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Abuse cases – avoiding them altogether

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Abuse cases – avoiding them altogether
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Across the globe, events of sexual abuse, rape and harassment are day-to-day occurrences, influencing millions of children and countless women and men, leaving devastating effects on their lives. 

Be that as it may, regardless of the inescapability of these violations, laws are deficient and, in some cases, helpless. The rise in sexual harassment scandals coming to surface over the past decade has dismantled and degraded the very spirit and soul of societies all over the world.

A documentary film, directed and produced by British filmmaker Dan Reed, which goes by the title Leaving Neverland, premiered on HBO recently. It includes new allegations of child sex abuse against the famous pop icon Michael Jackson. 

#MeToo and #TimesUp movements reflect the ferociousness of similar exploitations at work, home, school and especially in the media industry. 

Meanwhile, there is a great debate to find the causes which lead to these vicious crimes and moreover to define the actions as to where one should draw the line. For many, even a handshake or a hug could be considered inappropriate behaviour or an act of advancement. 

On the other hand, the statements like that of US Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur are on the record where she described a woman’s dress so revealing that it was nothing but an open invitation. She clarified (or had to clarify) on a later occasion that her intention was not to cast blame on the victims of sexual harassment.

Even though Western societies are boastfully presented as strongholds of women equality and the Eastern world is portrayed as the oppressor of women’s rights and of freedom of expression,  recent scandals of mistreatment of women in show business and parliaments seem to suggest otherwise. 

The segregation of men and women in Islam is taken as a threat to the freedom of both genders, although it is opposite to the general perception. The Islamic idea of gender segregation is based on a model of virtue, compulsory on both men and women that enables both to keep up limits of respect, modesty and dignity between each other. 

The worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa highlighted in an address how authorities in Berlin were forced to erect a separate “safe zone” for women at a New Year’s Day celebrations, whilst “women-only” concerts had been proposed in another European state.

Shedding light on the circumstances leading to the recent scandal that triggered various movements of women’s rights, Huzooraa said:

“Men have sought opportunities to take advantage of women and to mentally or physically abuse them, and in some cases, it escalated to what can only be termed as torture … The question is why were women abused across the world? The answer, whether they like it or not, is the free-mixing that took place which meant that the women were unable to safeguard themselves.”

In the rising world of allegation and accusation being carried out against the teachings of Islam, Huzooraa said that Waqifaat-e-Nau should be “spearheading” the movement to portray the real true picture of Islam “without any fear or complex”.

Huzooraa said:

“You should openly proclaim the fact that you take pride in your modest dress, in your Hijab and in keeping a distance from men. You should openly declare that these are the essential safeguards that Allah the Almighty has chosen in order to protect women, and so rather than being a restriction, Hijab is actually a supreme right and protection afforded to Muslim women.” (Concluding Address, UK National Waqifaat-e-Nau Ijtema, 24 January 2018)

Nutrition, Exercise and Mental Health

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Nutrition, Exercise and Mental Health
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Research suggests that a poor diet and lack of exercise can contribute to the onset of many mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety and several other cognitive issues. An emerging discipline named nutritional neuroscience suggests that there is a close relationship between nutritional factors, human cognition, behaviours and emotions.

Recent times have seen major shifts in the lifestyles of people; dietary intakes have drastically changed with a marked increase in consumption of sugar, sodium rich, deep fried and take away foods. As the availability of the variety of such foods increases, our food choices are getting less and less nutritious. The consumption of nutrient-dense foods has diminished significantly in these years.

Industrialisation and urbanisation has negatively impacted the physical activity levels of people, especially younger generations. Many people in the global population are categorised as insufficiently physically active.

You are what you eat

If substances of low quality fuel such as processed and junk foods get to the brain, it hinders brain growth and important functions.

Multiple studies have found a correlation between a diet high in refined sugars and impaired brain function as well as increasing the risk of developing depression.

Foods can change your brain capacity for good. A Mediterranean-style diet (high in vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, beans, whole grains, fish and unsaturated fats such as olive oil) have shown to increase cognitive functions like thinking, learning and memory.

Major nutrients to keep in mind

Omega-3 fatty acids: These are vital for brain health as the brain is one of the organs with the highest levels of lipids (fats). They help improve neuronal membranes which further adds to functional efficiency of the brain. Studies have found omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid treatments benefit patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD and borderline personality disorder.

The best sources of omega-3 and omega-6 are oily fish like salmon, mackerel, trout, sardines, plant-based foods like flaxseeds, chia seeds, nuts and dark green leafy vegetables.

B vitamins: These help regulate neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain). Emerging research findings show B vitamins like cobalamin (B12), thiamine (B1), niacin (B3) and folate/folic acid (B9) may help alleviate symptoms of depression, schizophrenia, alcohol abuse and dementia.

In addition, vitamin B complex improve red blood cells in the body, thereby increasing oxygen levels in the blood, making you more active and energetic. Deficiency of these vitamins are major reasons why some children perform poorly on their academic front.

Best food sources of group B vitamins are whole grains like brown rice, barley, millets and wheat. Red meat, poultry, fish and eggs are crucial too as well as leafy green vegetables and fruits like bananas and avocados.

Vitamin C: Apart from causing scurvy, vitamin C deficiency can cause depression and cravings for sugary delights. A diet rich in vitamin C can improve or reverse symptoms of anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder. Interestingly, vitamin C closely functions with B group vitamins and iron absorption. It has been shown to enhance iron absorption by capturing non-heme iron (found majorly in plant based foods) and storing it in a form that is more easily absorbed by our body.

Some of the rich sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, bell peppers (especially red ones), radish, melons and strawberries. Always be mindful about combining iron and B group vitamin foods with foods rich in vitamin C for optimal absorption.

This sunshine vitamin is important for optimal brain functioning, including mood and critical thinking and also to boost overall metabolism. Low levels of vitamin D is linked to depression, particularly Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which occurs during times of the year when there is relatively less sunshine. Sunlight is a major source of vitamin D so try getting enough sun for at least 15 minutes daily around midday. This is because at this time, sunlight is at its highest point and you can produce vitamin D efficiently in less time. Lighter skinned people require less time to produce vitamin D than those with darker skin. 

Vitamin D is found in very few foods, for example fatty fish, cod liver oil, oysters, shrimp, egg yolks, mushrooms, vitamin D fortified cereals, milk, orange juice or soy milk.

Iron is a crucial element for oxygenation and energy production, and for synthesis of neurotransmitters and myelin sheath. Iron deficiency in women (especially those of child bearing age) has been known to contribute to the onset of depression, chronic fatigue and anxiety. It has also been found in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. 

Animal based sources are chicken, duck, turkey, beef and fish. Dried fruits like apricots, berries, raisins, figs and prunes are delicious and wholesome choices. As discussed earlier, iron rich sources should be combined with vitamin C rich ones for optimal absorption. Avoid drinking coffee and tea with meals as they impair the absorption of iron.

Zinc: Lower zinc levels have been found in patients with clinical depression. Oral intake of this mineral has aided in effectiveness of antidepressant therapies, for example for alcoholism, Pick’s disease (type of progressive dementia) and schizophrenia. Furthermore, insufficient levels of zinc have been associated with poor learning abilities and mental retardation in children. Hence, this micronutrient is not to be taken lightly. The best sources of zinc are meat, seafoods, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds, oats, dark chocolate and dairy products.

Probiotics: The gut flora (good gut bacteria which keeps immunity strong) is involved in improving gastrointestinal system. Your gut and brain are very closely linked. One has the ability to influence the other by reducing anxiety, regulating stress levels, memory and learning process. A Harvard medical school research states, “Since a large percentage (about 95%) of serotonin receptors are found in the lining of the gut, research is examining the potential of probiotics for treating both anxiety and depression.”

Perturbations of these systems result in alterations in the stress-response behaviour. Foods like yoghurt with added live cultures, curd, kefir, fermented foods, pickles and buttermilk are all great sources.

Exercise for mental health

We all know that regular exercises have varied physical health benefits, but few know its effectiveness in improving mental health.

Studies have shown that exercise can treat mild to moderate depression as effectively as antidepressants.

Exercise relieves stress and muscle tension, which are common symptoms of anxiety. It can also boost mental energy and blood supply to the brain and enhance the well-being through the release of endorphins (potent mood enhancing chemicals that gives us feelings of happiness). A regular exercise regimen can help us improve slow-wave sleep (deep sleep), which is crucial for brain detoxification and this also makes us more resilient to daily stressors of life.

Furthermore, it helps sharpen memory and learning skills by stimulating growth of new brain cells and preventing an age related decline. Many studies have suggested that parts of the brain that control thinking and memory have greater volume in people who exercise versus people who don’t.

The typical exercise requirement for a normal adult is to perform 30 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercises at least 4-5 days a week; moderate means that you breathe a little heavier than normal, but not out of breath, and your body feels warmer as you move, but not sweaty. In addition to this, try to engage in 20 minutes of vigorous activity like jogging, running or swimming at least twice a week.

If this sounds daunting, then not to worry. For starters, even just a few minutes of exercise is better than nothing, start with 5-10 minutes sessions 4-5 days a week and slowly increase your time over days/weeks.

If you have a desk job, keep moving whenever you find time, move out to get some fresh air, your body is going to love you for this.

Last but not least, exercises can serve as a healthy distraction enabling you to find some time to break out of the cycle of deterring thoughts and destructive self-talk that feed depression and anxiety.

Outdoor activities like hiking, sailing, river rafting, rock climbing and skiing give us opportunities to meet new people and explore new possibilities thereby contributing to your mental and emotional reservoirs.

For more information, please consult a doctor or a health coach. 

The Last Hour

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The Last Hour

Hazrat Abu Huraira, Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“[When] the time would draw close to the Last Hour, knowledge would be snatched away, turmoil would be rampant, miserliness would be put [in the hearts of the people] and there would be much bloodshed.” They said: “What is al-Harj?” Thereupon he said: “It is bloodshed.”

(Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Ilam)

One Ought To Pray For One’s Opponents

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One Ought To Pray For One’s Opponents
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Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad a.s.

I have only ever sternly addressed my opponents in order to purge them of arrogance. This is not an act of retaliation for harsh words; rather, it is a bitter pill meant to cure them—as the [Arabic] proverb has it:  الحق مر (The truth is bitter). However, it is not justified that anyone should feel at liberty to pen such harsh words. The community ought to exercise caution. Each and every individual ought to first delve into their heart and see whether they write such words with pure intention or merely out of obstinacy and enmity.

One should not harbour malevolence against one’s adversaries. Instead, a person ought to pray for such people more than anything else and use other means to reform them.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, p. 7) 

Muslims Must Recover Their Lost Glory

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Muslims Must Recover Their Lost Glory
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Since the development of meaningful civilisations, religion, in one form or another, has been found in all human societies. It is embedded deep in the human psyche. 

Even today, a great number of the world population is, in one way or the other, associated with religion. Almost every nation possesses some sort of a belief system. 

In the modern society, religious faith has sustained all efforts of erasing it and has survived a great deal of ebb and flow. According to The Economist’s analysis, “a number of films broach the subject of faith in the 21st century”. 

Many researchers and scholars claim that the number of believers are constantly decreasing, meanwhile the portrayal of faith and belief is being presented as a powerful force in various plays and movies. 

Straightforwardly speaking, religion and belief is a fundamental fragment of human conscience and it can never be separated or removed from the soul and spirit of mankind. 

Proof, you ask? The entertainment industry that played a huge role in depriving the society of God is now having to resort in giving back what it owed to the modern-day generations.

 

Birthday of Periodic Table

The periodic table is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. It was first laid out by Mendeleev in 1869 when he managed to arrange a list of 63 elements according to their atomic masses. 

Now there are more than 100 elements, which are part of the modern periodic table arranged in the sequence of increasing atomic number. 

A famous Muslim scientist, Jabir bin Hayan (721-815) is considered the father of chemistry who invented many of the basic processes and equipment, which are still the basis of present day chemistry. However modern science has gradually become a thing of the West, with Muslim contribution almost forgotten. 

As most of the prominent scientists that had a huge impact on modern day science like Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton and Marie Curie were from the West, Muslim scientists are less acknowledged. 

The Muslim world, once a hub of intellectual wonders, has lost its glory in science and technology. 

We do not intend to undermine the marvelous contributions of the West towards scientific and technological advancement. Western scientists have done a splendid job. What we want to remind our readers here is that if the Muslim world can produce an Abdus Salam, there is no reason that there cannot be more. 

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa has always encouraged young Ahmadis to pursue careers in scientific research especially areas that are of benefit for humanity. We better rephrase the last sentence: If the Ahmadiyya Jamaat can give one Abdus Salam to the Muslim world and the rest of the world, it means that it has all that it takes to produce many more. 

 

Another Story of Lost Glory

Spain has a long history of political, social and economic turmoil – three elections in just four years speak volumes of this bitter fact. 

This week, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced a snap election due to the defeat of his Socialist Party’s budget plan in Congress.

Spain, which remained under the rule of Muslims for more than 700 years, was once the centre of scientific inventions and remarkable discoveries.

Alongside Islam, two other religions – Christianity and Judaism – lived side by side and benefited from the presence of each other. Infighting and civil wars cost Islamic Spain its centuries’ old glory and eventually all its power in 1492. 

What followed is not something we wish to discuss here. What we would like to remind the Muslim world is that being a Muslim and yet triumphant is nothing impossible. It has happened in the past and it will happen in future; all that is needed is true and selfless leadership. 

When the Muslim world goes out and finds this true leadership is up to them – though they should know, it has been around since 1889.

Be it science or religion, Muslims ought to remember their glorious past and excel in every field, with the help and guidance of Allah the Almighty and the Holy Quran. 

The worldwide head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa states:

“The object of the advent of the Promised Messiah, on whom be peace, was to revive the glory of Islam. Indeed, it was in Spain that after a few hundred years of rise, Islam fell in such a way that its adherents were forcibly converted to Christianity or they got caught in the trap of Christian missionaries due to their own spiritual weakness. 

“India, with its Muslim mystics and saints was considered as the fortress of Islam. But there too Muslims were turning to Christianity. 

“This is the time that the Promised Messiah’sas advent took place and the revival of Islam began. Having received knowledge from God, he told the world about the superiority of Islam over other world religions. He presented the reality of Christianity to the Christian priests who had spoken of Christian dominance in India in such a way that they were forced to be defensive about it, and some of them retreated, telling their followers never to engage in a discussion with Ahmadis. Christians acknowledged that due to this ‘new’ Islam, which was in fact the real Islam, the greatness of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be on him, was being re-established.”

(Friday Sermon, Basharat Mosque Spain, 9 April 2010)

8-14 March

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8-14 March

8 March 1885: The Promised Messiahas made a historic and long-anticipated announcement regarding his divine mission, saying that he had been divinely commissioned and chosen for the reformation of mankind. 

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas forwarded this important announcement to various renowned religious leaders across the world along with an invitation in English offering the recipients free accommodation in Qadian with two hundred rupees per month for personal use for an entire year. 

This was sent through a registered courier to almost all famous Christian clergymen and Hindu religious hierarchy. At that time, the cost of each registered letter in the Indian subcontinent was 4 annas (a unit of currency formerly used in India and Pakistan, equal to 1/16 of a rupee).

8 March 1903: The Promised Messiah’sas Urdu book Sanatan Dharam (The Sanatan Faith) was released from Zia-ul-Islam Press, Qadian. The Promised Messiahas had just finished writing his book Nasim-e-Dawat, when the need arose for writing another book, so he penned this work. In it, Hazrat Ahmadas fully exposed the vulgar teaching of niyog (ancient Hindu tradition in which a woman requests and appoints a man to help her conceive a child) and how the Arya Samaj practiced it. 

Hazrat Ahmadas then praised the followers of Sanatan Dharam for their courage in rejecting such a vulgar teaching. With the exception of a few drawbacks, Huzooras said, the followers of Sanatan Dharam were a thousand times better than the Arya Samaj. The Promised Messiahas specially complimented them for not raising absurd and meaningless objections against Islam. Some of them were humble people and they were not as cunning as the Arya Samaj.

These books created a great stir among Arya Samajists and an interest among the followers of Sanatan Dharam. After a few months, both books were translated into English and copies of the English version were distributed free of cost.

9  March 1897: A two-page announcement was published from Zia-ul-Islam Press in which the Promised Messiahas stated that the 25th year of receiving divine revelations had dawned upon him. This phrase indicates that revelations started descending upon him from around 1872. 

9 March 1907: Dr John Alexander Dowie was an American who proclaimed that God had sent him in the “spirit and power of Elijah”. He set out to spread Christianity, whilst also stating that he intended to wipe out Islam. He made insulting remarks about the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be on him, and hurled invective at Hazrat Ahmadas. When Hazrat Ahmadas came to know of this, he challenged him to a prayer duel.

“The best way to determine whether Dowie’s God is true or ours, is that Mr Dowie should stop making prophecies about the destruction of all Muslims. Instead, he should keep me alone in his mind and pray that if one of us is fabricating a lie, he should die before the other.”

Huzooras further observed:

“If Dowie runs away from this challenge, be sure that a great catastrophe is about to befall on Zion”.

When Dr Dowie was told of this challenge, he arrogantly remarked:

“Can you imagine me answering to these gnats, and flies. If I were to put my foot on them, I could crush them to death.” (Leaves of Healing, 27 December 1903)

In short, on this day, after suffering from paralysis and poor mental health, Dowie died a miserable death, with his friends distanced from him and his fortune dwindled. 

10 March 1895: A lunar eclipse occurred in America and other Western countries. This incident happened in the month of Ramadan and the year 1312 AH.

10 March 1907: The paternal grandson of the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Mirza Aziz Ahmadra, son of Hazrat Mirza Sultan Ahmad, while studying at Aligarh University, took part in a strike against the teachers. The Promised Messiahas was extremely displeased when he heard of it, but eventually forgave his mistake. 

10 March 1954: An attempt was made on the life of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra in Masjid Mubarak, Rabwah. 

11 March 1886: The Promised Messiahas was residing in Hoshiarpur when he had a religious debate with Master Murli Dhar which lasted until 14 March. This debate was later published in the form of a book, Surma Chashm-e-Arya.

13 March 1903: The foundation stones of Minarat-ul-Masih and Bait-ul-Dua were laid on this day. The Promised Messiahas sent a brick after saying a prayer on it and directed to place it on the western side of the Minaret at the time of laying the foundation. 

On the same day, Hazrat Ahmadas expressed the desire to build a small private room for praying in. Thus began the construction of a small room, right beside the small entrance on the western side of Bait-ul-Fikr.

14  March 1914: On this day, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra was elected as Khalifatul Masih II. He was 25 years old at the time. During his Khilafat (1914-1965), the Ahmadiyya Jamaat went from strength to strength, overcoming all obstacles thrown in its path by the opponents.

Second Refresher Course for Jamaat UK Missionaries

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Second Refresher Course for Jamaat UK Missionaries
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Office of Missionary In-charge UK

UK Missionaries held their second Refresher Course starting on 22 February and running until 1 March 2019 at Fazl Mosque, London.

Following instructions and guidance from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, the refresher course was organised by Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib, Missionary In-charge UK and his team. 

This year, in addition to the field missionaries, those missionaries working in UK Jamaat’s various offices also participated in the refresher course. 

Missionaries were blessed with the opportunity to offer their five daily prayers behind Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa whilst also observing Jumua prayers at Baitul Futuh Mosque. The missionaries also had the honour of calling the azan for each prayer, delivering dars of the Holy Quran after Fajr prayers, teaching the translation of the Holy Quran after Asr prayers and delivering dars from the writings of the Promised Messiahas after Isha prayers at the Fazl Mosque. 

A daily programme was made which included Tahajjud prayer, morning walk, recitation of the Quran and studying the commentary of the Holy Quran by the Promised Messiahas as well as reading the book Kashti-e-Nuh (Noah’s Ark) and Al-Wasiyyat (The Will). 

Over the eight days, a total of twenty-six lectures were also delivered and nine panel discussions were held by various scholars of the Jamaat. The lectures and panel discussions covered a vast range of subjects, from religious to departmental; from health-related issues to tarbiyat-related matters. Equally, mutual discussions were held in which experiences, issues and their solutions, as well as faith inspiring incidents were shared and discussed amongst the missionaries.

The highlight of the refresher course was the blessed opportunity for the missionaries to meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, may Allah strengthen his hand, receive his guidance and also have a photograph with him.

May Allah shower His abundant blessings on all those who organised and participated in the refresher course and always strengthen and support our beloved Imam with His Mighty Help. 

New World Disorders Festival at the London School of Economics

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New World Disorders Festival at the London School of Economics
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Ataul Fattir Tahir

Al Hakam Correspondent

The London School of Economics (LSE) held its week-long New World DisOrders Festival from 25 February to 2 March – a series of events, exploring the role of social sciences in tackling global issues. 

Minouche Shafik, LSE Director, described the event by saying:

“This is a moment of great instability and uncertainty, but also one of great opportunities to rethink old paradigms and challenge prevailing orthodoxies.” 

Thousands of students, professionals and researchers sat absorbed at various lecture theatres in LSE listening to professors, academics, authors and researchers discussing and addressing the “big challenges that society faces today and how the systems that bind society together need to evolve.”

Speakers touched upon the current shifting of geo-politics, failing democracies, identity crisis and technological transformations – thereafter responding to the comments and questions of a highly opinionated and diverse audience. 

The opening event, Pessimism and the State of the World, included a talk by Professor Andres Velasco, the inaugural Dean of the new school of Public Policy and former Minister of Finance in Chile (2006-2010) and Minouche Shafik, Director of LSE and previous Deputy Governor of the Bank of England. 

The description of the event was to show why some of the richest countries are still miserable, where anger and anxiety came from that is manifested in populism and terrorism, and are we, despite the massive gains in material progress, living in an age of insecurity? Both speakers did well in displaying how pessimism is often the result of misguided human psychology. 

Prof Andres Velasco spoke of “local optimism and national pessimism” where the populace describes their own socioeconomical condition as positive but sees the world at large in a negative light. 

Prof Shafik supported this by referring to a survey, saying “88% of people in the UK will tell you global poverty has increased, even though it has decreased.”

Prof Velasco opened his speech by saying, “It is the first decade in human history where people are dying more from eating too much than too little”, pointing towards the economic growth of the world. He also continuously referred to Steven Pinker’s book The Better Angels of Our Nature, a book which highlights the fact that the world is better, more progressive and safer than any point in human history. 

The speakers commented on the role of the media and its continuous agenda to only report on what is negative, thereby influencing the perception of a continuously dangerous world. The failings of democracies and the lack of trust in governments were also to blame for pessimism in the world. Both speakers agreed that the world is better than what people imagine and that our future, as humans, is something to look forward to. 

However, their effort to portray the world and its future in positive light was taken with a pinch of salt by the audience as a vote taken on whether the audience was optimistic or pessimistic about our future proved to be a fifty-fifty standing, with 51% optimistic and 49% pessimistic.

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Populism was a recurrent theme at events throughout the New World DisOrders Festival. One such talk was by Elif Shafak, an award winning British-Turkish novelist and the most widely read female author in Turkey, and a two-time TEDGlobal speaker. Her talk was named How to Remain Sane in the Age of Populism and aimed to answer why sentiments of “fear, anger, anxiety and resentment” were spreading and the role of populist and tribal ideologies. 

Shafak began her talk by admitting, “It may sound like I have the answer, but I don’t” – the statement was one which resonated with a plethora of other speakers as well. However, Shafak did go on to pan out her observations for the rise of populist ideology. She scanned history and pointed out the optimism through which humanity once breathed; the fall of the berlin wall; the breakup of the USSR; the establishment of democracy; the World Wide Web; the Arab Spring which would be the Facebook revolution and Iran which would be the Twitter revolution. 

Shafak explained how the 21st and 22nd centuries bred thoughts of great optimism, but humanity, instead, steered itself to an “age of anger … an age in which politics is guided by emotions, but also misguided by emotions”. She blamed “a lack of trust” in governments which led to Brexit and the Arab Spring – in turn, polarising society; a society which breeds and fosters right wing ideologies, she explained. Describing the polarisation of society, Shafak said, “When societies become extremely polarised, the only people who benefit are the populist demigods … and populists don’t encapsulate all of society, but always divide between ‘us’ and ‘them’.” 

The British-Turkish author discussed the change in recent literary habits which point towards a dangerous rise of rightists; a prime example being the highly racist 1973 novel Camp of The Saints rising to become the bestseller in 2011 across the USA and France. The novelist also drew on the hypocrisy of right-wing populists; they were part of the political or financial elite, the likes of Geert Wilders, Nigel Farage and Donald Trump being prime examples. The overall reason for right-wing support was the emotional connection and feeling of “safety” that populists offer in their nostalgic views, further cemented by the lack of trust the populace have in governments. 

The British-Turkish author called for a “more humanistic environment”, but admitted that she did not have the answer to the problems. 

The New World DisOrders Festival also screened several documentaries relating to current world issues, Human Flow by Ai Weiwei being one of them, which detailed the heart-breaking global refugee crisis. Beautifully filmed, the documentary displayed the struggle of 65 million people who have been “forced from their homes to escape famine, climate change and war in the greatest human displacement since World War II.” 

The dangerous and often fatal journeys refugees endure to find safety, shelter and justice were documented across countries including Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Greece, Germany, Palestine, Kenya and Mexico. Thought-provoking quotes appeared on screen throughout the viewing, one being “When there is nowhere to go, nowhere is home”. 

Human Flow not only displays the plight of refugees but demonstrates how the West has begun to close its borders to those in need. The documentary urges for human compassion, acceptance and tolerance at a perilous time. It asks the defying question on whether our global society will emerge from fear, isolation, and self-interest and choose a path of openness, freedom, and respect for humanity?

The line between cultures is becoming increasingly vivid throughout the West with the rise of populists and right-wing ideologies. LSE organised a tremendously insightful talk called “Us” and “Them”: Populism and Religious Identity in the West. The event took place at the Sheikh Zahid Theatre and was chaired by the founding director of the LSE Faith Centre, James Walters. The panel included Tobias Cremer, a PhD candidate at the Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) at Peterhouse, Cambridge University. His doctoral research focuses on the relationship between religion and the new wave of right-wing populism in Western Europe and North America. Also in the panel was Zubaida Haque, Deputy Director at The Runneymede Trust with a strong research and policy background in integration and extremism. 

Tobias Cremer demonstrated how the right wing are playing identity politics, using religion as a marketer; often displaying religious symbols and chants. He asked the audience to imagine the oversized crosses people were carrying in front of Dresden Frauenkirch Church (Germany) whilst occasionally chanting Christmas carols and church hymns. He drew a picture of the thousands who rallied at former capital of Laïcité (secularism) in veneration of a Catholic saint. He then told the audience that none of these were religious services or gatherings, instead they were organised by right-wing populist movements. Cremer pointed out that although it appears as though right-wing populists are recruiting the most devout of Christians, it is simply not true. Drawing on polls, Cremer pointed out that supporters of right-wing populists are nonpracticing, irreligious people. A prime example was the Alternative for Germany (AfD) “who does double as well with the non-religious than that of church-goers”. He said the reality was that people who enter far right parties were “populists first, then Christians” – it is more of a cultural clash, he explained. 

Highlighting the reality behind the propaganda, Cremer said, “It is a secularisation of religion, using it as a cultural identity … they marry religious symbols with secular symbols”. This strategy aims to vividly draw the line between “us” and “them”, he noted. The PhD candidate discussed how “them” has been defined as Muslims and thus Christianity must be the cultural identifier of “us”. He highlighted the reality behind so-called populist leaders who claim to be torchbearers of religion, one example being the Italian right-wing politician, Matteo Salvini, who wants to stamp out Islam and establish a “true Christian life” within Italy. The reality was that Salvini, only years ago, identified as a Pagan and professed that Christianity was a “weak faith”. Tobia Cremer aims to draw up his conclusions in his final thesis on the topic. 

Zubaida Haque discussed the successful strategies of populists who use “cultural loss” as a means of gaining support. She said, “The Right are very good at hijacking Christianity for its whiteness … they are clever at focusing on cultural loss rather than economic loss. And you cannot measure cultural loss.” When you cannot measure a loss, it is more emotional than factual therefore people feel iffy when a Muslim moves next door; a “feeling” that the Muslim is against their culture, she explained. 

Zubaida focused on how the Right were separating Muslims from Islam. She said, “They have separated Muslims and Islam, they say the problem are the beliefs not the person”. By attacking Islamic teachings, like the Burka, the Right aim to create a sense of cultural clash. People, in turn, fear an introduction to a culture which somehow opposes their own, Zubaida highlighted. Thus, “Islam is seen as an extremist ideology not as a religion … They’ve taken an extremely diverse group and homogenised it” explained Zubaida. 

The closing event of the New World DisOrders Festival at the LSE was the New World Order 2035. LSE lecturers presented their views on how the world would be in 2035 and what aspects we needed to focus on as a global community. The comments by the speakers were generally positive and painted a world of optimism. The poll which was taken at the beginning of the Festival about whether the audience contemplates optimistically about the future or pessimistically was taken again. This time, the optimists scored (a little) higher with 57% optimistic and 43% still pessimistic. 

I felt the festival presented valuable insight into our world of “disorders” and a lot was learnt. However, I feel that key global issues were brushed aside without much contemplation. 

My greatest concern was what Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa has been continuously warning about – the formation of global blocs and the plausible catastrophe of nuclear warfare. 

I asked many speakers after the event about their views on the matter, to which they responded with equal fear and anxiety without a definite answer; some reiterated that world leaders are not “stupid” enough to use such a destructive force, which we hope. 

Speakers at all the events during the New World DisOrders Festival were not entirely sure of definite solutions. 

One event to find answers, will be on the evening of Saturday, 9 March 2019 at the UK Peace Symposium, where Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa will, once again, present his solutions to world disorders. 

Prophecies of the Promised Messiah a.s.: Earthquakes and Divine Signs

Al Hakam
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Prophecies of the Promised Messiah a.s.: Earthquakes and Divine Signs
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Allegation: Opponents of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat in Islam and the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas raise allegations on the revelation of the Promised Messiahas: 

زَلْزَلَةُ السَّاعَةِ

“An earthquake of Judgement Day.” 

They say that on 4 April 1905, a massive earthquake hit India, however there was no prophecy pertaining to it. 

Answer: Al Hakam (Urdu) wrote on 17-24 December 1903, under the heading Revelations and Dreams:

“I saw in a dream that someone said:

زلزلہ كا دهكا

‘Shock of an earthquake.’ I saw the house shaking but did not see anything fall, nor did I feel the earthquake. Then came the revelation:

اِنَّ اللّٰهَ لَا يَضُرُّ۔ اِنَّ اللّٰهَ مَعَ الَّذِيْنَ اتَّقَوْا وَّ الَّذِيْنَ هُمْ مُحْسِنُوْنَ۔ تَريٰ نَصْرًا مِّنْ عِنْدِ اللّٰهِ وَ هُمْ يَعْمَهُوْنَ۔

‘Allah will cause no damage. Allah is with those who are righteous and who do their duty to the utmost. You will see help from Allah and they will continue to flounder.’” (Al Hakam, 17-24 Dec 1903, p. 15)

Similarly, under the heading God’s Pure Words, the weekly Al Badr had it: 

“On 19 December 1903, in a dream I saw someone saying:

زلزلہ كا ايك دهكا

‘A [single] shock of an earthquake.’ Neither did I feel any tremors, nor did the walls shake. Thereafter, I received the revelation [same Arabic as above], ‘Allah will cause no damage. Allah is with those who are righteous and who do their duty to the utmost. You will see help from Allah and they will continue to flounder.’” (Al Badr, 1 January 1904, p. 6)

Then, under Revelations, the weekly Al Hakam says:

“8 June 1904: 

عَفَتِ الدِّيَارُ مَحَلُّهَا وَ مُقَامُهَا۔ اِنِّيْ اُحَافِظُ كُلَّ مَنْ فِي الدَّارِ۔ اَعْطَيْتُكَ كُلَّ النَّعِيْمِ۔

‘Temporary residences and permanent ones will be wiped out. I shall safeguard all those who are in this house. I have bestowed upon you all bounties.’” (Al Hakam, 10-17 June 1904, p. 10)

On 4 April 1905, an earthquake strikes causing large scale damage and destruction. Many months prior to the quake, Allah informed the Promised Messiahas of this devastation. Along with the news, He promises that although “temporary residences and permanent ones will be wiped out”, but God “shall safeguard all those who are in this house”. 

If God Almighty did not promise to safeguard Hazrat Ahmadas and his family in advance and he concocted the revelation himself, it would have resulted in enflaming God’s self-honour and anger and thereby rendering him and his family to the destruction of the earthquake. 

However, according to the divine revelations, the devastation of the earthquake was witnessed on 4 April 1905. This earthquake was referred to by all countrymen as an extraordinary occurrence that was out of the norm. Some went to the extent to say that such a happening had not been witnessed in India for over 1,600 years and that this incident was akin to Judgement Day. 

All ancient buildings that had stood for hundreds of years suddenly collapsed. A Hindu temple in Kangra that dated back to two thousand years could not stand the tremors of the earthquake and succumbed to it. 

Such an earthquake had not been witnessed in over two thousand years. Had this not been the case and had there been more powerful earthquakes before this, then the ancient buildings that collapsed in 1905 would have fallen much before in earlier earthquakes. Thus, God Almighty protected Hazrat Ahmadas and his physical and spiritual family. 

It is unfortunate that the opponents, under the meaning of the verse below succumb to misguidance and mislead others as a result:

وَ كَاَيِّنْ مِّنْ آيَةٍ فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْاَرْضِ يَمُرُّوْنَ عَلَيْهَا وَهُمْ عَنْهَا مُعْرِضُوْنَ

“And how many a Sign is there in the heavens and the earth, which they pass by, turning away from it.” (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.106)

Allegation: Another allegation that is raised is concerning Al-Wasiyyat, The Will. The founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, Hazrat Ahmadas authored the book, Al-Wasiyyat, two months after the demise of Hazrat Maulvi Abdul Karim Sialkotira, which occurred on 11 October 1905. In the book, Hazrat Ahmadas says that Allah had informed him of his own demise and addressed him in Urdu, saying:

بهت تهوڑے دن ره گئے هيں، اس دن سب پر اداسي چها جائے گي۔ يه هوگا، يه هوگا، يه هوگا، بعد اسكے تمهارا واقعه هو گا۔ تمام حوادث اور عجائبات قدرت دكهلانے كے بعد تمهارا حادثه آئے گا۔

“Very few days are left. On that day all will be saddened. This will happen, this will happen, this will happen. Your event will take place afterwards. Your event will take place after all other happenings and natural wonders have been demonstrated.” 

This means that certain incidents and natural wonders would take place prior to Hazrat Ahmad’sas demise. 

With regard to this revelation, Hazrat Ahmadas himself states:

“I have been given knowledge concerning hawadith [happenings]. From every corner, death shall extend its wings and earthquakes shall occur. They shall occur with great might and shall bear resemblance to Judgement Day [meaning a global, worldwide catastrophe]. They will shake the earth to its core and many lives will be ruined. However, God shall show mercy to those who repent and desist from sin.”

In this regard, it is asserted that nothing significant occurred between 1906 and May 1908. Thus, opponents attempt to show a flaw within this prophecy. 

Answer: Al-Wasiyyat was published on 24 December 1905. The Promised Messiahas said in it that God Almighty had informed him that his demise was near and that prior to his demise there would be earthquakes. 

Hazrat Ahmadas passed away on 26 May 1908. Opponents assert that no earthquakes appeared from the time of writing Al-Wasiyyat until Hazrat Ahmad’sas demise, however, the truth is that there were many.  

From the internet, the following earthquakes were found as examples of some that occurred between the said period:

1. Colombia-Eduador, 31 January 1906. Magnitude 8.8 with around 1,000 deaths

2. San Francisco, USA, 18 April 1906. Magnitude 7.7. This is considered the worst earthquake in the history of California, causing around 3,000 deaths and destroying 28,188 residences, with damage costs reaching $530 million

3. Valparaiso, Chile, 17 August 1906. Magnitude 8.2 with 3,882 deaths and 20,000 injured people

4. Xinjian Province, China, 22 December 1906. Magnitude 7.8 with 280 deaths and 2,000 residences destroyed

5. Mexico, 15 April 1907. Magnitude 7.8, causing 8 deaths and many houses destroyed

6. Border of Russia, Tajekistan and Turistan, 21 October 1907. Magnitude 8.0, causing 12,000 deaths, widespread devastation and many villages wiped away

7. Indonesia, 6 February 1908. Magnitude 7.5

8. Greece, 17 May 1908. Magnitude 6.6

These are only a few selected examples from a finding of over a hundred earthquakes that occurred between the said period. Alongside earthquakes, there were floods, famine, wild fires, typhoons, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions and meteor showers, all of which can be found on the web with a simple search. 

On 31 March 1907, at around 5:30pm in India, a large fireball was seen in the sky and was seen travelling a distance of 700 miles above India. The collision it made as it landed shocked many and causing some to fall unconscious. 

People attested that they had seen an extraordinary big ball of flame. This was seen all over India. (See Haqiqatul Wahi, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 22, p. 518 for more information)

This incident was talked about a great deal in Indian newspapers. The Civil and Military Gazette, Lahore on 3 April 1907; the newspaper Army News, Ludhiana on 6 April (page 11); the Civil and Military Gazette, Lahore on 6 April all published news on the sighting. 

After all these occurrences, on 26 May 1908, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi passed away, according to the prophetic words:

“Very few days are left. On that day all will be saddened. This will happen, this will happen, this will happen. Your event will take place afterwards. Your event will take place after all other happenings and natural wonders have been demonstrated.” 

The words, “This will happen, this will happen, this will happen. Your event will take place afterwards”, also connote the three years between the revelation and Hazrat Ahmad’sas demise; that his demise would occur after 1905, 1906 and 1907. 

It is sad to see opponents attempting to prove that no incident occurred after the Promised Messiah’sas announcement in Al-Wasiyyat on 24 December 1905 until his demise. 

(Research by a panel of scholars at the Research Cell, Rabwah.)

100 Years Ago… – Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud r.a. Delivers The Outset of Dissension in Islam Lecture

Al Hakam
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100 Years Ago… – Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud r.a. Delivers The Outset of Dissension in Islam Lecture

Al Fazl, 8 March 1919
 

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Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’s Lecture to Martin Historical Society, Islamia College, Lahore
 

In Huzoor’s recent journey to Lahore, among the many achievements that have been mentioned previously is a lecture delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II [may Allah be pleased with him] that was successful in every respect and shall remain memorable and noteworthy for times to come, Insha-Allah. 

The aforementioned society has been established for two years now in the Islamia College and its founder is Syed Abdul Qadir MA, Professor of History. Syed Sahib visited Huzoor[ra] many times during his stay in Lahore and held discussions on religion and history deep into the nights. 

Eventually, on the evening of 24 February 1919 when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra] had intended to return to Qadian, Huzoor was requested to deliver a lecture on an aspect of Islamic history to the Martin Historical Society on the evening of 26 February. 

This request was made at the last minute. There was a lack of resources due to being on a journey and doctors had discouraged Huzoor[ra] from delivering speeches for his own wellbeing. Despite all this, Huzoor readily and wholeheartedly accepted the request. On the 26th, at 7:15pm in the Habibiya Hall, he delivered a lecture on the start of disorders in Islam. 

Due to the very short timeframe, the announcement about this lecture could only be made to colleges. To listen to the lecture, tickets were required. Yet, despite all this, there was an incredible turnout and it is quite possible that of the functions conducted by this society, this drew the most attention. 

Chairman of the event

The society appointed Sheikh Abdul Aziz Khan BA, Honorary Secretary for Anjuman-i-Himayat-i-Islam, as chairperson for the event. For some reason, however, he was unable to attend at the fixed time and so, the event commenced under the permanent president of the society, Syed Abdul Qadir MA. 

After tilawat by Hakim Muhammad Hussain Qureshi Sahib, Secretary Anjuman Ahmadiyya Lahore, Syed Abdul Qadir gave a few opening words as the chairperson. 

Chairman’s opening speech

“Dear audience! It is customary for the chairperson to introduce a speaker before they take to the stage. However, today’s speaker has such respect and recognition that very few of us here will be unfamiliar with him. You are the successor of the noble and chosen human being who set about a storm in the religious world, particularly against Christianity. 

“I have had the opportunity to study the past century in minute detail. On this basis I can say that in this period, three notable humans were born. There is no doubt in the fact that the 19th century was a sorry time for Muslims. However, it gave birth to three individuals of various natures. 

“One of them was the one who led the Muslims during the sensitive period of the 1857 Mutiny and, to a large degree, saved the Muslims from destruction. Had he not been around to help, a state such as Hyderabad would not be around. 

“The second was Sir Syed [Ahmad Khan] who caused a revolution in the educational world. 

“The third individual was Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad [on whom be peace] who broke extraordinary new grounds in the religious world. 

“You are all aware that Hazrat Sahib[as] appeared at such a time when the spiritual condition of Muslims was at an all-time low. In such a climate did Hazrat Mirza Sahib reinvigorate the Muslims and urge them to return to their true faith. 

“How successful was he in his endeavours? I need not say anything about that. The proof of that is here before you. It was not my intention to deliver a long speech, rather it was my desire to inform you that today’s speaker is the successor of the person who caused a revolution in the religious world. 

“So, with these few words, I request Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad Sahib to come and share his broad and worthy insight with us.”

Prior to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’s speech, someone from the audience who had a large piece of paper in his hand began announcing a fatwa. But before he could complete his sentence, the secretary of the society instructed for him to be ejected. As he was being removed, he promised to remain quiet, to which he was permitted to stay. 

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’sra lecture

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] took to the stage and began his speech with Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Rahim [In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful] and said:

“A short while ago I received the news, with great pleasure, that a society has been established in the Lahore Islamia College in which those who are acquainted with historical facts will present their research. I was overjoyed by this, as familiarisation with history acts as a great stimulant in the progress of nations. A nation that is unacquainted with its historical accounts can never advance towards progress. Knowledge of the circumstances of one’s forefathers guides a person to many higher objectives. 

“Thus, when I came to know of the establishment of this society, I was pleased by the thought that lectures on Islamic history would be delivered alongside other lectures on various historical topics. These lectures would enable college students to understand the kinds of challenging tasks their forefathers were confronted with and the exceptional ability and perseverance with which they carried them out. They will come to know of the ancestors they have descended from and the obligations that fall upon them in their capacity as their children and representatives…

“Now that I have been asked to deliver a lecture on this forum regarding an aspect of Islamic history, I most readily postponed my departure and accepted to present my research before you on this occasion, with respect to certain subjects of historical importance…

“As you may be aware, the task which has been assigned to me by God the Exalted, in its nature, encompasses many aspects. Hence, for the purpose of its administration, it is absolutely imperative for me to possess knowledge of the historical subjects which specifically relate to the era of Khilafat. For this reason, despite having little time to spare, I am compelled to keep the history of that era under study. Although our primary task is to investigate and deeply contemplate upon religion, but along with this study, by the grace of God, such hidden aspects of the history of early Islam have been disclosed to me which most people of the current age are unaware of…

“You have probably gathered that on this occasion, I intend to speak about the Khilafat of Hazrat Usmanra and Hazrat Alira. Both of these noble men are among the first devotees of Islam. Their companions are also from among the best fruits of Islam. For a charge to be levelled against their honesty and virtue is, in reality, a disgrace upon Islam…

“As far as my research is concerned, whatever is alleged against these noble men and their friends is the work of the opponents of Islam. After the era of the companions, various so-called Muslims, driven by their egos, have levelled allegations upon either one or the other, from among these noble men. However, despite this the truth has always prevailed and has never remained veiled in secrecy…

“After a collective study of the accounts of these people it cannot even be imagined that they attempted to destroy and ruin Islam for their personal interests or benefit. Those who have embarked to find causes for the emergence of dissension and discord in Islam within the community of the companions have faltered gravely. The causes of disorder arose from other quarters and the only hope for reaching an accurate conclusion is if they are investigated in these quarters.”

After this introduction, Huzoor[ra] briefly expounded on the mischief and disorder created in the Khilafat of Hazrat Usmanra, which the audience listened to attentively. 

A substantial amount of time had elapsed and Huzoor turned to Syed Abdul Qadir Sahib and said that bearing in mind the notes he had prepared for the lecture, he would have needed 12 hours to complete the talk. Nonetheless, Huzoor said that he had summarised his points and then asked whether he should bring the talk to a close, to which Huzoor was told that he should carry on. Upon this, Huzoor then shed some light on the disorders created in the time of Hazrat Alira.

Concluding words of the chairman

After Huzoor’s lecture, the chairman of the event announced, “If anyone has a question regarding the talk, they may come to the stage and ask.” After waiting for a short period of time and with nobody coming to the stage, the chairperson concluded by saying:

“I have had the chance to study pages of history. When I entered this hall this evening, I thought to myself, ‘I possess knowledge of Islamic history, and I can form opinions on its history’, but having heard Mirza Sahib’s[ra] lecture, I realise that I am still a young student. The light of my knowledge and the light of Mirza Sahib’s knowledge is similar in comparison to this lamp (placed on the table) and the bulb transmitting light in this hall. 

“The clarity and insight with which Mirza Sahib explained such a complex chapter of Islamic history is a credit to him. There will be very few people here who can explain such a complicated subject. In my view there is no one in Lahore that can claim this. 

“It is extremely unfortunate that only a few years after the demise of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, dissension arose among Muslims. This disrupted the fabric of the Muslims. Whatever the Muslims had achieved before was a result of their unity and the sincerity and passion for wanting to spread the message of Islam. However, such people entered the fold of Islam, unfortunately, who were bent on uprooting the foundations of Islam.

“There is no doubt that such people were somewhat successful in their attempts, but as you are aware, after every darkness, light is appreciated properly and after every tribulation, there is ease. Accordingly, after this tumultuous period, a time of victories came, similar to the era of Hazrat Umarra.

“I do not wish to take up too much of your time – it has already gotten quite late – but I implore you to reflect upon your history and observe how the Muslims spread throughout the world when they were united; observe how destructive it became when such individuals, as referred to just moments ago by Mirza Sahib, came in their midst. 

“The time has now come for us to put aside our differences and unite! Let us cease from abusing one another and become one. We established the Martin Historical Society so that Muslims come to learn of how they were before and their current state. There is no discrimination in this; whether you are Ahmadi, Hanafi or belong to any other sect or religion, you are invited. 

“Just as representatives of various faiths have come and presented their research and findings, it was considered appropriate to invite an extraordinary leader of a sect and the successor of the founder of a sect and listen to his words.

“I feel that you, the audience, were captivated by the talk delivered by Mirza Sahib. It is my desire to have such capable individuals among us in this society. I am of the view that if such an intellectual and outstanding person becomes part of our society, it would set a great standard for us. If a person like you occasionally takes out some of his time to spend it with us, there is no reason for us not to succeed in our ambitions. 

“Therefore, if you accept membership, not only will we seek worldly blessings from you, but we will also acquire spiritual blessings from you. I hope that you will permit us to write your name down in the register as one of our members.”

Proposal for publishing the lecture

After the concluding remarks of the chairman, Hafiz Ferozuddin Sahib, Inspector Police Anarkali, Lahore, spoke for a few minutes. He said:

“The lecture delivered by Mirza Sahib was a special one; very rarely do we hear such lectures. For this reason, I request Mirza Sahib to include the detailed points, which he could not include due to the shortage of time, and have this published as an article for which funds should be collected now. The Historical Society should publish the lecture and distribute it widely. For this purpose, I contribute 50 rupees.”

Donations were made there and then and within only a few minutes, around 250 rupees were collected in cash and promises. 

The chairman of the event said:

“Moments ago, I said that Mirza Sahib’s inclusion in the Historical Society could be a means of worldly and spiritual blessings. We have just seen proof of this. This was truly a spontaneous and rapid response! How remarkable is the manner in which donations were made at the behest of Hafiz Ferozuddin Sahib. I am hopeful that within a few days, we will have this lecture published and distributed.”

After this, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] granted permission to have his name included in the register as a member of the society, before signing his name himself. The event successfully came to a close. 

This lecture has been transcribed and after being approved by Huzoor[ra], it will be passed on to the society so that they may publish and distribute it. 

[To read this lecture, The Outset of Dissension in Islam, please visit alislam.org/outset]

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Al Hakam is a weekly English newspaper for members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat around the world. Its aim is to provide Ahmadis with content regarding the beliefs of the true Islam, reintroduced to the world by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, peace be on him.

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