic change in a natural capability? To explore this, let’s return to the very beginning of our human civilisation’s lifecycle.

When Adamas and Eve were roaming in the Garden of Eden, God made a covenant with them (Surah Ta Ha, Ch.20: V.116). Although Adamas was a righteous and pious servant of God, he was also like us, a human. And so – like we all do from time to time –  he forgot the command.

Adamas took responsibility for his sudden lapse and made amends with the Almighty. He was able to do this because Allah said that “We found in him no determination to disobey.” (Ibid.)

What we can gauge from this story is that forgetting isn’t inherently an issue, depending on the nature of the matter and the intentions involved. So, in our case, forgetting a phone number isn’t a sin or a crime against humanity.

But the issue runs deeper than what’s visible on the surface; it’s not that we are forgetting things more easily, it’s that we are struggling to even remember them in the first place.

This inability has been linked to the increase in digital devices and technology to aid us in remembering tasks, essentially outsourcing our cognitive abilities to machines. This is known as “cognitive offloading”, and the result of this is what has been coined as “digital amnesia”.

If we compare the brain to generative AI, it becomes easy to understand how the more it is utilised (by increasing the input of knowledge, information, critical thinking, etc.), the sharper our mind becomes. This applies the other way around, too; if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.

The “lose it” part is a result of hippocampal inactivity when relying on external storage. This leads to what Betsy Sparrow, a neuroscientist from Columbia University, has coined “the Google Effect”, where we remember where to find information instead of remembering the information itself.

It must be noted that forgetting isn’t always a flaw; sometimes it’s a blessing in disguise. Take the story of Mosesas and Khizr as an example, when the companion of Mosesas forgets the fish. This causes them to alter their entire journey, but it also leads them to the place they were meant to reach. (Surah al-Kahf, Ch.18: V.62-66)

But at our current rate of forgetfulness, the science is alarming. Relying on devices causes the prefrontal cortex to reduce its effort. This leads to memory decay, which contributes to not only forgetfulness, but also anxiety.

Ever wondered whether you’ve closed the fridge in the middle of the night? Or if you saved a very important document before closing it? That’s the kind of anxiety at issue.

Where there is anxiety, there is naturally a lack of presence. In order to employ habits of presence, we must be present. Anxiety is the antithesis of that. So it’s no longer the meagre issue of forgetting phone numbers.

The Quran warns against the results of forgetfulness: “And be not like those who forgot Allah, and whom He has consequently caused to forget their own souls.” (Surah al-Hashr, Ch.59: V.20)

Fortunately, though, the solution lies in the problem itself; in order to remember Allah, we must do dhikr (remembrance of Allah). This leads to a step-by-step solution. Memory requires attention, attention requires presence, and presence is the essence of dhikr.

As Rumi said:

“Now listen to the Prophet of Mankind:

“‘No prayer’s complete without a present mind.’” (The Masnavi [English], Book 1, Oxford University Press, 2004, p. 27)

In this way, we can begin to cure the anxiety that’s being caused due to our lack of presence: “Aye! it is in the remembrance of Allah that hearts can find comfort”. (Surah al-Ra’d, Ch.13: V.29)

How do we practically employ this method? An effective way to heal our neural focusing ability, according to multiple neuroscience studies, is to enter meditation-like states. In other words, salat. Spiritual benefits aside, salat acts as a cognitive intervention, essentially balancing our state of mind and cognitive abilities. This is in result of an increase in hippocampal grey matter.

Other methods to employ can include reducing screen time, as this will reactivate the brain’s natural memory-building circuits, as well as constantly challenging the brain through analytical and memorisation practices.

In all this, the crux of the matter is that attention is what matters. As the famous English writer, Dr Samuel Johnson, aptly summarises: “The true art of memory is the art of attention.” (The Idler, 1826, p. 80)

With enough presence and attention, our memory will thrive.

The fact is that forgetting a phone number may seem insignificant, but with all the science-backed research, it’s an ever-increasing danger to our cognitive functions. The solutions are also available. Perhaps – just like a phone line – we need to focus on establishing that very first and primary connection before anything else. As the Almighty says: “Remember Me, and I will remember you.” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.153)

A letter of protest to His Majesty over cartoons of the Prophet and the early Ahmadiyya mission in Sumatra, 1925

Editor’s Note: The following letter, published in the November 1925 issue of The Review of Religions, was submitted to His Majesty’s Secretary for Home Affairs by Hazrat Abdur Rahim Dardra, MA, in response to the cartoon of the Most Holy Prophetsa printed in ‘The Star’ newspaper. In subsequent correspondence, The Star publicly expressed its regret regarding the publication.

A letter of protest to His Majesty over cartoons of the Prophet and the early Ahmadiyya mission in Sumatra, 1925
The British Foreign Office assured the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat (left) that their protest over a blasphemous cartoon in The Star was unofficially raised and that the newspaper published an apology on 9 September 1925. The official transcript of The Star’s published apology can be seen on the right. | National Archives of India – This image cannot be reproduced, copied or transmitted without the written permission of the National Archives of India

Letter to His Majesty

“Your Excellency,

“In my capacity as the head of a very big section of the Muslim community in England, I deem it necessary to convey to Your Excellency on their behalf, and on behalf of many Egyptian, Indian and African Muslims who have approached me for that purpose, the feelings of fierce indignation and deep mortification that a cartoon printed in The Star, dated 18/8/25 (of which a copy is attached herewith) has aroused.

“The cartoon depicts Mr. Jack Hobbs as a colossal figure. At his feet are shown to stand some very reputed historical personages, including among them Adam[as] and Mohammad, the Holy Prophet of Islam, may peace and the blessings of God be upon him. Like all others, they are made to look at Mr. Hobbs apparently in astonishment and bewilderment at the latter scoring so many centuries in cricket. This ignominiously disgraceful cartoon has inflicted a deep wound on the religious susceptibilities of the Muslims.

“The Holy Prophet Mohammad, peace and blessings of God be upon him, is the most sacred personage for the Muslims. The love they bear towards him and the veneration with which they cherish his holy memory, transcends all barriers of colour, caste, and country. Of all earthly things, the most revered in their eyes is the honour of their Spiritual Master, for whose sake every Muslim, young or old, high or low, man or woman, is ready to sacrifice his life and his all. A Muslim can bear anything but an affront offered to the name of his beloved and revered Master.

“Your Excellency can, therefore, only imagine the intensity and the depth of the feelings that this manifold insult has stirred. Words cannot adequately express it. The greatest Monarch, of unequalled spiritual glory, the most perfect manifestation of God, the Cynosure of all eyes, the Prince of Peace, and a Mercy unto all mankind, painted as a pigmy lost in amazement, and as a monster of bloodshed and carnage with a drawn sword in his hand! No art could degenerate so low.

“Nothing could be more mischievous, on the part of a paper, than to play with the religious susceptibilities of a people. It is a disgrace to journalism. Could not the admiration of a cricketer be complete without heaping unmerited and unprovoked disgraces on the name of one who takes his stand in the first row of the greatest reformers of humanity?

“Surely this is the most malicious and insidious form of comparison. I need not draw Your Excellency’s attention to the storm of indignation and hatred which this cartoon would raise in India and all other Muslim countries.

“I protest, therefore, most emphatically, against this despicable indignity loaded on our Holy Prophet, may peace and blessings of God be upon him, and request Your Excellency to give your most earnest attention to this very serious matter and set the law in motion against the offenders, so that the world may know that England is justly proud of her traditional fairness and impartiality.

“Your Excellency’s most obedient servant,

“AR DARD MA.”

West Africa

The Nigerian Spectator writes in its editorial notes:

“The Ahmadiyas seem destined to work out a revolution in Mohammedan life in Nigeria. Started only a few years ago, the movement is working remarkable changes in the life and outlook of young Mohammedans not only in Lagos, but throughout Nigeria. And there is no doubt that the movement has come to stay.

“Among the local Ahmadiyas, professional men are springing up. They have already produced one lawyer and with two or three more to come in a year or two.

“In a few years, Mohammedan qualified medical practitioners will be arriving, and all these enlightened activities are traceable to the influence of the local Ahmadiyas. […]”

A prophecy fulfilled

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian published a prophecy in 1906 to the following effect:

“The Palace of the Shah of Persia shall be shaken.”

At the time when this revelation was published, nobody could imagine that such a strong wave of democracy would sweep over Persia. God’s words, however, are comprehended only when on being fulfilled, they manifest the Power and Might of God Almighty.

Sumatra

We learn with pleasure from the Al Fazl Qadian that our new missionary has reached Sumatra safely, and within a week of his stay there, eight persons have joined the fold of Hazrat Ahmadas. May the number increase! Amin.

Mysticism and Ahmadiyyat

The Rev. WW Cash writes in his latest book:

“Mysticism long ago found a home among Moslems, and in 1879 Mirza Ghulam Ahmad[as], of the village of Qadian, in the Punjab, began to propound his new mysticism to his Moslem brethren. His teaching was chiefly based upon his personal claims. He declared himself to be the Christian Messiah, the Muhammadan Mahdi, and the final [avatar] expected by the Hindus.

“His claim at once brought him into conflict with orthodox Islam. The Mahdi (the final successor of the Prophet) was to be a man of blood; how, then, could Mirza Ghulam Ahmad[as] combine in his own person the character of Jesus, a man of peace, not war.

“The Ahmadiyya Movement is remarkable for the way it turned the attention of Mohammadans to the study of Jesus Christ.”

Dr Zwemer, reviewing his book, remarks in connection with the above passage as follows:

“We regret, where all is so good, to point out one important inaccuracy. The Ahmadiyya Movement is in no sense connected with Muhammadan mysticism, but is rather an attempt to rationalise Islam by a forced exegesis of the Koran and by going back to the swoon theory regarding the Crucifixion, to put Jesus Christ in an unknown grave in Kashmir, so that the Caliph of their new Promised Messiah may carry on propaganda in a literary bureau at Qadian, in the Punjab!

“Both the branches of the Ahmadiyya Movement now have a mosque in or near London, but neither dream of zikrs or mysticism in their worship or philosophy.”

We agree with Dr Zwemer in saying that the Ahmadiyya movement is not an order of howling and dancing Dervishes; nor is their mysticism a dreamy contemplation on ideas that have no foundation in human experience.

But we do not think the Rev. WW Cash means any of these conceptions by his words, “new mysticism.” He may, however, have confused it with Sufism, which in its truest sense means Islam pure and simple.

We regret to say that Dr Zwemer calls the tomb of Jesus[as] in Kashmir as “Unknown,” and our interpretation of the Holy Quran as “forced exegesis.” A glance at the photo of the tomb of Jesus[as] published in our previous issue and a cursory perusal of “The True Islam” will convince our readers that it is a wilful misrepresentation.

Why missionaries from the East

The East has been looked upon as being uncivilised and missionaries have been up till now sent from the West to educate it.

Why is it that the East now sends its missionaries to the West? What has caused this wonderful change?

A similar question was put to a Companion of the Holy Prophetsa in the Court of the Persian Chosroe. And the answer which he gave at that time applies in our case as well:

“The vices and iniquities that were ascribed to us did actually prevail amongst us. We were as weak as we were looked upon. But God, by raising a prophet amongst us, has wrought a great change in us and has elevated our hopes and aspirations. We are not now what we were before and the things that used to satisfy us before cannot satisfy us now.”

We have undergone a similar change. Thirty-four years before the condition of Islam was such that its devoted votaries could scarcely defend it, God then sent a prophet amongst us whose advent was foretold under different names; some called him the Messiah, by others he was known as the Mahdi, Krishna, or Masio Dar Bahmi.

He quickened the dead by the Divine Elixir of life that God sent from Heaven, and thousands who had been dead for years, left their tombs and scattered in the cities to bear witness to the glory of God and His sublime attributes that know no decline.

All our endeavours and movements, therefore, are regulated by the will of God. We are like a musical instrument, a flute, which gives out the voice of One who plays upon it.

We convey the voice of God to the world, and our mission is a mission of amity and goodwill and our sole object is that we have found out our Creator. Our fellow brethren should also see His face and should not lead a life of estrangement from Him.

We have come to the West to proclaim the second advent of the Messiah. Blessed are those who cast aside all prejudices and give ears to the voice of One who says that he has been raised by God.

(Transcribed and edited by Al Hakam from the original English, published in the November & December 1925 issue of The Review of Religions)

Tri-border peace conference unites Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina

0
Mishaal Baten, Paraguay Correspondent
Tri-border peace conference unites Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina

On 25 October 2025, a historic event took place in the city of Foz do Iguaçu, a Brazilian town situated at the meeting point of Argentina and Paraguay. A delegation of 22 people travelled by bus from Asunción, Paraguay, to attend the conference.

The seven-hour journey from Asunción to Foz do Iguaçu proved to be very beneficial for the local Paraguayan members and offered a valuable bonding opportunity among international Ahmadis and tabligh contacts. The Peace Conference received widespread coverage, including by Paraguayan journalist Richard Moreira, who attended the event.

Missionaries from Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina participated in the conference. Missionary Wasim Zafar Sahib of Brazil spoke on “Introduction to Islam Ahmadiyyat”. Missionary Abdun Nur Baten Sahib of Paraguay delivered a speech on “The Life and Example of the Holy Prophetsa” and missionary Marwan Gill Sahib of Argentina spoke on “The World Crisis and Pathway to Peace”.

This event was the first of its kind in South America. A Quran exhibition and a bookstall were set up, and refreshments were served to all attendees.

Interfaith symposium held by Lajna Imaillah, Alberta, Canada

0
Barayah Khawaja, Secretary Ishaat, Lajna Imaillah, Edmonton East, Canada

On 6 October 2025, Lajna Imaillah Alberta hosted its annual interfaith symposium, bringing together women from Edmonton, Lloydminster and surrounding communities. Over 200 attendees, including community members and guests of diverse faith backgrounds, gathered for an afternoon of connection, reflection and meaningful dialogue.

The symposium featured a series of exhibitions that highlighted Islamic history, service and scholarship. Guests were welcomed by an Islamic Heritage Month display, celebrating 1,500 years of Islamic tradition and honouring the contributions of women from the era of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa to Ahmadi Muslim women.

Exhibitions highlighted the Jamaat’s humanitarian work through Humanity First, including donations for local shelters and care packages for those in need. A Holy Quran display featuring translations in over 200 languages invited guests to explore authentic Islamic teachings, including on women’s rights and hijab. Alongside it, a “Promised Messiahas Exhibition” showcased the life, mission and writings of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas and the prophecies regarding his advent.

The symposium focused on “The Coming of the Messiah”. It opened with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by remarks by moderator Amna Sahar Sahiba and introductions to speakers from Buddhist, Christian, Jewish and Ahmadi Muslim communities. A video showcased the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat’s humanitarian work in Alberta and the leadership of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, emphasising unity, compassion and the revival of true Islamic teachings.

Four speakers shared perspectives from Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism and Islam. Ven Dhamma Chintha offered Buddhist insights rooted in decades of teaching and counselling. Reverend Britt Aerhart spoke from a Christian lens, emphasising compassion in faith. Netta Phillet represented the Jewish community, highlighting interfaith harmony and women’s roles in faith traditions. Nadia Mahmood Sahiba, Sadr Lajna Imaillah Canada, presented the Islamic perspective, emphasising women’s leadership in fostering peace and unity.

The event concluded with a question-and-answer session, followed by closing remarks from Regional Sadr, Samina Mian Sahiba, and a silent prayer.

Nau-muba‘ieen get-together held in Dudley, UK

0
Shah Danial, Additional Secretary Tarbiyat & Waqf-e-Jadid for New Ahmadis, Jamaat Dudley

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Dudley, UK, hosted a nau-muba‘ieen (new converts) get-together on 26 October 2025, at the Baitul Ghafoor Mosque, welcoming individuals from Dudley, Wolverhampton and Birmingham West who have recently embraced the fold of Islam Ahmadiyyat.

This event aimed to provide a place for new Ahmadis to strengthen their connection with faith whilst engaging in meaningful discussions and sharing experiences that enrich their spiritual journey within the Jamaat.

The programme commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a poem and a welcome address by Qalb-E-Waseem Shah Sahib.

The first speech was delivered by the missionary, Imran Khalid Sahib, who offered guidance and encouragement to the new converts, emphasising the importance of spiritual steadfastness and the blessings of belonging to the Jamaat of the Promised Messiahas. The second speech was given by Jalees Khan Sahib, another missionary, who spoke about nurturing one’s relationship with Allah and remaining active within the Jamaat.

Following the formal session, attendees participated in an interactive personal dialogue session, allowing for short introductions and stories of joining Islam Ahmadiyyat. The atmosphere was filled with sincerity, brotherhood and the spirit of unity.

The programme concluded with silent prayer, followed by Zuhr and Asr prayers and lunch. The programme was attended by 15 men and 13 ladies.

13th ijtema held by Majlis Ansarullah Niger

0
Muhammad Jamal, Niger Correspondent

The 13th National Ijtema of Majlis Ansarullah Niger was held on 7-9 November 2025 in Mohamadabad, Guidan Roumdji Region. A total of 563 members participated from across the country.

Members began arriving in Mohamadabad on 7 November, welcomed by Sadr Majlis Ansarullah Niger, M Souleymane Mahamane Sahib.

The first day began with Tahajjud and Fajr prayers, followed by a dars of the Holy Quran. After the flag-hoisting ceremony, the opening session began with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the Ansar pledge and an address by Amir Jamaat Niger, Asad Majeeb Sahib, who spoke on the fundamental responsibilities of Majlis Ansarullah, reminding members of their duty to remain steadfast in service to the Jamaat. The session concluded with a silent prayer.

The remainder of the day featured the preliminary rounds of sports and academic competitions, which were conducted with great enthusiasm and active participation from members across various regions. After Maghrib and Isha prayers, a lively question-and-answer session took place, during which members actively engaged with the presenters, asking a wide range of questions related to religious, moral and practical matters.

The second day also began with Tahajjud and Fajr prayers, followed by additional sports competitions.The closing session was attended by the Secretary Generals of the Mayor’s Office and the Prefecture. The programme began with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the ijtema report presented by Nazim-e-A‘la, Mahamane Bello Sahib. Prizes were then distributed to the winners of the various competitions. The guests also expressed their views and shared that they were very impressed by the well-organised and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. In the end, Amir Jamaat Niger delivered the concluding address, encouraging all to maintain a living bond with Khilafat and to dedicate themselves to the progress of the Jamaat with sincerity and sacrifice. The ijtema ended with a silent prayer.

6th Shura held by Majlis Ansarullah New Zealand

0
Saqib Ahmad, Qaid Tabligh, Majlis Ansarullah New Zealand

The 6th Majlis-e-Shura of Majlis Ansarullah New Zealand was held on 7 November 2025, at the Bait-ul-Muqeet Mosque, Auckland, and attended by 50 delegates from nine majalis across the country.

The opening session was presided over by Muhammad Yaseen Chaudhry Sahib, Sadr Majlis Ansarullah New Zealand. The ceremony commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the Ansar pledge and a brief opening address by the Sadr Majlis. Then, Missionary-in-Charge New Zealand, Shafiq ur Rahman Sahib, delivered a speech on the importance and etiquette of Shura. This was followed by the formation of the subcommittees, which had their meetings for half an hour followed by dinner and combined Maghrib and Isha prayers.

The second session began at 8:40 pm with a recitation from the Holy Quran. The Sadr Majlis then invited the presidents of the committees, one by one, to present their recommendations before the Shura members for approval.

In his closing remarks, Sadr Majlis Ansarullah expressed his gratitude to the Shura members who had travelled from distant places for the sake of Allah. This year, elections for the office-bearers were also held. The Majlis-e-Shura concluded with silent prayer.

This Week in History: 5-11 December

A glimpse into the rich history of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat

This Week in History: 6 December 1953

5 December 2003: During his Friday sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa instructed that every Ahmadi must attain at least an FA degree (similar to the UK A Levels). Before this, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh had instructed the Ahmadis in Pakistan to at least pass matriculation (equivalent to UK GCSE).

5 December 2008: During his Friday sermon on this day, delivered from the Baitul Hadi Mosque in Delhi, India, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated that there was a change of plan in his ongoing tour due to some law and order issues within the country and instructed the members of the Jamaat to cancel their plans of travel to attend the Jalsa Salana Qadian.

6 December 1953: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra inaugurated the newly constructed building of Talim-ul-Islam College, Rabwah. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 16, p. 420)

6 December 2008: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa safely returned to London after shortening his tour of India due to law and order concerns. On 5 December, the final day of his tour, Huzooraa led the Friday prayer at Masjid Bait-ul-Hadi in Delhi. In his Friday sermon, he encouraged Jamaat members to pray for protection from trials and hardships. Huzooraa also met various guests and attended meetings on this last day. (Al Fazl Intl., 30 January 2009, p. 9)

7 December 1892: On this day, the Promised Messiahas published an ishtihar (announcement) titled “Assalamo alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu” in which he explained the importance of Jalsa Salana. (Majmua-e-Ishtiharat, Vol. 1, p. 360)

7 December 1929: Hazrat Maulana Jalal-ud-Din Shamsra, a devoted missionary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, known for his pioneering efforts, not only helped establish the Jamaat’s chapters in Damascus and Haifa but also spent nearly five months in Egypt, where he worked tirelessly to spread the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat, support new converts and strengthen the faith of local Ahmadis. He entered Egypt on this day.

To read a rare glimpse into his day-to-day activities, see: “Preaching Islam in Egypt: The man who refused a singer’s handshake” at www.alhakam.org (7 November 2025, pp. 6-7)

8 December 1979: Mentioning the contributions of Dr Salam since the late 1950s, Nobel Laureate Sheldon Lee Glashow stated during his Nobel Lecture delivered on this day, “Another electroweak synthesis without neutral currents was put forward by Salam and Ward in 1959,” and “in a continuation of their work in 1961, they suggested a gauge theory of strong, weak and electromagnetic interactions based on the local symmetry group SU(2) x SU(2). This was a remarkable portent of the SU(3) x SU(2) x U(1) model, which is accepted today.”

To read more about the biography, success story and false allegations raised against Dr Salam, see: “From disowned to being ‘undeserving’: The painful story of Nobel Laureate Dr Abdus Salam” at www.alhakam.org (14 June 2024, pp. 6-11).

9 December 1955: On this day, Hazrat Sir Chaudhry Muhammad Zafrulla Khanra inaugurated the Mubarak Mosque, the first purpose-built mosque in the Netherlands. This mosque, with three minarets and a capacity of 500 worshippers, was designed by Frits Beck and was completed with funds collected from Lajna Imaillah.

On 3 June 2006, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands visited the Mubarak Mosque to commemorate the building’s 50th anniversary. (Al Fazl International, 2 June 2012, p. 9)

To learn more about this historic milestone, see: “Documentary Release: The remarkable story of Netherlands’ first purpose-built mosque, the Mubarak Mosque” at alhakam.org (18 November 2024).

10 December 1901: Amidst the devastating plague claiming countless lives across the Indian subcontinent, the Promised Messiahas, out of profound concern and sympathy for the masses, issued a written announcement on this day. To ensure his message reached a wide audience. The announcement was published in Arabic, Urdu and Persian, with a supplementary version in Pashto, guiding people on safeguarding themselves against the growing pandemic. (Majmua-e-Ishtiharat, Vol. 2, pp. 537-553)

11 December 1936: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra instructed members of the Jamaat to engage in fervent prayers and seek forgiveness from God Almighty. Whilst giving advice regarding prayer and repentance, Huzoorra said:

“At least one day in a year, you ought to shed tears before God Almighty for your sins as opposed to merely asking Him to fulfil your desires.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 7, p. 324)

11 February 2014: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered the keynote address at the Conference of World Religions, which was organised by Jamaat UK as part of its centenary celebrations at the famous Guildhall in the City of London. Around 500 delegates attended the conference. The conference also received messages of support from the late Queen Elizabeth II, the Dalai Lama, David Cameron and several other dignitaries. (“Historic Conference of World Religions Held at Guildhall, London”, www.pressahmadiyya.com)