Friday Sermon – Khalifatul Masih V – Mirza Masroor Ahmad – Year 2022
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 from the Battle of Yamama during the time of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (ra) were previously being narrated. In the details relating to the battle of Yamama it is stated that Yamama is a well-known city in Yemen.
Nowadays, this area is located in Saudi Arabia. Yamama was an extremely lush and fertile area. In relation to Yamama, it is written that Yamama was one of the most beautiful cities; it was prosperous and that trees and dates could be found there in abundance.
Yamama was the home of Banu Hanifa, who was a tribe skilled in warfare. In the commentary of the verse, (ARABIC), “You shall be called to fight against a people of mighty valour; “you shall fight them until they surrender”, the following has been written in Tafsir al-Qurtubi:
“Hasan states: ‘A people of mighty valour refers to Persia and Rome.’ “Ibn Jubair says: ‘This refers to the tribes of Hawazin and Thaqeef.’ “Zuhri and Muqatil say: ‘This refers to Banu Hanifa, ‘who resided in Yamama and were comrades of Musaylimah.’ “Rafi’ bin Khateej says: ‘We used to recite this verse,
‘but were unaware of who these people of “mighty valour” were, ‘to the extent that when Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) called us to fight the Banu Hanifa, ‘we then realised that this referred to this tribe.’” When the Holy Prophet (sa) wrote letters to propagate the message of Islam to various kings
In 7 AH, or 6 AH according to some, one such letter was addressed to the king of Yamama, Hauza bin ‘Ali, and the people of Yamama. In this letter, an invitation was extended to the king and the people of Yamama to embrace Islam. When various delegations came to Madinah in 9 AH,
A delegation of the Banu Hanifa from Yamama was also present. Muja’a bin Marara was part of this delegation, whom the Holy Prophet (sa) granted an uninhabited land as property in accordance with his request. Rajjal bin Unfuwah was also a part of this delegation
As well as Musaylimah Kazzab (the liar) – Thumama bin Kabir bin Habib. According to Ibn Hisham, his name was Musaylimah bin Thumama and his appellation was Abu Thumama. This delegation of Banu Hanifa stayed in Madinah at the house of Ramla bint Harith, a woman from the Ansar (Muslims native to Madinah).
When delegations continuously came in order to pledge allegiance at the hands of the Holy Prophet (sa), he assigned a house where these delegations could stay. This house belonged to Ramla bint Harith, who was a woman from the Banu Najjar. This was a very large house.
When these people from the Banu Hanifa went to see the Holy Prophet (sa), they did not take Musaylimah along with them, but left him behind in order to guard their belongings. When they had accepted Islam, they mentioned Musaylimah to the Holy Prophet (sa) and said: “O Messenger of Allah (sa)!
“We left one of our companions behind with our belongings and carriages. “He is guarding our belongings.” Subsequently, the Holy Prophet (sa) instructed to give Musaylimah the same amount of presents as the others were to be given. Furthermore, the Holy Prophet (sa) said:
“His rank is not inferior to yours as he is guarding the belongings of his companions.” Following this, the delegation departed from the Holy Prophet (sa) sand they took with them what the Holy Prophet (sa) had given for Musaylimah. It is clear from this narration which has been related,
That all of the individuals of the Banu Hanifah delegation, aside from Musaylimah, met with the Holy Prophet (sa). However, there are also other narrations which mention that Musaylimah did indeed meet the Holy Prophet (sa). In general, the narrations indicate that Musaylimah did meet the Holy Prophet (sa).
It is also stated that he perhaps he met him on the second visit. In any case, further details are recorded in other narrations which show that when this delegation came to the Holy Prophet (sa), Musaylimah was also present. Those people brought Musaylimah to the Holy Prophet (sa), who was wearing layers of clothing.
The Holy Prophet (sa) was holding a branch of a date-palm as he was sitting with the companions. Musaylimah spoke to him and made some demands. The Holy Prophet (sa) responded, “If you were to ask for this date-palm branch in my hand, I would not even grant this to you.”
The narrations of Sahih al-Bukhari regarding this indicate that Musaylimah did not go to meet the Holy Prophet (sa), rather, that the Holy Prophet (sa) himself went to see Musaylimah. Abdullah bin Abdillah bin Utbah relates, “We received news that Musaylimah Kazzab had come to Madinah “and gone to the house of Harith’s daughter.
“The daughter of Harith bin Quraiz’s was his wife, and the mother of Abdullah bin Aamir. “The Holy Prophet (sa) went to see him (Musaylimah); “the Holy Prophet was with Hazrat Thabit bin Qais bin Shammas (ra), “who was known as the Khatib (orator) of the Prophet.
“The Holy Prophet (sa) was carrying a stick in his hand. “He stood next to Musaylimah and spoke to him. “Musaylimah said to him, ‘If you wish, we will not interfere between you and this matter.’ “He continued: ‘You should assign it to us after your demise.’
“(In other words, that it be decided regarding the matter of prophethood, “(and it be granted to him after the Holy Prophet (sa). “(This was his main demand). “The Holy Prophet (sa) replied, ‘If you ask for this stick, I would not even give this to you,
‘and I believe you are the same person who was shown to me in a dream. ‘This is Thabit bin Qais who will answer you on my behalf.’ “The Holy Prophet (sa) then went away.” Similarly, in one narration Hazrat Ibn Abbas (ra) relates,
“Musaylimah Kazzab came in the time of the Holy Prophet (sa) and said, ‘If Muhammad (sa) makes me his successor, I will follow him.’” This clarifies the first narration that he went there along with many of his tribesmen.
“The Holy Prophet (sa) went to him, and with him was Hazrat Thabit bin Qais bin Shammas (ra). “The Holy Prophet (sa) was carrying a date-palm stick in his hand “and stood before Musaylimah who was with his companions. “The Holy Prophet (sa) said, ‘If you asked me for even this piece of stick,
‘I would not give it to you. You cannot avoid the fate you are destined to by Allah. ‘If you turn away, Allah will destroy you. ‘I think that you are the same person whom I have seen much about in my dream.
‘And this is Thabit (i.e. Thabit bin Qais), who shall answer you on my behalf.’ “The Holy Prophet (sa) then left him and returned.” This is a narration of Sahih al-Bukhari. Hazrat Ibn Abbas (ra) narrates, “I enquired regarding what the Holy Prophet (sa) had stated
“about the person who was shown to him in a dream. “Upon this, Hazrat Abu Hurrairah (ra) said to me that the Holy Prophet (sa) stated ‘once I was sleeping, and in my sleep, I saw two gold bangles in my hand. ‘Their condition caused me to become concerned.
‘(the Holy Prophet (sa) said that he saw bangles in his dream and their state caused him to worry) ‘Then during the dream, I received a revelation in which I was told to blow over them. ‘And so, when I blew over them, they flew away.
‘I interpreted this to be two liars who would appear after me.’” The narrator Ubaidullah stated that one of them was Ansi, who was killed by Fayruz in Yemen, and the other was Musaylimah Kazzab. This is also a narration from Bukhari. Nonetheless, according to the aforementioned narrations,
It seems that Musaylimah came to Madinah on more than one occasion. One occasion was when his caravan had left him behind to safeguard their belongings. At that time, he was unable to meet with the Holy Prophet (sa). The second occasion was when he had come to meet the Holy Prophet (sa)
And demand that he be made a successor after the Holy Prophet (sa). In reference to this, in Fath al-Bari, a commentary of Sahih al-Bukhari, it is recorded that it is quite possible that Musaylimah came to Madinah on two occasions. The first occasion was at a time
When the chieftain of Banu Hanifah was someone other than him. In other words, he was not the chief of the tribe at the time. The chieftain was someone else and he was subservient to him. For that reason, he was left behind to tend to their belongings.
The second occasion was when he himself had gained followers and on that very occasion, he spoke with the Holy Prophet (sa). On the other hand, it is possible that it may have only been one occasion, and out of his pride and arrogance,
He decided to stay back with his belongings rather than have an audience with the Holy Prophet (sa). However, because of his spirit of friendship, the Holy Prophet (sa) treated him with respect. Furthermore, it is recorded in a hadith that he came with a large convoy, which is recorded to be 70 people.
This is also evidence for the fact that Musaylimah came to Madinah on more than one occasion. Nonetheless, when this convoy returned to Yamamah, the enemy of Allah the Almighty – Musaylimah – became an apostate, claimed to be a prophet and said,
‘I have been given a share from the prophethood of the Holy Prophet (sa). ‘When you (people) mentioned me to the Prophet of Allah (sa), ‘did he not say that I am not inferior to you in rank and stature? ‘The Holy Prophet (sa) only said this because he was aware of his prophethood
‘and that I have been given a share in his mission.’ Following this, Musaylimah began to fabricate revelations for the people in an attempt to copy the Holy Qur’an, and he exempted them from prayer. He introduced his own Shariah and gave exemption from prayer.
According to one narration, he gave exemption for two prayers – namely Fajr and ‘Isha – and deemed the consumption of alcohol and fornication permissible for the people. Alongside this, he would also testify that the Holy Prophet (sa) is a prophet. The Banu Hanifah accepted these terms. Another factor that further strengthened Musaylimah’s position
Was his alliance with Rijal bin Unfuwah. He very strategically claimed that firstly, the Shariah has given such and such exemptions so as to provide ease, and that Allah the Almighty reveals to him, and simultaneously he accepted that the Holy Prophet (sa) is a prophet,
So that those who were new converts would not feel that he is distancing them from the Holy Prophet (sa). He did all this in a very hypocritical manner. Nonetheless, it is recorded that another factor which increased Musaylimah’s strength was his alliance with Rijal bin Unfuwah. This man was also a resident of Yamamah
And accompanied the convoy that came from Banu Hanifah. (Originally), he migrated to Madinah and came to the Holy Prophet (sa), where he learned the Holy Qur’an and attained religious knowledge. When Musaylimah became an apostate, the Holy Prophet (sa) sent Rijal bin Unfuwah to Yamamah as a teacher
To prevent the people from following Musaylimah, however, he proved to be a greater cause of spreading disorder than Musaylimah himself. When he saw that many people were accepting Musaylimah, he too joined them in order to elevate himself in their sights. He was sent there to reform the people and stop the strife,
But instead, he joined Musaylimah’s ranks and wrongfully attested to his prophethood. Not only this, but he also falsely attributed a message which he claimed was sent by the Holy Prophet (sa), saying that Musaylimah was given a share in the prophethood of the Holy Prophet (sa). He spread this far and wide.
Because he had been known to have learnt the Holy Qur’an, the people believed him. When the people of Yamamah saw that such a person is attesting to the prophethood of Musaylimah who is from among the companions of the Holy Prophet (sa) and who teaches the Holy Qur’an to others,
They were left with no reason to reject Musaylimah’s prophethood and came to him in flocks to pledge allegiance to him. Musaylimah also wrote a letter to the Holy Prophet (sa), the text of which reads as follows: “From Musaylimah, the prophet of Allah, to Muhammad, the Prophet of Allah.
“Half of all land belongs to me, and the other half to the Quraish. “However, the Quraish are unjust in its distribution.” Following this, the Holy Prophet (sa) wrote a letter to him in response, saying: “In the name of Allah, the Gracious the Merciful.
“From Muhammad, the Prophet of Allah (sa), addressed to Musaylimah, the great liar. “Surely, all the land belongs only to Allah “and He grants it to whomever He pleases among His servants. “Reward and recompense are granted only to those who are righteous. “Peace be on those who follow guidance.”
In one narration, it is recorded that Hazrat Habib bin Zaid Ansari (ra) was the one who delivered the letter of the Holy Prophet (sa) to Musaylimah. When he delivered this letter to Musaylimah, Musaylimah asked him, “Do you bear witness that Muhammad (sa) is the prophet of Allah?” He replied in the affirmative.
Then he asked him, “Do you bear witness that I am the prophet of Allah?” He replied, “I am deaf and cannot hear.” He averted the subject. Musaylimah continued to repeat this question over and over, and every time, Hazrat Habib (ra) would give the same answer.
Musaylimah wanted him to admit that he, too, was a prophet. When he did not get the answer he was looking for, he would sever a part of his body. He was torturing him in order to force him to answer in the affirmative, and continued to cut off parts of his body.
Hazrat Habib (ra) demonstrated exceptional patience and steadfastness until he was cut into pieces. In defiance to him, Hazrat Habib (ra) attained the rank of martyrdom. Musaylimah raised the flags of revolt in Yamamah. This was not merely a claim to prophethood, rather, it was brutality;
The way he treated those who did not accept him as a prophet. Musaylimah raised the flags of revolt in Yamamah and banished the governor appointed by the Holy Prophet (sa), Hazrat Thamamah bin Athal (ra), from Yamamah. When the Holy Prophet (sa) passed away,
Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) sent various military expeditions towards the apostates. Among them was an army that was sent towards Musaylimah under the command of Hazrat Ikrimah and he also sent Hazrat Shurahbil bin Hasanah as reinforcement. Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) instructed Hazrat Ikrimah that he should not engage in a battle against Musaylimah
Until Hazrat Shurahbil (ra) had arrived. However, Hazrat Ikrimah acted rather hastily and launched an attack against the people of Yamama prior to the arrival of Hazrat Shurahbil, so that he could be hailed as the sole victor. However, he fell into difficulty and had to face defeat
As the army of Musaylimah was far greater in number. When Hazrat Shurahbil learnt of this, he stopped whilst on route. Following this, Hazrat Ikrimah wrote to Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) in order to inform him about the incident, however Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) wrote to Hazrat Ikrimah and told him
That he did not want to see him and nor should he come to see him for he had disobeyed an instruction. He further stated that he should not return lest people lose courage and instead he should go to Hazrat Huzaifah and Arfijah
And he should join forces with them and fight against the people of Oman and Mahrah. Mahrah is an area located in the south of the Arabian peninsula, to the eastern coast, bordering the Indian Ocean. He was instructed that he should go to Yemen and Hadramaut along with his army
And join forces with the Muslim army. Hadramaut is also a region that is situated in western Yemen and has the coast situated to its south. According to another narration, the letter written by Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) read as follows:
“You do not possess the expertise of a master but at the same time you are reluctant to learn. “(In other words, he did not possess the knowledge of warfare “(and neither was he skilled as he ought to be and yet he was reluctant to learn.)
“You will see how I treat you when you come before me. “Why did you not wait for Shurahbil and fight with his help and cooperation? “Now, go towards Huzaifah and provide them help. “You have disobeyed the instruction of the Khalifah of the time.
“You consider yourself to be a master and do not wish to learn. “Thus, you must not come to me. “When you meet me, I will decide how I will deal with you, “but for now go to Huzaifah and provide him with help with the expedition they have been sent on.
“If they do not require your help, “then go to Yemen and Hadramaut and help Muhajir bin Umaiyyah.” Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) had sent Muhajir bin Umaiyyah towards the Qindah tribe in Hadramaut. Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) told Hazrat Shurahbil to remain there until he received further instructions.
Then, prior to sending Khalid bin Walid to Yamama, Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) wrote to Shurahbil and stated that after Khalid had reached him and they had finished from their task of providing help in Yamama, he should head towards Quza’ah and then join forces with Hazrat Amr bin Al-Aas
And see to the rebels in Quza’ah who had rejected Islam and were opposing it. It was not just mere rejection, but they were also opposing it. Just like Hazrat Ikrimah, Hazrat Shurahbil also acted in haste and started to fight against Musaylimah before Hazrat Khalid had reached,
Contrary to the instructions of Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra). He also faced defeat upon which Hazrat Khalid expressed his displeasure towards him. Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) then sent an army under the command of Hazrat Salid as further reinforcement for Hazrat Khalid in order to provide defence for rear of the army.
Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) sent Hazrat Khalid towards Musaylimah and also sent an army consisting of Muhajirin and Ansar in order to provide him with further help. Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) appointed Hazrat Thabit bin Qais as the leader for the Ansar
And Hazrat Abu Huzaifah and Zaid bin Khattab as the leader of the Muhajirin. Furthermore, he appointed an in-charge for each tribe. Hazrat Khalid was waiting for the arrival of this army in Butah. Butah is a region in the area belonging to Bani Zaeem.
In any case, when they all reached where Hazrat Khalid was, he then departed towards Yamama. The Banu Hanifah that day were in great numbers and their total number of soldiers was 40,000. These 40,000 people were from Yamama and had joined forces with Musaylimah.
And according to another narration, they numbered 100,000 or even more. On the other hand, the Muslims were only over 10,000. Prior to the main battle commencing, the Muslims were able to capture one of the leaders of the Banu Hanifah. It has been mentioned in a narration
That Muja’a bin Murarah was one of the leaders of the Banu Hanifah and he left along with a group of soldiers but he and his men were captured by the Muslims. Hazrat Khalid killed his men and kept Muja’a alive because he was afforded with great respect by the Banu Hanifah.
Further details regarding this are as follows: When Hazrat Khalid arrived in an area called Ariz, he sent 200 horsemen ahead and instructed them that they should capture whoever they find. These horsemen left and captured Muja’a bin Murarah Hanafi, along with 23 of his fellow tribesmen,
Who had left in search of a person from the Banu Numair. They had come out not knowing that Hazrat Khalid had arrived. The Muslims enquired who they were and they replied that they were from the Banu Hanifah. The Muslims thought that these were envoys of Musalyima sent towards Hazrat Khalid,
And so the next morning when they came before one another, the Muslims took them to Hazrat Khalid. When Hazrat Khalid saw them, he also thought that they were with Musaylimah and so he asked, “O Banu Hanifah, what do you have to say regarding your leader, Musaylimah?”
They bore testimony that he was the messenger of Allah. Upon this, Hazrat Khalid asked Muja’a as to what he had to say and he replied, “By God, I only left to go in search of a person belonging to the Banu Numair tribe, “who had killed someone from our tribe
“and I am not from among the close associates of Musaylimah.” Perhaps this was the reason or he denied this owing to fear. (He further stated,) “I presented myself before the Messenger (sa) of Allah “and I accepted Islam and I am still of the same belief.”
The rest of the people were brought and Hazrat Khalid had them killed. Only Sariya bin Musaylimah bin Aamir was left and at the time he said, “O Khalid! If you wish for any goodness or evil for the people of Yamama,
“then keep Muja’a alive because he will be able to help you in both the state of war and peace.” Muja’a was a leader, therefore Hazrat Khalid did not kill him. Hazrat Khalid liked what Sariya had said and so he kept him alive as well.
Hazrat Khalid instructed regarding them both that they should be shackled with metal chains. Whenever he would call for Muja’a, he would appear whilst shackled and he would converse with him in this very state. Muja’a thought that Hazrat Khalid would have him killed and so whilst in a conversation with him,
He said, “O Ibn Mughirah! (this was Hazrat Khalid’s title), I am a Muslim. “By Allah, I have not rejected the faith and I had appeared before the Holy Prophet (sa) “and accepted Islam and I did not set out for war.” He then mentioned about searching for a member of the Numair tribe.
Hazrat Khalid replied that “there is very little distance left between deciding whether to kill you or to imprison you “for Allah the Almighty shall reveal His verdict regarding the battle between us.” Thereafter, Hazrat Khalid placed him under the supervision of his wife, whom he had married after Malik bin Nuwairah had been killed.
He instructed his wife to take good care of him. Muja’a thought that perhaps Khalid wanted to keep him as a prisoner so that he could disclose information about the enemy. And so, he stated, “Are you aware that I appeared before the Holy Prophet (sa) and accepted Islam. “(He would continue to repeat this)
“and thereafter I returned to my people and even today I am still in the same state (of belief).” However, the events that unfolded later revealed that these were all lies. He had said that he was in the same state (of belief) as he was in the past.
After dealing with the people who were along with Muja’a, Hazrat Khalid left for Yamama. Upon hearing of the arrival (of Hazrat Khalid), Musaylimah left for battle along with the people of Banu Hanifah, and settled in Aqraba. This was a place on the outskirts of Yamama,
Situated near to the green pastures and fields of Yamama. Khalid formulated a strong strategy. He would never consider the army to be weak and he would always prepare his utmost and take every caution in the battlefield, lest the enemy launch a sudden attack or conspire against them.
Among the qualities mentioned about him is that he would never sleep himself and would tell others to go to sleep. He would spend the night in full preparation for battle and no information about the enemy would remain hidden from him. The time had now come to organise the army (in the battlefield).
The flag-bearer in this battle was Hazrat Abdullah bin Hafas bin Ghanem. The flag was then assigned to Hazrat Salim, the freed slave of Abu Hudaifah. During this battle, Hazrat Khalid sent Hazrat Shurahbil ahead of the army and divided the Muslim army into five contingents.
He appointed Hazrat Khalid Makhzumi to be at the front, Hazrat Abu Huzaifah over the right flank, Hazrat Shuja’a over the left flank, Hazrat Sa’d bin Khattab in the middle and Usamah bin Zaid was appointed commander over the cavalry. The camels were kept at the rear of the army
Which were laden with their tents and were the women were situated. This was the final formation before the battle commenced. On the opposite end, the army of Musaylimah was also ready for battle. Musaylimah’s son, Shurahbil said to his tribe, “O Banu Hanifah! Today is the day to display your honour.
“If you suffer defeat today, then your women will be taken as slaves “and they will be taken advantage of without the marriage ceremony. “Thus, show all your valour for the sake of safeguarding your honour and respect “and protect your women.” Nonetheless, a fierce battle took place.
The battle was so ferocious that the Muslims had never faced such an intense battle. The Muslims retreated – here they were forced to retreat as well. The people of the Banu Hanifah came to rescue Muja’ah and headed towards the tent of Hazrat Khalid (ra).
Hazrat Khalid had left the tent and so they were able reach Muja’ah, who was under the supervision of Hazrat Khalid’s wife. The apostates wanted to kill Hazrat Khalid’s wife, however, Muja’ah stopped them and said he gave her refuge. For this reason, they left her. Muja’ah said to them to attack the men.
On the one hand he claimed that he was a Muslim, but on the other hand he tells the enemies to attack the (Muslim) men and they then ripped open the tent. Despite the Muslim army retreating, the determination, resolve, bravery and perseverance of Hazrat Khalid bin Walid (ra) did not waver in the slightest.
It did not cross his mind even for a second that he may face defeat. Hazrat Khalid instructed his army: “O Muslims! Spread out” i.e., that each tribe should fight separately and fight in this way against the enemy so that everyone can see which tribe showed the most bravery in the battle.
This announcement implied that the Muslims were to fight under the banner of their respective tribes. This instilled a new spirit amongst each and every tribe; through this, it developed within them a sense of excelling one another and to prove their bravery. Muslims encouraged each other.
Further details of this is that Hazrat Thabit bin Qais says: “O Muslims! How dreadful is that which you made yourself used to.” i.e., if they have become used to comfort and ease then that is a bad thing. The companions raised each other’s spirits for the battle, and said:
“O People of Surah Al-Baqarah! Today the spell will be broken.” Hazrat Thabit bin Qais dug the ground, half way up to his calf and buried himself inside it. He was carrying the flag of the Ansar and he rubbed “Hanut” over himself. Among the Arabs there was a tradition
That whoever wished to demonstrate their bravery, they would do this. It was to show that they are ready to do to themselves that which people would usually do to them after their death, i.e., they would bury themselves half in the ground to show that they are ready to die.
Hanut was a mixture of fragrances which would be used to embalm corpses after they had been washed, this balm would protect the body from decay for a certain time. Nonetheless, in this narration it is mentioned that he made all preparations for burial –
As it were – and then remained resolute in front of the enemy, until he attained martyrdom. There are further details of these accounts which will be mentioned in the future, God willing. At present, I wish to mention about some deceased members.
The first is of a martyr, Abdus Salam Sahib, who was martyred recently; he was the son of Master Munawar Ahmad Sahib, Sadr Jama’at L-Plot, Okarah. He was martyred on 17th May at the age of 35. An opponent of Ahmadiyyat attacked him with a dagger and martyred him,
(Verily to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return). According to the reports, Abdus Salam Sahib left his home for an errand along with his two young children, Qamar Islam, aged six and Badr Islam aged four and a half;
In fact he was called outside to get the water connections of the house fixed; it seems as though this was part of the plan and the enemy attacked him from behind. Nonetheless, when he came out of his house, an opponent of Ahmadiyyat, Hafiz Ali Raza,
Also known as Mulazim Husain followed behind him and attacked him with a dagger. This took place in evening. Owing to this attack, Abdus Salam Sahib was unable to recover from his injuries and died at the scene in front of his two young children. In the initial attack from behind, it penetrated his kidney,
After which the assailant attacked his intestine (region) and then stabbed him in the heart. Nonetheless, he was martyred in front of his children and the assailant ran away. The killer, who wished to enter paradise by killing Ahmadis, was a student of the local Madrasa, Jamia Aminia Faridia, L-Plot of the district of Okarah.
Two days prior to this, he graduated from the Hifz course (memorising the Holy Qur’an) of this Madrasa. In the passing out ceremony organised by the madrasa, a cleric said to the graduating class in his speech – the ceremony was for the Hifz class –
That they ought to take action against the Ahmadiyya Jama’at; he deliberately incited them and encouraged them to take drastic action. Nonetheless, the way in which they wish for people to attain paradise, they are not only paving their own way to hell, but are pushing others into hell as well.
Ahmadiyyat was introduced into the family of the deceased martyr through his great paternal grandfather, Hazrat Nabi Baksh Sahib (ra), from Phambian of Hoshiarpur district, who was a companion of the Promised Messiah (as). The deceased’s grandfather, Respected Muhammad Siddiq Sahib was an Ahmadi by birth. After the formation of Pakistan, they settled in Okarah.
The deceased martyr completed his education up to secondary school and passed the Matriculation Examinations. After this he began farming. He was part of the blessed Waqf-e-Nau Scheme. His mother says that when she would say to him that he is a Waqf-e-Nau and two of his brothers have become missionaries but he did not,
The deceased would reply: “I am helping them. “Perhaps Allah will accept this service from me, which I am doing for the rest of the family.” This is because the entire family was supported by him through his farm work, etc. He supported everyone financially.
At the time, he was serving as Qaid of Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and by the grace of Allah, he was part of Al-Wasiyyat scheme. He was very sociable and loving. Whoever would meet him, they would form a close bond with him. Even the non-Ahmadis who knew him have said that this was a great injustice,
However, nobody has the courage to speak up against the terrorist clerics. Decency and morals have become completely subdued in Pakistan. Nevertheless, the brothers and relatives of the deceased have written that he had unbound love for Khilafat. He would discreetly assist the poor irrespective if they were Ahmadi or non-Ahmadi.
Hospitality of guests was one of his key traits, and he would especially look after the guests from the headquarters. All of his family members have written that he was known as a youth who was courageous and fearless. In the past, the deceased was targeted on two Eid days,
However, at the time he was protected by Allah the Almighty, but now, this was what was decreed for him. The deceased martyr is survived by his father, Respected Master Munawar Ahmad Sahib, President of the Jama’at in L-Plot, district of Okarah,
His mother, Shamshad Kauthar Sahiba, as well as his wife, Farzana Irum and three young children; Qamar Islam aged six years, Badr Islam, aged four and a half years, and a daughter Sehr, who is one year and six months. The deceased is also survived by four brothers;
Among whom, Zahoor Ilahi Touqir Sahib is a missionary serving in the Research Cell, and Hafiz Anwaar Ahmad Sahib is a missionary serving in Pakistan; from the remaining two brothers, one is in London and one is in Rabwah. He leaves behind three sisters,
One lives here in the UK and is the wife of Zeeshan Khalid Sahib from Manchester, one sister lives in Kuwait and the third sister also lives in London. May Allah the Almighty elevate the rank of the martyr and grant him a lofty rank in the highest station in paradise,
May Allah safeguard and help the innocent children, wife, parents and all relatives of the deceased. He was martyred in front of his innocent children; what would be their condition and sentiments, only Allah knows best. It is said that the elder son, who is six years old
And witnessed the incident is completely silent for now. It is only Allah that can grant them patience and comfort, may Allah safeguard the children Himself and may He punish the enemy for their ill deeds. The second mention is of Zulfiqar Ahmad, son of Sheikh Saeedullah Sahib of Faisalabad
Who recently passed away at the age of 36 due to heart failure, in a hotel while visiting Azerbaijan. Ahmadiyyat was established in his family through his great-paternal grandfather Hazrat Sheikh Rahmatullah Sahib (ra) who was a companion of the Promised Messiah (as) and was the son of Hazrat Sheikh Janda Sahib (ra) who was also a companion of the Promised Messiah (as). Hazrat Sheikh Rahmatullah (ra) had a convenience store near Masjid Mubarak.
After accepting Ahmadiyyat, he moved to Qadian from his nearby village Tokal Wala. Once someone complained to Hazrat Maulana Nooruddin Sahib (ra), Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I (ra) saying that there should not be a shop so close to the mosque. Hazrat Maulvi Sahib (ra) mentioned this to the Promised Messiah (as),
Who said that these people were the Ashab-e-Suffah. Allah the Almighty then granted these Ashab-e-Suffah ease in every way and increased their progenies as well. In 2005, the deceased obtained a BSc honours degree in textiles from Manchester University, after which he looked after the family business. Despite immense worldly success, his humility was exemplary.
He had associations with people from all walks of life and he treated everyone with great respect and honour dealing with them all as his friends and brothers. He took great care of his workers and treated them kindly. He would be at the forefront of giving alms
And would also participate in giving donations to hospitals, etc. He would offer donations for Jama’at Chanda under every category, in fact, he himself would remind the Finance Secretary to collect his donations, and to inform him about the various schemes and collect donations for them.
He participated a great deal in the various projects under Humanity First. He built homes for people and facilitated the marriage ceremonies of the poor. He would always try to learn something useful whenever he met people and try to implement those things in his life.
He would especially render service to others during the month of Ramadan. The deceased and his parents also had a mosque built in Belize which was a grand project and by the grace of Allah the Almighty a very beautiful mosque has been built there. It has been written about him that
He would stop whatever he was doing and take time out to offer prayers. He had also made reciting the Holy Qur’an a regular part of his life. He ensured the offering of prayer in congregation at home when restrictions were placed on going to the mosque.
On one occasion he had gone to visit Malaysia when police came to a Jama’at mosque and arrested Jama’at members and so he too had the honour of being a prisoner in the way of Allah for a short time.
The deceased is survived by his wife, two children, his parents, five brothers and a sister. His mother Asifa Saeed Sahiba is the Sadr Lajna of District Faisalabad. May Allah the Almighty grant everyone patience. Dr. Hamid Mahmood Sahib writes about him, “He had a special sense of attachment and love for Ahmadiyyat and Khilafat.
“He would use his social, political and administrative contacts to try and help people “and considered it his duty to go above and beyond in serving those who needed help. “He also considered it his duty to silently help anyone he saw was facing difficulty.
“He always tried to do these things discreetly and without making himself known.” Dr Masood ul Hassan Noori Sahib says, “Zulfiqar was a very pious, dignified and sincere young Ahmadi.” He says, “When I came to know him, I became well-aware of his abilities. “He would be at the forefront of presenting financial sacrifices
“in the various schemes of Humanity First. “His passion for sacrifice and generosity were of a very high level “and he would offer hundreds of thousands of rupees at a time. “At the same time, he would express a great deal of humility.” May Allah the Almighty grant him forgiveness and mercy
And grant his parents and his wife patience and fortitude. May He protect his children and enable them to carry on his virtues. The third mention is of respected Malik Tabassum Maqsood Sahib of Canada who recently passed away. His father Malik Maqsood Ahmad Sahib was martyred on 28 May 2010 in the attack on Darul Dhikr, Lahore. His father Malik Maqsood Ahmad Shaheed’s maternal grandfather was Hazrat Malik Ali Bakhsh Sahib (ra) of Bhopal, who was a companion of the Promised Messiah (as)
And decided to pledge allegiance to him after hearing his Lecture in Sialkot. Malik Tabassum Maqsood Sahib dedicated his life (to the Jama’at) in 1991. In 2006 he was appointed to Nazarat Umoor-e-Amma where he served as Naib Nazir Umoor-e-Amma. Then in 2011 he was appointed as the Legal Advisor in Tahrik-e-Jadid.
Then in 2016, with my permission, he went to Canada along with the other families of martyrs. Initially he did not wish to go, but then agreed to go upon my advice. In Canada he served in the departments of Umoor-e-Amma, Jaidad and also as Nazim Darul Qadha.
He was regular in offering prayers and keeping fasts, he offered tahajjud regularly, had a deep connection with the Holy Qur’an, was firmly attached to Khilafat and would hearken to the call of the Khalifa of the time. He was very pious and kind.
He is survived by his mother, wife, a son and three daughters. His only son Dr Athar Ahmad is a life-devotee and his son-in-law Omar Farooq Sahib is a missionary. The deceased was also the nephew of Tahir Ahmad Sahib, Amir Jama’at District Lahore. His daughter Raziya Tabassum writes, “He had a passion for Tabligh;
“one night he had gone out for Tabligh when some boys attacked him. “He managed to escape but during the scuffle he was struck in the eye “causing an injury and he returned back home with great difficulty. “He did not tell anyone, and it was only years later
“when he started experiencing an issue with his eye “that he showed the doctors who said that this was due to an old injury, “at which time he mentioned the incident that had occurred. “He was very pleased with the fact that his vision was weakened
“due to spreading the message of the Promised Messiah (as).” Malik Tahir Ahmad Sahib writes, “Tabassum Maqsood was inclined towards virtues since his childhood. “He served both in the auxiliary organisations as well as Jama’at administration. “He was firmly attached to Khilafat “and he always ensured to remain obedient to the system of the Jama’at.
“He was modest and put his trust in God. “He raised his children in an excellent manner an strove to establish in them “a firm connection with Khilafat and the system of the Jama’at.” Hafiz Muhammad Akram Qureshi Sahib, the Naib Wakeelul Mal II says,
“I have known him for a very long time and we were also neighbours. “He was very sincere, loyal, kind, had a passion for serving humanity “and was wholly devoted to Khilafat. “He had firm faith in God Almighty. “Once, he was explaining to someone about the recognition of God
“and I saw tears flowing from his eyes out of love for God and His Greatness.” He further writes, “Once, someone who worked with him told me “that that he advised him saying, ‘my advice is do not look towards what others do nor listen to anyone else;
‘rather protect your belief and never let go of the mantle of Khilafat ‘for there is no peace anywhere else.’ “He was deeply attached to the Jama’at from his time in Khuddamul Ahmadiyya “and was ever ready to sacrifice his life, wealth, time and honour.
“He was an active, healthy and fit young man. He was strongly-built, tall and was a sportsman. “He would use all of his abilities to help serve the Jama’at. “He also obtained his license to practice (law) in the Supreme Court at an early age. “He had extraordinary skills and experience in various fields
“and he had also travelled the world.” He always remained within his means and was humble and never showed conceit or arrogance. May Allah the Almighty grant him forgiveness and mercy and enable his progeny to carry on his virtues. 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.