Khilafat
Shahid Diaries – Nasar Ahmed Arshad
A Murabbi narrates anecdotes from staying in Islamabad during the pandemic
After recently finishing the exams and interviews for our Shahid Degree, we were at home due to the pandemic. But that all changed one day as we were called to be COVID tested and told we would be quarantining in Jamia Ahmadiyya UK so that we could do duties in Islamabad. (This was in June 2020).
A few weeks passed and another call came. This time the message was to pack our bags and move to Islamabad. Little did we know that this was the place we would now call home. Being at the doorstep of Khilafat was a blessing in itself, but knowing that out of millions of Ahmadis, we were a select few that were able to pray behind Huzoor-e-Anwaraba, to see him and to be blessed with his greetings was quite extraordinary.
Our duties were spread throughout the day to give us time to rest, ensuring we were vigilant for the next shift. Some of us were very fortunate to be on duty whilst Huzoor-e-Anwaraba would come out to inspect Islamabad and there would often be interactions with Huzooraba also. Once Huzooraba came to inspect the field of Islamabad and to my good fortune I was outside having a drink of water. I was very fortunate to be one of the few that were accompanying Huzooraba through the grass. During this 10-15 minute walk he turned towards me and asked whether my wife and daughter had arrived in the UK. To this I replied that as of yet they have not but Insha’Allah they would be joining me soon. It was a surprise for me as Huzooraba was very busy and interested in this inspection and the fact that he took time to ask about my family personally, left me speechless and ever more thankful at having the opportunity to serve so close to Huzooraba.
At the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, myself and another Khadim were on the outer perimeter of Islamabad for our shift. After Eid prayers we saw on MTA that Huzooraba had made his way to see and give his blessings to those standing outside the Mosque. I was very happy for my fellows as they had the opportunity of being spoken to by Huzooraba, but there was also a piece of me wishing I could have been there. It was not too long after when we saw a car approaching our post. A Khadim came out with a cup in his hand and said “This is Huzoor’saba herbal tea, he said to give it to those who were on duty outside.” Words cannot describe the emotions that we went through.
Alhamdulillah, we were very fortunate to be able to set up for, attend and help wind up Jalsa Salana 2020 that was held inside Islamabad. I was also blessed with the opportunity to recite the Holy Qur’an in the concluding session. A chance that I would not have had if it was not for the situation we were in.
It should be known to all that we were not just there on our own terms, rather Huzooraba had kept us there and personally was looking after even our smallest needs. On a few occasions, Huzooraba would come to our accommodation after Namaz and bless us with his presence. He would inquire where we slept and how we were living and would even give advice on how to maintain hygiene and cleanliness. He made sure that we had everything we needed.
Another evening, I was on duty on the walkway towards the mosque. It was just before Isha’a and to my amazement I saw Huzooraba holding the banister of his staircase and looking in my direction out of his window. I was in awe and panicking. After Namaz I remember a member of the security team knocked on my cabin and handed me a plate, he said “This plate of aloo mattar (potatoes and peas) has been sent from Huzoor’saba house”. Again, words will not do justice to the feelings of the moment.
It had now been three months that we were living inside Islamabad and a message came through from the office of the private secretary that you will be having a meeting with Huzooraba. Everyone broke into a state of excitement and were also confused as to what this could be about. Many previous graduates from Jamia gave the suggestion that this may be the meeting they all had before leaving for Africa and Pakistan.
The day of the meeting came and the location that was chosen was the main Mosque. As we entered there were cameras set up. We all took our seats and waited patiently for Huzooraba. As Huzooraba walked in, an awe overtook the entire hall and Huzooraba instructed straight away that the cameras be turned off and that no one should be in the mosque except our class. Little did we know that the king of this age had planned something for us that our future generations will Insha’Allah hold dear to their hearts. This was the start of the series of classes in which we were personally led by Huzooraba. Till date we have read Haqeeqatul Wahi [The Philosophy of Divine Revelation], Paigham-e-Sulh [Message of Peace], Taqdeer-e-Ilahi [Divine Predetermination] and Malaikatullah [Angels of Allah].
Since September, we have had 1 or 2 sittings with Huzooraba every week in which most of the time would be studying and understanding the book in question followed by some time Huzooraba gave us to ask questions and speak to Huzooraba about anything.
In these sittings we have had first-hand guidance from Huzooraba in regards to bettering ourselves first and then focusing on others. Huzooraba checks on our Tahajjud, our routines and what we do in our free time. Also, he keeps check on our diets and in our sittings, discusses a possible menu and has instructed that we discuss a menu and then show him. This menu was implemented within the same week.
I had been blessed with a baby daughter who was born in Canada and after 10 months, in December 2020 my family was given the all clear to come over. Huzooraba had also graciously approved for my posting to be in Wakalat Maal Islamabad. As my family were coming soon, I was also blessed with a small bungalow 3 minutes away from Islamabad.
The purpose of the article was not to show how lucky we are staying so close to Huzooraba, rather, it is to highlight Huzoor’saba compassion, love and care for each and every individual of the Jama’at. If it was not me, there would be someone else in my place and Huzooraba would not treat him any differently. We are so lucky. We can only do justice to this blessing of God by praying in our Namaz that may Allah always protect His Khalifah and may He give him a long and healthy life. Ameen.
Ijtema
MKA National Ijtema 2022
At a time when everyone is feeling the blues after the success of Jalsa Salana UK 2022, the perfect antidote is just around the corner. The National Khuddam and Atfal Ijtema 2022 will be taking place on the 9th, 10th and 11th of September 2022 at Old Park Farm in Kingsley.
This is a perfect opportunity for all Khuddam and Atfal across the country to come together and enjoy the extensive array of academics, activities, discussion and food planned for the entire weekend. Additionally, it’s a great way for Khuddam to rekindle lost friendships after the pandemic.
Our world has taken a turn towards mischief and society is increasingly moving further away from their Lord. The responsibility of bringing the world back to God rests on the shoulders of the youth of today. This duty is arduous and cannot be undertaken unless self-reformation is brought on first. The National Ijtema is a means of directing the Ahmadi Youth of today towards their duties and responsibilities as Ahmadi Muslims.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba) said on the occasion of the National Ijtema in 2013,
“It is the Ahmadi Muslim youths who will be the means of leading others towards success and true freedom. To do this, you must learn about your faith so that you can display the highest moral standards in all aspects of your lives. Only when you strive for such high standards will you be able to paint the true picture of peaceful Islam for the people of the world.”
And the statement of Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad (ra) – who founded Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya – that “Nations cannot be reformed without the reformation of their youth” sets forth such a profound philosophy for all Nations to come. And it is at Ijtema that the youth of Ahmadiyyat can foster these qualities within themselves to become the guiding forces for the future generations.
This year we have a lot to offer all attendees including the academic competitions, exhibitions, indoor and outdoor competitive and non-competitive sports, interactive discussions on hot topics and inspiring talks on the issues that are affecting our young people across the whole country. And of course, National Ijtema would not be complete without The Hub. This year, we have lots of fun and engaging activities taking place in The Hub, and we’re not just talking about the café with Waffles, Ice Cream and Milk Shakes… come and test your mettle with the Scalextric F1 racing challenge and the PlayStation racing experience. Ask a Murabbi your burning questions or take a seat and Chit Chat Chai about Islam, metaphysics and other contemporary issues.
We have all of the usual outdoor team sports taking place such as Football, Volleyball, Cricket, and Tug of war, as well as individual sports competitions such as 100m race and Strong man competition. For indoor sports competitions, we have Weight Lifting, Basketball, Table Tennis and Armed Forces Activities just to name a few.
Unlike last year when we couldn’t offer accommodation to all Khuddam and Atfal due to Covid restrictions, this year we are making necessary arrangements with necessary amenities for our Khuddam and Atfal brothers to stay on-site if they wish to do so. Sanitised mattresses will be provided and those wishing to stay overnight must bring their own bedding.
Due to the still prevalent Covid pandemic, we are still keeping in place some measures to keep all of the attendees safe during the weekend. Wear a mask, keep a safe distance and try to refrain from handshaking and hugging. On arrival, you need to provide proof of a negative LFT no less than 24 hours old so please register your negative LFT on NHS Website before you leave for the Ijtema. We will put a sticker on your AIMS card, and this will give you access to the Ijtema site for the next 3 days.
One of the highlights of the National Ijtema is to spend time in the company of our Beloved Imam, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aba) so we can elevate our spirituality and increase our love for Khilafat. We were blessed to have the blessed company of Huzoor (aba) in last year’s Ijtema. This year again we are fortunate that InshaAllah Huzoor (aba) will be gracing us with his presence and we can once again benefit from the blessed company and guidance of Beloved Huzoor (aba).
We look forward to welcoming you to the National Ijtema in less than 24 hours! Please visit mka.uk/ijtema-reg to register today and visit ijtema.org.uk for more details about the Ijtema and to access the interactive academic syllabus. Please reach out to your local/Regional Qaid Sahib if you have any questions or email [email protected].
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Articles
Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih V Inaugurates Islamabad Convenience Store
On the 1st of April 2022, after Asr Namaz, Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih V (aba) inaugurated the MKA Tuck Shop in Islamabad. Huzoor (aba) opened the Homeopathic Dispensary adjacent to the Tuck Shop before gracing the Khuddam store. Huzoor (aba) unveiled a plaque and led everyone in silent prayer after which Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, Abdul Quddus Arif, Mohtamim Sanat-o-Tijarat, Umar Hassan, and Motamid Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, Nassar Bhatti, had the opportunity to show Huzoor (aba) the store and its wares.
Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih V (aba) unveils the plaque outside the Convenience Store.
Huzoor (aba) leading Silent Prayer after opening the Store.
Sadr Sahib MKA UK and Mohtamim Sanat-o-Tijarat have the blessed opportunity to present the Store to Huzoor (aba).
Huzoor (aba) graced Khuddam with his precious time and distributed sweets to children who had gathered outside.
Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih V (aba) graces Naib Mohtamim Isha’at, Mudabbir Din, with his attention.
Immediately after Huzoor (aba) stepped outside the store, Huzoor (aba) was informed by Sadr Sahib about the Khuddam present with Huzoor (aba) speaking to a few as well. All those who had gathered were greatly moved by Huzoor’s presence.
This tuck shop will Insha’Allah serve as a small convenience store for the residents of Islamabad and visitors. The Homeopathy Dispensary has also opened alongside the MKA Tuck Shop.
Articles
Wars will Stop when the World Turns to the Promised Messiah Says Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih V
In today’s Friday Sermon, Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih V (aba) once again reminded Ahmadis around the world to pray for an end to the current crisis.
In today’s Friday Sermon, Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih Vaba once again reminded Ahmadis around the world to pray for an end to the current crisis. Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih V stated:
Pray that Allah the Almighty grants both sides of the conflict proper understanding and they stop this murder of humanity.
Huzooraba further commented that Muslims should learn from the unity that the West has displayed in condemning the war:
Muslims should learn from this war. The [West] has become united, yet Muslims, despite belonging to one creed, never unite. They had one country destroyed; Iraq was destroyed, Syria was destroyed, Yemen is being destroyed—they cause this destruction through outsiders and are doing it themselves too, instead of being united. At the very least the Muslims should learn, from the West, how to be united.
Huzoor reiterated his continuous message that there will only be peace in the world when the world accepts the Imam of the Age—the Promised Messiahas:
May Allah have mercy on these nations, the Muslim nations and on the Muslim Ummah. This can only happen however, when these people accept the Imam of the Age who has been sent for this very purpose.
May Allah grant them understanding, and where they [the Muslims] reform themselves may they also pray and use their means to stop the world from wars, rather than themselves become embroiled in them.
Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih Vaba has been warning of an impending world crisis for a long time and has travelled the world spreading the message of the Promised Messiahas.
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The Takeaways from National Ijtema 2023
Atmosphere at National Ijtema
