Islamabad, Tilford, UK, 22 December 2024: A group comprising 96 nasirat and members of Lajna Imaillah Netherlands was blessed with an in-person mulaqat with Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, at Islamabad, UK. Upon arrival, Huzooraa greeted everyone and asked about the number of attendees. He also commented that the programme seemed quite formal and might take too long, suggesting instead that he would follow an informal approach. The person in charge of the group respectfully affirmed this and mentioned that there were 96 members of Lajna and nasirat present, eager to ask questions, to which Hazrat Ameerul Momineenaa kindly gave his permission.
Forging good friendships
A nasirah asked how children can choose good friends at school, particularly when their classmates may not share the same religious background.
In response, Huzooraa asked her to define what “good children” are. When she replied that they were those who offer prayers five times a day, Huzooraa observed that in schools in the Netherlands, many classmates were likely Christian or atheist. Thus, only seeking friends who pray five times a day might lead to isolation. Instead, he emphasised looking for children who are courteous and morally upright.
Huzooraa pointed out that, as far as Ahmadi children are concerned, they should have excellent morals no matter what. He emphasised that it is the responsibility of parents, Lajna Imaillah, and Nasirat-ul-Ahmadiyya secretaries to ensure girls receive good tarbiyat, are taught religious knowledge, and encouraged to offer prayers from the age of seven. He stated that by the age of ten, they should be firmly instructed to offer prayers consistently. The same should be the case for Ahmadi boys, who should be taught by their fathers and Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya.
Huzooraa highlighted that parents and siblings should be children’s first friends, reinforcing a positive home environment. Further, within Jamaat gatherings, such as Lajna and Nasirat meetings, he suggested seeking friends who uphold Islamic values.
Regarding the social setting in schools, Huzooraa recommended focusing on classmates who demonstrate honesty and decency, rather than simply those who pray. He discouraged befriending individuals who engage in inappropriate talk or watch indecent media content. He added that if children are asked about their faith, they should share Islamic teachings such as worship of Allah, respect for parents, kindness, charity, truthfulness, and service to one’s country. This openness, he indicated, might inspire others to form positive friendships or even discuss these teachings with their own parents.
Huzooraa noted that by setting realistic social boundaries and seeking friendships grounded in moral values, children can maintain a healthy social life while preserving their faith and ethics.
Why young children should listen to the Friday Sermon
Another nasirah enquired about why younger children should listen to the Friday sermon.
In reply, Huzooraa explained that it is just as crucial for young children to listen to the Friday Sermon as it is for adults. He noted that parents should also actively listen, serving as positive examples rather than leaving children to absorb the sermon on their own. Even if children do not fully comprehend every detail, they still benefit by engaging with the moral and spiritual lessons conveyed.
Huzooraa pointed out that his current sermons explore the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa and include valuable guidance for both adults and children. Since the Holy Quran proclaims the Holy Prophetsa as an excellent model for humanity, he emphasised the need for everyone to learn from those teachings and practise them in everyday life. By encouraging children to listen, reflect, and act upon the counsel provided in the sermon, families help the younger generation grow in righteousness.
He concluded by reiterating that such religious instruction should involve all members of the household, including Lajna members, so that each one benefits from the sermon’s valuable guidance. “It should not be that the elders are watching something else while telling the children to go and listen to the sermon,” Huzooraa said.
Developing self-confidence
A nasirah wished to know how best to develop self-confidence.
In response, Huzooraa advised her to remember that there is no need to feel inferior or harbour any complexes because, as Ahmadi Muslims, we have a collective duty to convey the message of Ahmadiyyat to the world. Recognising this responsibility instils a sense of purpose and determination.
Huzooraa explained that cultivating self-confidence involves creating a positive environment at home, actively participating in Jamaat activities such as Nasirat classes, and acquiring religious knowledge. He underscored the value of adopting good morals, striving for excellence in studies, and revising lessons thoroughly. By preparing well for classes and confidently responding to teachers’ questions, a child naturally grows in self-assurance. He remarked that while some classmates may become jealous, many are likely to be inspired by such diligence and positive conduct.
Huzooraa concluded that combining academic commitment with good character and a positive outlook will organically nurture self-confidence in the individual.
Maintaining purdah in sports activities
A girl wished to know how Ahmadi girls could observe purdah while participating in sports, particularly when it is compulsory in schools and conducted in a mixed environment.
In addressing this concern, Huzooraa advised that if mixed-gender sports are mandatory within a school setting for younger students, participation may be permissible under necessity. However, he emphasised maintaining modest attire, and avoiding any short or revealing clothing. He further recommended that this involvement should remain limited to essential school sports only. Should the school organise external competitions or teams, Ahmadi girls would do well to excuse themselves from those events.
Huzoor’saa own Amin ceremony
A participant enquired about how Huzooraa observed his own Amin ceremony.
In reply, Huzooraa recalled that he did not have any formal Amin ceremony. He mentioned that his Quran teacher simply listened to his recitation of the Holy Quran, and beyond that, no function was arranged, nor were there any invitations sent out. While he noted that certain relatives at the time did hold such ceremonies, he personally did not feel the need for one.
Balancing marriage and education
A Lajna member enquired whether it is appropriate for young women to marry before completing their higher studies.
Huzooraa advised that if a suitable proposal is available and the prospective bride is agreeable, marriage should not be postponed solely to continue one’s education. He emphasised that education and family life are not mutually exclusive, provided both husband and wife reach a mutual understanding. If, after marriage, there is a desire to study further in a field that serves humanity – such as medicine or teaching – this can be pursued once family responsibilities are being fulfilled and children are no longer very young.
Huzooraa cautioned, however, against arrangements that might undermine family life, such as spouses living separately just to pursue studies. He stressed that families should not be broken apart for the sake of education and that both partners should discuss and agree upon how best to balance these responsibilities. If a husband fails to support his family financially, a wife may need to educate herself to become self-sufficient and educate him to do the right thing. Nevertheless, under normal circumstances, the goal of education should be to serve others rather than merely to earn money, and family unity should always remain a priority.
Navigating pets in public spaces
A participant enquired about how to handle situations in Western societies where individuals bring their pets onto public transport and allow them to sit on the seats.
In response, Huzooraa indicated that if people choose to bring their pets on public transport, it is their preference, and one should not be unduly troubled by it. He advised simply cleaning the seat before sitting, using a tissue if any pet fur is visible, rather than insisting that the owner remove their animal.
Huzooraa explained that it is most crucial to maintain one’s own home environment – particularly where one prays – in a clean state and to keep animals away from spaces that would otherwise become dirty. He noted that, historically, at the time of the Holy Prophetsa, individuals kept goats or shepherd dogs and still offered prayers in the same garments after performing ablution. Hence, minor contact with fur does not invalidate the salat. However, the emphasis remains on ensuring there is no visible filth.
Understanding what matters most to Allah
A participant asked what matters most to Allah Almighty.
In addressing this question, Huzooraa referred to the Holy Quran, where Allah the Almighty declares that He created both Jinn and humans for the purpose of worship:
وَمَا خَلَقۡتُ الۡجِنَّ وَالۡاِنۡسَ اِلَّا لِیَعۡبُدُوۡنِ
[‘And I have not created the Jinn and the men but that they may worship Me.’ (Surah adh-Dhariyat, Ch.51:v.57)]
Huzooraa explained that this act of worship is an expression of gratitude towards Allah, who has raised humanity to a lofty station above all other creations. By worshipping Him, believers acknowledge the countless blessings He has bestowed, including sustenance, education, and various means of comfort and travel. Huzooraa emphasised that Allah loves gratitude, and worship is the highest form of showing thankfulness for being endowed with intellect and for receiving innumerable bounties.
Protecting oneself from harmful influences
In response to a question posed by an attendee about protecting oneself from harmful external influences, Huzooraa highlighted the importance of adhering to the commandments found in the Holy Quran. Huzooraa explained that a true Muslim, particularly an Ahmadi Muslim girl or woman, should understand and implement these divine instructions in her life.
Huzooraa emphasised the importance of offering the five daily prayers, as ordained by Allah the Exalted, and encouraged the regular reading and understanding of the Holy Quran. He also stressed the significance of upholding high moral standards, drawing attention to the Quranic verse:
وَالَّذِیۡنَ ہُمۡ عَنِ اللَّغۡوِ مُعۡرِضُوۡنَ
[‘And who shun all that which is vain.’ (Surah al-Mu’minun, Ch.23: V.4)]
Huzooraa elaborated that protecting oneself from harmful influences requires avoiding nonsensical and bad activities, such as inappropriate TV or internet content, which may expose individuals to indecent material. He advised focusing on seeking Allah’s help through constant prayers, particularly the five daily prayers, and regular recitation of istighfar:
اَسْتَغْفِرُ اللّٰهَ رَبِّيْ مِنْ كُلِّ ذَنْبٍ وَّاَتُوْبُ اِلَيْهِ
[‘I seek forgiveness from Allah, my Lord, for all my sins, and turn towards Him.’]
Huzooraa stated that such prayers safeguard individuals from the negative influences of the world and help them avoid sinful habits.
He further said:
“Always remember that you are an Ahmadi Muslim and as an Ahmadi Muslim, you have promised that you will not only reform yourselves and try to make yourself a good, practising Muslim but also that you will spread the message of Islam to others. If you are not yourself practising the good teachings of Islam, how can you preach to others?”
He concluded by reassuring that by keeping these principles in mind, one can successfully protect themselves from harmful external influences.
Remembering the spiritual purpose of migration
A Lajna member observed that while Ahmadi Muslims often migrate to Western countries to freely practise their faith, some become increasingly absorbed in worldly pursuits and overlook the spiritual purpose of their migration. She asked how the Jamaat should address this concern.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa responded:
“Make them realise this matter. It is the duty of Lajna and the Tarbiyat [Department]. Tell those people, ‘God Almighty granted you the chance, and you migrated from Pakistan. There, your excuse was that you could not openly offer your prayers or observe Jumu‘ah. It has been many years since Ahmadis have been able to say Jumu‘ah in a mosque, and indeed, women have not even been able to observe Eid for several years. We came here [to Western countries] so that we could have freedom and worship God Almighty. Now that God Almighty has granted freedom here, one ought to be grateful. A truly good person should act upon this opportunity that God Almighty has given, stay away from harmful ways, and strive to practise their faith here properly. Hence, we must endeavour to do so.’
“Otherwise, if people remain caught up in worldly pursuits alone, then God Almighty says, ‘All right, I will grant you [what you seek] up to a certain point, but sometimes I also take it away.’ Occasionally, even in this very world, God Almighty causes people’s circumstances to worsen so they might learn a lesson: their household peace disappears, and satisfaction departs. By constantly chasing worldly gains, they lose their inner calm – their peace of mind. And if they remain unscathed here but continue wrongdoing, they will be held to account in the next world.
“So it is necessary to keep explaining this to them, and this is the task of both Lajna and the Tarbiyat [Department]. Speak to them with kindness and affection. The Jamaat as a whole should also remind people of our purpose. We came here for a grand objective. Earlier [a young lady] asked about the purpose of human life, so tell them that the purpose God Almighty has revealed to us [in the Holy Quran] is indeed the purpose of our lives, and we must strive above all to act upon it. We can only convey understanding; we cannot resort to force. Our task is to keep explaining, consistently and lovingly – this is essential for Lajna Imaillah and for Nasirat-ul-Ahmadiyya as well.”
Fulfilling the rights of Allah and the rights of His servants
A Lajna member asked whether to prioritise fulfilling the rights of Allah or the rights of His servants in order to attain nearness to God.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa explained that both rights are essential. He highlighted that true nearness to Allah requires complete adherence to His commandments, which encompass worship and serving humanity. If someone offers prayers meticulously but fails to treat others justly – be it a husband neglecting his wife’s needs, a father overlooking his children’s welfare, or a relative disregarding the rights of family members – their worship will prove ineffective.
Huzooraa further noted that Allah may forgive lapses in His own rights when a person sincerely repents, but if one has wronged another, the injury caused must still be accounted for. The teachings of Islam emphasise showing kindness to one’s neighbours, caring for the poor and orphaned, and even behaving benevolently towards adversaries. The Holy Quran declares that prayers devoid of genuine compassion and justice are rejected by Allah.
Huzooraa therefore emphasised balance: fulfilling both the rights of Allah and the rights of others. Families, including husbands, wives, and in-laws, should ensure they honour their respective responsibilities. Diligent worship is incomplete without due regard for one’s obligations to society and loved ones, and upholding these dual aspects is crucial to winning Allah’s pleasure.
Foster care
A girl enquired about participating in youth care by becoming a foster parent, noting that in the Netherlands, the government may place children with foster carers for a set period.
Huzooraa clarified that, at 18 years of age, the questioner herself may not be eligible to become a foster parent, but her parents could consider it if they wished. He remarked that many Ahmadis in various countries already serve as foster parents, adding that this is a commendable pursuit in which they can provide a nurturing environment and instil moral and spiritual values.
Huzooraa observed that the care of orphans and vulnerable children is highly encouraged in Islam, with Allah promising His blessings for those who undertake such endeavours. He noted that if Ahmadi children end up in non-Muslim foster homes, they may face challenges in maintaining their Muslim identity and practices. Conversely, if Ahmadis foster children of different backgrounds, they have the opportunity to provide a good moral education. While foster parents cannot impose their beliefs on the children, as they mature, they may be naturally drawn to Islam, inspired by the exemplary conduct and moral values demonstrated by their foster parents.
Guidance on choosing friends
An attendee asked how to select friends at school.
Huzooraa reiterated the guidance he had provided earlier, stressing that friends should be chosen based on good moral conduct. He explained that, while faith-related practices are commendable, it is important that friends uphold positive values in their daily behaviour. Specifically, he counselled avoiding those who frequently watch inappropriate films or shows, or who engage in unproductive social media use.
Huzooraa emphasised that being around friends of good character may ultimately encourage one towards worship and belief in Allah. Conversely, spending time with individuals who exert a negative influence can gradually weaken a person’s faith and morality. Huzooraa said:
“Good morals also gradually lead people towards righteousness. It is not necessary that a person is already engaged in worship. If one possesses good morals, it is possible that, at some point, they will become a worshipper and a believer in Allah. Therefore, always choose friends who do not exert a negative influence on you and who are willing to embrace your positive influence.”
Huzooraa referred to an incident from the life of the Promised Messiahas in which a young man lost his faith by sitting next to someone with atheist tendencies at college. After taking the Promised Messiah’sas advice and changing seats, the man eventually regained his belief in God, thus demonstrating how companions can shape one’s spiritual and moral outlook, sometimes without one even realising it.
Sajdah when reciting the Holy Quran
A participant enquired about the correct procedure when encountering a verse of prostration [sajdah] while reciting the Holy Quran, wondering whether it is necessary to face the qiblah or to prostrate immediately.
Huzooraa explained that, when performing the sajdah at-tilawat (the prostration due upon reciting certain verses in the Holy Quran), one should ideally face the qiblah and offer a full prostration on the ground. However, if the setting prevents this – such as being seated on a chair at school or travelling in a confined space – he said it is permissible to offer a symbolic bow of the head in the available direction. He also noted that it can be postponed until returning home or finding a more suitable location.
Huzooraa gave the example of Hazrat Umarra, who on some occasions advised believers to delay the prostration until they were able to do it properly. Huzooraa said, what matters most in this scenario is the consciousness of Allah’s greatness.
Being a role model for younger siblings
A young Lajna member asked how, as the eldest sibling, she could contribute to the tarbiyat of her younger siblings and become a role model for them.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa encouraged her to start by practising the virtues she wished to instil in her siblings. He emphasised offering prayers regularly and clearly explaining why salat is essential. He also advised her to read the Holy Quran and demonstrate its importance by acting upon its teachings.
Huzooraa explained that as Ahmadi Muslims, it is crucial to understand and convey one’s beliefs with clarity and through practical examples. He suggested focusing on one’s own education, encouraging younger siblings to do likewise, and emphasising reading morally uplifting books and engaging in beneficial activities. He further cautioned that unnecessary time spent on the internet or electronic devices should be minimised, pointing out that living by the same guidance one gives ensures siblings will not perceive any hypocrisy.
He concluded that simply offering advice does not make someone a role model; rather, genuine example and consistent practice are what earn respect and naturally inspire younger siblings to follow. When they witness these habits and values in their older sister’s daily life, they will be more likely to adopt them as well.
Conclusion
In the end, Sadr Sahiba thanked Huzooraa and requested prayers. Huzooraa then distributed pens among the attendees and took leave, bringing the mulaqat to a conclusion.
(Report prepared by Al Hakam)