In the new year of Al Hakam, we aim to focus on incidents ranging from the year 1908 to 1965, with brief incidents from the blessed eras of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira and Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
29 March 1945: Qadian was not always a well-known town
of Punjab, but it gained limelight and became the hub of healthy and
intellectual activities due to Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiahas.
On this day, Talim-ul-Islam College Qadian’s society of religion and science
convened its first ever session for the general public in Masjid Aqsa.
30 March 1905: The Promised Messiahas
approved the appointment of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra as editor
of Al Badr after the demise of Hazrat Munshi Muhammad Afzalra.
Hazrat Ahmadas said on this occasion, “In my opinion, fortune has
smiled upon this newspaper, now that, due the mercy of Allah, this worthy and
righteous editor is appointed. God bless his efforts and may this newspaper
prosper.” Amin.
30 March 1945: For mutual consultation, there is an
Islamic institution called Shura, or Majlis-e-Mushawarat, in the Ahmadiyya
Jamaat. On this day in Qadian, the Jamaat’s Shura commenced, which lasted until
1 April. During this year’s session, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra proposed
the scheme of a large multipurpose hall adjacent to Minarat-ul-Masih. As soon
as the appeal was announced, attendees promised in writing the amount of
200,000 rupees.
30 March 1945:Hazrat
Musleh-e-Maudra announced the Nikah of his four
children in Masjid Nur Qadian before the Jumuah prayer. These were Mirza Khalil
Ahmad Sahib with Amatul Majeed Sahiba, Mirza Hafeez Ahmad Sahib with Syeda
Tanvir-ul-Islam Sahiba, Amatul Hakeem Sahiba with Daud Muzaffar Shah Sahib and
Syeda Amatul Basit Sahiba with Mir Daud Ahmad Sahib.
30 March 1952: Talim-ul-Islam College Rabwah held its
convocation and was presided over by the Vice Chancellor of the Punjab
University Dr Sheikh Abdur Rahman, famously known as Justice SA Rahman in the
literary circles of the country.
30 March 1953: During
the tumultuous periodof persecution faced by the Jamaat in 1953,Al
Fazl newspaper was forced to cease printing. The daily Al Musleh was
launched on this day, which continued its service as a substitute until 31
March 1954.
31 March 1972: Masjid Aqsa, Rabwah is the largest
mosque of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat in Pakistan. Its foundation
stone was laid in 1966 and the building’s inauguration took place on this day.
1 April 1938: In the same year as its inception,
Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra issued instructions to establish branches of
Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya in all local chapters outside of Qadian. This blessed
order served as a stepping stone for this auxiliary organisation to serve on an
international level.
1 April 1949: Rabwah railway station became
functional on this day, when the first train coming from Sargodha made its stop
for passengers. The first station master was Chaudhry Muhammad Sadiq
Sahib.
1 April 1953: During the
disturbances and riots against the Ahmadiyya Jamaat in 1953, martial law
authorities arrested Hazrat Mirza Sharif Ahmadra and
Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmadrh. They
remained behind bars until 28 May of the same year.
1 April 1953: The
Ahmadiyya Jamaat’s century-long history shows that it faced all type of
persecution, whether it was state-sponsored or from the masses. On this day,
police superintendent from Jhang District conducted a thorough search of
Qasr-e-Khilafat – the residence and offices of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra. Police also raided the central offices of Sadr Anjuman
Ahmadiyya. During the process, they arrested Nazir Tabligh Hazrat Syed
Zain-ul-Abidin Valiullah Shahra.
2 April 1950: Talim-ul-Islam
College Rabwah convened its first convocation on this day. The event was
blessed with the presence of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra who also
delivered an address.
3 April 1922:
Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Musleh-e-Maudra published a
written announcement on this day refuting a speech of Maulvi Sanaullah of
Amritsar. In it, Huzoorra presented a unique challenge. He said to
Maulvi Sahib that they both should invite their adherents to devote their lives
for the cause of Islam. In this way, one would easily be able to assess the
level of obedience and loyalty in them, and this scheme would simultaneously be
fruitful for Islam.
3 April 1931: Hazrat Maulana Jalaluddin Shams laid
the foundation stone of the first Ahmadiyya mosque in Kababir, Haifa. It was
named Mahmud Mosque.
3 April 1931: During the Majlis-e-Shura held in
Qadian, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra introduced a new industrial scheme.
Huzoorra devised a committee of learned and experienced men. Under
this scheme, a hosiery factory was established in Qadian.
Lahore Railway Station – Interior View – 1880s
3 April 1948: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
embarked on a journey to a north-western province of Pakistan from Lahore
railway station. During his sojourn, he delivered a speech in Special
Government Hall Peshawar on 5 April, providing basic guidelines for
strengthening the country. Places he visited included Torkham, Landi Kotal and
Charsada. Huzoorra had a sitting with tribal leaders and political
stalwarts and travelled for Rawalpindi on 11 April.
King Amanullah Khan
3 April 1960: Amanullah Khan was the sovereign of the Kingdom of Afghanistan from 1919 to 1929, and after 1926, as Malik (King). After the third Anglo-Afghan War, Afghanistan was able to pursue an independent foreign policy free from the influence of the United Kingdom, and his rule attempting to modernise Afghanistan on Western designs. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra wrote a concise book Dawat-ul-Amir (Invitation to Ahmadiyyat) addressing him. In the reign of Amanullah, many Ahmadis faced hardships and were martyred in Afghanistan. On this day, he died helplessly in Zurich, Switzerland during his exile.
4 April 1923: Organised
efforts to counter the Shuddhi movement – whose aim was to proselytise to
Muslims and convert them to Hinduism – and to provide assistance for the
indigent Muslims were being carried out under the leadership of the Imam of the
Ahmadiyya Jamaat. A third delegation, comprising of 22 people, reached the
place of action on this day.
4 April 1932: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
founded a new neighborhood, Dar-ul-Anwar, in Qadian.
4 April 1941:
Hazrat Maulvi Ghulam Rasul Rajekira laid the foundation stone of an
Ahmadiyya mosque in Hafizabad District, Pakistan.
4 April 1947: Majlis-e-Mushawarat was held on this
day. A total of 461 representatives were present. In the session held on 5
April, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra presented a demand of 200,000 rupees
for the security of Markaz. A sum of 375,000 rupees was consequently collected
in promises on the spot. Moreover, Huzoorra announced several other
appeals and significant measures for the security of the Markaz.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) – more commonly
known as diabetes – is a medical condition associated with a high blood glucose
(hyperglycaemia) level in the body and impaired carbohydrate metabolism.
In the UK, three to four million people
have been diagnosed with diabetes and 90% of them have type 2 diabetes. More
surprisingly, 12 million people in the UK are at high risk of developing type 2
diabetes. In 2016, diabetes was the seventh leading global cause of death
worldwide.
Consuming too much sugar (sugary foods and drinks) can expedite the onset of diabetes
In this chronic disease, there are
abnormalities in the glucose metabolism. Glucose enters our body through food
and is essential for the normal functioning of the cells. The glucose is
primarily taken up from the intestines where it is transported to the
bloodstream. The pancreas produces a hormone called insulin which acts on a
variety of cells of the liver, fat and muscles.
Insulin allows blood glucose to enter
these cells for fuel consumption or storage.
However, if insulin levels are low or absent, glucose cannot enter these cells,
which causes deprivation of glucose (energy) and thus leading to diabetes due
to the high blood glucose levels.
There are two types of diabetes, type 1
and type 2. The symptoms, diagnosis, follow up and the long-term complications
are almost similar for both types. An unusual form of diabetes is the
gestational diabetes, which only occurs in pregnant women. After the pregnancy
this form of diabetes disappears, however these women are at a high risk of
developing type 2 diabetes later on, especially in the first five years, and
thus should have a proper follow up of the blood glucose levels.
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease
that is characterised by reduced or absent production of insulin, usually as a
result of antibody production against the insulin producing cells in the
pancreas. When 90% of these cells get damaged, it will cause symptoms. Type 1
diabetes usually develops at a young age (< 30-40 years). This type of
diabetes can also occur in individuals with other autoimmune disorders or
within families with a family history for type 1 diabetes.
The other type, type 2 is characterised
by reduced production of insulin by the cells of the pancreas. Another cause
for type 2 diabetes is that body cells become unresponsive to the insulin
hormone produced. Some groups have a high risk of developing this type of
diabetes such as the elderly, aged above 65, obese individuals and pregnant
women.
Men have an increased risk than women.
Noteworthy to mention is that Asians and people from African origins have five
to ten times more risk to develop type 2 diabetes.
The symptoms of patients with type 1
and 2 diabetes usually include extreme thirst, frequent urination, nausea,
tiredness, concentrating problems, blurred vision and a decreased
appetite.
Type 1 diabetes can even lead to a
medical condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis, which can result in coma and
death. Diagnosis of diabetes is based on the clinical symptoms and a blood
glucose test. When the fasting blood glucose exceeds 7 mmol/L (126 mg/dl) or
the non-fasting blood glucose exceeds 11 mmol/L (200 mg/dl), measured two times
separately, then it is indicative of diabetes.
Usually Hemoglobin A1c (HBA1c) is also
tested in the blood which represents the average blood glucose of the past two
to three months and should normally be below 48 mmol/mol (6.5%). Follow up
exists of controlling the fasting blood glucose and HBA1c every two to three
months.
The primary treatment of diabetes is
based on lifestyle changes. It is advised to consume a variety of foods such as
fresh vegetables and fruits. It is necessary to stop smoking and avoid alcohol
consumption as well as reducing sugar intake. Doctors will mostly recommend a
dietician. Besides changes in food, regular exercise is important for obtaining
a normal weight (BMI) and can improve the response of the body cells to
insulin. Education about diabetes is also an essential part of a good treatment
which will be provided by the doctor or diabetes educators.
In type 1 diabetes, treatment exists of
insulin therapy. The dose of insulin depends on the calorie intake and the
amount of exercise. These patients have to check the blood glucose with a
finger prick test daily and multiple times for a good regulation of glucose in
the blood. If there is too much insulin in the blood, hypoglycaemia (low blood
glucose level) can occur leading to symptoms such as sweating, paleness,
headache and fainting.
In type 2 diabetes, medication is
started if there is no improvement of the blood glucose levels after lifestyle
changes. Medication for type 2 diabetes include metformin, sulfonylureas, GLP-1
receptor agonist, DDP-4 inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors and insulin therapy.
Usually the doctor will start with metformin and can add the other medications
depending on the blood glucose levels, response to the drugs and the patient’s
profile.
Diabetes is a chronic disease which can
lead to many complications on a long-term basis. There is an increased chance
of developing strokes, heart attacks and vascular diseases. Therefore, good
control of blood pressure and high lipid level in the blood are important
besides the blood glucose level. If necessary, medication for high blood
pressure and high lipid levels in blood can be added to the therapy.
In addition to this, high glucose
levels in the blood can damage the small vessels and lead to kidney and eye
diseases. It can also cause dry and sensitive skin and lead to a delayed wound
healing. Thus, patients with diabetes are required to have regular eye, kidney
and feet check-ups to prevent further complications.
The last complication which occurs
frequently, is neuropathy or nerve damage. This usually leads to numbness,
tingling or pain mostly in the lower limbs. In a late stage of nerve damage,
pain is no longer felt. Neuropathy in men can lead to reproductive problems
such as impotence.
Finally, it is important to realise
that diabetes patients are at an increased risk of infections and it is advised
to receive influenza and a pneumococcal vaccination.
Good diabetic care requires good
education for patients and a multidisciplinary approach by health professionals
with the aim to obtain a normal life.
(Please
always consult a doctor or specialist to diagnose health conditions and follow
the advised plan of a qualified doctor)
A few days ago, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa graciously granted me permission to meet him for an official audience. On the subject of the rank and status of the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, I said:
“Huzoor, you once instructed all departments and Jamaats that we should not be reluctant in talking about the Promised Messiahas as a prophet of God…”
Huzooraa replied:
“Yes, the Promised Messiahas was a prophet. Allah declared him so, the Holy Prophetsa declared him so, thus we should openly and proudly express this point. Alongside this, it should be clarified that the Promised Messiahas himself explained that his prophethood was not mustaqil – he did not bring any new Shariah – rather it was zilli and buruzi [as a reflection and subordinate] prophethood, which he attained through complete obedience and absolute devotion to Prophet Muhammadsa.”
After a slight pause, Huzooraa carried on:
“The Promised Messiahas was informed through divine revelation, ‘A warner came into the world, but the world accepted him not.’ Thereafter, God promised him that his truthfulness would be proved to the world by means of mighty onslaughts. So if the world is not made aware of his status, then how can it turn towards God?”
I replied, “Huzoor, the modern-day man doesn’t want to have anything to do with religion…”
Huzooraa added:
“This is what needs to be explained to such people, that Allah sent a warner in this era just as He did in previous eras. If they accept him, then they will be saved; if not, then they will be heading towards catastrophe. The world now stands at the brink of disaster, so now, it becomes all the more imperative to convey this message. The fact is that there is no other choice other than to accept the Promised Messiahas – this is the only means of salvation.”
With these words, my brain was diverted to many other instructions that Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa had given in the past.
One such instruction was with regard to MTA programmes, when Huzooraa said that we should always bear in mind that the primary purpose of MTA shows should be the propagation of Islamic teachings. Huzooraa also explained that the Promised Messiah’sas teachings were in fact the true teachings of Islam, thus no matter what the nature of the programme was, the main goal should be to highlight Islamic teachings.
We get to see many aspects of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’saa love for the Promised Messiahas. Whenever, Huzooraa has given any tabarruk [relic] of the Promised Messiahas to the Ahmadiyya Archive and Research Centre for preservation and restoration, Huzooraa always follows up the instruction with a question: “Where will you store it?” When Huzooraa is informed about the storage location, he then guides us to document details of where it came from so that it may be recorded in history.
When handwritten notes and letters of the Promised Messiahas are to be preserved, and the request for their conservation is submitted to Huzooraa, he carefully listens to the request and gives further guidance. When discussing costs, Huzooraa openly grants budgets for this purpose and creates all forms of ease.
Once, I had the good fortune of discovering a very rare and precious writing of the Promised Messiahas in the British Library. This was the English rendering of Sitara-e-Qaisara that had been translated under the Promised Messiah’sas auspices and sent by him to leading figures in the British Government at the time. I was over the moon to have discovered it.
I telephoned the private secretary and asked that my request be presented to Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa to meet him the very same day. Huzooraa graciously approved for me to meet him during the slot for evening mulaqats.
I entered Huzoor’saa office and showed him copies of the pages. I also informed Huzooraa that my request to show the copy during the live show, Rah-e-Huda, on MTA was being processed. To show them once cost a certain amount, but I said that I was in discussions with them to see whether they would make an exception as we were a charity organisation. Huzoor replied:
“This isn’t a substantially large amount of money. For such a precious document of the Promised Messiahas, how far will you get in haggling? Give them the required amount, show it [on MTA] and preserve it.”
Once, Huzooraa enquired, “Have you compiled all the newspaper cuttings related to the [John Alexander] Dowie prophecy coming true.” I replied, “Some have been compiled, but more will be added.”
The next few days were spent in searching for the cuttings. It should be mentioned that when Huzooraa said this during the mulaqat, at the time, there was no context of Dowie. But the more newspapers became available, the more I realised that there was great wisdom in that moment. What we usually considered to be the fulfilment of this prophecy was outshined by something far greater.
From the Far East to the far west, i.e. the western parts of USA, newspapers covered the fulfilment of this prophecy. From the time when Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas foretold Dowie’s end until Dowie’s death, many newspapers of the world took a keen interest in the updates of this prophecy, but when it was actually fulfilled, the attention increased manifold.
By means of this prophecy, the Promised Messiahas and his Jamaat were given coverage throughout the world, and God’s promise, that “I shall cause thy message to reach the corners of the Earth” was practically fulfilled. In later years, these words would be fulfilled in new ways and they continue to be fulfilled today.
From Tokyo to Vancouver, the manner in which the successor of the Promised Messiahas today has conveyed the message of Ahmadiyyat is unique in its own right. Huzoor’saa love for the Promised Messiahas becomes manifest in so many different ways.
Once, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa mentioned a couplet from the Promised Messiah’sasqaseeda [Arabic poem] and enquired about something regarding it. It was a moment that reflected my ignorance and so I replied that I did not know.
Huzooraa then picked out Qasaid-ul-Ahmadiyya – a book containing all the qaseedas of the Promised Messiahas – from the shelf to his left, flicked through the pages and flicked through them in a way that only after a turning a few pages did he find what he was searching for. Huzooraa read out the couplet and explained the deeper meaning to this humble servant.
Similarly, the Ruhani Khazain set to his left, with Post-It Notes scattered in each book, shows the extent to which it has been studied.
I once informed Huzooraa that somebody had called in to Rah-e-Huda and said that Jalsa Salana was an innovation in Islam. Huzoor asked, “What answer did you give?” I replied with the answer that we gave. Huzooraa said, “The Promised Messiahas gave the answer to every such question. There is no such allegation that he did not answer.”
With that, Huzooraa turned to his set of Majmu‘a Ishtiharat (compilation of announcements by the Promised Messiahas) and pulled a volume out. Huzooraa read out an answer that the Promised Messiahas had given in response to the allegation the gentleman raised on Rah-e-Huda. Huzooraa read out roughly 3-4 pages worth of the Promised Messiah’sas own words. The fluency with which he read aloud not only reflected his fast-pace but also suggested the many times he has studied such books.
Among the handwritten notes of the Promised Messiahas stored at the Ahmadiyya Archive and Research Centre, the revelation [Arabic] “Surely, I am with you, O Masroor” was found written in Hazrat Ahmad’sas handwriting
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa, on one occasion, said to me, “I have devised my own method of searching for extracts and references of the Promised Messiah’sas writings.” With that, Huzooraa showed me his copies of The Essence of Islam, the original Urdu of The Essence of Islam – Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadianias Apni Tehriron Ki Ru Sey – and Ruhani Khazain and how he benefits from the Promised Messiah’sas writings.
These were but a few examples of how I have seen Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa turn to the writings of the Promised Messiahas to solve every challenge. There are many more examples, but we witness the greatest in the form of his sermons, addresses and discussions. Huzooraa selects precious gems from a limitless and deep treasure and places them before us.
Before I conclude, one more incident needs to be mentioned.
This dates back to when the handwritten notes and letters of the Promised Messiahas were being preserved. I received a message from the private secretariat in the late afternoon that Huzooraa had called me.
Later, when I reached the office, Huzooraa graciously gave handwritten notes of the Promised Messiahas that had been preserved through lamination. Huzooraa said, “That day, you said that there were now better means of preservation than lamination. So take these and preserve them in a better way.”
As I left the office, the realisation of what had happened kicked in. Huzooraa had, in his possession, preserved handwritten documents of the Promised Messiahas, but with the intention that there were now better ways of preservation, Huzooraa immediately instructed for them to be preserved.
We were not able to experience the time of the Promised Messiahas. This is indeed something that saddens us. But this yearning should not let us forget that we are able to experience the time of his Khilafat. At present, we witness the blessed era of his fifth Khilafat. We have amongst us Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa who has the most love for the Promised Messiahas.
The safeguarding of relics is a metaphor of the painstaking efforts of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa to protect the message of the Promised Messiahas, the true Islam.
During the fifth Khilafat, the noble sayings of the Promised Messiahas are being preserved through print, electronic and social media in such a way, the example of which has never before been witnessed.
May Allah increase our love and devotion to Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa for this is the only way of increasing our love and devotion to the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas.
23 March is celebrated globally by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat as “The Promised Messiahas Day”. This day marks the anniversary of the foundation of the Jamaat by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, peace and blessings of Allah be on him.
Tomorrow, on 23 March 2019, it will have been 130 years since the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat was formally founded. Alhamdolillah!
For a Jamaat that was founded in an unknown hamlet of the Punjab, having lived 130 years is no less than a miracle. Every prophet of Allah has faced opposition and every jamaat of every prophet has always been told by their opponents that it would soon perish and vanish into thin air.
The same was the case with this Jamaat at the time of its inception. Opponents made bold claims like: The message of the founder of this Jamaat will not even go beyond the outskirts of Qadian; this Jamaat will perish at the demise of its founder; no one will even remember that this Jamaat ever existed.
What we have seen is that the names of such claimants have, contrarily, vanished into thin air, and the name of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian and the name of the Jamaat founded by him live on throughout the world with great respect. The Jamaat has become a symbol of peace, harmony and love – the very essence of Islam.
Every passing day brings numerous proofs of the support and favours bestowed upon the Jamaat by Allah the Almighty. The undeterred, resilient perseverance of the Jamaat’s leadership – Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya Islamiyah – has held up the flag of the great message sent to this world by Allah the Almighty through Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, the founder of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Muslimah.
May Allah enable us to witness more and more favours of Allah on the Jamaat and may those who have not yet done so accept this blessed message.
Surah al-Kahf, the eighteenth chapter of the Holy Quran, narrates at length an account of Dhul-Qarnain – the one with two centuries. The account commences from verse 86 and continues from that point onwards.
We all know quite well that the Holy Quran is not simply a book of history that merely records historical events to establish its authenticity. The stories mentioned in the Holy Quran have in them a plethora of prophecies relating to future events.
The tale of Dhul-Qarnain also belongs to the same category. It not only accounts the military exploits of a great and noble conqueror who lived in the past, but also contains prophetic reference to another great historical personage, a world reformer, who was to appear at some point in the future – the time that we are fortunate to be living in.
The appearance of this reformer, who has been named “The Promised Messiah and Mahdi”, has been repeatedly mentioned in Muslim Scriptures (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sunan Ibn-e-Maja and other books of Hadith).
Thus, the story of Dhul-Qarnain holds both a historical and spiritual significance and hence, warrants particular focus in research.
Lexicons inform us that Dhul-Qarnain is an Arabic word that refers to an individual who finds two different centuries.
“Verily, Allah will appoint for this ummah, at the head of every century, one who will revive its religion for it.” (Sunan Abi Daud, Kitab-ul-Malahim, Hadith 4291)
Almost every Muslim school of thought recognises the prophecy to be foretelling a series of reformers within the Ummah for Muslims, each century, after the advent of the Holy Prophetsa.
However, a devout companion of the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Pir Siraj-ul-Haq Numanira, saw this in a novel way. Interestingly, the Promised Messiahas acknowledged this new angle and endorsed the veracity of the message and its logic by including it in one of his own books.
In early 1901, the Promised Messiahas penned his book Ijaz-ul-Masih and subsequent to this masterpiece, included a monograph by Hazrat Pir Siraj-ul-Haq Numanira.His short research article bore the title, Another Prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa Fulfilled. He wrote:
“The Holy Prophetsa declared that Allah the Almighty would surely raise a person for this ummah at the beginning of each century, who would revive its faith for it. This great Hadith possesses a virtually unbroken chain of narrators and has reached a consensus of opinion.
“Whatever interpretation commentators of the Holy Quran, muhaddithin or sufis make of it, the meaning, which Allah Almighty has taught me, is that this Hadith is in reality concerning the Promised Messiahas. This is because former and future reformers are all but a reflection and we, in short, believe that reformers have appeared at the beginning of each century, in one form or another.
“However, we cannot explicitly say with certainty who the reformers were in all of the centuries that have elapsed. This is due to the fact that the Holy Prophetsa did not list the names of reformers. But as for the Promised Messiahas, we can say – supported with certain, concrete arguments and with conviction – that the reformer prophesied by the Holy Prophetsa to fight in his way and cause is the Promised Messiahas; the Hadith states: ‘How can such a nation be destroyed where I am at its beginning, the Promised Messiah at its end and Faij-e-A‘waj [1,000 years of spiritual and moral degradation] in between’.
“A sign of his advent that he foretold was that he would be raised in an age when different centuries would meet. Hence, when we look at the matter in depth, we find that that particular age is this very age in which the greatest reformer was sent, and he met the beginning of all calendars; 1318 Hijri, 1901 AD, 1307 Fasli and 1957 Bikrami. Moreover, he was present in the seventh millennium – the mother of centuries. Thus, the prophecy, ‘at the beginning of each century’ has been fulfilled through the combination of these calendars.
“Furthermore, the Hadith of the lunar and solar eclipse and the verse of the Holy Quran, ‘and among others from among them who have not yet joined them’ [Surah al-Jumu‘ah, Ch.62: V.4] attest to its truth. Thus, that promised and awaited reformer is Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadianias.”
A study of the great works of the Promised Messiahas reveals that he presented this unique and subtle sign to prove the truthfulness of his Master, Prophet Muhammadsa, and as truthfulness of his own claims as well.
For example, in the final pages of his book Tadhkiratush-Shahadatain, he termed himself Dhul-Qarnain. Furthermore, reiterating the matter under the commentary of verse 84 of Surah al-Kahf, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas adds:
“God Almighty has also named me Dhul-Qarnain … It is evident that Dhul-Qarnain has to be a person who witnesses two centuries. And, it is a marvelous matter about me that when you look at all the calendars in use, you will find that I have lived in two centuries according to the calendars of all people … just as I have lived in two centuries of the Islamic calendar, I have also lived in two centuries of the Christian calendar, as well as the Hindi calendar whose year begins with Bikaramajit. I have, as far as was possible for me, studied all the ancient calendars of the East and West, and I have not found a single nation of whose calendar I have not seen two centuries. It is recorded in some Ahadith that the Messiah to come would be known by the fact that he would be Dhul-Qarnain.” (Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya Part V, pp. 146-147)
However, objecting to the final line of the extract, opponents of the Promised Messiahas demand that sayings of the Holy Prophetsa regarding Dhul-Qarnain be brought forth. They, in reality, are mistakenly fixated on the word “Dhul-Qarnain” and ignore the narration which has been cited above and recorded in Abu Daud. Those who sincerely seek the truth should know that the book, Kamaluddin wa Tamamun-Ne‘mah wa Ikmaluddin wa Etmamun- Ne‘mah, written by the great Shia scholar, Muhammad bin Ali bin Babiwayh al-Qummi also contains mention of the word Dhul-Qarnain whilst discussing the advent of the Imam Mahdi.
Returning to the primary topic at hand, whilst delivering a speech on 27 December 1901 at Jalsa Salana, the Promised Messiahas said with reference to Dhul-Qarnain:
“Even Mufti Sahib [Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra] has shown 16 or 17 calendars in which I have lived in.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 2, p. 140)
In early February 1904, Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra wrote a rebuttal to the book, Tarak-e- Islam. His work, synonymous with his name, was titled, Nuruddin. On page 251, a painstaking research is included in it, which lists 32 calendars and the turn of their centuries.
The agreed date of birth of the Promised Messiahas at the time of writing this book was 1839. The research by Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, proving the year of birth to be 1835, came later, making no difference to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I’sra point.
A study of the history of the world shows that the number of calendars that have been used worldwide are around 80, whereas today, only a few are in frequent use, such as the Gregorian, Chinese, Hebrew, Islamic and Persian calendars.
The calendars in use are generally solar or lunar and sometimes run on both principles.
Of course, the research regarding calendars as cited here was carried out in a small village with limited resources, a century ago.
Now that we live in a world where research has become far easier, we invite those Ahmadi researchers with particular interest in the study of calendars – or Horology – to carry out detailed research on this topic and write to us with their findings.
We believe that any such study will enhance our belief in the fact that the Promised Messiahas was indeed Dhul-Qarnain – the great reformer at the turn of many centuries.
It seems like yesterday when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah strengthen his hand, graciously granted approval of starting an English weekly newspaper from the Markaz. Actually, it has been a whole year.
Being able to successfully publish a weekly newspaper online every Friday, we – the Al Hakam team – praise and thank Allah for His blessings that we have witnessed all along.
All our efforts would have never seen fruition had it not been for the guidance, prayers and support that Al Hakam has had from our beloved Imam, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. Every single issue during the last year was blessed with his attention and guidance. At the very onset, the instruction that came coupled with the approval was:
“You will have to make do with the handful of people already working in the Archive [and Research] Department.”
At the time, Huzooraa referred to his Friday Sermon that he had delivered a few weeks earlier, where he had mentioned Hassan Muhammad Arif Khan Sahib. Huzooraa explained how, having moved to Canada, Hassan Khan Sahib would singlehandedly prepare the monthly Ahmadiyya Gazette – collating material, editing it, handwriting it and then printing it for circulation.
Since Huzooraa had mentioned Hassan Khan Sahib with great love in his Friday Sermon, we took it as an honour to be working on the same lines that had received an affectionate mention by Huzooraa.
The biggest reward we received from Allah the Almighty for wilfully and happily aligning our vision with Huzoor’s instruction was the biggest reward that one can imagine: Huzoor’s constant guidance and support in every matter to do with Al Hakam.
Al Hakam was blessed with the opportunity to publish the full text of Huzoor’s Friday Sermon every week; a feature that was non-existent before. We thank the Al Fazl team for providing the full Urdu text and the Review of Religions’ team for translating it and providing it every week.
Covering Hazrat Amirul Momineen’s tours brought great pleasure and satisfaction. By constantly striving to acquire updates and making them available to our readers, we felt connected with Huzooraa even when he was thousands of miles away; a greater satisfaction being that our readers felt the same.
But the greatest of all pleasures and satisfaction would come after the tour. We would present to Huzooraa the issues published while he was away, and he would say, “I have already been through them.” The fact that our efforts got Huzoor’s attention, even for a few moments, while he was so occupied with a hectic routine on his tour, made us feel that we had been given a reward far greater than what our humble efforts deserved.
We thank our correspondents in the fortunate countries that had the honour to host Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa during the year, for their continued support in providing updates regardless of time differences and other issues that could easily hinder communication. We would also like to thank the Central Press and Media Office which made it easier for us to acquire updates on Huzoor’s tours.
Talking of correspondents, we should proclaim another blessing of Allah the Almighty. It was mentioned to Huzooraa that we wished to establish a strong network of correspondents so that news from all foreign missions could be included as soon as possible and not months after they had happened. Huzooraa graciously granted permission and we were able to, with the support of amirs of foreign Jamaats, to have representation in almost every part of the world.
Our correspondents – based all around the world – deserve a huge thanks from us for always being there to report on the Jamaat’s activities, thus making Al Hakam a newspaper in the true sense of the term.
Part of the vision behind the launch of Al Hakam was to bring to life the rich history of the Jamaat for our English-speaking audience – being in Urdu meant being unavailable as such.
Selections from the vast range of literature produced in Urdu language by Jamaat’s scholars over the last 130 years were translated into English and included in the 52 issues that punctuated, on a weekly basis, the whole of last year. Particularly enjoyed by our readers were diaries of early Ahmadi missionaries to the West, most saying that it was awe-inspiring to know what challenges our early missionaries faced during the days when Muslim missions in Western countries was an alien concept for the West (and also for the rest).
“100 Years Ago…” aims at bringing out material in English that was originally published exactly a century ago in the Jamaat’s newspapers and magazines. This series has received great commendation and appreciation by our readers. With this series, we were able to include images of archived documents from the Jamaat’s history, thanks to the collection at the Ahmadiyya Archive and Research Centre, London.
A series that our English-speaking audience enjoyed by being connected to the legacy that stretches across our 130-year-old history is “This Week in History”. This regular column proved that brevity does not always compromise interest, it can rather work as a catalyst. Giving a flavour of how the dates of a certain week were important in the Jamaat’s history, this series has been immensely successful and is much awaited each week.
All these features put together are outweighed by one single feature of Al Hakam. This great feature and great blessing are the interviews with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa on various matters, exclusively and graciously granted to Al Hakam by our beloved Imamaa.
Monitoring analytics of the issues that carried Huzoor’s exclusive interviews were faith-inspiring for all of us at Al Hakam. The trajectory of readership would spike to phenomenal levels on the day and on the days following such blessed issues. We would see this spike stretching beyond any precedent levels and three- to four-digit numbers in the “active-user” field of the analytics for the span of such days. The comments we received on these interviews of Huzooraa and the great zeal with which readers share the blessed words is a unique angle of love between Khalifa and Jamaat, and we were fortunate to have witnessed this.
Readers’ feedback has been paramount in giving direction to our humble efforts. We conclude with inviting your feedback and the reassurance that it is always welcome. Our upgraded website now provides the option to leave your comments for individual articles or columns. If our editorial teams find your comments to be useful for other readers, we will, Insha-Allah, publish them under the respective article.
Our upgraded website and app come with the option to share anything you like through popular social media platforms.
We thank you as our readers for your support all along and hope to have the same in the future, along with your prayers of course!
Below is the editorial written by Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfani, may Allah be pleased with him, in the very first issue of Al Hakam on 8 October 1897. The state of the press and media in India at that time is key in understanding the journalistic climate at the time of the launch of Al Hakam. It is surprising to see that although media has developed dramatically over the last century, the debates remain quite similar, and so do the challenges. The ethos behind the launch of Al Hakam today remains the same and will, Insha-Allah, remain so.
Al Hakam, 8 October 1897
Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira
Dear readers,
Al Hakam, declaring “On Allah We Trust”, comes to the stage of journalism to fulfil its duty. But before it starts to play its part, it is better that certain matters are explained as an introduction.
The history of the newspaper, or journalism, cannot be put down in a few bullet points on a couple of pages. So it was deemed necessary that only important points be brought to everyone’s attention here.
In this age of awareness and progress, the need to discuss newspaper and its philosophy is quite valid because the need for newspapers had turned the five essentials of life to seven. The condition of nations that claim, quite rightly, to be the fountainhead of civilisation and progress has proved that print media is the one thing that can change the fate of a nation and its peoples, as long as it is handled appropriately.
Pondering over the nature and design of the human mind, we know that the factor of distinction between man and animals is intellect, which lacks in the latter. This is why animals are unable to exchange ideas which is the root cause of progression. Of the two means of communication i.e. meaningful words and written expression, the latter unveils the secret behind the creation of man and creates in him the spark of excellence, which, at a certain stage, can take him to criticise even the words of angels, or what we know as revelation.
The history of India – in the times of Lord Macaulay and Charles Metcalfe – has it that intellectuals would debate on two main issues: freedom of press and censorship in Western ideas. Debates went on between the two groups. Those in favour based their argument on the fact that there was no other way to strengthen the rule of the Empire because Western education would remove prejudice and stubbornness from the hearts of religious leaders, resulting in their people accepting the rule of a nation that is alien to them in custom, culture, religion and civilisation.
Those against were of the opinion that Western education, combined with freedom of press, would ignite in the Indian peoples a desire for freedom resulting in them knowing their rights and demanding self-rule. Anyway, after a great deal of argumentation, Sir Charles Metcalfe and his accomplices, who were in favour, proved victorious.
How their victory was celebrated and how Metcalfe was given votes of thanks, we ought not to go into detail. In short, Western education was formally introduced and Indian press felt the breeze of freedom.
The native press, however, was unfortunately accused by some Anglo-Indians to intend rebellion against the government. That resulted in a particular circle, with the support of some Europeans, turning against the vernacular press. The dispute remained unresolved for many years. Then came the time of Lord Lytton, but the attitude of the press, the need of time and a bit of his own bias all turned against the freedom of press and the freedom was no more. This brought about displeasure, but then started the rule of Lord Ripon as viceroy, which is known for a number of blessings that it brought. That honest and just ruler returned the lost freedom to the vernacular press and the press benefitted from it and continues to do so.
The climate again seems to be turning in an unfavourable direction with the question of freedom again being discussed, but to be honest, the press is also to be blamed for giving way to such thoughts. If the press used this freedom fairly, the government would not have had to intervene. The press calls for trouble but it is good that it is now becoming cautious and is fixing itself.
We have had to briefly describe historical facts about the freedom of press, which has kept us from coming to the point of introducing Al Hakam.
Undoubtedly, journalism is a noble and respectable profession. As mentioned above, journalists go so far as criticising the messages brought by angels. This leaves them with great responsibility that cannot be fulfilled by an ordinary mind, rather it asks for a mind that is naturally gifted.
The current state of journalism in India does not need my remarks to describe it, but if appropriate, we will write articles to discuss the factors leading to its current state. For now, we only need to introduce Al Hakam.
Since divine knowledge and divine law are the fountainhead of true civilisation and reform, Al Hakam has taken upon itself the heavy burden of spreading truth and peace in the world through these. The method that is closest to human nature, as suggested by sound reasoning and experience, is Islam. Therefore Al Hakam will be a true servant of Islam. The Merciful God Himself has, by His tradition and promise, appointed Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, peace be upon him, as the manifestation of the hidden and living treasures of Islam in this time of spiritual famine; the propagation of his mission will be the primary objective of Al Hakam.
I would never have launched Al Hakam especially in the given dire state of the native press. It is beyond my understanding how a very powerful inspiration led me to launch it. Our opponents are raising such allegations against us that have the potential to leave other Muslims and the government in doubt about us; to reply to such allegations, there is no better way than Al Hakam.
The policy of Al Hakam will always remain versatile, so we pledge friendship with all circles and take upon us the task of promoting peace and harmony and eliminating the very root of prejudice, stubbornness, intolerance and treachery…
Finally, we hope that our readers will take Al Hakam to be their representative and encourage us through their valuable suggestions. We have committed to be at peace with everyone as our very mission is nothing but peace and harmony. We hope that Al Hakam will never disappoint our readers.
As Ahmadi Muslims, we envy those who lived in the time of the Promised Messiahas and got the opportunity to see him and to listen to his blessed words directly. Such individuals are undoubtedly stalwarts of the Jamaat’s history.
But there were others who came in contact with the Promised Messiahas in his very eventful lifetime and, although they never accepted his message, are also of great historical importance.
John Hugh-Smyth Pigott
John Hugh Smyth-Pigott claimed to be God and was warned by the Promised Messiahas through a published tract sent not only to Pigott but to newspapers and journals in the West; the latter publicised it enthusiastically.
Dr Henry Martyn Clark
Then there was a Dr Henry Martyn Clark – a Christian missionary doctor – who held a debate with the Promised Messiahas, lost it, and later accused the Promised Messiahas of a murderous attempt.
Captain (later Colonel) Montagu William Douglas presided over this court hearing and acquitted the Promised Messiahas, declaring the accusations made by Dr Clark as fabricated stories.
The Promised Messiahas had revelations about all three. For John Hugh-Smyth Pigott, the Promised Messiahas was told that he would not repent and would have a very disastrous end.
In Dr Clark’s lawsuit, the Promised Messiahas was informed by Allah that the case would be dismissed by Captain Douglas – the just district magistrate of Gurdaspur.
All three lived to witness the prosperity of the movement that was founded in the unknown village of Qadian by the then unknown Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas. All three witnessed the truthfulness of his claims through the fulfilment of the prophecies he had publicised about them.
Out of curiosity, I set out to search for the progeny of these three persons. The search was a very challenging one and would not have seen success had it not been for the guidance and blessing of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. It was destined for the progeny to be found in the blessed era of the Khilafat of Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa, and, by the grace of Allah, it happened so.
Pigott had been the most intriguing figure for me. Our opponents always brought the prophecy about him up when they saw that they had lost the logical plot in a debate. The first warning sent out to Pigott by the Promised Messiahas stated that claims of divinity did not befit a human being and that Pigott should refrain from such claims or see destruction in the lifetime of the Promised Messiahas.
Cutting the long story short, it was later revealed to the Promised Messiahas that Pigott would not repent or refrain and would see a chaotic end. Since Pigott (d 1927) outlived the Promised Messiahas (d 1908), our opponents have always used this to try and prove that this prophecy was not fulfilled.
What is ignored is the revelation that the Promised Messiahas received about him not repenting and seeing a drastic end. How it all unfolded can be read at www.reviewofreligions.org/5593/rev-john-hugh-smyth-pigott-his-claim-prophecy-and-end
So it was for the curiosity to know how and where this false claimant of divinity ended up that I decided to go out and search for the answer. All the information collected can be read in the article mentioned above, but what I must mention here is the long and winding path that led to his progeny.
Having read many books and theses on the Agapemone – the cult of Pigott – I contacted the authors. One of the authors had been in touch with the family and was kind enough to provide me an address where one of Pigott’s granddaughters had lived when the author was working on his PhD thesis; some 15, 16 years ago. With very little hope, I decided to set out for the address in Bradford.
Before leaving, I mentioned to Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa that I would be making my way to Bradford for the said purpose, but with very little hope. On this, Huzooraa replied, “Search properly and you will find her”. With this “good luck charm”, I headed off to the address on a Saturday afternoon.
Having arrived in Bradford quite late at night, I thought it was best to visit the address the following morning. You can imagine the type of response one gets on knocking at someone’s door on a Sunday morning – especially in England; that is exactly what I got.
The gentleman was a bit surprised with my query and told me that it had been more than a decade that they bought the house from the woman and that he had no idea where she might be living now. I was very disappointed. But as I turned back to my car, he opened his door again and said, “She said she was going to move to [naming the place near Bradford].” He said this at almost the same time as Huzoor’saa words were echoing in my ears. I was to realise, only a few minutes later that that was all I needed.
I got hold of a telephone directory of the town and started calling every single person that had the same surname as hers. I must have sounded like a desperate telemarketing salesman because many just put the phone down on me. Going through the unending list of that surname, I finally dialed a number where a very kind lady picked up the phone. I asked if she was Ann Buckley and, to my luck, she confirmed that she was.
She sounded surprised and shocked at the fact that someone had traced her and called her to ask about her grandfather, but she was kind enough to invite me over.
In about an hour’s time, I was at her cosy flat sipping a cup of tea she had served. But she knew that more than the tea and biscuits I was interested in what she had to offer about her grandfather. As she went down memory lane, recalling the peculiar atmosphere of the Agapemone – the walled colony of Pigott and his followers in Spaxton – she said that she had nothing to do with the beliefs of Pigott. She also confirmed that there was not a single person left who belonged to Pigott’s community.
She was partially aware of the correspondence that had taken place between the Promised Messiahas and her grandfather – who had claimed the same title for himself – but wanted to know more from me. You can imagine how proud I must have felt in saying that “my” Promised Messiah’s community had now spread all over the world with millions of followers.
She had archived a great deal of material related to Pigott: photographs, letters, clothes, books and other items. What involved me the most was the official seal of John Hugh Smyth-Pigott. What had once been the pride of a flamboyant “messiah” now laid buried under files of yellowing paper and piles of brown archive boxes.
A plaque from Piggot’s belongings written in Latin. The translation of this text, recorded at the back of the pendulum, reads: “I am a man. Nothing akin to humanity do I consider alien to me.”
Ms Buckley later visited London and had an audience with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa. She enjoyed the company of Huzooraa and had a lot of nice things to say about the great man she had just met. Her visit, and the Lebanese food that we had for dinner that evening, was to turn into a very cordial friendship.
She later visited Jalsa Salana in 2012, addressed the audience and mentioned the good feelings she had about the Ahmadiyya Community. Albeit occasionally, I visited her on many occasions and so did she, whenever she was in London.
In 2016, she decided to donate the whole archive – and the only remains – of Pigott to the Ahmadiyya Archive and Research Centre. What a coincidence it is that the day my colleague, Qaasid Muin Ahmad, and I collected the archive collection from her was 23 March 2016. On the blessed occasion of Promised Messiah Day 2016, anything that was left of Pigott was handed over to the Khalifa of the Promised Messiahas. Praise be to Allah!
Finding Jolyn Martyn Clark was relatively easier. It took a lot of time and effort to find a name from the progeny of Dr Henry Martyn Clark, but tracking him down was not as difficult, thanks to his blog which he keeps alive with great enthusiastic activity.
Jolyn was more surprised to listen to the background of my search than Ms Buckley; he had no idea of the whole controversy. He laid before me the items belonging to Dr Henry Martyn Clark on his coffee table. One of the items was a vote of thanks, calligraphically written and framed, presented to Dr Clark upon his retirement and his return to Edinburgh.
Jolyn had never known what language it was and what it meant. I read it out to him and to his and my surprise, it had mention of the great debate that had taken place between Dr Clark and the Promised Messiahas in Amritsar.
This first encounter too turned into a warm and cordial friendship. He visited London and had audience with Huzooraa. I was fortunate to be in the room where the two great-grandsons met; one of the Promised Messiahas and the other of his great opponent. But this great-grandson of an opponent had nothing but love, admiration and adoration for the great-grandson and Khalifa of the Promised Messiahas.
Jolyn Martyn Clark meeting with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa
Having known of the great debate, he proclaimed that he could not say who the winner of the debate was, but it was clear from the success and prosperity of the Jamaat who had actually been triumphant. He said that it was awe-inspiring to witness that his own great-grandfather was, if at all, only remembered by the community of the person that he had once opposed. I have occasionally expressed my desire to preserve the archive material that he holds, but never very openly. I know he holds it too dear.
Colonel (more commonly known as Captain in the Jamaat) Douglas’ footsteps were the hardest to trace. I managed to find the address where he lived the last days of his life; I managed to get to the place, but nothing at all to point towards his children.
I mentioned to Huzooraa in a mulaqat that I was at a dead end. Huzooraa replied, “Perhaps you’re not searching in the right direction!” I must confess here that this was one of the incidents that was to teach me that no word of Khalifatul Masih should ever be taken casually.
When Huzooraa said this, I thought to myself where I could have gone wrong. All along I had been quite confident that I was searching in the right direction; I still was. The only faint hope I had was the one last place to visit where Elizabeth – Douglas’ daughter – had taught at a school. As I drove on the motorway, a buried away memory flashed in my mind.
It occurred to me that Mir Mahmud Ahmad Nasir Sahib had once mentioned that he was in London when Colonel Douglas passed away. They had attended his funeral and met his daughter and son-in-law. I dialed his number straight away and asked if he remembered anything about the couple. He said that he did not remember anything, only that they were planning to travel to South Africa after the funeral.
From thereon started a long journey of going through South African records that later turned my direction to Rhodesian (now Zimbabwe) records. As a fulfilment of the words of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa, the boomerang had gone to the land of Africa before landing back in the Pimlico area of London where Douglas’ grandson, Christopher, was then residing in a flat.
Although it is sometimes seen as bad manners to turn up out of the blue at someone’s doorstep and knock, but I managed to find only his residential address. My passion to meet the grandson of the great man who had acquitted my beloved master in a fabricated lawsuit made it easier for me to be “ill-mannered” in that moment.
So I knocked, but got no reply. I knocked a second time and no reply again. The third knock was going to be my last attempt as we have been taught and we have also been taught to not feel bad if the one on the other side does not respond.
For the very first time in my life, I felt how difficult it can sometimes be to follow this teaching. Having knocked for the third time and waited for a few minutes, I turned around in disappointment when I heard the latch rattle. From the little opening of the door, all I could see was an eye and a bit of grey-hair.
“Who is it?” The softly spoken words helped me recover from disappointment. I began narrating the story. He paused me and asked if he could see me in a couple of hours and listen to the whole story then.
That evening, we sat in a café opposite his house in Pimlico and went through a century-old story when his grandfather had acquitted the Promised Messiahas and how the Promised Messiahas had appreciated the justice of Douglas. He was glad to know that the Jamaat, in line with the Promised Messiahas, referred to his grandfather as Pontius Pilate of the Messiah of this age. It was hard for him to believe that a community had kept alive the name of his grandfather, and that too with great reverence.
When he came to know that the successor of the Promised Messiahas now lived in London, he couldn’t wait to see him. An audience was requested which Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa very graciously granted.
There we were: Christopher and I, waiting to see Huzooraa in a fine spring afternoon.
Christopher Douglas-Pulleyne (grandson of Colonel M W Douglas) meeting with Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa
The awe and joy of having met Huzooraa was evident from not only his face but from every word he uttered.
Later, the flat that he lived in had to be put up for sale and Christopher had to move out of London, but he remains a very good friend and maintains contact.
His text messages often have the words: “Could you please request His Holiness to pray for my health”. How Huzooraa has given him love and care is a very faith-inspiring story that ought to be told at a more suitable time.
“He (the Promised Reformer) will descend near the white minaret, East of Damascus.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Fitan wa Ashrat as-Sa‘ah)
Specialists of Hadith identify that this Hadith related to the second coming of Jesus Christas falls in the category of mukashifat (divine visions). Scholars of religious knowledge, being aware of the allegorical and metaphorical nature of these divine visions, recognise the fact that they are manifested in a rather unique and surprising manner. Therefore, the Promised Messiahas, an embodiment of Jesusas son of Maryas,envisioned in the year 1894:
يُسافر المسيح الموعود اَو خليفة من خلفائه الي ارض دمشق
“The Promised Messiah, or one of his successors shall journey to Damascus.” (Hamamatul Bushra, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 7, p. 225)
Accordingly, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra visited Damascus during his tour of Europe in 1924 and happened to take up accommodation towards the east of the white minaret.
Yet again, for the second time while traveling to Europe, this time by air, he descended in Damascus. Hence, the prophecy of the Hadith was fulfilled.
Studying history to find the date of construction of the actual minaret in Qadian, we discover that in 1900, the Promised Messiahas appealed for the construction of a white minaret in Masjid Aqsa, which is situated exactly at the east of Damascus. Moreover, he expressed that the construction of this minaret was deeply associated with the revival of Islam.
On one occasion, the Promised Messiahas drew a sketch of the minaret on a piece of paper with his own blessed hand, proclaiming that Allah the Almighty had commanded him to build this type of minaret.
There lies a particular passion and desire in the ummah of Muhammadsa to witness the practical fulfillment of the prophecies of the Holy Prophetsa.
A study of Islamic history reveals that Muslims, spending thousands of dinar, built a minaret in the city of Damascus, Syria but it underwent various calamities. At present, a minaret stands within the Umayyad Mosque while another minaret exists on the eastern gate of the ancient city of Damascus.
Old image of Muhalla Dar-ul-Anwar, Qadian from Minarat-ul-Masih
Recounting an interesting experience regarding Minarat-ul-Masih (the Minaret of the Messiah), Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra says:
“During my stay in Damascus in 1924, I asked the opinion of Maulvi Abdul Qadir Sahib al-Maghrabi, a well-known religious scholar in that locality, as to where that minaret was upon which Prophet Jesusas would descend. He replied that it was the minaret of the Umayyad Mosque, while another Maulvi Sahib said that the minaret present in the neighborhood of Christians would be that minaret, and yet one Maulvi Sahib said that Jesusas would himself build that minaret.”
Breaking through the myths of history, we uncover that another concept was also present in the ummah of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, according to which the white minaret being physically present in the city of Damascus was not mandatory, and instead, the only requirement for its existence was towards the eastern side of Damascus. (Imam Jalaluddin al-Suyuti, Sharah Ibn-e-Majah)
Revisiting Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya’s history of the year 1900, we find a few devoted companions belonging to remote areas and in underprivileged circumstances contributing to various treasuries responsible for the propagation and promulgation of Islam, irrespective of their poor financial condition. In those circumstances, it seemed beyond the bounds of possibility to raise money for building the minaret. Spite all the difficult conditions, the Promised Messiahas received divine inspiration and published a detailed announcement for the devoted members of the Jamaat on 28 May 1900:
“In accordance with a Hadith of the Holy Prophetsa, the construction of a tall minaret has been suggested which shall also serve as a place to call for prayers. A bright light with a large clock will be fixed on it. Moreover, the minaret will serve as a symbolic representation of the prophecy regarding the Messiah of Muhammadsa لیظھرہ علی الدین کلہ [“He will make (Islam) prevail over every other religion”], signaling that the truth of Islam would reach the same heights as would the glory of the minaret. Similar to the elevated voice which overwhelms all and sundry, the religion of Islam will be victorious over all other religions. The light and the clock of the minaret will highlight that along with the expansion of worldly discoveries, the days of divine light have descended and the world should realise the demands of the age.”
After the publication of this announcement, Muslim clerics and opponents of the Jamaat criticised that spending money on the construction of a minaret and fixing a huge clock upon it would be an act of squandering.
Consequently, the Promised Messiahas published another announcement on 1 July 1900, stating:
“I am amazed at the sight of these insulting individuals who are still hailed as Muslims. Beware that the purpose of building this minaret is to fulfill the prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa … and it is indeed a virtue to fix a large clock on the minaret as a source of assistance and reminder of time for the worshipers. As a matter of fact, these Maulvis are not desirous of fulfilling the prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa … It was the will of God Almighty that a minaret be erected in Qadian because without a doubt, it is the place where the Promised Messiahwould have descended … Any individual who contributes to this cause will be our close companion in the eyes of God … Hence, it is destined that the real advent of the Messiah, which would inspire the hearts, carrying light and certainty, shall manifest after the completion of the minaret.”
One can sense the financial condition of the Jamaat from an incident when Hazrat Mir Hisamuddin Sialkotira, sitting in Masjid Mubarak, estimated the total cost of the minaret to be ten thousand rupees. The Promised Messiahas told him repeatedly to devise a plan to lower the expenses. Eventually, the Promised Messiahas divided the amount of ten thousand rupees on a hundred parts and published a list of 101 devoted servants, appealing that those who contributed to the cause would have their names engraved on the minaret. Several companions, who were seemingly not able to offer much, responded to the cause selling their household goods. The Promised Messiah’s noble wife, Hazrat Nusrat Jehan Begumra promised to contribute one thousand rupees and to sell her house in Delhi to donate more.
Primary arrangements, designs and the selection for the place of construction was finalised towards the end of 1901, but owing to the outbreak of plague, there began a shortage of artisans and labourers in the country.
On Friday, 13 March 1903, on the day of laying of the foundation of the minaret, the Promised Messiahas held a brick in his hand and prayed for a significantly long period. Huzooras then instructed to place the brick on the western side of the foundation. Hazrat Mir Nasir Nawabra was the supervisor of the construction work.
The base of the minaret was erected after pouring concrete deep into its foundation. The local Hindu populace, out of mischief, complained to the authorities that the minaret would expose their houses to the views of strangers. The tehsildar (executive magistrate of the administrative division) and district magistrate reached Qadian for inspection and interviewed the locals. On the basis of received testimonies, the deputy commissioner of Gurdaspur dismissed the case.
Despite all the efforts, appeals and monetary sacrifices, the construction came to a halt due to a shortage of expenses. Someone asked the Promised Messiahas, “When will the minaret be completed?” Huzooras replied, “If we end up finishing all the work ourselves, then what source will there be of attaining reward for those who are to come after us.”
The construction work of the minaret could not be resumed throughout the era of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira. However, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra resumed the construction of the minaret by placing a brick on the incomplete structure on 27 November 1914. Qazi Abdur Rahim Sahib was appointed as the supervisor. Marble of the finest quality was transported from Ajmer Sharif.
Reaching the height of 105 feet, the construction of Minarat-ul-Masih completed on December 1915. The total number of stairs of the minaret are 92 and there is a total of 211 names of companions which are engraved on it.
This minaret has experienced more than a century of opposition and hostility to date, but its light continues to shine across the globe.
This elevated minaret is announcing with all its glory and magnificence:
بخرام كه وقتِ تو نزديك رسيد
وپائے محمدياں بر منارِ بلند تر محكم افتاد
“Tread joyfully that your time has arrived, and the feet of the Muslims have been planted firmly on a high tower.” (Tadhkirah [English rendering], p.368)
Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya Canada visited the Markaz last week, visiting various Jamaat sites including Masjid Fazl, Baitul Futuh, Islamabad and Jamia Ahmadiyya UK. The highlight of their tour was a mulaqat with Huzooraa in which they had the opportunity to ask Huzooraa various questions.
During the mulaqat, Huzooraa caringly asked the Atfal about their experience so far and what Jamaat sites they had visited. In particular, Huzooraa enquired whether they had prayed at the grave of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh in Islamabad and seen Jamia Ahmadiyya UK.
After a brief introduction to Atfal, Huzooraa welcomed questions. The opening question of the mulaqat was concerning the jurisprudence of reciting Surah al-Fatihah behind an imam. Huzooraa emphasised that the imam should be strictly followed during congregational prayers, even if the imam had finished Surah al-Fatihah and performed ruku‘ (bowing position), those following should stop their recitation and bow.
A Tifl asked Huzooraa whether earthquakes and tsunamis occurred exclusively for the wrongdoings of mankind. Huzooraa responded by saying:
“They [natural disasters] occur as a natural phenomenon as well, however the Promised Messiahas said that Allah the Almighty had established natural disasters as a sign for his age. If you look over the history of tsunamis and earthquakes, you will notice the total amount of earthquakes and tsunamis taken place over the last 1000 years are far fewer than the amount of the last 100 years. This is proof of what the Promised Messiahas said being true; they are signs of his coming.”
Further, Huzooraa said “…These occur due to wrongdoings; it is why the Promised Messiahas had warned that if people do not repent then they will keep on facing these types of natural hazards.”
One youngster consulted Huzooraa for career advice, upon which Huzooraa asked about his interests and aspirations. The Tifl responded by stating that he had an interest in computing and desired to serve in MTA International. Huzooraa guided him by saying:
“You can choose any subject related to computers which can be useful for MTA – media, graphics, cameras and other related subjects.”
A young member of the group asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa whether he was “friends” with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh.The response by Huzooraa was instant:
“He was my Khalifa. I cannot be his friend; I was his humble servant.”
A student raised the question regarding whether the Jamaat would ever need a physicists, to which Huzooraa explained:
“The purpose of the Jamaat is to serve the people of the world. As a physicist, at least you can serve humanity; whoever serves humanity is good for the Jamaat. If you are a physicist for the sake of the betterment of the world, then we need you. Dr Abdus Salam was also one; he was a big asset to the Jamaat.”
Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa then affectionately smiled to the young Tifl and said “You can be Dr Salam as well.”
A question regarding the Markaz of Khilafat was raised by a Tifl, who asked, “Why did Khilafat move to London and not Canada?” Huzooraa explained the reasons by saying:
“The reason is that London, in many ways, serves as the hub of the world. There is easy access to other countries and people can easily travel here as well. The reason Khilafat moved here initially was because the Jamaat was well established here at the time … There is an easy approach here, you can easily travel here – people from Pakistan can, as well as India, Africa, the Far East and Malaysia etc.”
Huzooraa also pointed out the many Jamaat properties and centres that have strengthened the Jamaat system in the United Kingdom
The topic of the Hereafter was raised by another member of the Canadian group who asked, “On the Day of Judgement, when punishments are finished, what will happen after?”
Huzooraa replied:
“The punishment starts from the very day the person dies. The final decision for the punishment will be taken at the time of Judgement, then, a time will come people will complete their time for punishment and all will be taken to Heaven … This does not mean that you should not do good deeds. You should try to do good as much as you can, so that from the very first day you go to heaven, instead of passing through a severe punishment that you cannot tolerate.”
One Tifl enquired about Huzoor’saa feelings when he was imprisoned in Pakistan due to false blasphemy charges. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa expressed his feelings at the time by saying:
“I did not feel anything, I thought that I would stay there for a long period of time, but Allah the Almighty made a plan in such a way that I was freed after 10-11 days. There was no fear in my mind; I was not embarrassed; I was not scared. I cannot say that I was passing through a hard period, enduring hardships – no, I didn’t feel that. I did not do anything wrong. I was imprisoned for the sake of Allah, so I should happily face that.”
Huzooraa further said:
“I was determined that I would remain there for even twenty years”
Throughout the mulaqat, Huzooraa kept the discussion light-hearted and engaged very lovingly with the young group of Atfal, whilst also giving detailed answers.
One such answer was on a question related to free will. A Tifl asked, “Why did Allah give man the [free] will to do good or bad?”
“We are not [merely] animals. Human beings are the only animals who have been given wisdom and brains to use. Allah has told us the good and bad things. Those who follow his commandments and do good deeds will be rewarded in the Hereafter and they will create peace and harmony in this world. This is the option given to you because you are the perfect animal in the sense that you have been given wisdom and a brain to utilise all your capabilities.”
Another question raised was regarding life beyond earth and Islam’s perspective on extra-terrestrial life. Huzooraa explained by saying:
“…There are many universes; we believe in that. The Promised Messiahas has also written on this. He has said that there are millions of other universes and there are quite a number of planets where there must be life.”
Towards the conclusion of the mulaqat, a youngster asked Huzooraa about playing computer games, to which Huzooraa guided by stating:
“Yes, you can play, as long as you are not addicted and you are not spending money whilst playing the game. You can play games, but make sure you are not addicted and do not spend more than thirty minutes.”
Huzooraa further elaborated and said, “If you want to play some game, play football. Outdoor games are better than indoor games. If it is not polluting your mind and not making you like Daesh, then you can play”
In the end, Huzooraa wished the Atfal an enjoyable trip and graced the group with an opportunity for a group picture.
