Friday Sermon – Khalifatul Masih V – Mirza Masroor Ahmad – Year 2021
Allah is the Greatest Allah is the Greatest Allah is the Greatest Allah is the Greatest I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah I bear witness that Muhammad (sa) is the Messenger of Allah
I bear witness that Muhammad (sa) is the Messenger of Allah Come to Prayer Come to Prayer Come to success Come to success Allah is the Greatest Allah is the Greatest There is none worthy of worship except Allah Peace and blessings of Allah be upon you.
I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah. He is One and has no partner. and I bear witness that Muhammad (sa) 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 displeasure, and those who have not gone astray. Accounts in the life of Hazrat Umar (ra) were being narrated and also the conquests that took place during his era. With regards to the conquest of Madain (Ctesiphon),
Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahib (ra) writes in Life & Character of the Seal of the Prophets regarding a prophecy which the Holy Prophet (sa) made after being informed by Allah the Almighty. Referring to this, he writes: “While the ditch was being dug, a stone which simply refused to break was excavated.
“The state of the Companions was that due to three days of continuous starvation, they felt faint. “Unable to succeed in this task, they finally presented themselves before the Holy Prophet (sa) “and submitted, “There is one stone which knows no breaking.”
“At the time, the Holy Prophet (sa) had also tied a stone on his stomach due to hunger, “but he immediately went there upon their request “and lifting an axe, struck the stone, in the name of Allah. “When iron hit stone, a spark flew,
“upon which the Holy Prophet (sa) loudly said, “God is the Greatest!” Then he said, “I have been granted the keys of the kingdom of Syria. “By God, at this time, I am beholding the red-stone palaces of Syria.” “His stroke had somewhat crushed a portion of the stone.
“The Holy Prophet (sa) wielded the axe a second time in the name of Allah, “which caused a spark again, upon which the Holy Prophet (sa) said, “God is the Greatest!” “Then he said, “This time, I have been granted the keys of Persia, “and I am witnessing the white palaces of Madain.”
“Now, the rock had been broken to a large degree. “The Holy Prophet (sa) wielded the axe yet a third time, “which resulted in another spark and the Holy Prophet (sa) said, “God is the Greatest!” “Then he said, “Now, I have been endowed the keys of Yemen,
“and by God, I am being shown the gates of San‘a at this time.” “Finally, the rock was broken completely. “In another narration it is related that on every occasion, “the Holy Prophet (sa) would loudly proclaim the Greatness of God “and after the Companions would inquire, he would relate his visions.
“After this temporary hindrance had been removed, the Companions engaged in their work once again. “(i.e. the breaking of the rock and they began digging the trench again) “These were visions of the Holy Prophet (sa). “In other words, during this time of affliction,
“Allah the Exalted created a spirit of hope and delight amongst the Companions “by showing the Holy Prophet (sa) visions of the future victories and prosperity of the Muslims. “However, apparently at the time, the circumstances were of such difficulty and hardship “that upon hearing these promises, the hypocrites of Madinah mocked the Muslims saying,
“They do not even possess the strength to step out of their own homes “and are dreaming of the kingdoms of Caesar and Chosroes.” “However, in the estimation of God, all of these bounties had been decreed for the Muslims. “Therefore, these promises were fulfilled at their respective times.
“Some were fulfilled in the last days of the Holy Prophet (sa), “while most were fulfilled in the era of his Khulafah, “and thus, became a source of increasing the Muslims in faith and gratitude.” The promise of the conquest of Madain
Was fulfilled at the hands of Hazrat Sa’d, during the caliphate of Hazrat ‘Umar (ra). The Holy Prophet (sa) was shown that Madain would be conquered and this was fulfilled during the era of Hazrat ‘Umar (ra). After conquering Qadisiyyah, the Muslim army went on to conquer Babylon, an ancient city of modern day Iraq.
After conquering Babylon, they reached a historical city by the name Qusa. This is situated in the surroundings of Babylon. Furthermore, Kusa was that very place where Nimrod imprisoned Prophet Abraham (as) and the prison was still present at that time. When Hazrat Sa’d reached the place and saw the prison,
He recited the following verse of the Holy Qur’an: “such days We cause to alternate among men that they may be admonished” Advancing from Kusa, they reached a place called Bahrseer. This is the name of that part of Madain, a city of Iraq, which is located at the western bank of the Tigris river. The Chosroes hunting lion was kept in this place.
When the army of Hazrat Sa’d approached, they let lion loose on the army and the lion ferociously attacked them. The brother of Hazrat Sa’d, Hashim bin Abi Waqqas, was the chief of the vanguard of the army. He struck the lion with his sword and killed it. Following this, the battle of Madain ensued.
Madain is also part of Iraq and is located at a short distance from Baghdad, towards the southern bank of the Tigris. What is the reason for naming this place Madain? Many cities were established here, one after the other and as such, the Arabs started calling the place Madain, i.e. a collection of cities.
Madain was the seat of the throne of the Chosroes and home to his white palaces. The Tigris river was located between the Muslims and the people of Madain and the Persians had destroyed all the bridges crossing the river.
In Tarikh al-Tabari it is written that Hazrat Sa’d searched for boats in order to cross the river. However, he realised that the Persians had already taken control of the boats. Hazrat Sa’d wished for the Muslims to cross the river, but did not instruct them do so due to his sympathy for them.
Subsequently, some villagers told them how to cross the river and showed them that if they go from a certain place, they will be able to cross it easily. However, Hazrat Sa’d did not act in accordance with this either. In the meantime, the river overflowed.
One night, he was shown a dream that the horses of the Muslims entered the water and crossed the river, even though it was overflown. In order to fulfil this dream, Hazrat Sa’d firmly determined to cross the river and said to the army: “O Muslims! The enemy has taken the river as its refuge.
“Come and let us swim across it!” Having said this, he led his horse into the water. The soldiers of Hazrat Sa’d followed their leader and led their horses into the water as well and the Muslim army crossed the river. When the opposing army witnessed this scene,
They started screaming out of fear and retreated saying: “Demons are coming! Demons are coming!” The Muslims advanced and captured the city and the white palaces of the Chosroes. The Chosroes had already relocated his family members prior to the Muslims entering the city. As such, the Muslims easily captured the city. In this manner, the prophecy of the Holy Prophet (sa) was fulfilled,
Which he saw on the occasion of the battle of Khandaq, when he was digging the ditch and struck the rock with his pickaxe; i.e. “I was shown the white palaces of Madain falling.” Seeing the deserted state of these palaces, Hazrat Sa’d recited the following verses of Surah al-Dukhan: ‘How many were the gardens and the springs that they left behind! ‘And the cornfields and the noble places! ‘And the comforts wherein they took delight! Thus it was destined to be. ‘And We made another people inherit these things.’ Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) ordered that the royal treasure and wealth be gathered in one place.
In this treasure were memorials of kings – which numbered in the thousands – among which were coats of mail, swords, daggers and royal clothes. There was also a golden horse, which had a silver saddle on it, rubies and emeralds were encrusted in its chest.
Likewise, there was a silver camel, on which was a golden pack saddle, a bridle coated in high quality rubies. Among the spoils of war was a rug which was known as Irani Bahar. Its base was of gold and contained a tree made of silver and its fruit of gems.
The army collected all of these things, and the Muslim soldiers displayed the utmost honesty and integrity. These qualities of theirs are so evident as the Muslim soldiers brought whatever they had found exactly the way it was to the commander.
Thus, when everything was brought and laid out, and the plain was glittering from afar. upon witnessing this Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) was astonished and said, “Those who took nothing of these riches are most certainly honest to the highest degree.”
As was custom, after its distribution, one fifth of the spoils of war was sent to the Khalifa. The rugs and ancient relics were sent in a manner that it was a sight to behold when the Arabs saw the opulence and grandeur of the Persians
And the success and victory of the Muslims over them. When this was shown to Hazrat Umar (ra), he was also greatly amazed by the honesty and integrity of the army. Hazrat Umar (ra) was astounded by the level of integrity of the soldiers.
A person by the name Muhallim who was tall and handsome, was in Madinah. Hazrat Umar (ra) ordered that the garments of Nosherwan be brought to him to wear. These garments were in varying conditions. Thus, he was made to wear all the garments one by one.
The people were left amazed by the beauty of these garments. Similarly, that rug by the name of Bahar, was distributed. Then there is the battle of Jalulah which took place in 16 AH. After the conquest of Madain (Ctesiphon) the Persians gathered in Jalulah to begin preparing for battle once more.
Upon the instructions of Hazrat Umar (ra), Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) sent Hashim bin Utbah with an army of 12,000 to face this Persian army. Jalulah is a city in Iraq situated on the route between Khorasan and Baghdad. This is where a battle between the Muslims and the Persians ensued.
When the Muslims arrived, they surrounded the city, and this siege lasted for months. Every now and then, the Persians would come out of their fortresses to launch attacks. In this way, eighty battles took place. The Muslims wrote about the victories in Jalulah to Hazrat Umar (ra),
Mentioning that Hazrat Qa’qa’ (ra) was encamped in Hulwan. In this letter, permission was requested to pursue the non-Arabs, but Hazrat Umar (ra) denied the request, i.e., permission was not granted to pursue after them. Instead he said, “I want a wall erected “between the mountainous region of Sawad (Southern Iraq) and Iran
“so that neither the Persians come to us, nor we go to their lands. “For us, the villages of Sawad are sufficient. “I prioritise the safety and well-being of the Muslims over attaining spoils of war.” i.e. he did not have any desire to collect spoils of war.
Safeguarding the lives of the Muslims was more important. According to one narration, Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) sent bowls of gold and silver and clothes as part of the spoils of war with Quza’i bin Amr Dauli, and captives with the Abu Mafazzir Aswad.
According to another account, the spoils were sent with Quza’i and Abu Mufazzir, the details of which were sent via Ziyad bin Abi Sufyan as he was responsible for the inventory and he would keep it all accounted for in registers. When everything had reached Hazrat Umar (ra),
Ziyad spoke to Hazrat Umar (ra) about all the details of the spoils of war. Hazrat Umar (ra) asked, “Would you stand before the Muslims “and relate to them the details which you are telling me?”
Ziyad replied, “By God, there is no one in all the lands who I am more fearful of than you, “so why would I not be able to speak before others?” Hence, Ziyad stood before the people and described all the conditions, mentioning all the achievements of the Muslims,
The way in which the battles took place, and how the spoils of war were attained. He also mentioned that the Muslims wished to pursue the enemy in their land. Having heard his speech, Hazrat Umar (ra) said that he was a very eloquent speaker.
Ziyad replied, “the achievements of our army is what has made my tongue flow.” In one narration it is mentioned that when the spoils were presented before Hazrat Umar (ra) he said, “This is such a vast amount of spoils of war that no building can contain it all,
“which is why I wish to distribute it right away.” Hazrat Abdur Rahman bin Auf (ra) and Abdullah bin Arqam watched over the spoils in the open space of the mosque. The wealth was brought and placed in the open space of the mosque. Then these two companions kept watch over it.
In the morning, Hazrat Umar (ra) came to the mosque with the people. He removed the cloth from the spoils of war and saw rubies, emeralds and various precious gems. Upon seeing this, Hazrat Umar (ra) began to weep. Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) said to Hazrat Umar (ra):
“O Leader of the Faithful! Why are you crying? By Allah, this is the time to be grateful.” Hazrat Umar (ra) replied: “By Allah! The thing that made me cry “is that whichever nation is granted these treasures by Allah, “malice and jealousy between them increases.
(i.e. he was worried that through the riches that they have been bestowed with it “The thing that made me weep was that “whichever nation increase in their jealousy of one another, “they become embroiled in civil war.” One should ponder and deliberate over this statement; one should seek forgiveness regarding what Hazrat Umar (ra) has stated. We are witnessing that the more wealth gained by the Muslims
Only increased mutual hatred and jealousy; whether that is among those Muslim nations who have an abundance of oil or they have other wealth and if one observes closely, the same is the case individually; there is a lack in righteousness. During the Battle of Madain, the Persian King Yazdegerd,
Left the capital Madain and travelled with his family and workers to Hulwan. When Yazdegerd learnt of the defeat at Jalula, he left Hulwan and travelled to Zeh and placed Khosrow Shanum, a renowned officer with a few military contingents to defend Hulwan. Hazrat Sa’d (ra) stayed in Jalulah and sent Qa’qa’ towards Hulwan.
Qa’qa’ reached Qasr-e-Shirin, which is three miles from Hulwan, when Khosrow Shanum launched an attack but was defeated and as a result he ran away. Qa’qa’ reached Hulwan and declared peace for all. The chiefs of surrounding areas came and accepted Jizya and agreed to support Islam. How did the conquest of Masabzan take place?
Regarding this battle, it is mentioned that Hazrat Hashim bin Utbah, who was the commander-in-chief of the army at Jalulah, returned to Madain whilst Hazrat Sa’d was residing there when they received news that a Persian army under the command of Azeen, son of Hormuzan, was heading towards open plains to confront the Muslims.
Hazrat Sa’d sent news of this to Hazrat Umar (ra). Hazrat Umar (ra) ordered for an army to be sent under the command of Darrar bin Khattab, with Ibn Hazil to be sent as an advance guard and Abdullah bin Wahab Rasibi and Madarib bin Fallah Ijali as commanders of the flanks.
The Islamic army left to confront the Iranians and met the enemy near the plains of Masabzan. The battle took place at a place called Handaf, in which the Iranians were defeated; the Muslims advanced ahead and captured Masabzan. The residents of Masabzan began fleeing the city,
But Darrar bin Khattab invited them to live in peace within their city. They accepted the invitation and returned to their homes. Baladhuri has stated a different narration with regards to the conquest of Masabzan; in one narration it is stated that Abu Musa Ash’ari captured the city
On the return from the Battle of Nahavand without fighting. The accounts regarding the conquest of Khuzestan has been stated (in history); Khuzestan was a province of Persia. Prior to accepting Islam, Hormuzan was the governor of this province. This area and people residing in this area were known as Khuz;
I.e. those residing in the mountainous area between the outskirts of Ahvaz, Fars, Basra, Was, and Isfahan. In 14 AH owing to certain military advantages, Hazrat Umar (ra) decided to open up a small front in Iraq and sent a small army under the command of Utbah bin Ghazwan to this frontier.
Initially Basrah was used as a garrison town for the army. This army not only captured neighbouring enemy lands, but was beneficial in the military campaign in Iraq in that the Persians, who were engaged in bigger battles on the outskirts, were receiving constant news that their comrades were being defeated
And were unable to go to assist them. It seems that the main objective of occupying this front and placing an army here was to stop the reinforcements and aid reaching the Persians and also to stop them attacking the Muslims.
The commander of this army when to Hijaz in order to perform Hajj and to meet with Hazrat Umar (ra). In his absence, Hazrat Umar (ra) assigned the command to Hazrat Mughirah bin Shu’bah (ra). Hazrat Mughirah bin Shu’bah was accused of committing an offence which was contrary to moral code,
As a result of which Hazrat Umar (ra) deposed him and called him to Madinah for an investigation. Hazrat Umar (ra) appointed Hazrat Abu Musa (ra) as the commander of the army in his place. Nonetheless, after investigation it was concluded that the allegation levelled against Hazrat Mughirah (ra) was false.
There are varying opinions as to the year, whether it was 16 AH or 17 AH. The Islamic army continued its campaigns and advanced further; the Muslims captured Ahwaz, a famous city in Khuzestan. The historian Tabari has mentioned this conquest to have taken place in 17 AH,
Whereas some other narrations put this year to be 16 AH. Regarding this conquest, Tabari has stated that the commander at the time of the conquest was Utbah bin Ghazwan, whereas Baladhuri has mentioned that Ahwaz was conquered prior to the return of Utbah bin Ghazwan
And was completed under the command of Hazrat Mughirah bin Shu’bah and Hazrat Abu Musa Ash’ari. It is mentioned that Hazart Mughirah conquered Ahwaz; initially the chief of Ahwaz Bahrooz fought against the Muslims, but later reconciled. After a short while Hazart Abu Musa Ash’ari was appointed as the commander of the Muslim army
Covering the area of Basrah in place of Hazrat Mughirah. Bahrooz broke the agreement and rebelled. Subsequently, Hazrat Abu Musa Ash’ari confronted him and after the battle, he captured the city. This took place in 17 AH. During the conquest of Ahwaz, the Muslim army took many prisoners,
But under the orders of Hazrat Umar (ra), they were all released, none were to be made into slaves; all of the prisoners were freed. In Tabari it is written that the Persians would launch raids against the Muslims using two routes; two centres for the raids along these routes were Nehrtira and Manazir.
The Muslims captured both these centres. In most places we see that wherever the Muslims were attacked from and from wherever raids were launched, the Muslims later attacked those places and captured them. Baladhuri has written that Abu Musa Ash’ari captured Nehrtira alongside the conquest of Ahwaz.
After the capture of Ahwaz, he advanced towards the other centre, Manazir, and after laying a siege around the city, an intense battle took place. During this siege, one day, a Muslim by the name of Muhajir bin Ziyad was fasting and with the intention of sacrificing his life for the sake of God Almighty,
He headed towards the enemy. Rabi’, the brother of Muhajir told Abu Musa, the commander of the army that his brother was entering the battlefield while in a state of fasting. Abu Musa made an announcement that whoever is fasting should break their fast or not enter the battlefield.
When Muhajir heard this announcement, he took a sip of water to break his fast and said that he had done this solely out of obedience to the commander, otherwise he was not thirsty. Saying this, he took his weapons and attacked the enemy and was martyred in the battle.
The people of the city severed his head and placed it on the parapet of the palace. The siege became prolonged; perhaps on the instructions of Hazrat Umar (ra), Hazrat Abu Musa left one contingent of the army under the command of Muhajir’s brother, Rabi’,
To continue the siege of Manazir and himself left for Sus. Rabi’ continued fighting and eventually captured the city. Many people were taken as prisoners, however in light of the instructions of Hazrat Umar (ra), all the prisoners were released. Hazrat Abu Musa (ra) advanced towards Sus.
Initially the people of Sus fought back, but soon after they confined themselves to the city. Eventually when they ran out of food provisions, they laid down their arms. Regarding the details of the events leading to these conquests, Mir Mahmood Ahmad Sahib has presented his research and analyses in his thesis.
He writes: “Tabari and Baladhuri contain many differing viewpoints, “and perhaps the reason for these differences is that “the Persian chiefs of these areas broke their promises and rebelled. “This resulted in the Muslim army having to mobilise for battle once again “and the narrations regarding the first conquest became muddled with these events.
“The campaigns that were launched for a second time was to restore peace.” Nonetheless, this a point mentioned by him. The Battle of Ram Hormuz and Tustar. After the battle of Jalulah, Yazdegerd, the Persian king moved from Reh to Istakhr. Istakhr was also the name of a place.
He had not yet accepted defeat; he began inciting people against the Muslims and tried his utmost to send military reinforcements to fight against the Muslims in Khuzestan – the area where the conquests being mentioned were taking place. Another reason why he was fuelling the fire of war in this area
Was due to the campaigns against the Muslims by the chief of the area Hormuzan. Hormuzan had taken part in the Battle of Qadisiyyah and after defeat, he retreated to his hometown. He would carry out constant raids against the Muslims. After the Muslims captured Jalulah,
The Persians gathered in Ram Hormuz under the command of Hormuzan. Ram Hormuz was a famous city on the outskirts of Khuzestan. On the instructions of Hazrat Umar (ra), Hazrat Sa’d bin Abi Waqqas (ra) appointed Nu’man bin Muqarrin as the commander of the army
And sent him from Kufa and also sent Hazrat Abu Musa (ra) from Basrah. He stated that when the two armies meet, the commander will be Abu Sabrah bin Rum. When Hormuzan learnt of the army of Nu’man bin Muqarrin, he set out to confront him and a fierce battle ensued.
Hormuzan suffered defeat as a result of which he ran towards Tustar. Tustar was a large city at a distance of one day’s travel from Khuzestan. Upon arriving here Hormuzan took refuge in the city. Under the command of Hazrat Abu Sabrah, the Muslim army lay siege of Tustar, which lasted for several months.
The Persian forces would come out of the fort and launch attacks, but would then retreat back and seal the doors. There were 80 skirmishes during this battle. In the final battle, the Muslims launched a fierce attack. When the Muslims put pressure on the siege,
Two Persians told the Muslims about the route from where water entered the city and from where they could enter and conquer the city. Thus, the Muslims managed to capture the city. In relation to this, Abu Hanifa Dinawari, the author of Akhbar Al-Tiwal has written that the siege laid by the Muslims became prolonged.
One night, an honourable man belonging to the city approached Hazrat Abu Musa Ashari and offered to help them take over the city in exchange of the protection of his family and wealth. And so, Hazrat Abu Musa Ashari granted him protection. It is written in Futuh Al-Buldan that this particular individual also accepted Islam.
He then asked Hazrat Abu Musa Ashari to send someone with him, so he could inform him as to how the Muslims could enter the fort. Hazrat Abu Musa Ashari sent Ash’ath bin Auf, who was a member of the Banu Sha’ban tribe with him.
They both passed along a small stream and entered the city. This individual then placed a cloak over Ash’ath bin Auf and told him to walk behind him as if he was his assistant. He led him all around the city and then took him towards the gate of the city
Where the guards were stood and then led him towards Hormuzan, who was holding a gathering at the entrance of the palace doors. After showing him all of this, he then led him back from the same path they came from. Upon returning, Ash’ath bin Auf related everything to Hazrat Abu Musa Ashari.
Asha’th bin Auf requested Hazrat Abu Musa Ashari to send 200 strong soldiers with him and he would kill all the guards and would then open the gates of the city for them and they could join them from the entrance of the city.
Hence, Ash’ath bin Auf, along with his companions, went along the discreet path and entered the city. They opened the gates of the fort. Upon hearing the sounds of the slogans of “Allah is the Greatest”, Hormuzan ran towards his citadel which was inside the city. The Muslims surrounded the citadel.
Hormuzan peered from the top and stated, “I have a 100 arrows in my quiver. “As long as even a single arrow remains, no one will be able to lay their hand on me. “If I am taken captive after that then that indeed would be an incredible feat.”
“What do you want then?” asked the Muslims in response. Hormuzan stated, “I will lay down my arms on the condition “that the decision regarding me shall be made by Hazrat Umar (ra).” Following this, Hormuzan put down his weapons and surrendered himself over to the Muslims.
Hazrat Abu Musa Ashari sent Hormuzan to Hazrat Umar (ra) in Madinah under the watch of Hazrat Anas bin Malik and Ahnaf bin Qais. As they entered the city of Madinah, they put Hormuzan’s silk robe on him which had been embroidered in gold.
Though he was a captive, however they put his clothes on him which were very elegant and they placed a crown made of jewels upon his head. This was so that Hazrat Umar (ra) and the rest of the Muslims would be able to see him in his true image
And also to show that they had captured such a prominent leader. They enquired from the people where Hazrat Umar (ra) was and they were told that he was in the mosque. When they arrived at the mosque, Hazrat Umar (ra) had placed the cloth of his turban under his head and was sleeping.
Hormuzan asked where Hazrat Umar (ra) was and they told him that he was sleeping. At the time, there was no one else apart from Hazrat Umar (ra) in the mosque. Hormuzan asked where Hazrat Umar’s (ra) guards and courtiers were
And they told him that he did not require any guards not any courtiers or aides. Upon this, Hormuzan instinctively stated that surely this individual seemed to be a prophet. People stated that thought he was not a prophet, but he followed the practise of the prophets.
Owing to the conversation of the people, Hazrat Umar (ra) woke up and then enquired whether this was Hormuzan and was informed that it was indeed. Hazrat Umar (ra) carefully observed his attire and then stated, “I seek refuge with Allah from the fire and seek Allah’s help.”
The people stated that this was Hormuzan and requested Hazrat Umar (ra) to speak to him. Hazrat Umar (ra) stated, “Certainly not, “unless he removes his extravagant clothing and ornaments he is adorned with.” Subsequently, all his extravagant clothes and jewellery were removed and a conversation with Hormuzan began. Hazrat Umar (ra) stated,
“Have you now witnessed the consequences of breaking your pacts and your deceit?” The battles which were being fought with them were owing to them breaking their pacts and their deceit. Hormuzan responded, “In the era of Jahiliyyah (era of ignorance prior to the advent of Islam),
“when God was with neither of us, we were victorious over you. “However, now the help of God is with you.” This was the response of Hormuzan to Hazrat Umar (ra). Hazrat Umar (ra) stated, “The reason why you were able to overcome us
“was because in the era of Jahiliyyah, we were divided and you were united.” This was another significant factor. Hazrat Umar (ra) then stated, “You repeatedly broke your pacts, thus what excuse do you present for this?” As I mentioned earlier that the Muslims fought against them owing to them violating their treaties and pacts
And they did not desire to live as peaceful neighbours. Hormuzan replied, “I fear that you will kill me even before I can say anything.” Hazrat Umar (ra) told him that he need not to fear, and so Hormuzan asked for some water. Water was brought in an old bowl and Hormuzan stated
That he could not drink from such a bowl, even if it meant he died as a result of thirst. And so, water was given to him in a bowl befitting his status and upon this his hands began to tremble. Hormuzan stated, “I fear that whilst I am drinking water I will be killed.”
Hazrat Umar (ra) stated, “Until you do not finish your water, “no one will cause you any harm.” Upon hearing this he threw the bowl of water onto the floor. He was very sharp, and so he said that he would not drink any water because the Muslims would always honour their promises,
Therefore he would not drink any water and threw it on the floor. Hazrat Umar (ra) instructed that he should be given water again and that he should not be killed whilst in a state of thirst. Death was indeed the punishment for his crimes of violating the treaties,
Causing disorder and evil and instigating wars. Hormuzan responded, “I am not thirsty but merely wished to be granted protection through this.” Eventually, he spoke the truth. After this, Hormuzan accepted Islam and took up residence in Madinah and he was assigned an allowance of 2,000.
It is written in Iqd al-Farid that when Hormuzan was taken captive and brought to Hazrat Umar (ra), he invited him to accept Islam but Hormuzan refused. Hazrat Umar (ra) instructed that he should be killed and just as when he was about to be killed, he submitted,
“O Leader of the Faithful! Grant me some water to drink.” Hazrat Umar (ra) instructed that he be given water. When the bowl of water was placed in his hand, he asked Hazrat Umar (ra), “Will I remain safeguarded whilst I am drinking water.” Hazrat Umar (ra) stated, “Yes.”
Upon this, Hormuzan threw the bowl of water and stated, “you ought to now fulfil your promise.” Hazrat Umar (ra) stated, “I shall grant you some respite and will assess how you conduct yourself.” When the sword was taken away, Hormuzan declared: That is, “I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah “and He has not partner and I bear witness that Muhammad (sa) is His servant and Messenger.” Hazrat Umar (ra) asked Hormuzan why he did not profess his belief before and he replied,
“O Leader of the Faithful! I feared lest people think that I became Muslim “due to the fear of the sword because it was held right above my head.” After this, Hazrat Umar (ra) would consult Hormuzan whenever there was a campaign to be launched against the Persians and would implement his suggestions.
Later, he also became one of the advisors of Hazrat Umar (ra). There are some who suspected that Hormuzan was involved in the martyrdom of Hazrat Umar (ra), however Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) did not consider this viewpoint to be correct. Whilst expounding upon the verse pertaining to Qisas (retribution),
Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) states, “Once, a Muslim was brought before the Holy Prophet (sa), “who had killed a disbeliever that had entered into a treaty with the Muslims “and was thus regarded as one of the subjects of the Muslim government. “The Holy Prophet (sa) ordered the death penalty as his punishment and stated,
“‘Among those who fulfil their pledges, I am the most strict in honouring my pledges.’” Hence, this Muslim was punished with the death penalty as he had killed someone with whom they had entered into a treaty. Similarly, Al-Tabari has also recorded a narration wherein Hazrat Ali (ra) ordered for a Muslim to be killed
Because he had killed a Dhimmi (non-Muslim living under Muslim rule). There are some who say that it states in the Hadith: That is, ‘A believer should not be killed in retribution for killing a disbeliever.’ However, upon reflecting over the whole hadith, the entire matter becomes clear. The actual words of the Hadith are: (ARABIC) The second part of the Hadith, “Dhu Ahdin Fi Ahdhi” clarifies the meaning
Because if we were to take the meaning that a Muslim should not be killed in retribution for killing a disbeliever then we would have to translate the second part as “Wa La Dhu Ahdin Bikafirin,” that is ‘nor should a (non-Muslim) person who has a pact (with the Muslims) be killed
‘in retribution for killing a disbeliever.’ However, no one can accept such interpretation. Thus, by ‘disbeliever’ here it means those disbelievers who have taken up arms against the Muslims, i.e. those who are fighting against the Muslims and not an ordinary disbeliever. That is why it was stated (in the hadith)
That nor should a Dhimmi disbeliever be killed in retribution of a disbeliever, who is actively fighting (against the Muslims). Now, lets us observe the practise of the companions as they would also give the death penalty for a non-Muslim who had committed a killing.
In Al-Tabari, Qumazban bin Hormuzan relates the incident of his father’s death, he narrates, “Hormuzan was a Persian leader and was a Majusi by faith (worshipped the fire). “He was suspected to be involved in the killing of Hazrat Umar (ra). “Subsequently, without carrying out any investigation and owing to his intense emotions,
“Ubaidullah bin Umar killed Hormuzan. “The people of Persia had developed acquaintances with one another in Madinah because, “as is the case, when one travels to another land, their ethnicity becomes even more distinct. “One day, Feroz, who perpetrated the killing of Hazrat Umar (ra) met my father
“and he had a dagger with him at the time which had been sharpened from both sides. “My father took hold of the dagger and asked him, ‘What do you do with this dagger?” “(Since this was a land where there was peace, therefore there was no need for such a weapon).
“Upon this, he stated that he used it for guiding and pulling the camels along. “Whilst they were both talking to each other, someone happened to see them. “Later, when Hazrat Umar (ra) was martyred, the individual (who had seen them together) claimed “that he had personally witnessed Hormuzan handing over the dagger to Feroz.
“Upon this, Ubaidullah bin Umar, “who was the youngest son of Hazrat Umar (ra), killed my father. “When Hazrat Usman (ra) became the Khalifah, he called me and handed over Ubaidullah to me. “Hazrat Usman (ra) stated, ‘O my son! He is the one who killed your father.
“‘Thus, you have a greater right over him than me, so take him and kill him.’ “And so, I took him and headed out of the city. “On the way, whoever saw me would join along with us. “None of them challenged me, but all they would do was request me to let him go.
“I addressed all the Muslims there and stated, ‘Do I have the right to kill him?’ “Everyone replied in the affirmative in that I did have the right to kill him “and then they began to reproach Ubaidullah for what he had done was wrong.
“Then, I asked, ‘Do you have the right to free him from me?’ “They all responded saying, ‘No! Certainly not.’ “And again, they began to reproach Ubaidullah for he had killed my father without any evidence. “Upon this, I left him for the sake of God and those people.”
Having received so many recommendations, so many questions and answers, he says that he left the matter for the sake of Allah and His people. “Out of their happiness, the Muslims raised me up on their shoulders, “and by God, I reached my home atop people’s heads and shoulders
“as they did not even let my feet touch the ground.” This narration shows that it was the practice of the Companions (ra) they would give a Muslim who killed a non-Muslim the death penalty as well. It is also proven that no matter the method used, such a person would be killed.
Similarly, it is also proven that a murderer could only be detained and given the death penalty by the state. (Although in this case he had become a Muslim, (but even if it is a non-Muslim, as it seems from all that which has been mentioned,
(the killer of a non-Muslim would be treated in the same manner as the killer of a Muslim, This also shows that a murderer should be apprehended and punished by the state; no individual can carry this out, rather it must be the state. It is evident from this narration that Ubaidullah bin Umar was apprehended by Hazrat Usman (ra) and it was he who turned him over to Hormuzan’s son.
It was not an heir of Hormuzan’s who launched a case against him or apprehended him. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (ra) continues: “Here, it is necessary to address whether a murderer should be handed over “to the heirs of the one who has been murdered in order to be punished,
“as was done by Hazrat Usman (ra), or should the state see to the punishment itself? “It should be remembered that this is a subsidiary matter “and Islam has left it to be determined according to the needs of the time.
“The country can adopt whatever it deems most effective based on its society and conditions. “There is no doubt that either of the two methods are only beneficial under specific circumstances.” These accounts are ongoing and God-willing, will continue in future sermons. At this time, I wish to mention about some deceased members
After which I will also lead their funeral prayers in absentia. The first mention is of respected Professor Syeda Naseem Saeed Sahiba, wife of Muhammad Saeed Sahib, and daughter of Hazrat al-Haaj Hafiz Doctor Syed Shafee Sahib, a researcher from Delhi. She passed away recently at the age of 88 in Pakistan; Her father was Hazrat al-Haaj Hafiz Doctor Syed Shafee Ahmad Sahib, a researcher from Delhi. He authored many books and was an excellent debater, researcher, and a reputable writer. He published 16 newspapers from Delhi. Hazrat Shafee Syed Ahmad Sahib pledged allegiance to the Promised Messiah (as) at the age of 12.
He was from the progeny of the sub-continents renowned Sufi poet Khawaja Mir Dard. He was thus related to Hazrat Mir Nasir Nawab. Hazrat Syed Shafee Ahmad Sahib was the nephew of Hazrat Amma Jaan. Syeda Sahiba was married in 1957 to respected Muhammad Saeed Ahmad Sahib, an engineer from Lahore Chaoni.
Her daughter, Khalida Sahiba says, “Whilst settling the marriage of my parents, “my maternal grandmother kept the condition of righteousness at the forefront. “She only looked at the fact that at the age of 22 or 23, “this young man was a Qaid regarding whom Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) has said
“that there was an inactive Jama’at, which had a new life breathed into them, “and the credit for this goes to their Qaid Muhammad Saeed Sahib and his four or five helpers. “Then, Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) mentioned his service to humanity, “that during the recent flooding, he carried out extraordinary work.
“Thus from this standpoint, he deserves to be praised. “Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) spoke highly of Naseem Saeed Sahiba’s husband “and it was on this basis that Naseem Saeed Sahiba’s mother “had her marriage settled with him. “Naseem Saeed Sahiba is survived by four sons and two daughters.
“Her services to the faith began in 1954 when she started working with Syeda Choti Appa. “These services continued until 2015, about 61 years. “Since Saeed Sahib was in the army and he would be transferred from time to time,
“she too would go to different cities with him where she would have the opportunities to serve. “She too was learned and well-educated. “She has about 20 publications which include stories of prophets, “and she has also written various books about esteemed personalities.” Her daughter Hamdah Ghafoor Mannan says,
“My mother was devout, she led by example, and was an embodiment of sincerity “and loyalty, devotion and sacrifice, love and compassion, and humility. “I always saw her praying with great fervour. “She took it upon herself to offer tahajjud (pre-dawn voluntary) prayers, “voluntary prayers, and obligatory prayers.”
From the time of the Second Caliph (rh) till now, she kept a personal relationship with four Caliphs and she had the opportunity of (serving) the Community as well. She was not able to meet me here, but she would express her sentiments through letters.
Her children have also written this, and I myself have seen whenever her letters would be received, they exhibited extraordinary emotion. It was not merely words, rather it could practically be seen that she had a sincere and loyal connection to Khilafat. May Allah Almighty enable her children to establish the same connection.
Her eldest son Khalid Saeed Sahib says, “The main thing she told us was having a connection with Allah “and that our connection with Allah should always be such that Allah is like a friend before us. “We should inculcate true love for the Holy Prophet (sa) in our hearts.
“She did this herself and taught her children to do the same. “She had a strong spiritual connection with the Promised Messiah (as) herself, “and instilled this in her children as well. “She had a strong bond with Khilafat, to which she showed obedience herself “and taught us to do the same.
“She was always ready to serve the Community. “From a young age, she instilled the habit of prayer and Islamic customs within us. “She served humanity at all times and would say that we should create ease for others. “She gave special attention to financial sacrifices
“and taught to tend to household expenses after having made financial sacrifices. “She recited the Holy Qur’an daily and enjoined us to do the same. “Keeping good relations with relatives and maintaining a connection with all relatives, “rich or poor, was a salient attribute of hers and she would advise us to do the same.
“She was ever-ready to call people unto Allah. “She constantly advised us to offer tahajjud prayers. “She taught us to increase our knowledge “and would tell us to always be smiling and not to wish harm on anyone. “The qualities of hospitality and honouring guests was imbued within her.”
May Allah Almighty grant her with forgiveness, bestow His mercy and elevate her station. May her children uphold these virtues and enable them to carry forth these virtuous qualities. The next mention is of Daud Sulaiman Butt Sahib of Germany, who passed away at the age of 46 due to cancer. Ahmadiyyat was introduced to his family through his great grandfather, Hazrat Abdul Hakeem Butt Sahib who was a Companion of the Promised Messiah (as). He is survived by his wife, a daughter and two sons. His wife, Samira Daud Sahiba says, “He was always ready to serve the Community
“and always tried to serve the Community as much as he could. “He truly gave precedence to his faith over worldly pursuits.” Everyone who knew him says that he always had a smile on his face. He was at the forefront of giving alms and charity and he was always ready to serve.
In Germany, he used to perform Hifazat-e-Khaas duty, and his team members have written that he worked with great joy and carried his duty out with great diligence. Another one of his qualities was that before starting anything, he would first recite the Holy Qur’an.
I have also witnessed that he always performed his duty in an excellent manner. May Allah Almighty grant patience to his family and enable his children to carry on his virtuous qualities. The next mention is of Zahida Parveen Sahiba, wife of Ghulam Mustafa Awan Dhapai Sahib from the District of Sialkot.
She passed away at the age of 61; Her daughter Hibbatul Kaleem Sahiba, wife of our Missionary Jameel Tabassum Sahib in Bashkortostan, Russia, says, “By the grace of Allah, my mother was an Ahmadi by birth and was a Musia.” Ahmadiyyat was introduced to her family through her parents’ grandfather Dada Dewan Bakhsh Awan Sahib. She says, “Ever since I can remember,
“I have never seen her miss the tahajjud prayer, “and she always enjoined her children to have profound love for the Community and Khilafat.” She is survived by a son and four daughters. Three of her sons-in-law are life-devotees and two of her daughters who are married to missionaries were out of (their home) country
And could not be with their mother in her final moments and see her. May Allah Almighty bestow His forgiveness and mercy upon the deceased. May He enable her children to carry on her virtuous qualities. The next mention is of Rana Abdul Waheed Sahib from London,
Who was the son of Chaudhary Abdul Hai Sahib, subdivision of Jaranwala from the District of Faisalabad. He passed away on 26 June due to a heart attack; By the grace of Allah Almighty he was a Musi. He worked with great devotion under Ansarullah (Elders Auxiliary Organisation). He also served as Secretary Ziafat (Hospitality) and Secretary Mal (Finance) for Masjid Fazal. He was a very hard-worker and served with great joy. May Allah Almighty bestow him with forgiveness and mercy
And grant his children and family patience and steadfastness. The next mention is of al-Haaj Mir Muhammad Ali Sahib, former National President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Bangladesh. He passed away at the age of 84; He served in various capacities at the local and national level. From 1997 to 2003 he served as the National President of Bangladesh. Then he served as Secretary Rishta Nata (Matchmaking) and Secretary Tabligh (propagation). From 2013 until his last days, he served as the President of the Community in Dhaka.
During his time as National President, the Community in Bangladesh made great progress, especially in terms of properties and buildings. The central mission house was also built during his tenure, along with various mosques. He was very virtuous, sincere, faithful, regular in tahajjud, kind, devoted, and was at the forefront of presenting financial sacrifices.
He took great care of the poor and was a very helpful person. He was devoted to Khilafat and was an active servant of the Community. He is survived by two sons and a daughter. May Allah Almighty grant His forgiveness and mercy. May He enable his children to carry on his virtuous qualities.
As I mentioned, after the (Friday) prayer, I will offer the funeral prayer in absentia for all the deceased members. 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 (sa) 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.