After reciting Surah Al Fatihah, Huzoor (aba) said that every person in this world has desires and makes every effort to pursue them, whereas a Momin is one who has complete and absolute faith in the existence of God and turns towards the Almighty in face of any type of adversity – in fact, what defines a true Momin and worshipper of God is his progress in faith at every occasion in his life. Huzoor (aba) said that even if one wishes to purchase a simple thing such as a shoelace, one should seek the guidance and will of God, because without His will, all his efforts to purchase this item will fail, and even if the purchase does take place, the person may not be able to utilize the item. It is God’s great blessing on the Ahmadis that He has enabled them to accept the Promised Messiah (as) who has guided them to seek the pleasure of God. Huzoor (aba) quoted a couple of extracts from the Promised Messiah(as)’s writings in which he says that Allah loves those who turn towards Him and their offspring are never wasted, whereas those who turn to the world, God does not love them and their children are ruined. Without the pleasure of God, one cannot achieve any type of victory, nor success, nor contentment. He further writes that although one cannot see God but God manifests Himself through His creation. He manifests Himself when we pray to Him.

All humans beings, be it a king or a ruler, face helplessness in certain situations, where the only remedy then becomes prayer. So Huzoor (aba) stated that Ahmadis indeed are fortunate that the Promised Messiah (as) has explained these concepts so clearly, and by and large, Ahmadis are well versed in these views. Another important point to remember is that some people turn towards God only in times of adversity, but a true Believer is one who seeks God’s pleasure no matter what the situation is and in all affairs, be it personal, business related or matters pertaining to religion. Before carrying out any action, a Momin turns towards God to seek His blessing and His help with complete faith. At times, one thinks that a certain activity may be better for him and makes efforts to achieve results to that end, but it is God Who possesses complete knowledge and therefore prevents that activity from occurring, sometimes permanently or temporarily, and this for the benefit of that person. Due to sadqaat and supplications, God informs the person or his near and dear ones, or in matters of Jamaat, God informs several members of the Community beforehand about the reasons why certain activities cannot take place at a certain time. Due to personal convictions, sometimes people insist on carrying on with such activities, yet, when they do not come to pass, the future events that unfold make it clear that it is indeed a blessing of God that such and such activity did not take place.

God has directed us towards a guiding principle in the Holy Quran: “It may be that you dislike a thing while it is good for you, and it may be that you like a thing while it is bad for you. Allah knows and you know not. (2:217)” Therefore, one should not become needlessly persistent to carry on with a certain activity because his knowledge is limited, whereas God knows best when and how and where a certain activity needs to be carried out. Surrendering to His Will and seeking His Help through supplication is the best way, because when God does not Will, then all efforts and intense desires for a certain cause will be in vain.

This year, due to the centenary of Khilafat, every Ahmadi has a renewed zeal and has made efforts to attend the Jaslsa Salana Qadian, but recently, the unfortunate events that have taken place in India have shaken the whole nation. These merciless terrorists who have been captured have admitted to further brutal attacks that may take place in the near future, due to which the government has increased in security measures. Therefore, due to these circumstances, Huzoor (aba) has prohibited any visitors from foreign countries to participate in this event, without any exceptions, no matter how intense their desire to attend. Allah Almighty will improve the situation and further opportunities will arise InshaAllah. Islam teaches us to supplicate for protection against any kind of adversity (natural or man-made) and therefore we should take every precaution necessary in staying away from harm’s way.

After consultation and supplication, Huzoor (aba) has taken this decision to stop visitors from foreign countries to attend the Jalsa Salana Qadian. Our actions should be higher than our emotions. There is no reason to put ourselves in any kind of trouble because the life of every Ahmadi is precious. Many will be disappointed, but remember that Allah will bless His chosen ones and guide them. Huzoor (aba) mentioned a specific prayer of the Holy Prophet (saw) to protect us from all types of evil in the world, which we should recite frequently these days. May Allah accept our prayers and protect every Ahmadi, Ameen. Another prayer that should be recited is: ‘My Lord, I stand in need of whatever good Thou mayest send down to me.’ (28:25)

Huzoor (aba) ended with a collective prayer for Ahmadis around the world that may God always guide us on the right path and protect us from all evils, direct our desires in the correct direction, and if we make the wrong decision, may Allah protect us from its bad consequences, may He enable us to make decisions based on wisdom, which is a blessing of God. God has taught us this prayer: ‘My Lord, bestow wisdom on me and join me with the righteous; (26:84)’

A true believer should not be fearful, but he should weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making any decisions. We are not afraid of making any sacrifice, by the grace of God, but we should also protect ourselves from harm. We should supplicate to God for the best results of this decision and grace this occasion with innumerable blessings, and exchange the grief that some may experience due to this decision with the joy of His nearness and an even stronger personal relationship with Allah. Huzoor (aba) quoted the Promised Messiah (as) who has said that God is Merciful, and does not waste the prayer of a supplicant. We should become ever more prayerful to God and pay our gratitude to Him. Each Ahmadi should pray for himself and for the other Ahmadis around the world, specifically the Ahmadis of India and Pakistan. May Allah guide mankind and enable them to understand their purpose of creation. Ameen.

Funeral prayers (in abstentia) were offered for Respected Amtul Rehman Sahiba, wife of Respected Chaudhry Mohammad Ahmad Darwesh Sahib who passed away on 3 December 2008 in Qadian.

After reciting, Surah Al Fatiha, Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aba), Khalifatul Massih V, opened the sermon by expressing his gratitude to God Almighty who enabled him to visit the State of Kerala in India during this special time in the Jamaat’s history. This visit had not been possible in his previous trip to India in 2005 despite the intense desire of the residents of this State. Huzoor (aba) said that it is sometimes not possible to comprehend the extent of devotion and loyalty of Ahmadis unless and until it is witnessed first hand. Although Huzoor (aba) has previously met some Ahmadis from this part of India in Qadian and in London, but meeting so many Ahmadis in their home state has indeed provided a unique opportunity to see this devotion and the blessings of Allah that have been bestowed upon the Jamaat here personally. Some amongst Huzoor (aba)’s entourage have expressed that the Ahmadis of Kerala remind them of the discipline exhibited by the Indonesian Ahmadis; others said that their devotion and loyalty is comparable to that of the African Jamaats; but I feel that an Ahmadi, no matter where he resides, possesses the same degree of utmost devotion and loyalty, however the style of expression may be distinct. Huzoor (aba) said that there are many members who are probably meeting a Khalifa for the first time in their life, but the expression of love and sincere devotion in their eyes is apparent. This is due only because of the blessings of the belief in the Imam of the present age. It is a pity that despite this fervor and devoutness, non-Ahmadis doubt the truth of the Messiah’s advent. It is this devotion to Khilafat indeed that will take the Jamaat to unparalleled heights, finally reaching its desired destination.

Huzoor (aba) then explained that the desired destination for each Ahmadi is to achieve nearness of Allah Almighty and gain His pleasure, and we must strive to attain this state till the last breath of our life through our actions, by obeying the teachings of the Holy Prophet (saw) and by achieving the standards the Promised Messiah (as) wanted to see instilled in us. Remember that after Bai’at of the Promised Messiah (as), one’s goal should be to attain the standards described by him. If this is not our goal, then reciting poems in praise of Khilafat is of no significance. Many a people form emotional bonds with worldly leaders and make many sacrifices to achieve material goals, but how many make sacrifices for Allah and His Prophet (saw)? These sacrifices for worldly leaders have no significance whatsoever because they do not follow the Islamic teachings. The only true leader of this day and age is the Promised Messiah (as) whose advent is to revive the true teachings of Islam. Therefore, every Ahmadi should implement and practice the Quranic teachings as have been explained by the Promised Messiah (as), and only then can we become true Ahmadis. Huzoor (aba) quoted a passage from the writings of the Promised Messiah (as) in which he has emphasized that each Ahmadi should form a pure and unique relationship with Allah Almighty by shunning all sorts of evil (greed, dishonesty, deceit, arrogance, pride, self-indulgence, etc.). Unless and until such a bond is developed with God, one is extremely weak and is confined to spiritual obscurity and incapable of facing any adversities. Therefore, make every effort to become the bearers of spiritual light as opposed to darkness, so that you are protected against the evil machinations of Satan.

Huzoor (aba) expounded that the target given to us by the Promised Messiah (as) is to constantly seek help from Allah and develop a direct relationship with Him. This can only be done if we put forth the purpose of our creation before us, as described in the Holy Quran “I have not created the Jinn and men but that they may worship Me” (51:57).

If we bear this in mind at all times, then our efforts to shun the vices and adopt the virtues described by Allah will be fruitful. These actions will further enhance our relationship with Allah Almighty. Remember, Khilafat is only promised to those who are righteous and free of any form of idolatry, so if we want this blessing to stay with us, then we must always keep the purpose of our creation in mind.

The most fundamental way of worshipping God is through offering the five daily prayers. Every man, woman, young and old should remember that if they are lagging in observing Salat, then they will not be able to meet the standards prescribed to achieve the state of the righteous people. After reading another extract from the writings of the Promised Messiah (as), Huzoor (aba) stated that after the belief in One God, Salat is the most important tenet and therefore, you should perform it as if you see God before you. When one presents himself before a great leader, a type of fear prevails over him. God Almighty is the Most Supreme, therefore, visualizing God during Salat will eventually make us devoted worshippers. The Holy Prophet (saw) said that one should offer Salat as if you see God before you. But if you are unable to do so, at least recognize the fact that God, Who has power over all things and is aware of the condition of every heart, sees you. If we practice this, then our attention will be directed to improving our standards of worship, freeing them of worldly thoughts. Those who feel that they do not and/or cannot meet these standards should not despair. Remember, these are the standards you should strive for as this is the only way to make progress and attain additional blessings of Allah. Allah Almighty says “My mercy encompasses all things” (7:157).

Since we receive everything with Allah’s blessings, He will strengthen our efforts if we advance towards Him. When individuals will strive in this way, the entire Jamaat will benefit. By the Grace of God, there are many in the Jama’at who offer prayers during the night and are far advanced in their love for God, but the Promised Messiah (as) desired to see the majority of the Jamaat members to reach these standards, and as the numbers of those who improve in Taqwa increase, we shall witness the dominance of the Jama’at. Our good actions will also attract others towards us and become a source of “Dawat Ilallah” (propagation of Islam).

Huzoor (aba) said that by God’s grace, many Ahmadis he met during his visit to Kerala were filled with devotion to the cause of faith and believe in the acceptance of prayer and make every effort to achieve nearness of Allah. This was evident by their request to pray for their children that they may tread the right path. Huzoor (aba) advised not to let this devotion fade away but make the most of it to make spiritual progress and discard any type of idolatry that tries to creep into your lives. Since many living in India have contacts with non-Ahmadis, it is possible that “biddaat” (innovations) become part of your practices, so protect yourself against them because they can take you towards Shirk. The Ahmadis in Kerala reflect the 100% literacy rate of their home state, therefore you should use this education to protect your faith and also to acquire religious knowledge so that your religious conviction is strengthened and your future generations are safeguarded. Islam came to this part of the world in the very early period, and similarly, God enabled many to believe in the Promised Messiah (as) early on. Therefore, you should make every effort to propagate this message and bring people under the banner of the Holy Prophet (saw) as this is the only way to true salvation. The world around us is directing its attention towards Ahmadiyyat, whether it is in the form of hostility or curiosity. By bringing about a pure change in ourselves, and by turning towards Allah more than ever before, and by supplicating to God Almighty, we will meet with victory, InshaAllah.

Huzur gave a discourse on a Quranic prayer with reference to the Divine attribute of Al Wahab in his Friday Sermon today.

The prayer is in Surah Al e Imran, verse 9. The translation reads; ‘Our Lord, let not our hearts become perverse after Thou hast guided us; And bestow on us mercy from Thyself; surely, Thou art the Bestower.’ (3:9)

Huzur said here supplication is made to Allah by the virtue of His attribute of Al Wahab.

Giving a most beautiful elucidation of the prayer, Huzur said it signifies supplicating as follows; O’ Allah, with Your grace and blessings You have enabled us to accept the true and ardent devotee of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) whose advent You brought about among the Ummah of the Prophet in the latter-days.

O’ Allah the prophecy of Your most beloved person (peace and blessings of Allah be on him), that he certainly made after being informed by You, enlightens us about the eternal system of Khilafat to be established after the Messiah (on whom be peace). O’ Allah You have associated us with this system, do not now deprive us of this blessing due to any negligence of ours.

Man errs; therefore we turn to You O’ Allah and beg You that due to this or any other failing, may we never see the day when our hearts turn perverse or we may do something that displeases You.

Not only may we stay firm on guidance rather, cover us in Your mercy and keep us safe from all evil and increase us in taqwa and in faith.

Huzur said saying this beautiful prayer should be ‘routine’ for every Ahmadi. This will help us keep a conscious eye on our weaknesses. It will help safeguard our Salat and our Salat will, in turn, safeguard us.

As the prayer seeks, may there never be an instance where we may have any negative feeling about the Jama’at. Our deeds should be such that if, due to our human failing, such a situation arises, it may never result in our faith stumbling and for us to have any ill-feeling towards the system of the Jama’at and Khilafat.

Huzur said the Holy Qur’an gives the examples of the people of the earlier prophets of God because they deemed that once they had believed they were not in any need of guidance. This is how the Jews and the Christians are described. They made negative assumptions and this led them to be arrogant about the knowledge they possessed. So much so that they ended up being termed as ‘those who have incurred God’s displeasure’ and ‘those who have gone astray’ as described in Surah Al Fatihah.

Huzur said the recitation of Surah Al Fatihah in each rakat of Salat signifies the importance to learn a lesson and continually seek Allah’s blessings and grace. Otherwise as the earlier people lost their way, so too may we.

Huzur said unfortunately today the majority of those who are called Muslims are treading the ways that lead away from God and the reason for this is the negative assumptions they make [about the Promised Messiah] and their pomposity over the knowledge they have.

Huzur said Ahmadis are the fortunate people who have accepted the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) and thus witnessed the prayer of not being included in ‘those who incur God’s displeasure’ and ‘those who go astray’, may Allah keep us firm on this. However, Allah commands to always engage in prayer to keep one’s heart from being perverse or to be included in those who incur God’s displeasure or those who go astray.

Each Ahmadi should be mindful of this and the others may be enabled as well so that a true one Ummah materialises and each Muslim accepts the Messiah of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) and may the ummah thus be one who truly comprehends the fundamental message of this prayer.

Huzur said it is evident from Ahadith that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) used to say this prayer abundantly. He would say that a person’s heart is between two fingers of God, He may guide whomsoever He wishes and lead astray whomsoever He wishes. Huzur said this does not mean that the Prophet’s (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) heart was God forbid, perverse. Certainly not; it is out of the question. His heart was filled with nothing but remembrance of God. It is through him that Allah had it declared: ‘… follow me; then will Allah love you and forgive you your faults…’ (3:32)

Indeed, in following the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) is salvation. He said while his eyes slept his mind was filled with remembrance of Allah. Therefore the fact that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said this prayer and others in the same vein was to establish a model for us.

The model was for his ummah to follow, so that when the time of the latter-day Messiah came they would accept him. If only the rest of the Muslims understood this. There is no greater tragedy than to lose one’s way after finding the truth. Muslims should ponder and reflect over this. Their current state of affairs reflects that they have incurred Allah’s displeasure. May Allah have mercy on them.

It is the grace of Allah that in fulfilment of the prayers of Hadhrat Ibrahim and Ishmael (peace be on them both) and of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) the Messiah came but they do not accept him because according to them, they are not in the need of a guide.

The fact of the matter is that it is not in the interest of the so-called mullah that the Promised Messiah is accepted. It would shut down his trade/business. It is only an excuse that acceptance of the Messiah impinges on the ‘finality of prophethood’.

They say they have the Qur’an therefore they do not need a guide. However, it is interesting that they do not deny the need for Khilafat. The ignorant people do not realise that without the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) there can be no Khilafat. The fact that the Messiah came from among the ummah of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) is indeed a testimony that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) was the Seal of all the Prophets’.

Huzur said the knowledge and insight of the Holy Qur’an is only unfolded to those who are God’s chosen people and in this age the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) is God’s chosen person who elucidated the secrets and insights of the Holy Qur’an to us.

Indeed the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said that those who do not accept him say they do not need a Messiah and that the Qur’an is sufficient for them, although they know full well that they Qur’an does not give insight to anyone other than the pure.

Huzur said in this age Allah purified the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) with His own hands and gave him comprehension of the Holy Qur’an.

Seeing the state of affairs of the other Muslims, while the Ahmadis should be grateful that they have been enabled to accept the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace), they should also always pray to be saved for all kind of perversity. Just as the world is getting more and more materialistic there is a greater need to say this prayer so that we are never denied the blessing and are kept steadfast.

Reading an extract from the writings of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) Huzur spoke of the importance of not only seeking protection from perversity but also to join the ranks of Muhsineen (those who do good).

According to the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) Muhsineen are those who do everything with the view that Allah watches over them every moment. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said Muhsineen are those who dissociate themselves from narcissism/egotism. Huzur prayed that may Allah enable us to safeguard our worships and our deeds, may we turn to Allah and avoid narcissism and always keep away from all kinds of perversity so that we may value the blessings that Allah has granted us out of His mercy and may our generations continue to be blessed with this mercy.

Next Huzur informed that soon he is going to travel to Qadian for the Jalsa Salana and asked for prayers in this regard. May Allah bless this trip with success in every way and keep every Ahmadi safe.

Huzur said many people are travelling to Qadian from all over the world for the Jalsa. The government of India has cooperated a lot in issuing visas despite their internal problems.

May those who, despite their intention cannot go, be rewarded for their intention. Huzur said those who are going to Qadian as well as those who are not, should continually pray that may Allah protect from the envier and the mischievous. May Allah keep the inhabitants of Qadian safe.

Huzur said India is a very large country and people from far-off jama’ats can not afford to travel to Qadian. It was their wish that Huzur visited them. Therefore Huzur is also going to visit other cities in India. May Allah make this successful and may it bring forth countless blessings leaving all cunning of the enemy to naught. May Allah cover our faults and may He never deny us His grace and blessings.

Next Huzur announced that after Prayers he would lead two funeral Prayers in absentia, the first for, Bashir Ahmad Mahar sahib, who was a dervish of Qadian and passed away on 13th November. Huzur said he was from the early dervishes. Despite having had the opportunity to leave for Pakistan, where he had ancestral land, he chose to stay in Qadian. Huzur said he was a very simple and pious person with great affection for Khilafat.

The second funeral Prayer was for Muhammad Ghazanfar Chatta sahib from Boraywala Pakistan where he was an inspector for the finance dept of the jama’at. On 18th Nov two unknown motorcyclists attacked him trying to snatch the bag he was carrying. When he resisted, they fired at him and he lost his life. Huzur said he considered his martyrdom associated to the Jama’at because Huzur believed his bag contained Jama’at documents and perhaps also some cash. May Allah forgive him and elevate his station in Paradise.

Huzur gave a discourse on the Divine attribute of Al Wahab (The Bestower) in the Friday Sermon today.

Explaining its meanings from the Arabic lexicon Huzur said it is an attribute of Allah the Exalted which signifies One Who bestows and confers on His servants. With this reference the word ‘Wahib’ is also applicable.

Huzur said this word is also used for humans but the true Wahab is only Allah the Exalted Who confers when asked and even when not asked.

If a true believer ponders over this, he/she will witness demonstrations of conferment at all times and this indeed identifies the Living God for us.

On the contrary one who sees with a worldly eye only deems the material world to be the source of everything.

Huzur said Allah has taught us many prayers with reference to this Divine attribute. Today Huzur wished to speak about one aspect of these prayers.

In order to draw the attention of the believers towards honouring the dues of their creation attention is drawn to pray for one’s spouse and one’s offspring so that virtues may continue from one generation to another.

Huzur cited verse 75 of Surah Al Furqan, its translation reads: “And those who say, ‘Our Lord, grant us of our spouses and children the delight of our eyes, and make each of us a leader of the righteous.”

Huzur said this is a most comprehensive prayer in which one seeks one’s spouse as well as children to be the delight of one’s eyes. The scope of the blessings of this prayer is limitless which is beyond the grasp of man. Upon acceptance of this prayer not only are one’s spouse and offspring the delight of one’s eyes in this world, rather, due to one’s virtues Allah continues to bestow even after death.

One’s offspring continue the virtues and pray for the elevated status of their deceased parents.

Huzur cited verse 18 of Surah Al Sajdah, the translation reads: “And no soul knows what joy of the eyes is kept hidden for them, as a reward for the good they used to do.”

People who are thus bestowed are those whose level of taqwa enables them to worship Allah, spend in His cause and do other virtuous acts. They wake up at night and supplicate to Allah to tread the straight path and for their children to tread the straight path and seek that ‘delight of eyes’ the knowledge of which only Allah has.

This is the prayer that is made by people who are ‘servants of the Gracious God’ and who try and leave behind a progeny that is firm on taqwa. Allah has indeed drawn our attention to a most significant aspect through this prayer, that is, we should not simply seek the pleasure of God for ourselves, rather also for our future generations.

Each one of us needs to self-reflect whether while making this prayer we fulfil each others’ rights, whether we fulfil the rights of our children that would lead them to taqwa? If the husband and wife do not adhere to taqwa themselves how can they expect their children to abide by it and how can they expect to derive all the spiritual advantages of adhering to taqwa, including the blessings of Khilafat.

Certainly the beneficence of Khilafat is conditional to ‘good works’ (Amaal e Saleh). If there is an absence of taqwa there can be no mutual ‘delight of the eyes’.

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said that may Allah have mercy on that person who wakes up at night [to Pray] and also awakens his wife and if she hesitates he sprinkles some water on her face. Allah have mercy on that woman who wakes up at night and also awakens her husband and if he hesitates she sprinkles some water on his face. Huzur said the duty is mutual.

Huzur said he receives complaints about some men that let alone wake up at night, apart from the Fajr Salat they show indolence. How can such people say the prayer of; ‘Our Lord, grant us of our spouses and children the delight of our eyes…’ and hope for it to be accepted. How can they search for delight of eyes in their offspring? Indeed Allah is the Master of everything and can grant as He wishes but it is also His command to reform oneself if His beneficence is to be sought.

Indeed the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said that a father cannot leave a better gift for his children than a good, moral upbringing. Huzur said good upbringing is only possible when one’s own standards are also sound and worthy of emulating.

The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) wrote that may Allah make our spouses and children the delight of our eyes and this can only be when one lives the life of a servant of the Gracious God and gives precedence to God in all matters. He said that the verse also confirms that if one’s offspring is righteous then they have the status of Imam.

Huzur said for the Tarbiyyat of women, men have to take the first steps and when they are both virtuous, so shall be their children.

Referring to the aforementioned Hadith Huzur said it is only possible to awaken one’s spouse for Prayer in the early hours if there is mutual love and affection and an understanding that they have to help each other with the night time Prayers. Otherwise, Huzur said, there are instances where wives are subjected to harsh words when they try to waken husbands for Prayers. In some cases husbands even resort to hitting the wives. This is effectively what happens in some households. Gradually, the women withdraw and carry on with their own Prayers or follow the path of the husbands. As a consequence the children lose out in religious terms.

In order to make the children ‘delight of eyes’ parents have to first reform themselves and set examples.

Reading from an extract of the Promised Messiah’s (on whom be peace) writings Huzur said the expectation of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) from each Ahmadi man was that he should lead in spiritual matters. Huzur said his words should rouse us.

In earlier times women were uneducated but times have changed and with the grace of Allah with education women now have awareness and are very perceptive. There are a lot of women in the Community who agonize over the ills of the men. Women are more concerned than men about the upbringing of the children. Sometimes the ways of the man make a wife seek separation which adversely affects the children. Men are responsible for all this.

This is most fortunate that Allah has taught us a prayer for our good in this world and the hereafter and that of our children and from this He only wishes us to learn ways and means of seeking good in this world and the hereafter and is bestowing us.

We need to engage in introspection and try and tread those paths that help to attain Allah’s pleasure. We should maintain the peace of our homes, find delight in our children and each Ahmadi household should abide by taqwa. This is what will derive full benefit from Khilafat and will make us those who honour the dues of being part of the Community of the slave of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him).

One cause of marital disharmony is when men demand a male offspring. Huzur cited verse 50 of Surah Al Shura, the translation reads, “To Allah belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth. He creates what He pleases. He bestows daughters upon whom He pleases and He bestows sons upon whom He pleases;” Huzur said to lay blame on any person in this matter is forsaking taqwa. In this age of advanced medicine - that Allah has taught man - there are many who have benefitted, however, in this matter Allah conveys that He alone is the Creator and He does what He pleases. Therefore in some cases, even extensive medical treatment does not produce the result that is desired.

Huzur mentioned the ill-treatment some fathers extend to their wives and daughters which create long-term negative feelings in the daughters. Huzur said some of the incidents that come to his attention are astonishing where people treat children in ways that are reminiscent of pre-Islamic ignorance when people’s faces would darken at the birth of baby daughters.

Huzur related an account of an Ahmadi man from a while ago who married four times for a male offspring and with each wife he had daughters. Eventually his first son was born to the very first wife.

Huzur said those who wish for children or those who wish for sons should pray to Allah and seek from Him as it is taught in the Holy Qur’an (37:101 and 3:39). He said when people express their desire to have a son to me I always tell them to ask Allah for pious and healthy children. At times daughters serve the parent more and are more virtuous.

Huzur receives many letters from parents who are concerned about their children going wayward. He said what is important is that the children are virtuous otherwise it is of no use.

Huzur gave the Promised Messiah’s (on whom be peace) definition of Sahileen (righteous) as those who have no spiritual ailment and who have no element of sedition in them.

Desire to have pious children and prayers in this regard are of no avail unless parents do not keep an eye on themselves, unless parents also become Saliheen and abide by taqwa. There is a need to be mindful of this and to put it in practice. May Allah enable all of us to do so.

Inaugural Sermon by Khalifatul Masih V for Baitul Mahdi

Ahmadi Mosques promote equality: Press release from Baitul Mahdi inauguration

Baitul Mahdi Friday Sermon

Huzur delivered today’s Friday Sermon from Bradford, England at the occasion of the inauguration of a new mosque Baitul Mahdi. Huzur cited verses 29 to 32 of Surah Ibrahim (14:29) at the beginning of the sermon.

Huzur praised the beautiful mosque and its beautiful elevated location that gives a panoramic view of the city of Bradford. Huzur said this was but with the grace of God.

Huzur said that he would be inaugurating another mosque in the city of Sheffield tomorrow. In addition two new centres have been purchased in the region Huzur is currently visiting.

Huzur gave some facts and figures about the new Bradford mosque and remarked at the hard work people had put in its completion.

Huzur specifically mentioned the contribution of UK Lajna towards the building of this mosque. He said the UK Jama’at is also waking up to the need to have purpose-built mosques, may Allah enable them to achieve their target of twenty five soon.

Huzur said recently there has been an inclination among young people specifically in Europe to turn to Islam. It is our responsibility to take care of this leaning and draw people to the true Islam that Ahmadiyyat represents.

Huzur said merely the construction of a beautiful mosque is not sufficient. It is imperative to fulfil the objectives of a mosque. That is, turn to Allah with pure intent with a heart that is replete with the desire to seek His pleasure as well as fulfil the rights of fellow mankind.

Huzur said he expected each member of the Community of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) to have this fervour, otherwise Allah commanded a certain type of mosque to be razed to the ground. Huzur cited verses 107 to 109 of Surah Tauba to expound this point.

Huzur said it cannot be expected from the Community of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) who was sent in the latter-days so that people may recognise Allah, so that creation may honour creation, that their mosques will be a cause of pain, or God forgive us, be a source of spreading disbelief or that they will give refuge to hypocrites. Therefore we have to spread the message of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) in our surroundings and let the world know that the Mahdi who was to come in subservience of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) to remove the troubles of the world has indeed come.

He had come to lay the foundation of peace and conciliation and the mosques of his Community shall lay the foundation of love, peace and forbearance.

Today the Ahmadiyya Community is at the forefront of the communities who work towards alleviating the pain and suffering of others. Our services all over the world are self-less, unique and of numerous in scope.

In the Surah Tauba verses that cite the mosque that was not built for Allah, one of the evils mentioned about it is that it spread disbelief. Huzur said our mosques are built to fulfil the rights of the One and Only God and to fulfil the objective of our creation. The Bradford area has a lot of Muslim population and one of its sections was not pleased with the building of our mosque. They tried to make difficulties during the construction. However, with Allah’s grace our mosque is complete; therefore we should try and fulfil the right of worship of Allah with greater sincerity.

We should do so in light of the pronouncement of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) that his advent was to sow the eternal sapling of pure and luminous Unity of God among people once again.

We are the people who claim to belong to his Community; therefore we are the branches of this plant. As long as we are lush we will fulfil our rights, otherwise we will be separated like dry and rotten branches. We have to prove with our word and our deed that we build mosques for the worship of God.

Allah states that mosques are not built by those who cause division among believers, therefore each Ahmadi should herald love and peace from their word and deed and be a quintessence of ‘tender among themselves’ (48:30) Then alone will our Tabligh efforts be fruitful. It is the obligation of the Community of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) that their practises are those of true believers. They have to implement the teachings of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) in their lives and thus establish this mosque on the model about which Allah states its foundation is laid on taqwa and to seek Divine pleasure.

We are free from hypocrisy and work purely for the sake of Allah. By giving the example of the design of the hypocrites to injure Islam in the days of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) Allah has consoled us that just as this ploy failed in the early days in future if believers continue to abide by sincere belief Allah will save them from every evil.

The fundamental aspect for one who builds a mosque is pure intention; they should be free from any subversive thoughts and should have a sense of sacrifice.

The fact that this mosque can be seen from the city and appears prominent should not alone be a source of joy for us. The real beauty of the mosque will be apparent when we tread the path of taqwa and fulfil our objectives. Each Ahmadi should try that along with the building of mosque they focus on worship of God with sincerity and create an ambience of brotherhood, be forgiving, free from malice and rancour, fulfil the rights of own and others and be humble. Only then would one be rightful recipients of the saying of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) that God makes a home in Paradise for one who builds a mosque on earth.

The aforementioned verse (14:32) cites two commandments which are constantly repeated in the Holy Qur’an. The first commandment is that of observing Prayer.

With the construction of this mosque our responsibility will increase because construction of new mosques generally widens exposure. Therefore it is important to raise the standards of worship of God. Enhanced worship would lead to our reformation and we will have better opportunities to take the message of Ahmadiyyat to others and reap betters results.

The second commandment is to give in the cause of God. The foundations of the Hartlepool mosque and this mosque in Bradford were laid on the same day. However, the Hartlepool mosque, being smaller, was completed two years ago. What Huzur wished to mention was that at the inauguration of the Hartlepool mosque Huzur had announced the commencement of the new Tehrik e Jadid year. It was the first time Huzur had announced the new Tehrik e Jadid year outside London. By chance, today once again it was the occasion to announce the new year for Tehrik e Jadid.

The scheme of Tehrik e Jadid was initiated by Hadhrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) when the enmity of the opponents was at its peak. However, with the launch of this scheme the Tabligh of Ahmadiyyat increased dramatically and today the mosques and the centres that we are making are in fact the fruits of this Tehrik. Giving in the way of Allah facilitates publication of literature, construction of mosques, training of missionaries.

Previously we had just two Jamias. Now, with the growing need for missionaries many Jamias have been opened in the world. Britain is among the fortunate countries to have a Jamia.

Just as regular Salat is needed, similarly constant giving is required. A one-off giving does not fulfil one’s obligations. Now Allah has opened new ways and means of Tabligh, like MTA. Today the world is listening to this Friday Sermon live through MTA. We now have to take our message to each city, each town, each street of the world and for this financial giving is needed. Indeed, we also affirm giving in our pledge.

It is the blessing of Allah that He Himself puts the passion of giving in the members of the Community. In these times of global economic crisis Allah assures believers that their worship and their giving will protect them from the bad effects of this crisis. This is because a believer has his/her sight on the final objective for which, i.e. for seeking the pleasure of Allah worship and financial giving is of avail. It is Allah’s grace that Ahmadis comprehend this matter. At times one feels that maybe the financial commitments are a lot but Ahmadis continue to spend in the way of Allah.

Many await the announcement of the commencement of the Tehrik e Jadid year with their saved up contributions. They do not keep their account with Allah in debit. Some have to be reminded by Huzur that their families also have a right, to which they respond that this is why they are ‘making a deal with Allah.’

The giving of Ahmadi women is greater than those of men. UK Lajna has participated in the construction of this mosque as well as the Berlin mosque. A wave of giving seems to have taken course in Britain and UK Lajna has a part in it.

At the end of the 74th financial year for Tehrik e Jadid the contributions made stand at £ 4,102,792.00. This amount, despite the global economic crisis, is £500,000 more than last year.

This year once again Pakistan stands first in making the biggest contribution, second is USA, then the UK, Germany, Canada, Indonesia, India, Belgium and Australia in joint eight position, Switzerland, and the joint tenth position goes to Nigeria and Mauritius. Huzur said USA has secured the second position but their total contribution is less than last year’s while the exchange rate of US dollar has been better this year. The contribution of UK is £74,000.00 more than last year.

Nigeria has made a significant improvement and has joined the first ten Jama’ats thus being the first Africa country to join the rank of the first ten.

The total number of contributors to Tehrik e Jadid is 500,000 which Huzur deems is still insufficient.

Huzur said the registers/accounts of those belonging to Dafter Awwal of Tehrik Jadid (the original contributors of the first 19 years) have been restored, some by their families, others by the Central Jama’at.

In Pakistan the first three big contributors are the Jama’ats of Lahore, Rabwah and Karachi.

In the UK, among the large majalis the positions are as follows: London Mosque, Worcester Park, West Hill, Tooting, Sutton, Bradford, Manchester, Gillingham and Inner Park. The smaller majalis stand as follows: Scunthorpe, Wolverhampton, Bristol, Spen Valley, Leamington Spa, Bournemouth, North Wales, Woking, Keighley and Devon & Cornwell.

In USA the first four Jama’ats are; Silicon Valley, Chicago West, North Virginia and Detroit.

In Canada the first three positions go to Calgary North East, Calgary North West and Peace Village.

Huzur prayed that may Allah reward all those who participated in Tehrik e Jadid this year – may He bless their wealth immeasurably and may they continue to make financial sacrifices and may they enhance their standards of worship of Allah.

Global Economic Crisis & The Provider (Al Razzaq)

Friday Sermon 10/31/08 by Ameerul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih V

“Have they not seen that Allah enlarges the provision to whomsoever He pleases, and straitens it to whomsoever He pleases? In that are Signs for a people who believe. So give to the kinsman his due, and to the needy and to the wayfarer. That is best for those who seek the favour of Allah, and it is they who will prosper. Whatever you pay as interest that it may increase the wealth of the people, it does not increase in the sight of Allah; but whatever you give in Zakat seeking the favour of Allah-it is these who will increase their wealth manifold. It is Allah Who has created you, and then He has provided for you; then He will cause you to die, and then He will bring you to life. Is there any of your ‘partners’ who can do these things? Glorified be He and exalted above that which they associate with Him.” (30:38) - (30-41)

Huzoor (aba) recited these verses after Surah Al Fatihah and opened today’s sermon by reminding us that Allah is Razzaq i.e. The Provider. He it is Who causes wealth to increase or to decrease. A true believer is never troubled by these ups and downs; in fact it is a source of progress in his faith when God manifests this attribute by His grace.

The financial crisis has enveloped the entire world these days. All nations of the world, the developed and the underdeveloped countries alike, are trapped in this tangled web. Some countries that previously enjoyed strong economic conditions, so much so that they believed they could rule the world because they possessed the most advanced technologies (science, food, weapons, medicine) and other nations would forever be dependent on them for their own existence, are seeing their economy break down before their eyes. The truth of the matter is that these economies were based on frail policies which have collapsed, resulting in a global economic crisis. The true controller indeed is God, but these superpower nations fail to acknowledge this fact. The solutions they are now coming up with to save their economy are again not long-lasting, nor reliable. The real solution lies only in gaining nearness to God and following His teachings. Unfortunately, the Muslims nations are also involved in similar practices instead of following the guidelines laid out in the Holy Quran and these nations have no sense of guilt or shame. The heads of these countries are extremely selfish and are interested in filling their personal bank accounts. Middle Eastern countries (oil-rich nations) managed to build the most modern infrastructure for themselves, but they did not use their resources as God has commanded i.e. to help the poorer Muslim nations. Instead, they have been investing their profits and excess wealth in Western countries so that they may accumulate interest on their deposits. On the other hand, they developed a system of Islamic banking for display purposes in their own countries, which in fact is just a sugar-coated label given to the same system of interest and usury and does not follow the true Quranic teachings.

Allah, The Provider, admonishes the believers to spend on their relatives, on the poor and on the wayfarer, in order to gain the pleasure of Allah and to prosper spiritually and materially as well. A true believer is not one who merely utters empty words from his mouth, but he is one who has firm faith in God, Who provides for all his needs, and he out of his earnings spends according to the will of God. In light of this, we must remember that a Muslim is a brother of another Muslim. Similarly, Muslim nations are duty-bound that they should help other under-privileged Muslim nations and not regard this help as charity, but as a fulfillment of their religious responsibility. Had the wealthy Muslim nations fulfilled this responsibility instead of investing in western countries to earn interest, they would have earned the pleasure of God, but they failed to do so and are now suffering the adverse affects of the global economic crisis.

Huzoor (aba) then explained in simple words the root cause of this economic crisis, pointing to the fact that the lending institutions in the western countries actually use funds deposited by their wealthy clients and forward this money as loans to those wishing to buy homes and other personal items. The money is scarcely loaned out for productive projects, which would actually render the economy stronger by creating more resources. These loans are handed out on easy terms (such as low down payments, and in some cases, 0% deposits). The borrower does not pay attention to the amount of money he will be paying in interest during the term of the contract. Since his income is limited, and he has to run the household along with repaying the loan, he finds himself sinking deeper into the abyss of debt, making it impossible for him to repay the loans in certain cases. When the repayments from such clients stopped, banks stopped lending money because funds were no longer readily available. The result is a global economic crisis. Any country that claims they are unaffected by this crisis (such as some Middle Eastern countries have claimed) are making false statements, firstly because their foreign investments have diminished in value and secondly because the worth of the natural resource they are so reliant upon i.e. oil has also diminished greatly. A recent editorial entitled “Sea of debt” stated that the US economy has plunged to such depths that an easy recovery is impossible. In fact, the entire world is facing a similar situation. In the US, the excessive use of credit card had spoilt the individuals to the extent that they were involved in reckless spending. Now that funds are not so readily available and there are more restrictions from credit card companies, these individuals are refraining themselves from spending. Car sales have plummeted to a record low and air travel is on the decline. This has resulted in decreased consumption of fuel which has caused the oil prices to fall. In addition, individuals are spending less on all that comes under the umbrella of personal entertainment, which again will result in the rise of depression (i.e. mental health will be compromised).

Therefore Allah says that those who use interest as a form of income are similar to those who are smitten with insanity by Satan (2:276). At another place, Allah has declared interest to be “haram” (unlawful). Use of interest causes one to fall into a vicious cycle, making it extremely difficult to break oneself away from it. Huzoor (aba) quoted a joke at this point: “If my neighbor loses his job, it is recession. If I lose my job, it is depression.” This joke only points to the present detrimental global situation, where thousands upon thousands of jobs have been lost. Huzoor (aba) cautioned the world in strong words, saying that if there is an iota of sense left in you, abandon the use of interest. Instead, invest in trades that are Islamically viable, suggesting that Muslim nations should take lead in this. Huzoor (aba) then gave the example of countries such as Pakistan and other African nations, where the heads of the countries have become extremely corrupt and disloyal to their countries, adding fuel to fire. Such nations have been surviving on loans from wealthier countries, but have no clue as to how these loans are to be repaid. These countries are blessed with natural resources, but it has become their shameless practice to beg for funds time and time again. The truth of the matter is that they have forgotten the teachings of God Almighty and will incur a greater wrath of God. Huzoor (aba) said that the system of interest/usury creates an ever-widening gap between the rich and the poor, but the Islamic system i.e. the system of Zakat creates harmony among all members of a society. Huzoor (aba) advised that everyone, and more specifically the Muslims should stop taking loans; this will prevent from such economic crises to recur every few years.

In the verses recited at the beginning of the sermon, Huzoor (aba) reminded that Allah did not only create us but promised to provide for His creation, on the condition that we follow His commandments. The instability and frustration and the sense of imminent war that exists in the world today is a result of the wealth of the world revolving only among the privileged few, whereas the underprivileged can view them only from a distance, never securing a share for themselves. Another reason for the destruction of world peace also stems from the fact that the richer nations have been eyeing the natural resources of the underdeveloped countries to be used for their own benefit. Islamic traditions strongly condemn this. Huzoor (aba) said that the world must understand the following golden rules to put a stop to such economic crises:

Learn to stay within your means, at a personal and a national level. Be content with what you can easily afford and do not be dazzled with bigger houses and bigger cars forcing yourselves into the system of debt.

Refrain from interest/usury.

Wealthy nations should abstain from trying to gain control over natural resources of other countries. The underprivileged countries should have the confidence that their resources will be used for the benefit of their country only even when there is international intervention.

Heads of nation should be loyal and patriotic to their country.

The rights and obligations of poor must be fulfilled.

These rules are based on Islamic teachings, therefore it is Islam that presents the most sound solution to the crises the world faces today. Huzoor (aba) said that Taqwa is a must if you wish to prosper. There is no salvation if we do not pay heed to the Word of God and believe in the Imam of the day. Huzoor (aba) read out from the writings of the Promised Messiah (as) where he has reminded us that we should be grateful to Allah Almighty that He has blessed us by revealing the spiritual light that we so desperately need for our salvation in this day and age. Huzoor (aba) prayed that may Allah guide the world to the right path and enable them to practice the true teachings of Islam, Ameen.

Friday Sermon 10/10/08 - Khalifatul Masih V

Huzur delivered today’s Friday Sermon from the newly built Masjid Mubarak, Bait us Salaam in St. Prix, near Paris in France.

Huzur cited verse 27 of Surah Al A’raf. Its translation reads:

“O’ children of Adam! We have sent down to you raiment to cover your shame, and to be an elegant dress; but the raiment of righteousness – that is the best. That is one of the signs of Allah, that they may remember.”

Huzur said that with the grace of Allah the French Jama’at has been enabled to build their first ever mosque. May Allah make this mosque a strong foundation for building further mosques which may not have any legal impediments and may the members of the Jama’at be also infused with a spirit of sacrifice to build more mosques. Huzur said the construction of this mosque has certainly proven that if one is resolute Allah removes impediments in the fullness of time. Huzur said due to the objections of the local people there has been some restriction on the height of the minarets of the beautiful mosque. However, at least permission has been given for this to be a functional mosque; InshaAllah the matter of the height of the minarets will also be resolved gradually.

Huzur said when this site was just a hall for offering Salat, there would be complaints from the local people and one day the Mayor of St. Prix, who Huzur said was present today, had also visited in anger. However, when Allah changed his heart with His grace it was the Mayor who gave formal permission for the building of the mosque. Huzur said he remembered the Mayor had also come to a Jalsa some years ago and had removed his shoes before coming to the stage and had met Huzur respectfully. In this way the very person who was opposed to the construction of the mosque not only gave permission to go ahead with the construction but was also helpful in removing the impediments and is still being helpful. May Allah reward him and open up his heart further.

Huzur said all this is a blessing of Allah and is something that should make us grateful to Him and the way to be grateful is to worship Him in a better and enhanced way and to adopt taqwa more than before. While a mosque facilitates worship of God and turning to Him it also draws one’s attention towards service to mankind. Thankfulness is likely when we come to the mosque for sincere worship of God and leave all worldly matters outside. He is the Lord of all the worlds and if we fully comprehend this we would think of none other when coming to worship Him and we will be saved from concealed/latent shirk (associating partners with Allah). Having accepted the Imam of the age and having pledged to bring about pure/pious changes in ourselves we should make it to the mosque for congregational Prayers, not just on Fridays but most days.

The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said that the heart is at the centre of all worship and if the heart is not inclined to Allah then what avail would be any worship? He said there are thousands of mosques in the world but the worship that goes on in them is but a ritual. Huzur said the expectations that the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) had from us are quite tremendous. He was greatly pained for us, his followers, to reform ourselves and build a connection with Allah and he counselled and advised us regarding this. Huzur said there are mosques that our mosques cannot compete with in terms of beauty. However, the real beauty towards which the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) draws out attentions cannot be found in those mosques because the people of those mosques have not accepted the Imam of the age in accordance with the commandment of Allah and His Messenger. With the construction of this mosque in St. Prix, Huzur said the responsibilities of the Ahmadis have increased. Now the eyes of the Muslims and non-Muslims will be on them. Indeed, Huzur said the Ameer sahib had shown Huzur an article in a magazine of huge circulation, featuring an introductory article on the Jama’at with reference to the mosque. Introduction of the Jama’at opens ways and means for Tabligh as well as creates jealously and envy which leads to enmity. The best way of protection from this is through prayer; turn to Allah with sincerity and pray with humility and earnestness.

Huzur said with the building of the mosque come three challenges. The first challenge is to try and attend the five daily Prayers at the mosque with sincerity. Living in the Western world in general and near the city of Paris, which is associated with the razzle-dazzle of this world, in particular, turning to God would certainly attract His love. The second challenge, Huzur said is of Tabligh. Indeed the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said that anywhere an introduction of Islam is needed, a mosque should be built. Huzur said just as a magazine had published a piece on the mosque even before its formal opening. When the opportunities for Tabligh open the eyes of the world will be on us. Huzur said generally Tabligh has borne fruit in France but it is limited to a certain ethnic group, i.e. the Arabs. Huzur said it is the right of the Arabs that the message of the true and ardent devotee of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) is taken to them. It is their favour on us that they brought the message of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) to us and saved our lives and our Hereafter. Therefore it is our foremost duty to take the message of the true and ardent devotee of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) to the Arabs. However, we should always bear in mind that the advent of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) was for the entire world and the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) was commissioned to gather the world under the banner of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him). It our task to pray for this – the fruition is in the hands of Allah, only His grace can accomplish matters. The third challenge, Huzur said, was to keep an eye on our practices, our deeds. The people we do Tabligh to will certainly watch how we conduct ourselves. Today we have to be watchful over our practices and turn to Allah with sincerity and save millions from the earthly and heavenly calamities and bring them under the banner of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him).

Huzur said there should be no feeling of smugness at the completion of the building of the mosque. Each step of a believer towards piety draws his/her attention to further piety and as he/she develops in piety the sense of responsibility increases and there is greater aspiration to do good works. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) gave us the glad-tiding that one who builds a house of God on this earth will have a reciprocal house in Paradise, however it is conditional that the house of God (mosque) in the world is built purely for the sake of Allah. Huzur said one tries to offer Prayer with absolute sincerity in a mosque that is made purely for the sake of Allah and rather than feel pride over it one’s heart is filled with humility and awe of God that He may accept the sacrifice one has made in the building of the mosque.

Huzur said the best way to offer thankfulness to Allah for this new mosque in France is to develop in taqwa and to make each act of one’s worship to attain the pleasure of Allah. Huzur the Quranic verse cited at the start guides one to this by giving the example of clothing/apparel and its two attributes; to cover one’s weakness and to adorn one. Huzur said clothing/apparel covers any physical flaw we may have and protects us from the extremes of weather. Beautiful clothing/apparel enhances one’s personality. However, in the Western countries, especially this country, the clothing of women in particular have become most obscene and the more revealing they are the better they are considered. In particular in the summer months they are extremely exposing. Huzur said the reference to ‘raiment of righteousness’ in the verse draws attention that the function of apparent clothing/apparel is two fold but if there is a lack of taqwa even these two functions cannot be fulfilled. Indeed the best clothing/apparel is that of taqwa. Explaining the Arabic word ‘reesh’ (elegant dress) in the verse Huzur said it also means ‘feather, plumage of birds’. Indeed a bird without its plumage looks quite horrible. However, unfortunately these days the concept of a beautiful dress is in its nakedness. Sadly the odd Muslim and Ahmadi woman is also influenced by this and once they abandon their purdah it leads to further exposure. In response to a question raised by a new Ahmadi recently Huzur had told him that children should be made aware of their personal sanctity from an early age; who are they and what does God want from them. They should be made aware about clothing from an early age of five to six years old that whatever their environment, they are Ahmadis and Allah likes clothes to cover our bodies. Huzur said ‘reesh’ also means wealth and explained the significance of not earning wealth through wrong means, through defrauding the government of taxes etc. Huzur said it is essential to adopt what is permissible to cover one’s weaknesses and for this the clothing/apparel of taqwa is the best. Huzur said just as our father Adam (on whom be peace) covered his weakness we should be mindful of this aspect and continue to protect ourselves with taqwa and Istaghfar (seeking forgiveness). This would save us from much of this world’s absurdities.

The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) explained that ‘raiment of righteousness’ means that one’s spiritual elegance or beauty is only through taqwa. The raiment of taqwa can be taken on by fulfilling the pledge one makes to Allah. An Ahmadi may fulfil this pledge by adopting the modus operandi that the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) gave us in the form of the Ten Conditions of Bai’at. The first condition is to abstain from all forms of shirk. Worldly engagements can take us away form remembrance of Allah. It is in our real benefit to avoid latent/hidden forms of shirk. The second condition is to keep away from ills that we face daily, like falsehood, trespass of the eye, adultery. Huzur said adultery does not just connote the act in itself but also frequent bad thoughts. There is also cruelty, dishonesty, mischief, rebellion etc. that are to be abstained from. The third condition is the offering of the five daily Prayers. Now with the new mosque, Huzur said, this should be especially borne in mind. Attention should be given to offering Tahajjud and to invoke (Durud) blessings and salutations on the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him). Durud advances one in spirituality. The fourth condition is not to harm creation of Allah in general and Muslims in particular under any impulse of anger etc. Huzur said if this was adopted all the grievances of the world would disappear. The fifth condition is to remain faithful to God under all circumstances. The sixth condition is to restrain all worldly desires and obey God and His Messenger. The seventh condition is that arrogance and vanity should be completely given up and humility adopted. The eight condition is to hold the honour of Islam dearer than one’s life and property. The ninth condition is to try and benefit mankind and the tenth condition is to have perfect obedience and love for the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace). Huzur said after the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) the rule now applies to Khilafat e Ahmadiyya. Huzur said this pledge is indeed essential for taqwa.

The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said that endeavour should be made to become righteous. He said righteousness if of two kinds; about knowledge and about practice. The truth is not disclosed to one unless one becomes righteous. Salat, fasting and general worship is flawed unless one is righteous.

Addressing the congregation Huzur said may Allah bless them all with the blessings of the new mosque and may they all live with love, affection and a sense of brotherhood, may the office-holders, in light of the system of the Community, conduct themselves with humility and the members, again in light of the system of the Community be compliant. May Allah increase the sincere connection with Khilafat of the old Ahmadis and may He also increase the sincerity of the new comers whose love and affection for Khilafat is evident from their faces. Huzur said just before Jummah Majid sahib told him that it was in Dec 1984 during a visit to France that Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IV (may Allah have mercy on him) had first mentioned his vision of seeing the digit of ten shining on his watch and with this the words ‘Friday the 10th’ coming to his mind. Huzur said today was also Friday the 10th and the inauguration of the first mosque in France was taking place. May all the blessings of ‘Friday the 10th’ the tidings of which were given to Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IV (may Allah have mercy on him), and which Allah fulfils in many ways, be associated with this mosque.

Many centuries ago Muslims came to France through Spain but they faced difficulties. Huzur said materialism had become the dominant factor for them and they had to retreat. However the weapon of love, affection and prayers that the Messiah of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) has been given is a most purposeful weapon and wins hearts and can never be turned away and its effect is life-infusing. The Ahmadis of France, the servants of the Messiah of Muhammad, should be mindful that this time the operation is to win hearts and minds and is not coming from outside but from within France Allah has facilitated arrangements for this. The standards of Tabligh should be raised so that pious souls may swiftly gather under the banner of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him). May Allah enable the French Jama’at to do so.

Next Huzur announced the sad new of the passing away of Maulana Bashir Ahmad sahib Qamar. He was the Nazir e Ala of Taleemul Qur’an for Waqfe Arzi in Pakistan. He was 74 years old. He served till the very end and had recently fallen ill. He dedicated his life in 1950 and had served in Ghana and Fiji. He had many good qualities and was very simple-natured. Huzur said in Africa Huzur personally saw him with great love for the Africans and working very hard. He lived alone so he would cook for himself. He wrote to Huzur a day before his passing away and wrote in broken words about his health and added that may Allah always grant Huzur pious, helpful people. Huzur prayed for his elevated status in Paradise and mentioned that he was the father of the Vikalul Isha’at in London Maulana Naseer Ahmad Qamar. May Allah grant patience and steadfastness to his bereaved family, he leaves behind three sons and four daughters.

Another missionary of the Community also passed away recently in Australia. He had served in the Ivory Coast, Fiji and Ghana. He was a very simple-natured person. He was diagnosed cancer recently. May Allah grant steadfastness to his wife and children.

Huzur announced that he would lead funeral Prayer in absentia for both the deceased.