Friday Sermon – Khalifatul Masih V – Mirza Masroor Ahmad – Year 2017
Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah I bear witness that Muhammad [saw] is the Messenger of Allah Come to Prayer Come to success Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest.
There is none worthy of worship except Allah. Peace be upon you all. I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah He is alone and has no partner and I bear witness that Muhammad (saw) is His Servant and Messenger
After this I seek refuge with Allah from Satan the accursed. In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful. All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of all the worlds. The Gracious, the Merciful. Master of the Day of Judgment.
Thee alone do we worship and Thee alone do we implore for help. Guide us in the right path- The path of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy blessings, those who have not incurred Thy displeasure, and those who have not gone astray.
It is due to the immense Grace and Beneficence of Allah the Almighty that last week the Jalsa Salana UK [Annual Convention] of Ahmadiyya Community concluded safely. During all the three days of Jalsa Salana, we observed scenes of the Grace and blessings of Allah the Almighty.
Due to some circumstances and also due to the weather, there were some concerns as well. However, Allah the Almighty, only due to his Grace, protected us from any negative impact of the situation and every participant felt that
the Help and blessings of Allah the Almighty were continually being sent down. Thus, no matter how much we give thanks to Allah the Almighty for this, it cannot be sufficient. True gratitude can only be offered,
if we constantly endeavour to seek the pleasure of Allah the Almighty. This gratitude should be expressed by the workers too. By doing so, we will, on one hand, attain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty and
on the other hand, due to this gratitude, will enhance our capabilities. Likewise, the participants should also become grateful so that they can also absorb the blessings of Allah the Almighty and pious changes may continue to occur in their lives.
Moreover, the participants should also be grateful to those who were tasked to serve, i.e. the workers. The Holy Prophet (saw) has said that, “One who is not grateful to people, “is not grateful to Allah the Almighty either”.
Thus, due to this, all participants should be grateful to the workers too. Likewise, the workers, as I said, should also be grateful to Allah the Almighty in every way, for Allah the Almighty enabled them to serve the guests of the Promised Messiah (as),
guests, who had come for the sake of the faith and guests who had come to gain religious knowledge. In fact, among the purposes of Jalsa Salana is also this, that such brotherhood and sentiments of gratefulness for each other should develop which are exemplary.
By the Grace of Allah, it is these sentiments of friendship, love and brotherhood, when expressed towards our own, as well as people from outside, that leave a mark on every guest. In addition to the intellectual and religious activities,
it is the practical example of every Ahmadi, that makes a huge impression on every participant. They also express this [by saying] that, ‘We observed an example of the true teaching of Islam at Jalsa, which inspired us greatly.’
Everyone from young children to the old was serving with exceptional sincerity. Likewise, the participants also took part in the Jalsa quietly, without spreading any restlessness or evil and benefitted from the programmes. Such a practical example presents a very awe-inspiring sight for a worldly person.
The guests, who came from outside [the Community] have also been expressing their views. I will now present a few of their views, which they expressed after experiencing the atmosphere. They stated openly that, ‘If this is the teaching of Islam
‘then this teaching ought to be spread in the world’. The former foreign minister of Benin and advisor of the president, Maryam Boni Jialo Sahiba, who is currently the advisor and a senior minister writes:
“Through this Jalsa I was able to understand the Ahmadiyya Jama’at in greater depth. “I am greatly impressed by the management of the Jalsa. “The standard of management of the volunteers was very high. “I was astonished at seeing the sincerity of the volunteers.
“I examined the management from every aspect” people look at us very critically, “however,” She says that, “I did not see any flaw in such a big Jalsa. “I scrutinised every department, however, “the management of every department was exceptional and of the highest standard.”
She further says, “When I looked at the volunteers I felt that regardless of being young, mature, “old, man or woman, people from all walks of life were striving to provide comfort to others. “Everyone sacrificed their own comfort and was ready to provide comfort and ease to others.
“I will never in my life be able to forget the smiling faces, “which found happiness in serving other guests.” She says that, “These wonderful memories are a part of my life. “It is my desire that these values are established in our country as well.
“The Ahmadiyya Jama’at is an educational academy “from which the youngsters of every country should acquire knowledge.” She says, “If I look at it from a spiritual perspective, “an atmosphere of brotherhood was found in every direction, “which elevated and enhanced one’s spirituality.
“This was an atmosphere, which I experienced for the first time in my life and “perhaps the other new guests also experienced such an atmosphere for the first time.” She says, “Merely the Islam, which the Jama’at establishes, can provide peace to the world and
“the solution to the problems of the world is contained therein.” She further says, “The address of the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Jama’at to the ladies left deep imprints on the mind. “The status of a woman to other Muslim sects is nothing more than a slave.
“However, during the address to the ladies, “the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Jama’at declared women as teachers and included in their tasks “the upbringing and education of the forthcoming progeny, which is the future of the world. “In other words, the future of the world
“as well as the future of religion rests in the hands of women.” She says, “Women have been given a great status and “only through this can a healthy and peaceful society be established.” Then, a member of the parliament of Guatemala, Iliena Calles expressed her feelings
by saying that “Participating in the Jalsa was a very unique and astonishing experience. “A magnificent change has taken place regarding my thoughts towards Islam and the Ahmadiyya Jama’at. “The media has created an utterly false and frightening image regarding Islam
“in that Islam teaches extremism and hatred. “However, during this Jalsa we were able to see the practical image of the true and “peaceful teachings of Islam as well as of the motto of the Ahmadiyya Jama’at, ‘love for all – hatred for none!
“This is the only way to establish global peace, mutual love and justice in the world.” She says, “The scene of volunteers serving thousands of guests was astonishing.” She also mentioned the address to the ladies;
the status of women and the mention of paradise lying under the feet of mothers and women. She further says, “In comparison to the men’s marquee, I felt greater comfort, “ease and freedom in the ladies’ marquee.
“This is the greatest example of the wonderful and beautiful teachings of Islam “that a woman is guaranteed respect, protection and absolute freedom.” She says, “I am now returning with the peaceful and beautiful picture of the teachings of Islam.”
Similarly, Sergio Moya, a professor of the National University of Costa Rica, attended the Jalsa. He states “I have witnessed a new picture of Islam through this Jalsa. “I have seen a community of Muslims that is exemplary in mutual love and affection
“who present a practical depiction of their faith. “After returning [home] I will inform my acquaintances and [my] students that “the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community demonstrates the true and beautiful teachings of Islam “in a practical manner and this Community practices its motto.”
So these people become a source of Tabligh [propagating the message] for us. Then Doglas Monteroso sahib, advisor to the member parliament of Costa Rica, says: “I heard the speeches delivered by the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community “with utmost focus and attention.
“I was very much impressed by his advice that when one forgives his enemies and prays for them, “his heart is cleansed from enmity and malice.” This teaching has been granted to us by the Promised Messiah (as).
He states “This [teaching] can be a source of establishing peace in the world. “I have received immense spiritual and practical benefit from these speeches. “I was able to witness the true teachings of Islam and its representation at this Jalsa.”
Joseph Pierrer Duplan, the representative of the President of Haiti says, “There were several reservations in my heart prior to my arrival at the Jalsa, such as ‘who knows what type of Muslims they are, and what will happen to me when I arrive?’
“However, all of my doubts and suspicions vanished after I arrived at the Jalsa. “Every single person was demonstrating simplicity and patience. “There was an aura of brotherhood in the atmosphere.” He then states: “I am not a religious person but after attending this Jalsa and
“meeting with the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community my heart concludes that “if there is to be a true religion, then it is Islam and Ahmadiyyat.” Zoucomore Sahib, President of the Human Rights Commission in Burkina Faso, he also attended the Jalsa.
He states “I was very astonished upon being invited to attend the Jalsa. “I thought that I am neither a member of the Community nor am I a Muslim “nevertheless I am being invited to attend a gathering of Muslims.
“After attending Jalsa I realised that the Jama’at is spreading its arms of love for everyone “without discriminating between colour or ethnicity. “It treats everyone with love and affection. “It extends respect and dignity towards all and also takes care of everyone.”
He states “I have heard addresses of many religious leaders. “They speak as if they are the only people treading on the right path and “play with people’s emotions. “However, I heard the address of the Imam of Jama’at-e-Ahmadiyya with utmost attention.
“The focal point of all the speeches was establishment of world peace. “And this is the teaching” He says “that can lead to the establishment of world peace. “And we can defeat terrorism and injustice.”
Similarly, there was a lady named Katrina Celjak sahiba in the Croatian Delegation. She states “Previously I was a nun at a church, but now I am in search of the truth.” She further states “the Jalsa environment, the exhibitions here, and other information
about the Community has enlightened my mind. “I sense that my journey in search of the truth will reach its destination soon.” She says, “The addresses of the Imam of the Ahmadi Community has left a deep impact on my mind.
“Now I have started to review everything with great detail.” An International Business Management student was also part of the delegation from Croatia. He says that he was very impressed with the love and dedication of the organization of the Jalsa.
Whether it was the love and dedication of the young children who had their duty in providing water during the Jalsa, the way the traffic was being controlled in the parking in the bad weather or the endeavours to maintain the level of cleanliness,
all these things left a deep impression on him. He further states that it was the first time he attended an Ahmadiyya Jalsa but he will keep those memories for the rest of his life. The Jamaat must keep regular contact with him.
An elderly couple came from Croatia last year, who were Muslims also attended this year and they said to me in our private meeting that, “Last year we attended as normal Muslims and this year we are attending as Ahmadi Muslims.”
Hence, there is a great bounty of God Almighty in the Jalsa, as Bai’ats are taken as well. A congressman of the Philippines, Salvador Belaro Junior attended the Jalsa. He holds a high post in the congress there. He says that,
“It was an eye-opening experience for me from which I have had the opportunity to learn a lot. “The most pleasing thing for me was that the members of the community meet each other
“with the utmost love and courtesy and strive to help one another as much as possible.” Thus, our Jamaat must try to continue to have this effect on others, even in normal situations. This is a major responsibility on every Ahmadi,
it should not be a mere display for a few days, but instead they should constantly uphold this effect. He then states that “This experience really increased me in my understanding of Islam and
“introduced me to such a beautiful teaching of Islam which I was not aware of before. “Only by attending this Jalsa was I able to comprehend that whatever “the media normally says regarding Islam, in truth has no connection with the religion of Islam.”
Then one guest from Ireland, Darren Howlett Coventry who is the Head of Irelands National Police Service, he says that “This was my first Jalsa Salana. “During the Jalsa I had the opportunity to meet the determined,
“helpful and good-natured people of the Ahmadiyya Community.” He was very overwhelmed by the services of the workers, “Who not only utter ‘Love for all hatred for none’ but all the workers and participants “practically displayed it through their selfless and voluntary services.”
He says, “I am truly grateful to you for granting me the opportunity to partake in the Jalsa. “I had the chance to carefully reflect about Islam and enjoy the programme of the Jalsa Salana.”
He states “I was captivated by the poem recited before the address of the Head of the Community.” Then a guest from Holland, Mr Arnaud Van Doorn, writes that “The atmosphere during the Jalsa Salana was very friendly and
“I have learnt a great deal from this occasion. “I have had some very memorable meetings. “There was the scent of a positive message in the air. “The full participation of the youths and the unselfish service really impressed me.
“I was invigorated with a renewed hope after seeing the youths working. “I have attended many Muslim and non-Muslim gatherings but “this is the first time experiencing all the youths fully involved.” Then a Senior Barrister of the Queen’s Council, Mr David Martin says that
“Whatever I am saying is not my words but it is the voice of my heart. “Up till now I have never attended a ceremony like this one. “The people are so nice and the community is so beautiful.
“On my mother’s side I am originally Jewish but I have also been going to the Church of England. “I say with full conviction that never in my life have I witnessed something like the Jalsa Salana.” He says that “You are presenting a truly beautiful illustration of Islam.
“I am amazed that a documentary about this Jalsa has not been made by the BBC…” I have heard that the BBC are now trying to make a documentary “so the public may be aware of the doctrines, beliefs and lifestyle of the Ahmadiyya Community.”
A guest from Sierra Leone, Abdul Kabba Kargbo recounts his impressions that, “I was extremely enthralled having seen the organization of the Jalsa Salana. “If I had not come here and someone informed me that more than 37,000 had gathered in one place
“for three days, and that there was no estrangement, I would most likely not believe it. “However, having seen this all with my own eyes “I am amazed that I have not seen a single person complain and “that everyone is serving with great humility and modesty.”
Hence, others are very influenced by the workers and volunteers and it is a silent Tabligh which the workers are doing, be they young, old, men, women or adolescents. These were a few of the impressions of others.
Some Muslims also attended who were representing the leaders of their governments. I shall now present one or two of their impressions. Alhaj Mamadu Saleem Ba Sahib is the Vice President of the National Assembly of Guinea Conakry or in other words the Deputy Speaker.
He says that he was very impressed with the organization of the Jalsa and the discipline. Despite looking out for short-comings in any department, he was unable to find any. “Despite the organization on a high level and the sheer number of attendees
“there was no disorganisation nor were there any fights and arguments.” He says that “I have had the chance to perform the Hajj and “participate in programmes in many Islamic countries, “yet I have never seen such noble and praise-worthy organization and
“this is the true spirit of Islam which we have witnessed having come here.” He then says that “The training of the young children is extraordinary. “The children were asking if we required anything and whatever we desired
“they would provide us and meet us with a smile on their face. “Not only once, but again and again they would ask us if we required anything. “People came from many different countries yet they would all meet each other as if brothers and
“close friends of one another. “You people are well ahead in your works and you are the ones who are on the right path. “I have firm faith that God Almighty’s hand iswith you. On the other hand there are some who do not attend
as some worldly reasons prevent them from doing so. He says that “God-willing we will return to our countries and “most certainly draw attention of our governments to help the Jamaat in all its affairs
“in order for your community to guide people in our country too to the true teachings of Islam.” Then there was Hassan Gita Sahib of Guinea Conakry who is the National Director of the Police. He says “My department is related to the police,
“for this reason I made special analysis in terms of security. “The organization of the security was excellent in which I saw no flaws.” He says that “After listening to the address of the Head of the Ahmadiyya Community “I felt proud to be a Muslim.”
Then a Member of Parliament of Sierra Leone, Mr Alie Kaloko states, “Ahmadiyyat is the true representation of Islam. “The efforts which the Ahmadi Muslims are making to spread peace are much appreciated. “In today’s world the name of Islam is associated with terrorism everywhere.
“However, Ahmadis are proving this assumption wrong. “The organization of the Jalsa Salana was very good. “Even very young children were appointed to serve. “To witness this was delightful and “in my mind this scene alone is sufficient to prove the truthfulness of the community.”
A guest who attended from Turkmenistan, Mr Abdur Rasheed says, “Approximately two years ago my friend and “I heard of this community whose slogan is ‘Love for All Hatred for None’.”
He states “Since the day I arrived in London I have been surrounded by love and affection “as if I am among my parents and relatives. “Among the things which really impressed me and left a mark on my heart,
“one is that the day we arrived in London from Turkmenistan “we were taken from the airport to the hotel. “Once reaching there and being greeted by the Ahmadis giving their duty there,
“they immediately said that, ‘You have travelled to come here and you must be hungry. ‘Therefore, first you must eat then rest’. “Upon hearing this the Hadith of the Holy Prophet (saw) came to mind “when once a guest came to one of his sittings.
“Then he spoke to his companions regarding him, and asked who will take (care of) him?” Then he related the whole lengthy Hadith regarding hospitality. Anyhow, he then says “After attending the Jalsa I came to the understanding that
“I have been in the search of God Almighty all my life but “I have only found Him after coming here. “By the grace of Allah I was enabled to participate in the wonderful Bai’at ceremony and
“pledge my allegiance.” He not only came here, but he also took the oath of allegiance. He was very emotional when speaking to me. He then states “Whilst I was taking the oath of allegiance tears were running from my eyes and
“these are the tears which did not even fall at the death of my father. “It may have seemed that these tears were running for no apparent reason, “however I later comprehended that such a hope has now been created in the world and
“a community of hundreds of thousands has been produced that is unparalleled. “Through its actions, this community is ready to make any sacrifice in order to protect and “purify the world from every difficulty and calamity.”
When new converts witness the atmosphere of love and brotherhood it further increases their faith. Winson Williams, a new convert who was attending from Jamaica states: “The addresses of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih and “in particular the International Bai’at was an extremely emotional experience.”
She further states, “When I learnt that all the workers here are serving as volunteers, “I thought that the Jama’at must encounter a lot of difficulty in regards to their training. “However, when I saw these volunteers selflessly working I realised that this is a divine community
“and the Khalifa of the time receives help and succour directly from Allah the Almighty.” She continues: “I was left astounded particularly when “I saw the volunteers giving duty in the car park and despite the poor weather “they continued to work with great enthusiasm and
“I have never witnessed something like this ever before in my life.’ One of the mayors of a city in Ivory Coast, Zrakpa Dopeu Sahib, was in attendance. He states: “When I accepted Islam Ahmadiyyat, “I had to endure listening to many negative comments from people.
“I did not have a lot of knowledge of Islam therefore I would become quite concerned “as to how I could determine whether Ahmadis are Muslims or not.” He continues: “I would sometimes think that whether I have committed a sin by accepting the Jama’at.
“I contacted the Jama’at and they invited me to attend the Jalsa Salana “in order to observe the Jama’at more closely.” He states: “When I came here I was able to witness the true image of Islam.
“All of the Khalifa’s addresses started with the name of God and His messenger and “also concluded with the name of God and His messenger. “Also, all my questions pertaining to whether Ahmadis are Muslims or not were answered “after observing the atmosphere of the Jalsa.
“Now I say with great pride that what I did was completely right. “Ahmadis in fact are true Muslims and I am fully content on this. “Every action of an Ahmadi is in accordance to the injunctions of the Holy Quran and the Holy Prophwt (saw).”
Khalid Belisle who is the mayor of Belmopan, the capital city of Belize was also in attendance. He states: “Attending the Jalsa was an excellent experience. “It seemed as if each and every member of the community was assigned to only serve me.
“This experience has stirred my interest to learn more about Islam. “I am taking the teaching of unity and brotherhood back to my country and this is something that “I have witnessed in so many places here.
“If only I could capture this in my bottle and take it back with me to Belize and “share it with my fellow countrymen in Belize.” He further states: “The arrangements of the Jalsa were of a very high standard and
“I shall I always remember the way I was welcomed here. “I shall always be thankful of the fact that you invited me here.” He also said: “One day I was alone in the guest’s marquee and a few Khuddam [youth] came to me and
“I knew that they only came to me because I had come from outside [the community] and “would perhaps be feeling alone. “This had a very deep impact upon my heart as “the youth are aware of how one should treat their guests.”
The International Bai’at also has a profound effect on people outside of the community. I have already mentioned an incident in regards to this but shall I relate another incident. A member of the National Assembly of the Croatian parliament,
Mr Auch Koik Domango, attended the Jalsa and regarding the International Bai’at he says: “I was greatly impressed by the International Bai’at. “I have attended the Faithly Confirmation in the Christian faith many times however the emotions, “sincerity and the resolve to display loyalty to one’s faith
“which I witnessed during the International Bai’at was a totally surreal and “an astonishing experience which I shall remember all my life.” An Egyptian, Dr Hany Rashwan Sahib, said that he arrived at the Jalsa Gah around the time of the international Bai’at.
Upon witnessing the human chain, he was visibly moved and amazed. He was unable to comprehend the level of organisation and dedication, commenting that such organisation would be impossible in his native country of Egypt. His emotion overcame him and he joined the chain of Bai’at and
recited astaghfar [seeking repentance] and the Arabic verses. Although this was of course not a conversion to Ahmadiyyat but was an intense spiritual experience which he was overcome with. However, he said that he shall now ponder in regards to this.
[The Jalsa] attracted a lot of attention from the press and media. After being greatly impressed by the Jalsa atmosphere, even the press is now compelled to publish correct reports on Islam. Sonia Delesalle who is a journalist of a French paper, Libération, relates her impressions.
She states: “When I first arrived here I was quite concerned because the men and women had been segregated. “However, when I visited the Jalsa arena, “I noticed that instead of women the men were preparing food.
“I then spent some time in the ladies section [of the Jalsa] and “I realised that due to their separate arrangements they had more freedom and “above all they were completely independent and did everything as they wished.”
Thus, some of the young girls living here who in the name of education or freedom claim that they are being treated unjustly need to ponder over this that even those outside of the community appreciate our atmosphere.
Another journalist working for a national news channel in Bolivia expressed his impressions: “According to the West, Islam holds women back and “they are considered to be given no importance. “However, I saw that the Head of the Ahmadiyya Community was giving awards to women
“who had achieved notable success and each person was individually being called up by their names. “Upon witnessing this, I had the desire to go back and write about this in the newspaper because
“there is not a single leader in the world who has delivered an address only for the ladies – never!” Another journalist began to repeat the words being recited during the International Bai’at. Upon being asked she said:
“I do not know what happened to me at the time and “never in my life have I ever experienced such feelings and emotions and “instinctively I began to repeat the words.
“Prior to this I used to think music was necessary to arouse such emotions in gatherings like this. “Without music it is impossible to arouse such emotions “but during the International Bai’at “ I saw that these emotions were pouring out from the hearts of the Ahmadis and
“there was no need for any kind of music.” Another journalist from Bolivia, Carlos Jamie Orias Sb, states: “The one thing that impressed me the most about the Ahmadiyya Community is their passion and “efforts to establish peace.
“This is a message which is extremely important and significant in this day and age. “Similarly, the efforts of the Ahmadiyya Community to unite people of different nations and cultures “upon the true foundations of Islam is praiseworthy.” He further states:
“I was also greatly astonished by the fact that such extensive and large-scale arrangements “were all done by the efforts of volunteers. “From this it is evident that regardless of how difficult a task may be, through faith, “sincerity and selfless endeavours it is possible to achieve.”‘
He then states: “The Head of the Ahmadiyya Community delivered an address on “the responsibilities of men and women and “this address removed many of the doubts I had in my mind.
“I also understood the wisdom behind the Islamic teachings in regards to men and women.” He also states: “It was also very delightful to see the Ahmadi women acquire notable achievements and success and
“this proves that it is incumbent upon both men and women to strive to achieve peace in the world “by starting at a family level and progressing to community, country “and then on an international level.” He then states:
“The concluding address was important for the Ahmadiyya Community but “equally important for the whole world and for all the nations of the world.” Thus, the atmosphere of the Jalsa and the atmosphere created by those giving duty impresses every fair-minded person.
May Allah the Almighty reward all those who offered duties and also the attendees who were part of the silent preaching of the Islamic values. We must remember the thousands of male and female volunteers including boys, girls, men and women in our prayers.
This year due to the rain, and even generally, there were some deficiencies in the arrangements but the volunteers worked with great wisdom and diligently to not make us feel those deficiencies. Although at times the water supply was stopped but generally the arrangements were much improved.
A majority of those who attended the Jalsa and then wrote to me about their impressions have written positively but there were some who had some complaints but as I have said it is always possible to have some deficiencies
when temporary arrangements are being made on such a large scale. Nonetheless, all of the volunteers, including men, women and children are worthy of our gratitude. I would also like to say to the administration that all of the complaints or matters that require attention which
I am sending to them should be noted in their Red Books and they should seek to make further improvements for the future. Similarly, the press has given very good coverage. Through the media outlets, 358 news reports have been published about the Jalsa Salana
and this is still increasing. The message [of Islam] was conveyed to 36 million through online media. 21 million were conveyed the message through news reported on TV and radio and two million through print media.
Apart from this, the message was conveyed to 58 million people through social media. My concluding address was aired on MTA Live stream and around 250,000 people watched this address via live streaming. Thus, according to a very conservative estimate,
the message was conveyed to over 128 million people. Some of the more prominent media outlets which gave coverage on the Jalsa include: BBC TV, BBC Radio, ITV, The Independent, The Times, Sunday Express, London Evening Standard,
New York Times, Facebook Live, Associated Press, Press Association, Special News Agency EFE, an Indian news agency called PTI and French news agencies included Libération and UNILET. Thus, we should express our gratitude to Allah the Almighty for this extensive coverage of the
message of the Ahmadiyya Community and the true message of Islam through the media outlets. The Jalsa Salana was also given coverage in Africa. Apart from MTA Africa, ten other channels showed the proceedings of the Jalsa Salana and
in total the coverage from across different countries was over 150 hours. Through these channels approximately over 60 million people watched the proceedings of the Jalsa Salana. These ten channels showed the International Bai’at and also all of my addresses live.
Sierra Leone’s national TV showed the proceedings of all three days of the Jalsa Salana continuously for a total of 100 hundred hours and in Bo and Cama they turned off their local programmes to show the entire proceedings of the Jalsa Salana.
In this way the whole country was able to see and hear the Jalsa proceedings. Also, for the first time ever, Gambia’s national TV showed the speeches of the Jalsa Salana and various other programmes. Aside from the live broadcast of the Jalsa Salana,
BBC Uganda covered the Jalsa Salana in Swahili language, which is viewed by a large audience. In this region there is a viewership of approximately 20 million people. Through Ghana National Television, as well as Radio and News reports,
the coverage of the Jalsa reached approximately 5 million people. Including all the TV and news reports of the entire African Media outlets, the news of the Jalsa Salana reached approximately 35 million people. All of this is due to the Grace of Allah the Almighty.
Our efforts only amount to a fraction of this. For our part in this I am very grateful to our Press and Media section, as well as the Press and Media section of other countries who also made an effort. May God Almighty reward them.
These reports published on a wide scale prove beneficial in the form of Tabligh. May Allah enable us to always fulfil our responsibilities and may we always give precedence to our faith over all worldly pursuits and fulfil our responsibilities in this light.
One aspect which was left out that I would like to mention now is that just like last year, this year again, Khuddam from Canada came and took part in the work and clear up [of the Jalsa site].
On this occasion they chartered a plane carrying approximately 300 to 350 people. They worked very hard and had been working for four or five days from the conclusion of the Jalsa until yesterday. They managed to clear up a substantial amount and whatever small amount remains
Which will be cleared up by the Khuddam of the UK, in fact they have already started since yesterday. May Allah the Almighty reward all of them. The Khuddam of Canada who arrived before Jalsa, I hope they listened to all of the Jalsa proceedings.
If they have not then this is absolutely wrong. Therefore, if they wish to come in future, then they should listen to the Jalsa proceedings throughout the three days, and then they should partake in the clear up program.
May Allah the Almighty reward them as well as all of the workers, both men and women. May He grant us the opportunity to adopt all the teachings that we learnt during the Jalsa Salana and include them in our lives.
After the prayers I will lead some funeral prayers in absentia. The first one is of Mrs Sahibzadi Zakia Begum Sahiba, who was the wife of Col Mirza Daud Ahmad Sahib. She was the daughter of Nawab Amatul Hafeez Begum Sahiba and Nawab Abdullah Khan Sahib.
She passed away in Tahir Heart Institute on the evening of 23rd July 2017, at the age of 94. To Allah we belong and to Him shall we return. She was the wife of Sahibzada Col.
Mirza Daud Ahmad Sahib, who was the son of Hazrat Mirza Sharif Ahmad Sahib. She was the granddaughter of the Promised Messiah (as) as well as the wife of the Promised Messiah’s (as) grandson.
She had been quite unwell for the past three to four years and in fact, she had been admitted to hospital for the past few months. By the Grace of Allah she was a Moosia [part of the institution of Al-Wasiyyat]
and has been a Moosia for a long time. She has five daughters, from among them Amatul Shafi Sahiba is married to Mr Mahmood Ahmad Khan Sahib, who was the grandson of Nawab Mubaraka Begum sahiba; Amatul Nasir,
wife of Sayyed Shahid Ahmad Sahib; Amatul Musawer, who is the wife of Dr Noori Sahib; Amatul Mu’eez Sahiba, who is the wife of Manzoor-ur-Rahman from USA and Amatul Naseer Nighat, who is the wife of Raja Abdul Malik Sahib.
May Allah enable her children to increase in piety and righteousness and also continue the virtuous deeds of their forefathers. Mrs Zakia Begum Sahiba had the opportunity to serve as the Sadr Lajna [President of the Womens auxiliary organisation] for Muhammad Ali Society.
Even during her stay in Kohat she had the opportunity to work for Lajna. Nawab Amatul Hafeez Begum Sahiba wrote an article about her children in which she praised the deceased stating that after Nawab Abdullah Khan Sahib passed away,
she looked after and helped her mother with great care and she emphasised this fact. Dr Noori Sahib writes: “Hospitality was one of her great attributes. “She would cater for every guest without any distinction between them, and also welcome them.”
Dr Noori Sahib further states: “When I devoted my life for the services of the Jamaat “after my retirement she said that: ‘it was a great desire of mine that should I be bestowed a son I would devote him.
‘Now that you have dedicated your life, you have fulfilled this wish of mine’.” May Allah the Almighty elevate her status and shower His Mercy and forgiveness on her. The second funeral is of Mr Tariq Masood Sahib, who was a missionary
serving in the Nazarat Islah-o-Irshad Marakazia , and the son of Mr Masood Ahmad Tahir Sahib. He passed away in Rabwah on 24th July at the age of 27, after being electrocuted by a high voltage wire.
To Allah we belong and to Him shall we return. Ahmadiyyat spread in his family through his paternal great grandfather Mr Mehr Baksh who was from Rajouri, Kashmir. Mr Mehr Baksh accepted Ahmadiyyat at the hands of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (ra) in 1920.
Tariq Masood Sahib completed his Matriculation examination from Taleem-ul-Islam High School in 2007, after which he gained admission into Jamia Ahmadiyya. In 2016 he completed his F.A. Examination and graduated from Jamia Ahmadiyya in 2014.
He was a very young missionary but extremely sincere and had a pious nature. He would look after his parents, friends and also the poor and needy. Despite his minimal allowance he would help the poor and many of them mentioned this after his passing.
After three or four days he was due to be married, however, God Almighty called him to Himself before this could happen. May Allah elavate his status, may He forgive and have mercy on him. He was a Moosi.
Aside from his parents he is survived by three brothers; Mr Ashfaq Ahmad Zafar Sahib, Sarfaraz Ahmad Javed Sahib, Ataur Rahim Sahib and one sister; Fozia Masood Sahiba. His mother writes: “He not only actively gave his Chanda [obligatory contribution],
“but also reminded us to pay ours.” His father states: “He had a deep love for Khilafat and a very pious individual. “He was regular in offering his prayers in congregation. “Even before he became a missionary he would urge the family to be punctual in offering prayers.
“After the Fajr prayers he would regularly recite the Holy Quran. “Upon seeing him we would feel embarrassed at our shortcomings. “He was a very obedient son. “He would conduct himself with great love and never argued with his parents.
“Even if he would disagree about something he would present his argument with great respect. “He held great honour for the institution of Khilafat. “If someone would utter anything against the administrative organisation of the Jamaat “or the status of Khilafat, he would stop them immediately.
“If they would refuse to stop then he would leave that gathering.” May Allah the Almighty elevate the status of the deceased and grant steadfastness to his parents. The third funeral is of Respected Shakil Ahmad Munir Sahib who
was the former missionary in-charge of Australia and was currently residing in Karachi. He passed away on the 31st of July at the age of 85. To Allah we belong and to Him shall we return. He had the opportunity of translating the Quran in Maori language.
He belonged to Munger, which is situated in the province of Bihar in India. His father was amongst the first Ahmadis of Bihar who performed the Bai’at [oath of initiation] of the Promised Messiah in 1906, however,
he was unable to perform the Bai’at at the hands of the Promised Messiah (as). His father served as the Nazir Taleem in Qadian for ten years. Munir Shakil Sahib gained his early education from Taleem-ul-lslam College in Qadian and Lahore.
He then attained an MSc in Physics from Dhaka and soon after this he began working in the education sector. He spent a long time of his employment in West Africa. During this period he served the faith in various capacities.
He also served as the Chief Education Officer in Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education. He served as the Regional Sadr [head] for the eastern provinces of Nigeria for eight years. Alongside his wife he launched the Nusrat Jehan Academy and
this school or college was one of the first to be launched under the Nusrat Jehan Scheme. He was very keen to perform Tabligh [preaching the message]. He organised two very successful inter-faith symposiums in Nigeria.
During his stay [in Nigeria] he wrote many books on Islam and Christianity. ‘Islam in Spain’, ‘Shroud and other discoveries about Jesus’ and ‘The reformed Taleem-ul-Islam course book’ are among some of the books he has written.
He even constructed a mission in Nigeria form his own expenditure. On the basis of one of his dreams he devoted his life. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (rh) approved his Waqf [life devotee scheme] and
appointed him as the first Ameer [National President] and Missionary In-charge of Australia. Thus, on 5th July 1985 he left for Australia. There were some difficulties in attaining his visa as they did not easily grant a visa to Muslim missionaries.
However, through the efforts of Dr Ijaz-ul-Huq Sahib he obtained the visa and began his work. He played a vital role in the construction of ‘The Bait-ul-Huda Mosque’ which is a very beautiful mosque in Australia.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (rh) laid the foundation stone on 30th September 1983. Despite the unstable financial situation he ensured the construction of this mosque took place through Waqar-e-Amal [Voluntary work] and also worked himself. In fact, during one of these Waqar-e-Amal sessions
he fell off a ladder and fractured a bone in his arm, however, despite this he continued with the construction work of the mosque. As a result a large and beautiful mosque was constructed.
When he arrived there was nothing there except for a shed made of tin and this is where the Jamaat bought the land for the Mosque. Both husband and wife stayed in this tin shed. On one side they would offer their prayers and
on the other side they made a roof out of fabric and lived in this condition. They lived in these conditions with great patience and demonstrated a lot of sacrifice. In 1991 he was transferred to Nigeria and served as the Principal of Jamia Ahmadiyya.
In 1989, during the celebrations of the Centenary of the Ahmadiyya Community, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (rh) launched the scheme of translating selected verses of the Holy Quran into one hundred languages of the world. Australia was assigned the responsibility of translating into Maori.
At the time the standard of the translation was not adequate. In fact, the translation for ‘In the name of Allah the Gracious the Merciful’ was written as ‘In the name of Jesus’. He informed Hazrat Khaifatul Masih IV (rh) that the translation is incorrect.
He then learnt the language in his old age and completed the translation. In 2013 when I visited New Zealand the Maori translation of the Quran was complete and was presented to the Maori King. He was also present during this function.
He was a very humble and selfless person. There was no hint of arrogance due to his intellectual abilities nor the fact that he had translated the Holy Quran, therefore he should be given some precedence.
He was very affluent in worldly respects and even served as a missionary without an allowance. May Allah the Almighty shower him with Mercy and elevate his status. May He grant his wife patience and steadfastness.
May Allah the Almighty continue to grant us missionaries in the future who are completely selfless and humble in every respect. All praise is due to Allah. We laud Him, we beseech help from Him and ask His protection; we confide in Him, we trust Him alone
and we seek protection against the evils and mischief of our souls and from the bad results of our deeds. Whomsoever He guides on the right path, none can misguide him; and whosoever He declares misled, none can guide him onto the right path.
And we bear witness that none deserves to be worshipped except Allah. We bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger. O servants of Allah! May Allah be merciful to you. Verily, Allah commands you to act with justice, to confer benefits upon each other
and to do good to others as one does to one ‘s kindred and forbids evil which pertain to your own selves and evils which affect others and prohibits revolts against a lawful authority. He warns you against being unmindful.
You remember Allah; He too will remember you; call Him and He will make a response to your call. And verily divine remembrance is the highest virtue.