Friday Sermon – Khalifatul Masih V – Mirza Masroor Ahmad – Year 2017
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 (saw) is the Messenger of Allah. I bear witness that Muhammad (saw) 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 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.
Whenever I have the opportunity to sit with representatives of the world press as well as non-Muslims and whenever I get the opportunity for questions and answers or to converse [with them],
they most certainly ask this question in one way or another, be it directly or indirectly, that what is the reason for the fear of Islam in the world and how can this be removed? Some say it openly, whereas others do so implicitly and they intend to say
that the reason for this is perhaps the teachings of Islam. Hence, even on this occasion, a journalist in Germany raised this question that the fear of Islam in Germany is increasing. Furthermore, she said in a sympathetic manner towards us that:
“consequently the local people, who are non-Muslims, ”also commit injustices towards Muslims.” She asked : “what is your response to this and what reaction do you show?” This is nothing new and this question has been raised many times before as well.
This very question opens our paths of Tabligh [propagating the true message of Islam]. If this fear is increasing, it is due to some so called Muslim groups or individuals committing ruthless acts and carrying out terrorist attacks in the name of Islam.
The reaction or the concerns of the non-Muslims are also justified in that they are developing a fear of Muslims. However, our reaction is not a negative one. I always tell them that such groups and individuals are emerging due to the wrong training
of scholars or so called scholars and due to not understanding the true teachings of Islam. This is exactly in line with the prophecy of the Holy Prophet (saw). At such a time, it was prophesied that the Promised Messiah and Mahdi would appear,
who was to spread the true teachings of Islam in the world and according to our belief, the founder of the Ahmadiyya Community is that promised one, about whom this prophecy refers to. Thus, our response is in accordance with the teachings of the Promised Messiah (as)
that he imparted to us, which are to spread the peaceful and harmonious message of Islam. Thus, we are acting in accordance with these teachings everywhere in the world. Indeed, owing to the concerns that have developed here in the West
with regards to the teachings of Islam -due to the actions of extremist groups as well as terrorist attacks in non-Muslim countries- we will have to strive harder to remove these concerns and in fact we are doing this.
The Promised Messiah (as) has told us that every kind of extremism, terrorism and cruelty is against the teachings of Islam. The Promised Messiah (as) informed us that: “Since the day this world was created,
”the truthful ones of every nation have testified to the fact that adopting the attributes of God ”is the elixir of life necessary for human existence.” Adopt the qualities and attributes of Allah the Exalted, as only then human life can prevail.
“The physical and spiritual existence of man is dependent upon adopting ”every divine attribute of God, which are the fountainhead of serenity.” Thus, Allah the Exalted, Who is the fountain of peace, desires this from a Muslim
and this is the very command of the Holy Qur’an that His attributes and qualities are adopted. The Promised Messiah (as) states: “God Almighty instigated that the Holy Qur’an begin with this very verse, which is found in Surah al-Fatihah; [Holy Qur’an 1:2]
” ‘Every perfect and pure attribute is exclusive to God, Who is the Lord of all the worlds.’ “Every nation of every country found in every era is included in the word A’lam.”
He further says: “Thus, without any discussion it is worthy to note that the true and perfect God – ”believing in Whom is obligatory upon every person – is the Lord of all the worlds ”and His Rabubiyyat [Lordship] is not confined to any specific nation, era or country.
”Rather, He is the Lord of every nation, the Lord of every era, ”the Lord of every place and He is the Lord of every country. ”He is the Fountainhead of every blessing ”and every physical and spiritual might originates from Him.
”Everything that exists is nourished by Him and He is the Support for every being.” Thus, this is the elaboration and explanation of the attributes of ”Lord of all the worlds.” The Promised Messiah (as) says: “Thus, since these are the qualities of our God,
”it is appropriate for us to also follow these very qualities. ”A true Muslim should adopt these attributes and qualities.” Hence, this is the knowledge and understanding of the Holy Qur’an, which the Promised Messiah (as) has bestowed to us.
This is the remedy which is essential in order to spread peace and harmony in the world. This is the very aspect which can lay the foundation of reconciliation in the world and this is the message which the members of the Ahmadiyya Community endeavour to spread
to every corner of the world, and indeed they should endeavour to do so. Thus, if the deeds or actions of some people in the name of Islam are aimed at creating chaos and disorder in the world, it is not due
to the teaching which Allah the Exalted has given to Muslims. Rather, it is due to becoming distant from that teaching and due to rejecting the appointed messenger of Allah of this era and the true servant of the Holy Prophet (saw).
Thus, in light of these teachings when we explain to the world the path that leads to peace, brotherhood, reconciliation and tranquillity, most pious natured non-Muslims unequivocally state that these teachings of Islam are indeed beautiful.
Hence, this was expressed on various functions during this tour of mine to Germany as well. It was expressed on the occasion of the opening of mosques and laying the foundation stone. On one of the mosque opening ceremonies in a city called Waldshut
-where a mosque has recently been constructed- a doctor from another city, Basel, was present. He said: “It has been my desire throughout my life to meet peaceful Muslims. ”Today, you people have fulfilled this desire of mine.
”I consider myself to be very fortunate to encounter you all.” An Italian lady was also present who attended the programme with her friend. She said that my friend was afraid to attend this programme as he harboured negative sentiments about Islam.
However, after attending the programme and listening to the address of the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community, his perspective regarding Islam has changed completely, so much so that he immediately messaged a Muslim friend of his using his mobile and said:
”today I have come to know how beautiful your religion is.” Then, three very educated Bosnian ladies also attended this event. Whilst expressing their feelings they said that: “Given the current climate, today’s program is like a beacon that can be used to establish peace.
”In the address of the Imam of the Community, ”he emphasised love and fulfilling the rights of ones neighbours.” One of the guests said: “I too had the opportunity to gain some blessings ”from this gathering of yours and it was an honour to be present.
”Had I not come here today, I would have certainly been deprived of something magnificent. ”I have been introduced to that true Islam through the Ahmadiyya Community which is in ”complete contrast to the ‘Islam’ of hatred and extremism seen on TV.
”Here, I have received peace and love not only through mere words, ”but I have met such people who practically do not wish for any hatred.’ Thus, the personal conduct of every Ahmadi also serves as a silent Tabligh [preaching the message].
Then, another guest expressed his views in the following words: ”Until today I thought that we all believed in one God ”but the various religions have chosen their own pathways. ”However, upon coming here today, I have found out that all religions have a similar path.
”The head of the Ahmadiyya Community has explained this very beautifully. ”I liked the fact that he distanced himself from other Muslim extremists like ISIS, etc. ”in very clear terms and informed us that they have no connection to the Islamic teachings.
”It is a clear fact that you are not liable for the regretful events ”that are taking place in the world in the name of Allah the Almighty. ”Rather, such people are [blameworthy], who misinterpret or misrepresent this teaching.
”It is the duty of all of us to stand against this strife with love and brotherhood. ”I very much liked when you said that no individual can be a believer in God ”if he is involved in any sort of killing or destruction because in some respect,
”killing of an innocent means that the faith in God is being butchered.” Our well-mannered Ahmadi children are also exerting a positive influence on their local environment. Regarding this one of the lady guests said the following while expressing her views:
”I owe you gratitude at the fact that my children have Ahmadi friends. ”Since my children have formed a friendship with Ahmadi children, ”I have observed a positive and good change in them. ”Due to this, I wanted to enquire about your teachings.
”After coming here today, I have ascertained that my children ”are in the company of good friends and are safe.” Thus, this silent Tabligh, which is taking place due to the children
puts an on us upon Ahmadi parents to continue to raise their standards of moral training and also to pray for them so that Ahmadi children always continue to exert a pious influence on others and safeguard themselves from the evils of the society.
It is this pious influence which, God willing, will play a role in spreading the message of the true Islam in the future. When these non-Muslim children will grow older in the company of Ahmadi children,
and as long as they change their mind set in line with the Islamic teachings, God willing, many among those non-Muslim children will enter the fold of Ahmadiyyat Likewise, Augsburg is the second city where a mosque was inaugurated.
Due to being a large city, many intellectuals and politicians were also in attendance. Whilst expressing his views, one such guest said: ”This is a truly beautiful message, which is being communicated.
”It is my desire that your message should reach the majority of the people in Islamic countries. ”It would enable peace to be established on a wider scale.” Alas! If only the Muslim people and Muslim countries understand that the second emergence
of Islam was to be undertaken by the hands of the ardent devotee of the Holy Prophet (saw), they would understand that they must join with him in becoming his helper and supporter, rather than creating hurdles and opposition out of enmity.
Whilst expressing her views a German school teacher said: ”I had been unable to answer the questions of the children at my school regarding Islam because ”[all that] is portrayed in the media is in complete contrast to the teachings of Islam.
”From today’s address by the Head of the Ahmadiyya Community, I have procured more material ”and now I will be able to introduce my students to the true teachings of Islam.”
Then, another lady said: ”The words of your Khalifa have left a profound impact on my heart. ”I was unaware that the teachings of Islam are so beautiful. ”After listening to these words, the question that arises in my mind is:
”why has Islam acquired such a torrid reputation despite such beautiful teachings? ”I pray that your [interpretation of] Islam spreads and reaches all people.” A professor from the University of Augsburg said:
”Whatever the Head of the Ahmadiyya Community has said, if that is in fact your teaching, ”then you will prosper greatly.” The person mentioning this incident then said the esteemed professor was so impressed
that he offered [us] to hold an exhibition in the university and expressed his desire for the Community to become more prominent in the public and for its message to reach everyone. One of the guests said:
”Today we have been informed about two topics, and all of us are in dire need of them. ”Not only have solutions been put forward from a religious point of view ”but also from a secular point of view.”
He further stated that: ”it is very true that if we live ”by openness, love and tolerance then these reservations will disappear.” Similarly another guest said: ”I have been very impressed that on the one hand ”it is being portrayed that Islam teaches hatred,
”but on the contrary here the Muslims are discussing peace.” One guest said: ”One aspect of the address that left a deep impression with me ”is the extent to which Islam emphasises tolerance. ”This was my first interaction with the Community
”and the two events were excellent and very cordial. ”Subsequently my interest has increased and I will try to now visit your mosque ”and learn more about you on the Internet.” A female doctor said: ”The address had a great impact on me as it was a speech
”that moved my heart, in particular the message of peace and love. ”If every one of us becomes one who takes care of their neighbours as is taught in Islam ”the world will become a much better place.” A woman said: ”What I particularly found good was
”the attention drawn towards fulfilling the rights of one’s neighbours. ”If we follow even a part of this message, then the world will become far more peaceful place.” A Turkish guest associated with the police, expressing his sentiments, said:
”I am greatly impressed by today’s event and the address. ”If you continue to convey the message of Islam in this same manner everywhere, ”you will be very successful in the near future. ”I am from the police,
”but I have never seen such organised and disciplined arrangements anywhere else. ”I have learned a great deal from these arrangements.” A guest at the event at the foundation stone ceremony for the mosque in Raunheim, said:
”Coming here really felt like coming to our own place with familiar people. ”I have had the opportunity to attend many Christian events, ”but I never felt so welcome like here. ”Christians can learn a great deal from this.” Thus for a Christian to acknowledge
that Christians can derive much from us in particular relating to morals, is a huge thing. This should give greater confidence to our youth who should never feel embarrassed in any way. They do not need to shy away from showing others that they are Muslim,
rather they should tell the world about true Islam. Then another guest from the mosque foundation stone event in Raunheim said: ”The Khalifah informed us about the state of affairs in the world in a very effective manner.
”He especially portrayed the peaceful teachings of Islam to us.” One guest said: ”I have come to a Jamaat event for the first time. ”It feels as if the Jamaat has made its own mark in Raunheim
”and now I am in anticipation for your mosque to be built so that I can see it.” Either people oppose us or they wait keenly for the mosque to be built. One of the guests had certain reservations in regards to peace and the rights of women.
He also had a question about role of the Khalifa for establishing peace. However, once he had heard the address, he said: ”The speech has addressed all the points which I had in my mind ”and all my reservations have been removed.”
He further said: ”you people are the ambassadors of peace, ”and the rest of the Muslims all need to adhere to your teachings.” He further added: ”I will try my utmost to spread your message within my own social circles.” A Syrian friend expressing his sentiments said:
”I feared that perhaps the non-Muslims will come here and cause disruption to the event.” However, he then stated: ”but you have presented the teachings of Islam ”in a far better manner than the rest of the Muslims.”
He further stated: ”today, the Head of the Ahmadiyya Community ”has presented the true teachings of Islam. ”This was the first ever time I have participated in an event organised by the Ahmadis. ”I will now seek further information about the Jama’at
”and maybe one day I might even do the Bai’at and enter this community. ”Before coming here, I was told that the Ahmadis ”have a different Quran but today this has all been proven false.” Another guest said:
”This was the first time I had the opportunity to attend ”an event organised by the Ahmadiyya Community. ”Prior to this, I had very little knowledge of the community but I have been greatly impressed. ”Most of the times, mosques are associated with extremism;
”however today I have learnt that there is no reality to this. ”I am extremely delighted that a mosque is going to be constructed here ”and this will be an abode for peace.” Another lady said:
”It is the first time I have attended an event of the Ahmadiyya Community ”and there is an extremely peaceful atmosphere. ”Whatever has been said has been about love, tolerance and peace ”and I am extremely impressed by them.”
Marburg is a city in which the foundation stone was laid [for the mosque]. A lady who also attended the function said: ”I have been greatly impressed with the message in regards to the rights of one’s neighbours.
”As a Christian, I wish that Christianity should also adopt this teaching.” Another guest commented: ”The status of women which has been presented in your address ”is an extremely beautiful religious teaching. ”I also liked the balance in the status of men and women
”and also in respect to their rights which I saw here.” The Lord Mayor expressing his sentiments said: ”It is extremely regrettable that so many allegations are levelled against Muslims ”and the Muslims have to provide the proofs and arguments in their responses.
”However, if someone from the West or a Christian was to perpetrate an act of cruelty, ”for instance in Norway, an individual carried out a killing in the name of Christianity, ”yet no one says that it is the religion that should be blamed.”
Mrs Julia, one of the guests that attended said: “The overall function was delightful. ”I enjoyed the part of the speech where it was mentioned that ”if one does not fulfil the rights of others, then worshipping God has no value.
“Prior to coming here, I held this belief that Islam was a religion ”that endorsed fundamentalism and extremism. ”However, this speech today has removed all my negative sentiments towards Islam. ”I am now more aware of the Islamic teachings of peace and love.”
Another lady guest said: “In this dark climate, this message was a radiant light and when you ”[his Holiness] spoke about humanity, it brought tears to my eyes.” One gentlemen from Marburg said:
“I was most impressed by the part of the speech in which religious tolerance was mentioned. ”I am not aware of any other religion that adheres to this teaching. ”Every religion is confined to their beliefs alone
”and does not encourage building relations with people of other faiths.” A government official from Marburg said: “Being a Christian, ”fulfilling the rights of your neighbour, an injunction that is mentioned in Islam ”-is a teaching that is very important to me.”
A member of staff belonging to the Mayor’s office said: “All of the matters that I hoped would be discussed were mentioned today.” An elderly guest stated that prior to my arrival he had an appointment at half past six, at which point he would leave.
When the program began he started listening using headphones. Then, during my speech he realised that it was time to leave. As a result he removed the headphones and stood up to leave. He then reconsidered and sat down again, and listened to the entire speech.
Thus, sometimes event unfold in this manner, in fact, often it is the case that when we try even a small amount, God Almighty wishes to convey the message to certain people and he forcefully conveys this message to them. There were a number of people such as this.
I have only presented a few examples. Similarly, a Finnish woman attended this gathering with her nine year old son. She said: “I have brought my youngest son along with me. ”It is my heartfelt desire that he also listens to what you say and that he partakes
”from your teachings and becomes a pious individual like you all.” She further stated: “I was extremely impressed with the address and in my view this is the true Islam ”and all the other Muslims should follow him.
”I was particularly impressed when the Islamic perspective regarding ”tolerance and fulfilling the rights of one’s neighbours was presented. ”Your message and your teachings can never be wrong.” She went on to add:
“I now wish that one of the Imams or anyone from your Jama’at ”could teach my nine year old son to read the Holy Quran. ”I want him to read the Holy Quran and become a virtuous person.”
Thus, one can be inspired to such an extent, but is this simply owing to man’s effort? Indeed, it is Allah the Almighty Who inspires this transformation in one’s disposition
and it is our duty now to benefit from this and strive to bring people closer to God Almighty. However, before doing so, we must also assess our own conditions and do our utmost in order to seek the nearness of Allah the Almighty.
Another lady also spoke about the importance of neighbours, she said: ”I really liked the teachings of Islam ”and as a Christian I wish that we also had a teaching like this.” Then, another lady said:
”The manner in which the Head of the Ahmadiyya Community explained the rights of women ”was far better than those cultures wherein the rights of women are usurped.” There were countless comments [form the events] and I have only selected a few from among them.
Similarly, the functions also received extensive press and media coverage. On the inauguration of the Bait-ul-Afiyat mosque, a TV channel and two newspapers covered the event. The TV channel that covered the event in the Bait-ul-Afiyat mosque
is a national television station and it is said that it has an audience of 2.2 to 2.3 million people, particularly those who listen to its news reports. Similarly, at the inauguration of the Bait-ul-Naseer mosque, Augsburg,
three TV channels, four radio stations and eighteen newspapers covered the event. This is a large city and it is reported that over 30 million people received the news of the mosque’s inauguration and also the message of Islam through the radio channels and newspapers.
The foundation stone for mosques were laid in two cities of Germany, Raunheim and Marburg. These functions also received coverage from a TV channel and twenty-two newspapers and through both the TV channel and newspapers around 20 million people received
the news of the foundation stone laying ceremony of the mosques. The total media coverage from all the mosques through the various TV channels, radio stations and newspapers amounts to 54 outlets and 136 news reports.
According to one estimate, the total coverage has reached out to 39 million people. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, the Tabligh department in Germany is very active and the other auxiliary organisations also work very well throughout the year.
The number of people who receive the message [of Islam] during the course of the year is also in millions. As a result of this there is also opposition which is increasing particularly in the Eastern part of Germany.
However despite this, we must continue to spread our message, God-willing. When I travel on tours, I also briefly mention some of the reports of those countries. By the grace of Allah the Almighty a lot of work is happening here in the UK also.
Since I do not go on any particular tours here and therefore I do not mention its reports and so perhaps some people may assume that no work is happening here. In fact, the efforts to spread the true teachings of Islam
are also being carried out here on a large scale. The department for Tabligh and also the various auxiliary organisations are all working by the grace of God Almighty. Particularly in regards to Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’s book on the life of the Holy Prophet (saw) which
in English is ‘Life of Muhammad’ and has been distributed the most compared to anywhere else and the Ansarullah [auxiliary organisation for men over the age of 40] have played a very significant role in this. Similarly, many other books have also been distributed widely here
and the Jama’at has been introduced, and in fact Islam has been introduced all over the world as a result of the various functions that have been centrally organised here. Therefore, Ahmadis of the UK Jamaat may well look at the programs and progress of the other Jama’ats
in the world with admiration and praise, but they should not think that no work is being done here. Some people who do not participate in as many programmes and functions here may think that we are well behind but that is not the case.
By the grace of Allah the Almighty a lot of good work is being done here also. For instance, the Peace Conference was held here in March and through this, the message of Islam was conveyed not only to the people of UK but all over the world.
I feel that the comments and reflections of people [attending this event] should also be read out as these have not been mentioned previously. A church warden attended the Peace Symposium and said: ”This was an extremely captivating and powerful message.
”It was a message about unity and this is something that our society needs. ”I also liked the fact that the Head of the Community quoted a verse form the Holy Qur’an and ”said that the followers of different religions should focus on those things that unite them.
”This is something that is very possible to act upon ”and people who do not follow any religion can also be included in this. ”Today, I have learnt about the commonalities that exist between Islam and Christianity.
”I also liked the significance of the meaning of prayer wherein the five prayers are obligatory; ”however these are of no avail if one does not serve mankind.” Then a nurse, Fiona Sahiba, says:
”The Head of the Ahmadiyya Community has proved that Islam is a religion which has not been ”properly understood and the extremists wrongfully use it as a veil to hide behind.
”I also liked the fact that at the start of his address he condemned the attacks that took place ”in London and clearly stated that these attacks have nothing to do with Islam. ”He not only raised questions but also presented the answers.
”For instance, he spoke about the trading of arms ”and also mentioned that we must show respect when listening to one another.” Another gentleman who was in attendance said: ”Today, we learnt that the terrorist attack that took place on the Westminster Bridge a few
”days ago was not due to Islam but was due to one person who was hiding behind a peaceful religion. ”Today, it has become evident to me that the terrorist was completely insane ”and not a true Muslim.” He further stated:
”Your Khalifa has explained very clearly that every form of terrorism is wrong ”and proved this through the verses of the Holy Qur’an. ”I also liked the fact when he said that we must not just focus on our present but also look
”into our future and instead of building walls that divide us, we must build bridges.” Then a GP, who is also a church leader, said: ”The address that I listened to was like a shining light that illuminates the path.
”It showed us that Islam is great religion of peace.” He further said: ”The message was indeed very true which is that we need to further engage in dialogue. ”It is true that instead of increasing enmity for one another,
”we need to tolerate one another’s opposing views. ”He was also absolutely correct in saying that ”the world today is increasingly becoming more intolerant.” A director of a company was also in attendance, she said:
”I have previously met your fourth Khalifa and therefore I have some knowledge of your community. ”Today, again I have had the opportunity to meet him and we really needed this address ”that we heard today because we have been told
”that we should not place the blame for everything on Islam and Muslims. ”Also, that many of the issues of the world today have been created by us, ”for example: the Western countries. ”I also liked the points mentioned by the Khalifa regarding the trading of arms.
”This is something where our morals disappear ”and we give precedence to what benefits our businesses.” She further stated: ”I am hopeful that our government will take note of these things and was extremely emotional
”after listening to the words and the prayer of the Khalifa regarding the future of the world ”wherein he said that we should leave behind a world full of prosperity but there was also ”a sense of worry that we may be leaving behind a world
”with a generation of children who will be handicapped.” At this point I would like to remind the members of the Jamaat that the current situation of the world is deteriorating rapidly and a substantial amount of prayers are necessary.
Major powers and even smaller countries are threatening to wage war. People such as leaders, politicians and columnists who were once optimistic that a world war is a farfetched prospect are now saying that it looks unavoidable, and in fact it is becoming more and more likely.
Amongst these there is the current situation between the USA and [North] Korea, -although China has intervened in an attempt to resolve the issue. These people are threatening each other about a nuclear war. Similarly, Muslim leaders are also committing atrocities
and in the same way blocs are now forming. Undoubtedly, the prospect for a war is increasing rapidly. We should pray to God Almighty to enable them to see reason. Furthermore, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (rh) once prescribed a homeopathic remedy
to help in case of a nuclear war. The Jamaat members should now use this for at least six weeks. One medicine should be taken and after that the second medicine should be taken, for which there will be an announcement later on; Carcinosin and Radium Bromide.
Similarly I will now present another statement from Doctor Palomares, who is a professor from Portugal who said: “Having listened to your remarks today, it is evident to me that peace and justice are two
”synonyms, which have the same meaning, and it is impossible to have one without the other. “There is a lack of justice in the world and as a result of this we do not see peace. ”Muslims cannot be labelled as terrorist or blamed for conflicts;
”instead we should aim to find the root cause, which is the lack of justice in the world. ”I am pleased to hear that the Imam of the [Ahmadiyya] Community spoke about Islamophobia, ”as people overlook this issue, however it is increasing significantly.
”His statement that ‘we should not throw petrol on the fire’ was absolutely true. ”We should show mutual respect and not mock each other.” In addition to this a professor from the Catholic University of Portugal stated:
“The aspect I liked the most was that the words of the Caliph were supported with evidence. ”He explained using verses from the Qur’an that Islam is a religion of peace ”and also using examples of the world, he demonstrated that one cannot blame Islam
”for every major incident that takes place. ”I also like his statement that we should also take precautions for tomorrow as well as today.” Then there was a politician who said: “Sincerity was visible from the words of condolence.”
He then said: ”a world war seems to be an undeniable prospect.” He stated: “I am hopeful that at least a World War can be deferred ”as we have been doing so for the past seventy years.
”However, I agree with the fact that once a war begins it will be impossible to withhold from it. ”We must ensure justice in our dealings on a worldwide scale, ”and this is the message which I will take with me from here.”
These are just some of the sentiments that I have presented before you. In this gathering more than 600 people were present and all of them gave excellent responses. This was also covered widely by the media; Associated Press, BBC Asian Network, New Statesmen magazine,
NHK – which is a big broadcasting corporation of Japan, Sunday Times, ABC, an Argentinian media outlet, ERT TV of Greece, 365 – which is the national newspaper for Iceland, Southwest TV, Sputnik International.
There were also a vast number of other media outlets and totalled nearly twenty or twenty one. Likewise there were a number of freelance journalists. Those that published this news in other countries, included Austrian National Television, who broadcast an eight minute segment.
Italian newspapers also published this report as did an Argentine newspaper, newspapers from Latin America, Canada as well two newspapers in Spain. All in all over 9 million people received this news through the publication in external media sources. Similarly, Portugal also published this report.
The report of the peace conference was widely publicised and through this many parts of the world were informed about the teachings of Islam. Through social media this coverage reached 3.8 million people. There were representatives of between ten and twelve countries.
Just as the message of the Jamaat is spreading rapidly, similarly our opposition is also increasing, especially in Muslim countries. Specifically in Algeria the opposition to the Jamaat has increased manifold and it is on rise. I have already requested prayers for them.
On the 24th of this month there was a conference which took place in Algeria. They invited the former Minister of Religious Endowments, who told the Jamaat to give their views, which he would present to the chair of the conference.
Initially they organised this seminar to familiarise themselves about the Jamaat. However later on they decided that they did not wish to know further about the Jamaat and instead there were speeches against the Jamaat. They changed the subject of the conference to:
“Qadiani group: a sect formed by the British for their own interests.” They presented the same age old allegations as before. As for our point of view, they not only refuse for it to be read out, but to the one who presented it they said:
”You are an intelligent person, why have you started to speak ”in their favour when previously you were against them” Nonetheless, when they spoke with the foreign media they said: “there is no issue at all. ”We consider Ahmadis to be good citizens and they are Muslims.
”There are no injustices committed against them. ”We have only taken action against those few individuals who speak out against` the country.” However, when speaking to their own media they made the usual comments that: ”They [Ahmadis] are not Muslims.
”They are rebels who have ties with Daesh [Islamic State], etc…” Thus, the opposition is increasing due to the Salafis. Nonetheless, this was destined to take place. Because of the situation in Algeria, the locals there have said that the awareness
of the Ahmadiyya Community has increased as a result of the media coverage and some people are interested in finding out more about the Jamaat. Our opponents have spread our message to those places where we were unable to do so.
Nevertheless, a significant part of the world is being influenced by the Islam spread by the Ahmadiyya Community and some are even suggesting that Christianity should also learn from us. On the other hand, opposition from the Muslim countries is an ongoing process.
Thus, as I mentioned previously, there is increased opposition in Algeria more than before. Pray for the Ahmadis living in Algeria as well as the Ahmadis in Pakistan. Also pray for all those Ahmadis residing in those countries where opposition to Ahmadiyyat
is boiling over that may God Almighty protect all of them; especially those living in Algeria, who have not been Ahmadi for long. May Allah grant them steadfastness and swiftly remove these hardships from them. 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.