On 20October 2018, a delegation of Humanity First International visited affected areas following the devastating earthquake and tsunami last month.
In the week-long visit, the delegation met with the Humanity First Indonesia team on the ground and personally met a number of the disaster victims in Palu.
The delegation comprised of Nasir Amini from Bradford (Humanity First International), Tahir Ahmad from East London (Humanity First International), Najm Khan from Farnborough (Humanity First UK) and Tariq Karim from Griesheim (Humanity First Germany).
Heading up the site visit, Nasir Amini said:
“It’s heart-breaking seeing the devastation caused and the amount of people affected by it. As a father of young children, I was very affected by the number of children suffering and who have been displaced. I was able to see first-hand the hard work that Humanity First Indonesia are continuing to do, putting your donated funds to good use.”
According to latest figures, more than 220,000 people have been displaced and at least 110,000 survivors, many of whom are children, are living in evacuation centres and still need immediate support.
The delegation also visited sites of liquefication, where the ground becomes liquid due to the effects of the earthquake causing whole villages to disappear.
During the visit, the delegation have met with representatives from the United Nations, UNICEF, BNPB (National Disaster Management Board Indonesia) and AHA Centre (ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance).
Humanity First Indonesia are still working hard with the BNPB to provide much needed support, including the planned distribution of water filtration equipment for over 500 displaced families through our partnership with UK Rotary Charities, World Water Works and Aquabox.
Please visit https://uk.humanityfirst.org/ to see more of Humanity First’s Projects.
My dear ones! You have only come to this world for a short while, much of which has already passed. Thus, do not displease your Lord. An earthly government of great might can annihilate you if you displease them. Reflect, how then is it possible for you to escape the wrath of God Almighty? If you are righteous in the eyes of God none can destroy you, for your Lord Himself shall protect you. The enemy who thirsts for your life will never be able to prevail over you. If not for this protection, no one can guard your life, and you will spend your life in fear of your enemies and be made anxious by all types of affliction. And ultimately, your final days will be consumed by grief and anger.
God becomes the refuge of those who attach themselves to Him. Therefore, hasten towards him and forgo all forms of opposition to Him. Do not be indolent in fulfilling your obligations towards Him, and do not wrong His servants through your words or deeds. Remain forever fearful of the anger and wrath of heaven for this is the only path to salvation.
(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Noah’s Ark, pp. 116-117)
Syed Hasanat Ahmad Sahib of Canada passed away on 27 August 2018 at the age of 92. “To Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”
Announcing the demise of Syed Hasanat Ahmad Sahib, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa said in his 21 September 2018 Friday Sermon:
“He was a faithful and loyal member, who had great passion for the Community. The deceased was a Musi.”
Huzoor further said, “He has also written an introduction to the books of the Promised Messiahas and compiled it, which is a great scholarly achievement on his part.”
Huzoor added, “In 1982, he presented a programme on the Jamaat on a Canadian television channel called Rogers without any remuneration. Hence, for the first time in the world, on 12 December 1982, the pictures of the Promised Messiahas and the Khulafa of Ahmadiyyat were presented on Canadian television.”
The Star, Toronto, one of Canada’s most circulated newspapers, published on 29 August 2018 the following about Syed Hasanat Ahmad Sahib:
“Hasanat Syed was a devoted member of the Canadian Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and a friend to his peers in journalism and politics. He made seminal contributions to help integrate the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Canada over the years through skilful engagement of the Canadian media, policy- and decision-makers and the public at large. He was known for bettering the lives of new immigrant Canadians and defending the rights of all minorities in Canada. Through his own weekly publication, New Canada, he voiced the defence of programs and institutions that helped Canadian minorities settle and integrate into Canadian society while preserving their identity and dignity. He was a staunch defendant and supporter of a just society, inclusive of people of all religious and ethnic backgrounds. He was a prolific author of multiple books and sponsored many conferences in Canada on the topics of human rights”.
The Canadian Media Ethnic Association wrote about him:
“Hasanat Ahmad Syed is a well-known figure in Toronto circles and active in the Human Rights and Race Relations Centre since its inception in 1994”.
“He has a passion for a just and equitable society. His unique and positive way of rewarding those who are actively involved in the eradication of racism in our society has contributed significantly to creating harmonious relations between various communities.
“Mr Syed is a prolific writer and is the author of a number of books, including the latest one, Outstanding Immigrants in the New Millennium. This prompted the following comment from the Governor General, Rt Hon Adrienne Clarkson, ‘The enormous amount of work involved in publishing this wonderful book speaks loudly of your commitment to promote great Canadians at home and abroad.’
“Mr. Syed has played a very prominent role in the successful settlement of his community (Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam) in Canada, including the building of a $25-million housing project in Toronto. He has received numerous awards including one in January 2003, the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal was conferred on him by Government of Canada.
“He was President of South Asian Journalists Club and a Director of Canadian Ethnic Journalists and Writers Club. He was elected as Secretary of Canada Day Committee of Metropolitan Toronto (1996-2003), and Executive Director/Project Director of the Centre for Internationally Trained Professionals.”
In the era of Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIIrh (from 1975 to 1978) he used to bring non-Ahmadi journalists for the reporting of Jalsa Salana Rabwah which was later published in the national press. He also had the opportunity of organising press conferences of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh with press and media. (History of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Rawalpindi, p. 279)
He was one of the pioneering members of Jamaat Canada to build relations with the Canadian Government and media. He laid the groundwork for the external relations and publicity of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya in Canada. He had personal relations with Canadian prime ministers, speakers of the Assembly and members of parliament. He invited them to Jamaat events.
In 1984, Pope John Paul visited Canada. Syed Hasanat Ahmad Sahib made arrangements for a group of Jamaat members to meet the Pope and present him a copy of the Holy Quran.
He was also a member of the board of directors for Ahmadiyya Abode of Peace from 1990 to 2001.
During 1985, he was a member of the editorial board of The Review of Religions.
In 1994, he was elected as President of Human Rights and Relations Centre. This NGO was founded to help immigrants integrate in Canada and develop racial harmony for students in schools. Over 100 gold medals with $5,000 cash awards were given to the students by him.
In November 2004, a group study room was named after him in York University Canada.
He worked in the field of journalism for 50 years. In addition, he used his journalistic talents to raise the profile of the community. As editor of New Canada for 20 years, he publicised the Khalifatul Masih’s messages and Jamaat’s activities as well as the persecution of Ahmadis in Pakistan. He also highlighted the significant contribution of immigrants to ensure their enhancement of political, social and civic life in Canada.
He was a very devoted Ahmadi with a deep love for Khilafat. He was the voice of new Canadian immigrants and defended the rights of all minorities in Canada.
He also translated a few books of the Promised Messiahas and part of the book Murder in the Name of Allah by Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh. He is also the author of the following books:
Hakeem Noor-ud-Deen, Khalifatul Masih I – The Way of the Righteous
An Introduction to the Hidden Treasures of Islam. This book presents thumbnail sketches of 89 books of the Promised Messiah and Mahdias
The Second Coming of Jesus Christ
In June 1989, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh visited Canada. Syed Hasanat Ahmad Sahib was actively involved in the arrangements of inviting government officials and press & media publications.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh commended him in one of his letters saying, “You work diligently with wisdom and sincerity to make my visit a success in Canada”.
In 1990, in cooperation with Honourable Bob Wong, he played a key role to arrange an Eid Milan party in the Ontario Legislative Building for the very first time in Canada.
His sister, Syeda Naseem Saeed Sahiba, writes:
“By the grace of God, my brother Syed Hasanat Ahmad was able to serve the Jamaat and humanity only because of the prayers of the Khulafa. He inherited love of Ahmadiyyat and Khilafat from his parents and followed their footsteps by carrying out Jihad of the Pen.”
His younger sister, Razia Sami, says:
“He was a very kind-hearted and loving person. He was always keen to help the poor and needy. He funded the weddings of many underprivileged girls.”
May Allah have mercy on him and grant him a lofty place in paradise.
Missionary for Central Sulawesi province, Indonesia
After performing my evening exercise at the park on Friday around 5:45pm, along with my daughter Dila and my sons Ahmad and Khadim, I rode home on my motorcycle.
After I parked the motorcycle and greeted my wife, we sat down for a few minutes while waiting for Maghrib Adhan. My two-year-old son, Khadim, went to his mother asking for food. My other children sat with me. Not long after that, Wahyu (a local Ahmadi) came to join us in Maghrib Salat.
Suddenly my house began to tremor fiercely. Quickly, I ran into the entrance door, screaming, “Run! Get outside! It’s an earthquake!” I grabbed both my daughters’ hands. Both of them stood near me.
My third child, Ahmad, tried hard to run outside. We were crashing at all sides, to the left and to the right, because of the strong shocks. All buildings were moving in all directions. The mosque rumbled. Water from the pool began pouring in all directions. We were disorientated and fell to the ground losing all energy and strength.
Meanwhile, my wife and the youngest child tried hard to fight the shaking so that they could get outside the house. They banged the wall and crashed to the floor repeatedly. The youngest child kept falling out of his mother’s clasp. Wahyu quickly ran from the mosque towards me and sat under a dangerous power pole. The pole shook violently above our heads.
By now, I really wanted to help my wife and my young children who sat helplessly at the entrance door trying to get out from the building. But I couldn’t do anything as I was losing my balance.
Fortunately, Wahyu quickly stood up and ran towards my youngest child. My wife’s nose was bleeding as she had tried so hard to save herself.
When the earthquake stopped, I screamed calling “Daeng”, a nickname of Mahdi Haris Sahib who resided at the old missionary house. He is an elderly person. I was worried that something might have happened to him. As I remembered him, I cried whilst reciting a prayer for him. I was afraid something bad had happened to him. For a long while, I did not hear any response. I kept calling out his name. Finally, he answered by banging the door and screaming. As he came out, he had a smile on his face.
I was still afraid in case a tsunami was coming.
Not long after that, the kitchen building of the masjid complex collapsed. A 2.4-metre bookshelf collapsed inside the house. There was heavy damage to the mosque floor, with water everywhere.
I instructed Wahyu to take one of the motorcycles and take my wife and two children.
I found my keys on the floor under the chair. I quickly saved my wallet and cell phone also. My wife, now already seated on the motorcycle, shouted to me to take the homeopathy box.
My home was already drowned with water and everything was scattered. Due to the panic, my children were crying. I tried to calm them down. I ran back inside my home and quickly grabbed the homeopathy kit.
Thereafter, with my two daughters, Ami and Dila, I took the motorcycle. I also told Daeng to save himself as I could now see water coming from all directions. Both our motorcycles now set off in an attempt to save ourselves.
I tried to find directions to Sidera Sigibiromaru (an inland area) looking for a shortcut by entering an alley. But the alley was blocked by my collapsed house. So I decided to go back to the big road and drive in the opposite direction.
Photos courtesy of Imam Arief Rahman Effendy Sahib
The road condition was terrible. The earthquake had literally split the road in half. As I rode, I saw many people running with their bodies drenched in water and covered in mud and soil. Children were crying and panicking.
I felt panicked, but I managed to get a grip on myself. As I continued to try and calm myself, I prayed so that I could figure out a means for our safety. I continued to ride my motorcycle in the middle of screaming and frantic people.
Meanwhile, it began to get dark. I continued to whisper to my children to keep praying. Then Wahyu shouted that there was a shortcut using a bridge. Although it seemed like a good idea, I thought to myself that it was impossible the bridge still existed.
At the Biromaru intersection, I should have gone straight, but due to the heavy traffic, I could not wait patiently. The asphalt on the road had twisted and formed bumps and fragments that made it difficult to drive on.
In front of me I noticed a path that I could go through. Immediately, I called Wahyu and shouted to avoid the bridge and to take the street through the river’s mouth that had not been properly built yet.
Here, Wahyu went ahead of me. As we rode on the rocky road, it gradually became difficult for me to ride the motorbike as the cracks in the road were filled with water and it became difficult for the motorbike to pass. Several times, we got stuck in those cracks.
As I struggled to get out of one of the cracks, survivors crowded on the street. I instructed my two daughters to walk forward as far as they could until they reached a better road accessible for motorcycle, while I attempted to carry the motorcycle along the street. At this point, I could no longer see Wahyu.
After walking continuously for some time, that destroyed path thankfully ended and we found a more smooth road towards Sidera Sigibiromaru, a nearby village. Although I only had on a shirt and shorts, I did not forget Salat. With my two daughters, we performed Salat while sitting on the motorcycle in the middle of the road.
Immediately, I began looking for Wahyu along the way who was with my wife and other two children. I searched for them hoping that they were already in the place we decided to meet.
In the middle of the road, there were lots of afflicted people stuck in the same place. The condition here was far worse than other roads I had crossed.
I began to think that Wahyu had taken a wrong turn. I left my daughter with a survivor, Kuat Sahib. Meanwhile, my other daughter did not want to be separated from me as she was really scared. Along with my other daughter who was with Kuat Sahib, I took her to the mission house complex to Nanang Sahib’s family, who was a survivor and where she was willing to stay with.
Kuat Sahib, my children and I were served instant noodles, courtesy of Nanang Sahib’s family. I forced myself to eat as I knew my family had still not been found and I must look for them.
That night was spent looking for Wahyu along with whom were my children and wife. I looked for them at a road that they may possibly have passed. In fact, I even looked for them at the mosque in Palu, but I could not find them.
By the grace of Allah, all Ahmadi homes in Sigibiromaru stand because most of them were constructed from wood. The mission house also did not collapse although I thought it might have.
In the middle of the third night, I gave up searching for my wife and the other children. I ensured myself that Wahyu would keep them safe even though I was unsure where they were.
During the night, although I was on a warm mattress covered with a blanket, I could not sleep as I felt anxious and worried about my wife and the other two children. I imagined them in the bitter cold and struggling because of the cold weather. I imagined them resting in a place drowned by mud and water and without any mattress. I imagined them surrounded by mosquitoes and without anything to eat or drink. All negative thoughts crossed my mind.
All I could do was pray for them as I kept trying to look for phone signal that was lost since the earthquake.
Thankfully, the first text message was sent. It was sent to Amir of Indonesia, Abdul Basit Shahid Sahib who I informed that myself and two of my children were saved to which I received his reply with prayers. Unfortunately, I could send no further text message as I lost signal again.
At midnight, I saw one Ahmadi calling someone using WhatsApp. Hurriedly, I borrowed his phone and entered all random contacts on my phone.
Then I called my brother in Semarang informing him that I was safe but separated from my wife and two children. I also called another friend who I knew always slept late and would answer my call.
I closed my eyes and saw Wahyu’s faces, my son in front of him and my wife with a swollen face who held onto my youngest son. All of their faces looked calm. I felt gratefulness. I believed that Allah would save us with His best plans.
By the grace of Allah, I arrived home on time from that evening exercise. If I had returned any later, the earthquake would surely have hit us at Potobo. At the time of the earthquake, the soil literally split into two parts. The ground rose up and suddenly dropped. Mud came out from the ground swallowing the houses and burying them in its depth.
Wahyu also came to the mosque in perfect timing. Had he not, he would probably be buried alive inside his apartment that had collapsed and was buried under the mud.
At 5:30 the following morning, I asked Nanang Sahib to look for my family again, after previously discussing to which directions should we go. We decided to enter the most damaged area at the bridge – the epicentre. We heard lots of people went there for shelter and were stuck over there.
Only one or two kilometres into our journey, I could see a man ride with a woman in a hijab. I abruptly shouted, “Allahu Akbar!” I knew they were my wife, Wahyu and my two other children. Alhamdolillah, all Ahmadis were saved and we all experienced the height of gratefulness.
Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, delivered his Friday Sermon from the Baitur Rehman Mosque, Silver Spring, Maryland earlier today. The sermon, as usual, was broadcast live via MTA across the globe. Huzoor is on his fourth tour of the USA during which – as the second leg of his tour – he had travelled to Guatemala to inaugurate the Nasir Hospital (reported in previous issue).
Huzooraa travelled back from Guatemala to Houston and later to Silver Spring in Maryland where he has been engaged in a busy schedule – classes with Waqifeen-e-Nau, amins, family mulaqats with American Ahmadis and receiving dignitaries that have been coming to visit him. Al Hakam will continue to report the details of these engagements in the upcoming issues. Last week’s Friday Sermon was delivered from Baitus Sami Mosque in Houston, Texas. Before his visit to Guatemala and his arrival back in Houston, Huzooraa had inaugurated the Baitus Samad Mosque in Baltimore on 20 October 2018.
Upon arrival in Baltimore, Huzooraa officially inaugurated the Baitus Samad Mosque by unveiling a commemorative plaque and offering silent prayer in thanks to God Almighty. Thereafter, Huzooraa led the Zuhrand Asrprayers at the mosque and inspected the new premises.
Later, around five hundred people, including 320 dignitaries, attended a special reception held at the Hilton Hotel, Baltimore to mark the inauguration of the Baitus Samad Mosque. Some of the dignitaries in attendance spoke on this occasion before the keynote address by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa.
During his address, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa explained the objectives of mosques and said that true mosques were centres of peace, where Muslims joined together in order to worship God Almighty and to serve humanity, irrespective of faith or belief. Huzooraa called on mankind to unite and to foster peace in society, rather than exacerbating tensions and conflicts that have ignited in much of the world in recent times.
At the beginning of his address, Huzooraa said that it was not surprising that some people feared mosques or harboured concerns about Muslims due to the incessant negative portrayal of Islam in the media.
“Many people fear”, said Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, “that a mosque will provide Muslims with a centre to isolate themselves from the rest of society and to undermine the peace and well-being of the local town or city or even of the nation itself.”
Huzooraa, acknowledging that there existed a fear about Islam in the Western world, continued:
“I have personally seen that such fears do exist amongst many people in the non-Muslim world and regrettably, such angst and suspicion of Islam and its followers continues to rise. Nevertheless, the truth is, and will always remain, that Islam is completely opposed to all forms of extremism, terrorism or violence.”
Huzooraa alleviated fears associated with the building of mosques by clarifying objectives of all true mosques. Huzooraa said that where mosques allowed Muslims to congregate for prayers and strengthen ties of kinship and unity with one another, mosques also served as a means of “introducing non-Muslims to the teachings of Islam and to fulfil the rights of the wider society.”
Huzooraa reassured that local residents around the mosque would soon see that his words about the mosque were not “sugar-coated words masking a bitter pill,” but that they actually “represent the honest truth.”
Earlier in the evening, before Huzoor’s address, a range of dignitaries also addressed the audience, whilst the National Amir of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya USA, Dr Mirza Maghfoor Ahmad Sahib introduced Huzooraa prior to the keynote address.
United States Senator Ben Cardin said:
“Your Holiness, we welcome you to Baltimore. You honour us with your presence and you inspire us by your leadership. The community that you lead has helped build a stronger and more peaceful Baltimore, Maryland and America, and your leadership has been global in communities around the world. Your message of peace and love are just what we needed now more than ever before, and you inspire us by your presence and your words here in Baltimore that we all can do better.”
The event concluded with a silent prayer led by Huzooraa.
Before the event, Huzooraa met with a range of dignitaries privately, including Honourable Ben Cardin and Honourable Catherine Pugh, Mayor of Baltimore. Huzooraa also answered questions during a press conference with representatives of various media outlets.
Apology: At the outset, the severe onslaught of the disease, which has nowadays turned into an epidemic in every part and corner of the country, was affecting the surrounding towns and villages of Qadian where people profusely began to fall ill.
When Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II was apprised of it, he instructed Ahmadi doctors to tour the villages, examining the afflicted and supplying medicines on a free basis. Thus, the doctors began touring villages, supplying them with medicines with their assistants who were Ahmadis.
However, a few days thereon, complaints of this disease arose in Qadian too. It has been told to be a contagious disease which spreads extremely swiftly and transmits from one person to another. As a result, many people began to be affected by it. As all offices here, whether they be of newspapers or other departments, have the same number of workers to carry out their jobs as correspond with the extreme limit that they require, a collective leave has occurred because some from among them have fallen ill or are engaged in attending to their [ill] family or other people.
This was the reason why no newspaper was able to be published after 5 October and this paper is also being published with great difficulty and endeavour, to inform friends who reside externally of the significant circumstances. If God enables and His grace remains ever present, efforts shall be made for the newspaper to be regularly published in the future, Insha-Allah.
On 28 October 2018, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa launched the Spanish edition of The Review of Religions from Guatemala, Central America.
The monthly magazine was first launched in 1902 during the time of the Promised Messiahas in the English language to spread the teachings of Islam to the Western audience.
During the time of the Promised Messiahas, the magazine was published in both English and Urdu separately. Since then, it has covered a wide range of articles from religion, science, philosophy, politics and contemporary issues.
Today, through The Review of Religions, the true message of Islam is being spread all throughout the world. Previously, the monthly magazine was being published in English, German, French and now, by the grace of Allah, the Hispanic society will be benefiting from this magazine.
Tarik Ata Sahib, newly appointed editor of The Review of Religions’ Spanish edition, told us:
“The very first idea of creating the Spanish edition was conceived by Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa during a mulaqat which he had with the Review of Religions team, where Huzooraa gave guidelines for this publication. This was on 10 June 2018, after Huzoor had come to Spain. Then, in a separate mulaqat during the month of August, the team was created and the first target was set to have a special edition dedicated to the service to mankind.
“During the first mulaqat with the Spanish team, Huzoor mentioned that we should focus on the need of religion and evolution of religion, because evolution of religion would bring us right from Adamas to the Promised Messiahas. Also, when we asked Huzoor what his vision for the Spanish edition was, he said, ‘My vision is the same as the Promised Messiah’sas.’
“Under Huzoor’s guidance, we are aiming to prepare quarterly editions (every 3 months) which will cover topics that will allow us to fulfil the long term goal as explained by Huzooraa. We are also working on establishing contacts in Spain and Latin America in order to promote this magazine to as many people as possible, Insha-Allah.”
Readers are encouraged to continue to remember The Review of Religions’ team in their prayers. May this launch be a new means of reviving the teachings of Islam in the land of Spain.
To read more, please visit The Review of Religions’ website. A link on the Spanish edition of this magazine is provided below:
Assalamo Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahe Wa Barakatohu, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon you)
I am very pleased to learn that the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Ghana is holding a Peace Conference on such a large scale for the first time. I pray that Allah the Almighty blesses this important event in all respects and I hope that all of the participants come to recognise that establishing peace in the world is the single greatest challenge facing mankind today.
Through new technologies and modern forms of transportation, the world has become like a global village. No longer are nations detached from one another, rather we are living in an increasingly inter-connected globalised world. Where this has led to advancement and progress in many spheres and has enabled people living thousands of miles apart to be instantly connected, it has also led to harmful developments that have destabilised the world and caused for world peace to steadily deteriorate in recent times. We have seen tensions between different groups and communities within nations rising and the increased polarisation of society. This has even led to violence and bloody civil wars in some countries. In the West, the far-right has resurfaced and its dangerous resurgence shows no sign of abating. Similarly, at an international level, hostilities are intensifying and threaten to boil over at any time.
The major powers of the world are making moves to build and strengthen alliances with the intention of boosting their own power and might in front of the world. Hence, those blocs that were a feature of the 20th century are now being re-established before our eyes. It is no exaggeration to say that with each day that passes, the risks to civilisation are increasing. Weapons are being manufactured and stockpiled at an alarming rate and unquestionably, due to new technologies, today’s weapons are far deadlier and sophisticated than ever before. Major powers are taking advantage of their alliances to hoard weapons, as they seek to ensure that their arsenals are mightier than their rivals. In this effort, less powerful allies are helping them fulfil their interests in order to gain their favour. As a result, the world stands in great peril and there is no doubt that the weapons that exist have the potential to destroy humanity many times over, and so with each passing we are moving ever closer to the abyss.
Moreover, the collateral damage that is seen in war-torn countries is causing death and misery beyond comprehension and is a grave stain on humanity. The infrastructure in those nations where air strikes and heavy bombardment have occurred has been destroyed. The aggressors compound the misery and maximise casualties by sealing borders and preventing necessary aid from reaching people in desperate need. Hence, where people are dying directly from bomb attacks and warfare, millions of others, including babies and young children, women and elders, are dying from famine, malnourishment and disease. They are denied basic essentials or medication and are withering away and dying, whilst the world stands by silently. This is all happening today, in this era, on our watch.
Hence, in light of the perilous state of the world, it is the urgent need of the time that people and nations set aside their vested interests and focus all their energies upon establishing peace through justice, compassion and mutual respect. A spirit of selflessness and a genuine desire to alleviate the suffering of others must overcome the selfish greed that has taken root in so much of the world.
Regrettably, it cannot be denied that certain Muslims or Muslim countries have been directly involved in undermining the peace of the world. Consequently, ammunition has been provided to those who allege that Islam is a religion of violence and an extremist ideology. Nevertheless, Islam’s teachings are the polar opposite of what is being portrayed in the media or by those so-called Muslims who seek to fulfil their own interests by perpetrating barbaric and heinous crimes. The truth is that Islam teaches kindness, compassion, justice and fulfilling the needs of all members of society, irrespective of creed, caste or colour. It condemns and prohibits all forms of terrorism, extremism or violence.
The very first words of the Holy Quran are “In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, Ever Merciful” and thereafter it is stated that Allah the Almighty is the “Lord of All the Worlds”, meaning He is the Sustainer and Provider for all mankind. He provides and nourishes Christians, Jews, Hindus, Sikhs, Pagans and the people of all beliefs. Allah the Almighty provides for, and sustains, even those who even deny His existence. Furthermore, the Holy Quran has declared the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) to be a source of mercy and compassion for all of mankind. Thus, when Allah the Almighty is the Provider for all people, of all races and of all beliefs, and the Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was sent as a fountain of mercy and love for humanity, it is inconceivable that Islam’s teachings are merciless, extreme and bloodthirsty. Those who allege that Islam promotes violence or extremism are entirely wrong and misguided. The Holy Quran has categorically declared that any form of compulsion in faith or belief is not permitted and is opposed to everything that Islam stands for. Belief is solely a matter of the heart.
Any wars fought by the Muslims in the time of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) were purely defensive wars fought as a final and last resort after all other means to stop the cruelties of the oppressors had been tried. Even then, the Holy Quran and the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) imposed extremely strict rules of engagement on the Muslims. For example, the Holy Quran instructed that during warfare, if at any point, the aggressor made any moves towards peace or reconciliation, it ought to be accepted. No opportunity for peace, no matter how remote, was ever to be spurned. Additionally, the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) strictly instructed his followers that during wars they were not allowed to target women or children or the elderly and infirm. They were not allowed to attack places of worship or religious figures such as priests or rabbis. Yet today, in the modern world, we are seeing no such ethics or respect for human life in the wars that are taking place. As mentioned, children, women and other vulnerable people are routinely targeted, and the levels of cruelty and brutality are beyond imagination. Tragically, certain Muslims and Muslim countries are also involved in such horrific cruelties but, at the same time, it should be crystal clear that their conduct is completely against the noble teachings of the Holy Quran and the Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).
As I have said, now is the time to put aside our differences, and for all people, whether religious or not, whether rich or poor, to come together and recognise the fact that we are all part of the same human race and united as such. We must promote peace through justice and love at every level of society and each individual has a significant role to play. It is to serve this purpose that the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community hosts Peace Symposiums throughout the world and each year we hold a similar event on an even larger scale in London. At all our symposiums, we seek to break down the barriers that divide mankind and to provide solutions to the ills of the world. We use such opportunities to prove the fact that Islam is a religion of peace and a religion that motivates true Muslims to engage in dialogue with others, to exhibit tolerance and to serve humanity. We present our ideas of how to develop peace and listen to the respective ideas and views of representatives of other communities. From an Islamic perspective, we urge governments and world leaders to act with justice and argue that instead of developing opposing blocs and profiteering through the arms trade, nations should show regard for one another and fulfil each other’s rights. We appeal to them to look at the long-term future of the world, rather than to be blinded by short-termism and narrow self-interests.
As stated earlier, the weapons of today are far deadlier than at any time in our history. Several countries have acquired nuclear weapons that have the potential to wipe away nations at the push of a button. If, God forbid, such arsenals are ever put to use, the catastrophic effects will last for generations and will result in children being born with mental and physical disabilities for many decades to come. Even those countries who do not possess nuclear weapons have acquired such destructive weaponry that can easily kill millions of people and leave behind a lasting trail of destruction. Is this the legacy we wish to leave behind for our children and future generations? Do we desire that they weep at the horrors we have left behind for them? Is it our hope that, instead of remembering us with love and respect, they look back at us with hate and contempt? Do we want the coming generations to curse and scorn us?
I reiterate that we must now focus on the peace and prosperity of the world and, in light of this, I am pleased that African countries have not joined the ranks of those nations who are involved in the world’s nuclear arms race. It is my belief that if the rest of the world continues to act unjustly, usurping the rights of others and interfering in other nations, they will ultimately destroy themselves. If and when that day comes, I believe that Africa may be the only continent that will have saved itself from annihilation. Moreover, where today Africa is looked down upon by many and considered to be weak, your continent will be in a position to play a pivotal role in re-building the rest of the world. Thus, never underestimate yourselves or the potential of your nations! Rather, the African countries should ensure that they are ready to one day take on the mantle of leading the world! For this, you must ensure you do not become consumed by the evils that have plagued other nations. You will have to act with justice, forgo all forms of corruption and serve your nations with integrity and work towards their continued development and advancement.
I hope and pray that the African nations resist the worldly temptations to join existing international blocs or alliances that are based on greed and injustice. Instead, I urge you to make your own bloc and that should be an alliance of peace! Set a positive example for the rest of the world by establishing the highest standards of justice. May the alliance of peace come to spread not only in Africa but prevail in all parts of the world.
At the end, I pray for the success of the Peace Conference and extend my best wishes to all of the participants.
With all my heart, I pray that the dark clouds of war and grief that hover threateningly over the world today are soon replaced by a bright blue sky of love and peace. Ameen.
Wassalam,
Yours sincerely,
(Signed)
MIRZA MASROOR AHMAD
Khalifatul Masih V
Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya France will be holding their 26th Jalsa Salana at Baitul Ata, Trie Chateaux – a site owned by the Jamaat in the beautiful countryside of France, spanning over 33 acres. This Jalsa is unique for Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya France as for the first time, Majlis Ansarullah, Lajna Imaillah and Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya will also be holding their Ijtemas at the Jalsa Salana. Thus, the 26th Jalsa Salana of France will be intertwined with three separate Ijtemas as well.
The location of the Jalsa Salana is at the Baitul Ata site in northern France (a 40-minute drive from the Jamaat headquarters in Saint Prix) which is a large area complete with numerous halls to hold the various sessions, several fields where marquees have been set up and ample parking to accommodate up to 500 cars. By the grace of Allah, the site facilities enable the Lajna to carry out their Jalsa and Ijtema proceedings exclusively with plenty of indoor and outdoor space.
Over 30 different nationalities and ethnicities of Jamaat members comprise the Jamaat in France, including French, Moroccan, Pakistani, Algerian, Bengali and many other African countries. This means that the Jalsa will truly have a true multicultural feel. Due to the various nationalities of Ahmadi brothers and sisters attending the Jalsa, the common language will be French, and most part of the sessions will also be in French.
The first speech of Jalsa Salana France will be delivered by Ashfaq Rabbani Sahib, Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya France, on The Blessings of Khilafat-e-Khamisa followed by an array of speakers delivering speeches on various topics. Other speakers include Naseer Ahmad Shahid Sahib, Usama Maqsood Sahib, Bilal Akbar Sahib, Saeed Haddoui Sahib, Asif Arif Sahib, Abdul Ghani Sahib, Omar Ahmad Sahib, M Kone Idrissa and Maqsud-ur-Rahman Sahib. The topics cover subjects ranging from The Teachings of Islam Ahmadiyyat to Islam’s Response to Contemporary Issues.
The second day of Jalsa Salana France will witness the historic event of Majlis Ansarullah, Lajna Imaillah and Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya holding their respective Ijtemas from 9am-1pm at the Jalsa Salana site.
The concluding session is set to take place on the afternoon of Sunday, 28 October 2018.
Soon after settling in the USA, Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, may Allah be pleased with him, started publishing a quarterly journal, The Muslim Sunrise, the first issue being published in July 1921.
The name of the magazine indicated to the famous eschatological hadith of the Holy Prophetsa of Islam, where he mentions, among other signs of the latter days, that the sun shall rise from the West.
As Hazrat Mufti Sahibra had set foot on the American soil to propagate the message of Islam, he believed that it was the dawn-break of the fulfilment of the prophecy.
The very first issue is a proof of the excellent journalistic abilities of Hazrat Mufti Sahibra as the topics carry a great variety of themes. This issue was blessed by a special message sent by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih II, may Allah be pleased with him, from Qadian:
This issue had a translation of a poetic work of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra, the quality of which is magnificent; the meaning conveyed, poetic value uncompromised.
There are lists of converts who, through the preaching efforts of Hazrat Mufti Sahibra, had joined Islam Ahmadiyyat. He had only been in the USA a year, yet the lists are promisingly and astoundingly long.
The journal is still published under the administration of the USA Jamaat and carries, traditionally so, a variety of topics ranging from the teachings of Islam Ahmadiyyat to comparative studies of religions to pressing contemporary issues.
The journal, and its past issues dating back to the very first issue, can be read at www.muslimsunrise.com
