Ijtema
Day 1 – Ijtema 2021 Photos
Dua after flag hoisting.
Sadr sb and Ameer sb proceeding to the opening session.
Ameer sb addressing the Majlis in the opening session.
Ameer sb during dua in opening session.
Khuddam participating in sports.
Khuddam listening attentively during the Ijtema proceedings.
Lateral flow testing outside the Ijtema Gah.
Registration at the Ijtema site.
Panel talk on the “Forever Alive” exhibition about Syed Taalay Ahmed.
Panel talk on the “Forever Alive” exhibition about Syed Taalay Ahmed.
Panel talk on the “Forever Alive” exhibition about Syed Taalay Ahmed.
Scenes at Ijtema 2021.
Mian Waqas Ahmad Sb’s talk on “Cherished Memories with Khilafat”.
Mian Waqas Ahmad Sb’s talk on “Cherished Memories with Khilafat”.
Namaz at Ijtema 2021.
Ijtema
Our Paradise lies in our God.” Understanding the theme of the year
For many centuries and millennia, human beings have looked to the sky. First to the moon, then to the planets, and now even to the stars. By nature, human beings are not easily content; they struggle to find satisfaction. This longing has occupied the minds of scholars and philosophers throughout history, yet many of them were never able to attain true inner peace.
Across the ages, there have been individuals who were gifted with contentment, satisfaction in their lives, they discovered inner tranquillity and recognised their true purpose. How beautifully the Promised Messiah (as) described this satisfaction when he said:ہمارا بہشت ہمارا خدا ہے “Our Paradise lies in our God.”
This is the theme given to Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK for the year by Huzoor-e-Anwar (aba)—a theme especially relevant in an age marked by atheism, restlessness, materialism and uncertainty, where every person is searching for peace and fulfilment. The Promised Messiah (as) reminds us once again that:
“Our Paradise lies in our God.”
This blessed line comes from a beautiful passage in the writings of the Promised Messiah (as), in which he further states:
ہمارا بہشت ہمارا خدا ہے، ہماری اعلیٰ لذات ہمارے خدا میں ہیں کیونکہ ہم نے اس کو دیکھا اور ہر ایک خوبصورتی اس میں پائی۔ یہ دولت لینے کے لائق ہے اگرچہ جان دینے سے ملے۔ اور یہ لعل خریدنے کے لائق ہے اگرچہ تمام وجود کھونے سے حاصل ہو۔ اے محرومو! اس چشمہ کی طرف دوڑو کہ وہ تمہیں سیراب کرے گا۔ یہ زندگی کا چشمہ ہے جو تمہیں بچائے گا۔ مَیں کیا کروں اور کس طرح اس خوشخبری کو دلوں میں بٹھا دوں۔ کس دف سے مَیں بازاروں میں مُنادی کروں کہ تمہارا یہ خدا ہے تا لوگ سن لیں۔ اور کس دوا سے مَیں علاج کروں تا سننے کے لئے لوگوں کے کان کھلیں ۔
(کشتی نوح، روحانی خزائن جلد 19صفحہ 22-21)
“Our paradise lies in our God. Our highest delight is in our God for we have seen Him and found every beauty in Him. This wealth is worth procuring though one might have to lay down one’s life to procure it. This ruby is worth purchasing though one may have to lose oneself to acquire it. O ye, who are deprived! Hasten to this fountain as it will satiate you. It is this fountain of life that will save you. What am I to do? How shall I impress the hearts with this good news? What sort of a drum am I to beat in the streets in order to make the announcement that this is your God, so that people might hear?”
(Noah’s Ark pg. 34)
This powerful passage of the Promised Messiah (as) highlights the importance of remembering Allah at all times and that nothing is more important than this.
You may be reading this and thinking, how can I achieve this? Is this paradise even achievable now? Is this only possible for prophets? Dear Khuddam! Let me be the first to give you the glad tidings that the Promised Messiah (as) gave to all of us over a century ago:
‘Rejoice and be happy that the field of achieving nearness to God is vacant. Every nation is in love with the world and to what pleases God the world pays no attention. Now is the time for those who wish to enter this door that they, mustering all their strength, show their mettle and win the much coveted prize from God. Don’t think that God will let you go to waste. You are the seed which the Hand of God has sown in the earth. God says that this seed will grow and flower and its branches will spread in all directions and it will become a huge tree.’
THE HOLY QURAN
The prophets of Allah had developed such a deep connection with Allah, that they had no fear, they had found true paradise by dedicated their lives to Allah, and Allah had returned this love with divine support. This way they had found paradise in not only this world but were to receive it in the hereafter. The Holy Quran speaks about this phenomenon saying: وَلِمَنۡ خَافَ مَقَامَ رَبِّہٖ جَنَّتٰنِ ﴿ۚ
‘For him who fears to stand before his Lord and is in awe of His Greatness and Majesty, there are two gardens [paradises], one in this world and the other in the Hereafter.’
This verse shows us that those who truly behold God Almighty in this life find the paradise that millions, no, billions, have passed away searching for. The Holy Qur’an is telling us, to seek the countenance of God Almighty in this very world, to discover a form of paradise before the next life begins. The fear of God can raise a person from complete obscurity and elevate him to the pinnacle of honour. Allah loves His servants and desires nothing except that they draw nearer to Him.
Who can forget that Allah has said:
اَلَّذِیۡنَ اٰمَنُوۡا وَتَطۡمَئِنُّ قُلُوۡبُہُمۡ بِذِکۡرِ اللّٰہِ ؕ اَلَا بِذِکۡرِ اللّٰہِ تَطۡمَئِنُّ الۡقُلُوۡبُ ﴿ؕ۲۹﴾
Those who believe, and whose hearts find comfort in the remembrance of Allah. Aye! it is in the remembrance of Allah that hearts can find comfort;
“The verse means that the believers will enjoy the blessings and favours of God in a greater measure than even that conceived by man. Happy shall be their final abode and [truly] happy indeed is he whose end is happy.”
THE HOLY PROPHET (sa)
This love of Allah and desire to be with him is exemplified in the life of the Holy Prophet (sa) , upon his return from Taif, after he had been pelted with stones and chased out of the city, after simply preaching the oneness of God he exclaimed ‘If You are not angry with me, then I do not care; but Your mercy is more expansive for me.’
On another occasion,
“The Holy Prophet (sa) used to stand (in prayer) until his feet became swollen.
He was asked, ‘Why do you do this when Allah has forgiven your past and future sins?’
He replied: ‘Should I not be a grateful servant?’”
As Ahmadi Muslims, we must strive and work towards this goal. Allah is calling out to us, inviting us to draw nearer to Him. He has assured His Prophet (sa) that when a servant takes even a small step towards God, God responds with far greater nearness; when a person approaches Him slowly, God comes towards him with love and speed. In other words, every effort we make to seek Him is met with an even greater manifestation of His grace. This is the path that leads to true closeness, and this is the paradise that begins in this very life for those who turn wholeheartedly to Allah.
This is true paradise, the state reached by prophets when they draw near to Allah. The Holy Prophet (sa) attained the very summit of this closeness during the Mi‘raj, when he experienced the highest form of spiritual vision and approached the Divine Presence at the Lote Tree.
This love of Allah is what motivated the Holy Prophet (sa), by day he would be ridiculed by opponents and by evening Allah the Almighty would comfort him. This is why upon his death he did not ask for more time or express any form of sadness but instead he said:
اللَّهُمَّ الرَّفِيقَ الأَعْلَى
‘O Allah, the Highest Companion,’
Then he passed away, showing that he had found true satisfaction in being with Allah.
THE PROMISED MESSIAH (as)
This form of love and satisfaction with their Lord is found in the lives of many prophets, the Promised Messiah (as) had great affection for Allah, he had complete and utter trust in his Lord, he had found him to be loyal and seen that with his loyalty God Almighty always came to his Aid, speaking about raising funds for publications he states:
‘I have greater trust in my Omnipotent and Magnanimous Lord than a close-fisted miser has in his coffers, whose keys are tucked away in his pocket. God, who has power over all things, will defend His Faith and His Oneness. He will come to the aid of His servant.’
How beautifully has the Promised Messiah (as) explained the love and affection of Allah, saying:
دوستی کا دم جو بھرتے تھے وہ سب دشمن ہوئے
پر نہ چھوڑا ساتھ تو نے اَے مرے حاجت برار
All those who professed friendship have turned into enemies, But You—O Fulfiller of my needs!—have never abandoned me.
اَے مرے یارِ یگانہ اَے مری جاں کی پنہ
بس ہے تو میرے لئے مجھ کو نہیں تُجھ بن بکار
O my Friend, the Unique! O Refuge of my life! You are all I need and I cannot do without You.
Here in his poetry the Promised Messiah (as) is explaining how Allah has always been with him and his life has truly become paradise for him due to his connection to Allah, describing this connection he says:
‘ Seldom does a night pass over me in which I am not given consolation [from God] that ‘I am with you and My heavenly hosts are with you.’ Although the pure of heart will behold God after death, I swear by His Countenance that I am seeing Him right now. The world does not recognize me, but the One who has sent me knows me.’
Just think for a moment: the whole world is against you. You cannot step outside your house without abuse being hurled at you. Your friends have abandoned you, your family has turned against you, yet you carry a mission, one entrusted to you by Allah. A mission greater than the need for family or friends, demanding steadfast patience. And in those moments of isolation and trial, Allah Himself comforts you every night, saying:
إِنِّي مَعَ الرَّسُولِ أَقُومُ وَ أَلُومُ مَنْ يَلُومُ وَ أُعْطِيكَ مَا يَدُومُ
I shall stand with My Messenger, and I shall rebuke the one who rebukes him and I shall bestow upon you that which shall last forever.
Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) narrates that, the Promised Messiah (as) would receive this revelation from the moment he put his head down on his pillow to the moment he woke up. Throughout the whole night hearing:
The Promised Messiah (as) states:
“I have unearthed a gold mine and discovered a treasure trove of jewels, and by good fortune, I have discovered a lustrous and priceless diamond out of this mine. It is of such immense value that if I were to divide its worth among the whole of my brethren among humanity, each one of them would become wealthier than the per- son who owns the greatest amount of gold and silver in the world today. What is that diamond? The True God.”
KHILAFAT-E-AHMADIYYA
These states of inner paradise were not limited to earlier prophets alone; our Khulafa have also experienced them. Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) describes how, at the age of eleven, he spent a night questioning the very existence of God. After long reflection, he writes that “I decided that God did really exist,” and in that moment “unspeakable warmth flooded my being as a child is flooded with joy when he is gathered up into the arms of his mother.” This instant of certainty, when hearsay transformed into personal experience, became for him a paradise of faith, a joy so powerful that he prayed that doubt would never again touch his heart.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (rh) similarly describes a moment of overwhelming spiritual vision. In a state “halfway between a dream and reality,” he saw the world emptied of all creation until every particle began to tremble and proclaim “OUR GOD!” The earth was “flooded with a strange light,” and he found himself repeating the same words. This experience, where every atom revealed its Creator, was a paradise of certainty, a moment in which the existence of God became not an idea, but a living, undeniable reality.
So my dear Khuddam! As the Khuddam year shifts into gear, and as you attend your local Ijtemas and other events, strive to develop this love for your Lord in your heart. Try to realise your purpose, recognise your Lord, and grow close to Him. Find Him as the light in your darkness. Ask Him for help in your everyday life. Let no waking moment pass in which your Lord is not the One you turn to for support.
I end this article with the advice Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba) once gave to a young Khadim. Huzoor instructed:
اللہ تعالیٰ سے ہر معاملہ میں مدد مانگو، کسی دنیا دار کے آگے کبھی نہ جکھنا، اللہ تعالیٰ توفیق دے۔
“Seek Allah’s help in every matter of your life. Never bow before any worldly person. May Allah grant you the strength and ability to do so.”
As Allah said to the Promised Messiah (as)
جے تُو میرا ہور ہے، سب جگ تیرا ہو
If you will be devoted to Me, the whole word will be yours
As many philosophers have passed away unable to achieve this paradise, Allah has given us the opportunity, to find God, make him our paradise, our source of Joy, our source of satisfaction.
May Allah enable us to understand and better develop our Love for Allah the Almighty and to make him our paradise over any worldly object. May we be amongst the ones who understand this theme and meet the expectations of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba). Ameen
Ijtema
The Path to a Spiritual & Moral Transformation
Concluding Address of National Ijtema Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya United Kingdom 2025 delivered by HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA), SEPTEMBER 21 2025
After reciting Tashahhud, Ta`awwuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba) said:
‘Today, you have gathered here to participate in the National Ijtema of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya. The core objective of all Ijtemas held by the auxiliary organisations within our Jama’at is to instil a love of Allah and to elevate the intellectual, moral, and spiritual standards of their members. This is the principal purpose you, as members of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and Atfalul Ahmadiyya [3], should always keep at the forefront of your minds.
In terms of Atfal, the education children receive in this country has the effect of broadening their minds at a young age. I have personally seen children as young as 10 ask very insightful and perceptive religious questions that demonstrate their ability to comprehend many religious concepts at an early age.
With this in mind, today I wish to discuss how our Khuddam and Atfal can best fulfil their religious objectives in today’s world. As I have said, the core purpose of being a member of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya or Atfalul Ahmadiyya is to enhance your religious, intellectual, and spiritual standards.
At Ijtemas, alongside religious and academic programmes, you also have the opportunity to participate in sports and games, which I am sure many of you enjoy. However, your main priority should not be on the game itself or on who wins or loses. Instead, the primary objective of sports or games at the events arranged by the auxiliary organisations is to help members develop physical strength and fitness, as this will help them to fulfil the rights of Allah and their religious and educational development.
Unfortunately, in today’s world, many young people spend all their free time online streaming content, watching TV, and playing video games, instead of engaging in healthy outdoor games and activities. Thus, sports and games at our Ijtemas are designed to encourage you to be outdoors, to get fresh air, and improve your physical fitness.
Furthermore, the purpose of getting fit should not be vanity or a desire to assert physical dominance over others; rather, a fit and healthy person has a greater capacity to fulfil their life’s objectives.
And as Ahmadis, our primary objective is fulfilling the rights of Allah the Almighty.
Further, sports and outdoor games offer a positive way to relax and refresh one’s mind, which in turn helps individuals to study and learn more effectively by enhancing focus and mental aptitude. Hence, taking time out for games and sports helps young people in their pursuit of secular education and religious knowledge.
As I said, the real objective of our sports events or competitions is not to win or lose the match or tournament. We should not act like those worldly people who often consider sports as a matter of life or death and who get into heated arguments, brawls, or resort to foul play to gain an advantage.
Regrettably, even among Ahmadis, personal interests or ego can sometimes lead to poor behaviour. For example, earlier this year, I instructed that the Masroor cricket tournament be cancelled because it became apparent that personal interests and inflated egos had overtaken the hearts and minds of some of those involved. Instead of fostering brotherhood, it was causing friction and grudges to develop.
When something leads to bitterness or ill will, it is better to stop it in order to avoid further disputes. Hopefully, those who have deviated from the true objectives may reform and improve themselves.
As Ahmadis, when you play any sport or game, you must exhibit a true spirit of sportsmanship. Indeed, an exceptional standard of manners, tolerance, and respect for others should distinguish our Ahmadi youth from others.
Otherwise, if we do not manifest higher moral standards, then what is the benefit of being an Ahmadi?
Thus, I reiterate that sports programmes are organised to enhance the physical and mental well-being of our Khuddam and Atfal, so they can fulfil their duties to Allah, to humanity, and serve the Jama’at in an excellent way. Conversely, idly watching TV or scrolling endlessly on electronic devices can damage your physical and mental health.
Moreover, the Internet is replete with dangerous and immoral content, freely available, that serve to erode moral values and fuel hate. Now, AI is adding a new dimension. This is something I have warned about for many years, and now we are seeing the horrifying results on a near-daily basis.
In recent times, there have been horrific reports of teenagers committing suicide due to cyberbullying, all-consuming, appalling online content that causes serious mental harm. For example, recently, it was reported in the media that a teenager in the United States committed suicide with the help and encouragement of ChatGPT.
Moreover, violent videos or extremist ideologies promoting hate have flooded the internet and are causing immense harm to the individuals who view them and the wider society. Just a few days ago, after a prominent political activist was killed in America, the state governor publicly urged young people to switch off their devices, to go outside to spend time with their families and serve their communities.
With the grace of Allah, Ahmadis, under the guidance of Khilafat, are warned from a young age about the dangers and perils that exist in contemporary society. For example, if we look back to the time of Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra), we observe that he paid very close attention to the moral training of different groups of people, according to their needs, capabilities and environment. With great wisdom, he outlined their responsibilities and objectives.
As part of this, he established Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and directed Ahmadi youth according to their age and potential. As I am sure most of you will be aware, he bestowed upon you, upon Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, a momentous and profound slogan that
This slogan was and remains an immense and profound challenge for all Khuddam to rise to. These words bear witness to the fact that it lies upon you as Khuddam to spiritually and morally reform your nations. It lies upon you to guide the world towards true peace and prosperity. It lies upon you to strive tirelessly to fulfil the mission of the Promised Messiah (as) until your last breath.
However, before you turn to others, you must look inwards at your own state. It is the inner and personal reformation of every Ahmadi youth that shall lay the foundation, brick by brick, for a glorious spiritual, moral and intellectual revolution in the world. This is what the slogan given to you by Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) truly represents.
As I have said, being physically fit and well will help you achieve these objectives. Various studies and reports prove that people who are physically fit and who are intellectually disciplined and hardworking are better able to control their emotions and make sound judgments. This not only benefits them but also enables them to contribute positively to the wider world, as they tend to have a more mature and insightful thought process.
Ultimately, when they think deeply and intelligently, especially as members of Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, who have pledged to prioritise their faith over all worldly matters, they are drawn towards the existence of God. Therefore, the core philosophy underpinning the profound slogan given to you by Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) is that
if our Khuddam and Atfal diligently seek to develop their characters and conduct, then every Ahmadi youth has the potential to become a shining star of Ahmadiyyat.
Allah has bestowed upon us through the Holy Prophet (sa) the Holy Qur’an, as a source of everlasting spiritual sustenance to nourish our souls. Consequently, it was to emphasise to all of you the indispensable nature of the Qur’an and its limitless blessings that I chose “The Holy Qur’an, a Casket of Jewels” as the theme for this year’s Ijtema.
Often, when children reach the age of seven or eight and complete the first reading of the Holy Qur’an, they or their parents write to me requesting their Ameen. [4] It should not be that they consider the Ameen as the final step or objective; rather, completing the Qur’an for the first time should mark just the beginning of a lifelong, ever-deepening bond with the words of God.
So, all Khuddam and Atfal should recite the Holy Qur’an daily, understand its meaning, and sincerely strive to act upon its teachings. Instead of wasting time, watching inappropriate films or programmes, or wasting countless hours on the internet and social media, make it your firm objective to increase your knowledge of the Holy Qur’an and its teachings.
Consider the Qur’an to be the means of your reformation and of forging a close bond with Allah the Almighty. It will guide and direct you towards contributing positively to society. So, read and cherish every word. As a believer, this should always be your objective.
Sometimes the translation can be difficult to understand, and so, in addition, you should read the Qur’anic commentaries published by the Jama’at. Yours is the prime age to acquire knowledge, as your brains are fertile and able to absorb and retain new information far more easily than when a person becomes older.
Apart from studying the Qur’an, you must also study the blessed life and character of the Holy Prophet (sa), because his entire life is a timeless example for us to learn from and emulate. Indeed, Allah the Almighty has stated that if a person wishes to gain His nearness, they should strive to tread upon the path of the Holy Prophet (sa).
It is narrated that a person asked Hazrat A’ishah (ra) about the Holy Prophet’s (sa) morals. In reply, she asked, “Have you not read the Holy Qur’an? The Holy Prophet’s (sa) character was the Holy Qur’an”
By this, she meant that every word and deed of the Holy Prophet (sa) was in perfect harmony with the teachings of the Holy Qur’an. So, it is the noble example of the Holy Prophet (sa) that we should always try to follow. Only then can we live as true Ahmadi Muslims. Only then can we fulfil our pledge to give precedence to faith over worldly matters. Only then can we assist in the divine mission of the Promised Messiah (as).
Furthermore, only if you sincerely commit to applying what you have learned here in your daily life will there be a lasting benefit of having participated in the Ijtema. It is not enough to merely try to build your connection with God just over these two or three days. Rather, you must prioritise developing your relationship and bond with God every single day. You should set aside a specific time each day for reciting the Holy Qur’an and studying it.
If you sincerely strive for this, you will, Insha’Allah, witness a magnificent spiritual and moral transformation in your life. Your hearts and minds will naturally turn towards Allah, and He will protect you from the pitfalls and traps that lie at every corner and turn of modern society. He will save you from the superficial and deceptive attractions of today’s world.
In terms of worship, once a person asked Hazrat A’ishah (ra) to describe how the Holy Prophet (sa) would offer namaz and worship. In reply, Hazrat A’ishah (ra) said it was better not to ask about the length, quality, and beauty of his worship.
By this, she meant that it was impossible to do justice in words to how the Holy Prophet (sa) would pray for incredibly long periods with intense fervour and concentration, and how he would remain utterly immersed and engulfed by the love of Allah, the Almighty. Of course, we cannot match His unique and supreme standards of worship, but we must constantly try to follow his example as Allah has proclaimed him the ultimate role model and best example for all mankind.
Essentially, the foremost principle the Holy Prophet (sa) taught and exemplified was that we must remember Allah and fulfil the rights of His worship at all times and in all circumstances.
In the Holy Qur’an, Allah the Almighty testifies to how the Holy Prophet (sa) was immersed in His remembrance and worship. Thus, Allah says in the Holy Qur’an,
قُلۡ اِنَّ صَلَاتِیۡ وَنُسُکِیۡ وَمَحۡیَایَ وَمَمَاتِیۡ لِلّٰہِ رَبِّ الۡعٰلَمِیۡنَ
“Say my prayer and my sacrifice and my life and my death are all for Allah, the Lord of the Worlds.”
Here, Allah Himself testifies to the fact that the Prophet’s (sa) every breath, every act and every word were all purely for the sake of Allah, the Lord of All the Worlds. Moreover, Allah the Almighty commanded the Holy Prophet (sa) to proclaim his complete and utter devotion to Him before the world in order to establish a perfect example for all people in all times.
Having presented the example of the Holy Prophet (sa), Having presented the example of the Holy Prophet (sa), Having presented the example of the Holy Prophet (sa), Allah the Almighty says that
those who claim to accept the Prophet of Islam (sa) must strive to follow his example with a firm conviction that Allah is their Lord, their Creator and the Source of all that is good in their lives.
Therefore, today, if you are fortunate enough to excel in your studies or achieve a high rank in your profession, never attribute your success to your own qualities or virtues. Instead,
Without a shadow of doubt, if a person truthfully reflects upon their own weaknesses, they will soon recognise Allah’s immense favour and mercy, and they will bow down before Him with ever greater humility and gratitude. Their worship will be purely for His sake, and He will be their priority at all times. Otherwise, if you let your careers or professions or worldly activities become your idol and permit them to lead you away from fulfilling the rights of Allah, it will be an extremely grave matter.
For example, if a person neglects or unduly delays namaz because of worldly pursuits, it shows that he gives priority to such things over God Almighty. The Holy Prophet (sa) expressed great displeasure and anger at such people by stating that neglecting namaz takes a person towards shirk and towards a state of disbelief.
Thus, every Ahmadi must prioritise their five daily prayers and worship and seek to follow the example of the Holy Prophet (sa) about whom Allah the Almighty testified that His prayers, sacrifices and everything were for the sake of Allah alone. So, you must never let work or worldly matters interfere with this sacred duty. Otherwise, raising slogans of Allahu Akbar or claiming to love the Messenger of Allah (sa) are rendered empty and meaningless words. We can only follow his blessed example if we truly consider Allah to be our Lord, the Sole Provider and Sustainer of all mankind and the One Who alone can fulfil all our needs. Furthermore, another fundamental virtue instructed by the Holy Qur’an is truth.
We must hold fast to the truth in every situation, no matter how difficult or challenging.
The Holy Prophet (sa) was so utterly flawless that even his enemies could not accuse him of falsehood. Even Abu Jahl, his biggest opponent, admitted he could not call the Holy Prophet (sa) a liar because he had never heard or seen him speak a false word.
Despite this, Abu Jahl could not be rightly guided as he was motivated by extreme enmity and consumed by stubbornness and a love of idol worship. Thus, he would say that while the Holy Prophet (sa) was not a liar, he considered his teachings to be false. Yet it is a matter of common sense that a person known for the highest standards of honesty and integrity would not present a false teaching to the world.
Nonetheless, those bent on rejecting the truth will always find ways to remain in a state of disbelief. Many further incidents demonstrate how, even before his claim to prophethood, the Holy Prophet’s (sa) standard of truth was immaculate. Thereafter, upon his claim of prophethood and spreading Islam’s teachings, he desired for his followers to uphold the highest standards of truth and honesty.
It is narrated that on one occasion, while sitting with some of his companions, the Holy Prophet (sa) said, “Shall I inform you about the most grievous and grave sins?” Firstly, he mentioned shirk, associating partners with Allah. Then he mentioned disobeying one’s parents. Next, the Holy Prophet (sa) said that to kill someone unjustly was a grave sin. Of course, it is obvious to all of us that murder is a heinous crime and is something we all understand. Finally, the Holy Prophet (sa) stated that making a false oath or promise is also a very major sin.
The fact that it was listed alongside shirk and unjustly taking a life proves just how much falsehood is detested by God Almighty. The Holy Prophet (sa) explained that if a person lies or makes promises that they do not intend to fulfil, it is because they seek to unjustly seize the rights of others. They are driven to falsehood in order to serve their own interests at the expense of others. Thus, every Ahmadi, young or old, must ensure that in business, financial, or other dealings, they maintain the highest standards of truth and integrity.
The Holy Prophet (sa) desired to instil the virtue of truth to such an extent that once, when he overheard a woman call her son by promising to give him something, he called her and said that if she had not actually given the child something, it would have counted as a lie. Moreover, she would have taught her son to deceive others. Hence, never engage in any falsehood, even as a joke, and no matter how trivial it may seem. Absolute honesty ought to be the hallmark of every Ahmadi. Only then will our Jama’at, underpinned by a pillar of countless truthful souls, be in a position to enlighten the world and guide them toward bowing down before Allah the Almighty and worshipping Him.
Another immoral practice that has developed among some of our people is spreading gossip, exaggerating the truth, betraying confidences, and revelling in the distress of others, all for the sake of their cheap amusement or to provoke conflict. In this age of social media, it is easier than ever to spread disinformation and rumours.
People often excuse this behaviour by labelling it as a joke, but such vindictive actions can cause grudges, malice and hatred to ignite. It can even lead to fighting and the breakdown of social order. Hence, you must never engage in such things. Instead, if you are to use social media, use it for spreading positivity and truth. Use it to convey the commands of Allah the Almighty, the teachings of the Holy Prophet (sa) and the moral and spiritual lessons of the Promised Messiah (as). Do not use it as a means of vulgar entertainment or to spread vain and immoral things. Do not use it to distress others or to fuel hatred and deviance. Use social media for good and righteous things alone.
During my recent address to Lajna [8] during the Germany Jalsa Salana, I mentioned that while taunting or gossiping behaviour was traditionally associated with women, regrettably, now, due to the effect of social media or partaking in improper gatherings, men are often the worst offenders.
The Holy Prophet (sa) strictly prohibited such conduct, stating that the worst of mankind is a person who has two faces, meaning a person who says one thing to one person and another thing to someone else, either for their amusement, to satisfy their ego or to cause hatred and social unrest.
Save yourselves from such shameful conduct, as these are the traits of a hypocrite. Only by avoiding this behaviour can we act upon the commandment to excel in righteousness. Otherwise, our claim and stated ambition to bring forth a spiritual revolution in the world shall be rendered meaningless.
If we wish to change the world for the better, we should first ask ourselves how the Holy Prophet (sa) ignited a spiritual revolution in his companions’ hearts. Those same people who once were mired in a pit of ignorance, immorality and illiteracy transformed into the most noble and moral people on the face of the earth and soared to such spiritual heights that those armed with worldly knowledge alone could never reach. This transformation was a direct result of their unwavering dedication to seeking the Holy Prophet’s (sa) guidance at every turn.
For example, once a person asked the Holy Prophet (sa) how to ensure that he would go to heaven – people now commonly ask this question. In reply, the Holy Prophet (sa) said he must worship Allah alone and never associate partners with Him,– one thing. He told him to perform Salat in congregation and to give Zakat, to spend in the way of Allah. Further, the Holy Prophet (sa) instructed him to show love and mercy to his relatives. If he did all this, he would enter paradise.
In terms of showing love to one’s relatives, it includes all of one’s relations. It is a cause of deep regret that some young Ahmadi women write to me expressing their grief because their husbands or in-laws forbid them from seeing their own families. Such behaviour is a direct violation of the teachings of Islam, and so those guilty of such cruelties should reform themselves and treat their wives and daughters-in-law with love and compassion. If the husband’s parents are the cause of such distress, then they should be reminded that Allah and His Prophet (sa) have given the glad tidings of paradise for those who care for their relatives, and so why do they try to stop their daughters-in-law from doing so?
Recently, a Khadim asked me, to what extent must a person listen to his parents? I advised him to honour and obey them unless what they said violated the command of Allah and the teachings of Islam. In such circumstances, a child can and indeed should stand for the sake of his faith and reject what his parents say. However, even then, they should try to guide their parents with love and kindness.
Now, as we reach the end of this Ijtema, I wish to reiterate the importance of studying the Holy Qur’an.
Unquestionably, when you read the Qur’an carefully, you will find a wealth of divine wisdom within it, guiding you on what to embrace and what to avoid.
I have only touched upon a fraction of its teachings. Only if we collectively, as a Jama’at, our youth, children and elders alike, truly live by its teachings, can we spark a genuine spiritual and moral revolution in the world. Otherwise, without an inner transformation, our claims of changing the world shall amount to nothing but empty words.
We are incredibly fortunate to be Ahmadis, but we can only fulfil our true purpose, strengthen our bond with the Jama’at and benefit from these Ijtemas if we understand and act on the commands of Allah, the teachings of the Holy Prophet (sa) and the Promised Messiah (as).
it is our duty and mission to embrace every single teaching of Islam to the best of our ability and to forever seek to walk upon a path of virtue and righteousness.
if you, as young Ahmadis, achieve this, you will be those sincere and devoted youth who live up to their religious pledges and stand at the vanguard of reforming others and bringing about a spiritual awakening in the world. Otherwise, merely raising the slogan that “nations cannot be reformed without the reformation of their youth” is meaningless and fulfils no purpose.
Our true objective will only be realised when, alongside raising this slogan, we strive with every fibre of our being to reform ourselves and, in turn, to reform mankind.
So, as you leave today, ask yourselves whether you will be amongst those Khuddam and Atfal who truly reform themselves and who lead the world towards Allah the Almighty and towards peace and truth.
With all my heart, I hope and pray that Allah the Almighty may grant you the ability to do so and may you all become true shining stars of Ahmadiyyat. Ameen.
Now, join me in silent prayer.’
[Originally published in The Review of Religions]اللهم قو امامنا بروح القدس وبارك لنا في طول عمره وامره.
O Allah! Strengthen our Imam with the Holy Spirit and bless us through his long life and command.
Articles
A Spiritual & Moral Transformation
On 22nd September 2024, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad(aa) delivered the keynote address at the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association’s gathering in Kingsley, Hampshire, highlighting the responsibilities on the shoulders of the attendees.
We present the official transcript of this address. After reciting Tashahhud, Ta`awwuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V(aa) said:
‘By the grace of Allah, once again, you have had the opportunity to hold and participate in the National Ijtema of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, an Ijtema dedicated to young Ahmadi men and boys.
Undoubtedly, when a community’s youth embrace its values and strive to fulfil its objectives, that community thrives and progresses. Thus, in 1938, when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra founded Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, he did so with the aspiration that all Ahmadi youth and boys would excel in the observance of their faith, consistently improve their moral standards, elevate their worship of Allah and forge an ever stronger connection with Him. In essence, Khuddamul Ahmadiyya was formed as a means for Ahmadi youth collectively to live their lives according to the teachings of Islam. It was formed to cultivate within our youth a spirit of service and sacrifice for their faith.
Moreover, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya was established not only to ensure Ahmadi youth fulfilled their religious objectives, but to ensure that their children and the future generation of Ahmadis remained committed to their faith. Furthermore, it was established so that Ahmadi youth could ignite a spiritual and moral transformation in the world by guiding other people towards Allah the Almighty and inspiring them to inculcate the highest moral values. So, let it be clear that Hazrat Musleh Maud(ra) did not establish Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya merely as a platform for Ahmadi youth to gather together; rather, he set forth noble objectives for Khuddam. And so, leave no stone unturned in your efforts to achieve them. Remember, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya bears no resemblance to worldly groups who are fixated on their personal gain and protecting their narrow self interest and rights. On the contrary, where we must strive to strengthen our relationship with Allah the Almighty and to fulfil the rights of His creation, we must also, through love and rationality, invite others towards God and fulfilling the rights of His creation. Only then shall we be acting upon the blessed words of the Holy Prophet(sa) that, “One should like for others what he likes for himself.”
So, as Khadim and Tifl, never underestimate the significance of your mission; your goals and ambitions are vast and profound. And so, embrace them with pride and determination. In this age, we are not only witnessing a rapid decline in the worship of God and growing apathy towards religion, but also a chilling indifference to the suffering of God’s creation. Where help is extended to those in need, it is often driven by ulterior motives and a desire to fulfil vested interests under the guise of humanity. Help is often conditional, and compassion is a commodity bartered for political and economic gain. As a result, an ever-rising chorus of voices are now openly denouncing the major powers and worldly institutions to be guilty of glaring double standards.
In contrast to these prevailing trends of materialism, hypocrisy and selfishness, we, as Ahmadi Muslims, must rise as beacons of sincerity, unwavering faith, and selfless service to all humanity. Free from all forms of discrimination and self interest, we must endeavour to bring people towards those noble objectives that define our true purpose. Every member of the Jama’at should focus on this goal and be prepared to make every necessary effort and sacrifice for this cause. And you can only be successful if your every act is governed by a desire to attain Allah’s pleasure. Do not let worldly desires or material objectives cloud your intentions or judgment.
Once, whilst addressing Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, Hazrat Musleh Maud(ra) urged Jama’at members to strive, regardless of their age or status, towards attaining such exceptional levels of virtue, righteousness, devotion to God, truthfulness and justice that non-Ahmadis and non-Muslims testified to the exemplary character of Ahmadis.
Further, he taught that Ahmadis should not be satisfied even if they personally develop good morals and righteousness. Instead, they must strive to inspire and cultivate such virtues in others. Hence, if we as Ahmadis are to progress and fulfil the objectives for which we have taken the bai’at of the Promised Messiah(as), we must, irrespective of our age, try to bring about a profound change within ourselves. We must commit to living our lives free from immorality, injustice and deception. Otherwise, our claim of bringing forth a spiritual revolution in the world shall be reduced to hollow and superficial words.
In terms of our self-reformation, we must start from our homes by fulfilling the rights of our parents, wives, children, brothers, sisters and relatives. We must fulfil the rights of our friends, teachers and colleagues, whether they be our superiors or juniors. Above all, every Ahmadi should strive to free themselves from all things that displease God Almighty. For example, a major sin that Allah the Almighty has forbidden is to think ill of others. There is great wisdom in this teaching, as the consequences of thinking ill of others can be far-reaching. Indeed, harbouring grudges or casting aspersions on others is a sure way to fuel division and disorder within homes, social circles, the wider society and between nations.
Furthermore, the Holy Prophet(sa) has stated that resorting to falsehood is a mark of a hypocrite. The Holy Prophet(sa) said that when a hypocrite speaks, he lies; when he makes a deal, he violates its terms; when he makes a promise, he breaks it; and when involved in a dispute, bereft of reason and logic, a hypocrite resorts to cursing and abusing the other party. No Ahmadi man, woman or child should ever tolerate the thought of being classed amongst the idolaters or hypocrites. As I have said, there should not even be a hint of deception in our words or deeds; rather, others should testify that Ahmadi youth speak truth, live truth and embody truth at all times. People should have complete confidence that if they deal with an Ahmadi, they will fulfil the terms of their agreement with integrity, even if it leads to a loss.
Further, if you ever find yourself in a dispute or argument, never lower your moral standards by abusing or cursing the other person; rather, use logic and evidence to support and convey your point. Hold fast to the truth, even if it may cause you short-term loss. Always remember that plotting or scheming can never lead to anything good or prove a means of benefit to us. One day, we must all depart this world, and so we must spend whatever time we have engaged in those acts that are pleasing to Allah the Almighty and abide by the perfect teaching He has bestowed to us through the Holy Prophet(sa).
Similarly, Ahmadi parents must refrain from all forms of falsehood within their homes, even what they might consider a harmless joke. As parents, you must nurture the seeds of truthfulness in your children. Otherwise, you cannot expect your children to speak truthfully and to understand its value. Similarly, always keep your promises to your children. Do not make a promise if you are unsure if you can fulfil it.
In his writings and various discourses, the Promised Messiah (as) has also repeatedly condemned falsehood in the strongest possible terms. On one occasion, the Promised Messiah (as) states, “In reality, until a person abandons falsehood, he cannot become pure. Worthless, worldly people believe that they cannot survive without lies. However, this is a reprehensible belief.”
Here, the Promised Messiah(as) condemns and utterly rejects the belief that a person must engage in falsehood to succeed. The Promised Messiah(as) further said, “If one cannot survive with truth, then falsehood certainly cannot sustain a person either. It is deeply regretful that these wretched people do not give God the value He deserves.”
He says, “They do not know that without the grace and mercy of God Almighty, a person cannot survive.”
The Promised Messiah(as) continued, “Yet, they consider the filth of falsehood to be their god and the means of resolving their difficulties. This is precisely why God Almighty has tied falsehood to idol worship in the Holy Quran. Know for certain that we cannot take even a single step, rather not even a single breath, without the grace of God.” (Malfuzat Vol. 2, p. 82)
The Promised Messiah(as) states that every single breath we take is due only to the grace of God Almighty and that a person’s scheming, plotting or lying can never lead to success. By departing from the truth, all we achieve is to depart from the protection and mercy of God Almighty. Conversely, if we eliminate falsehood from society, the many conflicts, disputes, and grievances that threaten the world’s peace and prosperity will find no oxygen to burn.
If truth and justice are prized above all else, the fear of facing the consequences of their actions would deter nations from perpetrating warfare, evil, and injustice. At an individual level, people would naturally try to free themselves of their vices out of a fear of exposure and having their reputation tarnished. This is why the Holy Prophet(sa) instructed one Companion that if he genuinely desired to rid himself of his many vices, he should pledge never again to tell a lie. Consequently, if we instil fidelity to the truth within ourselves, other virtues and qualities will automatically develop in us and become part of our daily lives.
Therefore, I reiterate that all Jama’at members, especially Khuddam and Atfal, should collectively pledge to eradicate all traces of dishonesty from their lives. Indeed, Ahmadi youth and children should, as individuals and collectively, launch a campaign and movement to uphold truthfulness and honesty, reject falsehood and embrace truth. May it be that all people testify to the fact that Ahmadi youth are those who never utter a false word.
Now, before concluding, I also wish to remind you of the crucial importance of obedience to Khilafat. If your pledge you have all vowed to abide by and fully obey any ma’ruf decision made by the Khalifah of the time, What is a ma’ruf decision? Simply, it is to convey the commands of Allah the Almighty and His noble Messenger(sa) because the Khalifah of the time will never give any instruction or statement contrary to the commands of Allah the Almighty or the Holy Prophet(sa). Accordingly, you must continually assess if you are living up to your pledge of obedience.
Amongst the ma’ruf decisions of the Khalifah of the time, instructing Ahmadis to observe Salat at the prescribed times and fulfil the rights of the worship of God Almighty is of primary importance. Thus, I repeatedly instruct Ahmadis to focus on offering namaz with concentration and humility at the appointed times. Regrettably, the attendance at our mosques and Salat centres is not as high as it should be, even though many Khuddam and Atfal live near a mosque or centre and can easily come for namaz.
Similarly, many do not wake up to offer the Fajr prayer at the correct time. Each Khadim personally, and Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya as an organisation, should pay attention to this. Unquestionably, when you strive to fulfil the rights of Allah, your love for Him will naturally lead you to fulfil the rights of His creation. So, if you are diligent in the worship of Allah the Almighty, you will come to possess and exhibit the highest morals and will never be the cause of disorder or division in society. Instead, you will play a significant and positive role in bringing people together under the banner of peace, love and mutual respect.
Similarly, I wish to draw your attention to the fact that after namaz, a short dars is normally offered in our mosques, and instead of leaving quickly, you should listen carefully to them. This will ensure that the commands of Allah the Almighty and His Messenger(sa) consistently reach your ear and will deepen your understanding of Islamic teachings and beliefs.
Now, as the Ijtema draws to a close and you return to your homes, I urge you to pay close attention to what I have said today. Reflect especially upon the hadith in which the Holy Prophet(sa) taught that shunning falsehood was the means of freeing yourself from other vices and sinful activities. Similarly, pay heed to the blessed words of the Promised Messiah(as) advising his followers to remain engaged in a constant spiritual jihad against falsehood.
Always remember that a community or nation whose members manifest truth and integrity is destined for great success. Hence, if members of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and Atfalul Ahmadiyya hold fast to truth, there is no doubt that a great and everlasting spiritual victory is destined for us. Undoubtedly, if Ahmadis manifest Islam’s true teachings, individually and collectively, then no matter what our opponents throw at us, no matter how they seek to destroy or persecute us, their every effort will be futile and denied. They will never be able to cause us any harm, as together, we will raise aloft a shield of truth that can never be penetrated, Insha’Allah.
Always remember that our purpose extends far beyond mere words. We will not fulfil our objectives just by reciting poems or slogans; rather, our prosperity lies in ensuring that our deeds perfectly mirror the teachings of Islam.
And so, at the end, I pray that may every Khadim and Tifl leave this Ijtema with a fervent and burning desire to elevate their worship, strengthen their morals and embody truth in every facet of their lives. May Allah the Almighty enable all of us to do so – Ameen. JazakAllah.
Now, join me in silent prayer.
Get the Tariq Magazine through your letterbox each month.
Our Paradise lies in our God.” Understanding the theme of the year
The Path to a Spiritual & Moral Transformation
