The Ahmadiyya Khilafat (the successors after the Promised Messiah as are known as the " Ahmadiyya Khilafat)

The successors after the Promised Messiah as are known as the " Ahmadiyya Khilafat".

Hazrat Al-Haaj Hakeem Maulana Nooruddin

Khalifatul Masih I (1908-1914)

First Successor to the Promised Messiah

By Maulvi Munir Ahmad Khadim

Translated by Naseer Ahmad Bani (Calcutta)

Hazrat Maulana Hakim Nooruddin Sahib (Khalifatul Masih I) was a colossal personality - a talented author, eminent scholar, extraordinary virtuous and a theologian par excellence. Being very well versed in Medicine, he was Royal Physician to the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir for many years.

He was born in the village of Bhera in Punjab in 1841. In pursuit of knowledge, he travelled far and wide enjoying the privilege of a four year stay in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

His services in the cause of Islam are unparallel in the annals of Ahmadiyyat. The Promised Messiah has eulogised him in a Persian couplet which is a beautiful testimony in acknowledgement of his dedication and stature.

"How nice it would be if everyone from my followers were Nooruddin. This is possible only when one's heart is illuminated by the light of truth and firm belief."

In Qadian, his only pursuit was religious instruction. His foremost concern was to ameliorate the conditions of the poor. Inspite of his limited means of income, generosity pervaded his conduct. He exercised modesty, kindliness, patience and self denial which earned him the affection of all around him. He never ventured out of Qadian or wrote anything without the approval of the Promised Messiah.

Under divine commandment the Promised Messiah initiated the Baiat on 23rd March, 1889 and the very first person who swore the pledge of allegiance was Maulana Hakeem Nooruddin. His devotion and dedication to the Promised Messiah was complete and total.

In 1893, he came to Lahore on some personal errand and decided to pay one- day visit to Qadian which is not far from there. That one day changed the course of his entire life. Back in Bhera he was constructing a vast clinic but on the suggestion of the Promised Messiah, took up permanent residence in Qadian never pondering to return to his ancestral home again, so deep was his devotion and obedience to his preceptor.

The following episode is both interesting and faith provoking. In 1905, the Promised Messiah proceeded to Delhi where his father-in-law, Hazrat Mir Nasir Nawab Sahib was lying ill. From Delhi, Huzoor sent a telegram to Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Nooruddin Sahib in Qadian to reach Delhi urgently. So great was the Maulana's perception of obedience and loyalty that he set out for Delhi that very instant from his clinic without any money for railway fare and other expenses. Said he to a friend,

"I deem it a sin to delay a single moment. This is a call from my Master. I put my trust in God to take care of my necessities."

It so happened that at Batala railway station whence he had to embark the train for Delhi, a well-to-do patient of his came across him. He not only arranged his railway ticked to Delhi, he also made a present of substantial cash.

Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Nooruddin (Khalifatul Masih I) was a pure and simple man, tolerant, frank and straightforward and truthful. He had excellent qualities of administration and statesmanship. He had a singular faith in God. His trust in Him was noteworthy and very remarkable. The following two illustrations give a glimpse of this aspect.

Once, during his stay at Medina he had no food to eat at night. While he was going to Masjid Nabwi for prayers, a policeman hailed him and took him to his officer who wanted to meet him. The officer had a plateful of sweets with him. These were very delicious and peculiar Indian sweets prepared with the help of an acquaintance, he said, "I thought I would share them with someone from India". And in this miraculous way, Hazrat Maulana had a nutritious fill.

Quraishi Ameer Muhammad Sahib of Bhera relates:

"I was in the presence of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih when the postman brought a VP parcel for Rs. 16, containing some books. He exclaimed that these were his favourite books fondly ordered sometime back but he had no money to pay for them now. "God has so much compassion for me that I am sure He will send down His beneficence at this moment." Presently, a Hindu brought his sick child. The Maulana examined him and wrote a prescription. The fellow placed before him a Guinea (worth Rs. 15 then) plus one rupee in gratitude and left.

Hazrat Maulana at once prostrated in thanksgiving. "I was confident my Lord my Friend will never forsake me. May be the man would not give anything at all since as a rule I do not ask for anything or he would present only one guinea. But my Allah say to it that His humble servant's needs are met in full."

After the demise of the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Nooruddin (ra) was unanimously acclaimed as his successor on 27th May 1908. He guided the community in this capacity till his death on Friday March 13, 1914.

Some of his outstanding achievements are briefly described here.

1. He laid the foundation for the institution of Khilafat. He successfully thwarted the designs of a group of power hungry, intriguing and jealous persons albeit a small minority.
2. English translation of the Holy Quran.
3. First foreign mission was established in London.
4. Extensions were carried out to Masjid Aqsa and Talimul Islam High School and Boarding house buildings.
5. Noor Hospital and Masjid Noor were inaugurated.
6. A number of publications were started to broaden the propagation activities of the Jamaat. Among them, the "Al Fazal", and "Noor" from Qadian, "Al Haque" from Delhi and "Paigham-e-Sulha" from Lahore.

The news of his death was carried by papers throughout India and commentaries lauding this illustrious dignitary were written. Notable among them are, "The Zamindar", and "Paisa" Lahore, "Tabeeb" and "Hamdard" Delhi, "Al Hilal" Calcutta, "Madina" Bijnour, "Wakeel" and "Wattan" Amritsar and "Institute Gazette" of Aligarh.

Maulana Zafar Ali, editor Daily Zamindar wrote:

"Maulana Hakeem Nooruddin Sahib who was a great and erudite scholar passed away on 13th march after a long illness. His demise is a great loss and has created a void in Muslim community. It is said that a genius is born after one hundred years. The departed soul undoubtedly belonged to this grand roll of honour."

Dr. Sir Muhammad Iqbal was highly impressed by his erudition and religious proficiency. In 1909 he sent him a list of theological queries to obtain their correct interpretation. He also requested him to issue an Edict (fatwa) concerning the divorce matter of his own wife. The edict was duly acted upon by Dr. Iqbal.

As a befitting epilogue, I quote an excerpt from the Promised Messiah's book "Fatah-i-Islam" There cannot be more glorious compliment since they come from the Holy Prophet's vicegerent.

"I must ardently make mention of a brother in faith whose name, so behoving owing to his superb qualities is Nooruddin - The light of the Religion. I envy his zeal and his sacrifices in the cause of Islam. Seeing this enthusiasm, I am overawed by the Glory of the Lord how he exalts the humble beings whom he chooses."

Every aspect of his life appears to have been governed and coloured by his love for and devotion to God. May each and every member of the community follow the path shown by him. He was a perfect example of a true Ahmadi.

May Allah shower His choicest blessings on him.
http://www.alislam.org/library/noor1.html

Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad

Khalifatul Masih II

"Musleh Maoud"

By Moulvi Bashir Ahmad Dehlavi
Translated by Naseeruddin Shera

The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) had given the tidings of the advent of a spiritual, pious and Promised son of Mahdi at a time when Islam would be at a stage of decline and depression. He had prophesied he would come with a mission to revive and strengthen the Islamic theology and, through him, Islam, would resurge on the surface of the Earth. The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) called this Holy Spiritual son as the Musleh (Reformer), and the Promised one, and said about him:

Yata-zavvajo-wa-yooladu-lahu

The Promised Messiah shall marry and will have children. This was an indication that this marriage would be of a special nature and, through this, Allah shall grant him such children as would be assisting and co-operating in carrying on his mission.

In context of this prophecy of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), some of his eminent followers had also prophesied that, on completion of the Promised Messiah's tenure, one of his sons would be bestowed with unique splendour and glory and shall ascend the throne of Khilafat. Hazrat Nematullah Shah Wali, a prominent Muslim saint, prophesied in his famous poem that the coming one shall be the Promised Mahdi and also the Promised Messiah. He also mentioned that this Promised One's name shall be Ahmad and that when his tenure would end, one son of his, shall be his true spiritual inheritor and would carry out his mission. In Talmud, the authentic book of Jewish diction - the advent of two Messiahs is mentioned and that the latter one shall be greater the former and, after him, his son and grandson shall be his successors.

And thus, when came the time of the Promised Messiah and the advent of the Promised son, Allah revealed, to the Promised Messiah, further details of this prophecy with happy tidings of his ascendance, advancement and achievements.

Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad (Allah be pleased with him) received his education in the District Board Primary School and, later in 1898, in Taleemul Islam High School when it was started. Nevertheless, in his student life he was never interested in routine book knowledge, and could not succeed in the Government Entrance Examination. This was the end of his formal education, which was not merely incidental, but a great miracle of the Divine Destiny. Incidents later proved that the Lord Almighty Himself wanted to be his teacher. Thus the world witnessed that he not only had intrinsic and spiritual knowledge but his insight into basic wisdom was so vast and deep that, however, learned a scholar, armed with whatever worldly knowledge attacked Islam he would prove to be a mere academic novice. Thus the fulfilment of the divine revelation became manifest. "Would abound in the Wisdom of the Explicit and the Intrinsic"

During the lifetime of the Promised Messiah he had developed a strong desire for religious services, hence when the Promised Messiah, during the last days of his life, appealed to the youth to come forward to serve Islam, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad offered himself and soon formed Anjuman Tashheezul Azhaan and under its supervision, started a magazine by the same name, through which the work of religious preaching was carried out. At the time of the Promised Messiah's demise he was only 19 years of age, even at that time, highly convincing and silencing replies to the criticism flowed from his august pen. On 26th May 1908, the Promised Messiah (peace be on him) passed away at Lahore. At that moment this promised son stood by the bed of the Promised Messiah and vowed:

"Even if all the people leave you and I am left alone I would stand by you and would face all opposition to and onslaughts on your Mission."

He very well kept up his covenant, and, all through his life, never cared for anyone's enmity or opposition and, always actively endeavoured towards the progress of Islam and Ahmadiyyat.

Early in 1911, with the permission of Hazrat Maulana Nooruddin, Khalifatul Masih I, founded the Anjuman Ansaarullah, whose members were required to donate some of their time for religious service, propagation of Islam and Ahmadiyyat and to promote mutual amity, love and universal fraternity. This proved to be a great success in generating great zeal and interest in the Missionary and Reformatory work.

In September 1912, he travelled to Egypt, thence to Mecca and performed the Hajj and remained active in preaching Islam and Ahmadiyyat during his sojourn.

In June 1913, he started, "The Al Fazl" a news paper for the Jamaat in which, apart from the national news, educative, informative, historical, preaching and reformatory articles were published. In a very short time this paper gained popularity not only among our own people but amongst others as well. After the demise of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I (may God be pleased with him), this very newspaper became the central organ of Jamaat.

On 27th May, 1908, on the demise of the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him), when Hakim Maulana Nooruddin (may God be pleased with him) was elected the Jamaat's first Khalifa, the first man to take the oath of allegiance was Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I, was very happy with him and used to look upon him with love and respect. During his illness he always used to appoint him as Imam-ul-Salat (to lead the prayers) and, often, in his public speeches and sermons, used to praise the spirit of his obedience, religious service and his intellectual ability. At times, indicating expressed that he shall be the successor after him.

On Friday the 13th of March 1914, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I (may God be pleased with him), passed away. And on the 14th of March, 1914, at the time of Asr Prayer, in Masjid Noor Qadian, the Ahmadis gathered, where Hazrat Nawab Muhammad Ali Khan, who was a Sahabi (companion) and son-in-law of the Promised Messiah, read out the "will" of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I and requested the people to act accordingly and elect someone as his successor. On this Maulana Syed Ahsan Amrohvi proposed the name of Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad. He was hesitant and refused at first, but on the fervid persistence of the people, realised that it was the verdict of Allah and accepted the oath of Allegiance of the Ahmadis and thus became the Second Successor to the Promised Messiah (peace be on him).

The Golden Era of His Khilafat and His Magnificent Achievements

From 14th March 1914 to the 7th of November, 1965, a period of about fifty two (52) years, he led the Jamaat, which took great strides some of which could be enumerated as under:

Propagation of Islam

One of his most important achievements was the founding of a strong system for propagation and preaching of Islam within the country and abroad. Soon after his ascension to Khilafat he announced that his first task shall be the propagation of Islam.

According to his mandate of 12th April, 1914, delegates from all over the country were invited to a Majlis-e-Shoora to discuss about propagation of Islam. In this he expressed his desire that amongst them there should be a band of men who should know various languages so that they could easily propagate Islam the world over. He stressed:

"I would like to see the truth of Ahmadiyyat shine far and wide in the world. This was not difficult for our Lord to be achieved."

For the fulfilment of this task he established Nazarat Dawato Tabligh in 1919, and the Madrasa Ahmadiyya as the basic centre and made efforts for its advancement and steered it from the status of a mere Seminary to a University, and all these efforts were aimed to provide learned religious missionaries. He opened various missions abroad for the propagation of Islam. In 46 Islamic countries Missions were solidly established when he departed from this world. And around them active and sincere Jamaats exist till now.

Quranic Wisdom

Allah had granted him a deep encyclopaedic intrinsic spiritual knowledge and understanding of the Holy Quran, thus fulfilling the prophecy that through him the glory of Islam and the dignity of Quran would be convincingly established. He had said that there were hundreds and thousands of truthful realities of the Holy Quran which Allah has disclosed on him with His special grace through intuition and revelation. (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 6, pg. 483)

He had also declared that he was bestowed with such a meaningful wisdom of the Holy Quran that, if anyone, with whatever knowledge and following whatever religion, criticised the Holy Quran, by the grace of Allah, he would convincingly silence and satisfy him through Quran alone. He had many a time, thrown challenges to others about writing commentaries on Quranic Wisdom. Though he was not a Prophet, yet none became ready to accept his challenge. It was his claim that he would interpret new wisdom from the Holy Quran.

In a public gathering in Delhi in 1944, claiming himself to be the "Musleh Maoud" (Promised Reformer) and reiterating his challenge about the interpretation of the truths and wisdom of the Holy Quran, he declared:

"I do claim now again that even if thousands of scholars assembled to compete with me in writing commentaries of Quran, yet the world would accept and acknowledge that my commentary was unique in wisdom of divine truths in depth."

The new definition of the wisdom of the Holy Quran, written in his Tafsir-e-Kabir, bears undeniable evidence of the truth and validity of the aforesaid claim. The age became convinced of the superiority of his Quranic knowledge. Maulvi Zafar Ali Khan, Editor of "Daily Zamindar" Lahore, himself an eminent Muslim leader, writer and a bitter opponent of Ahmadiyyat, while addressing other opponent groups and to concede:

"Listen with your ears wide open, you and your accomplices could never compete with Mirza Mahmood till resurrection. Mirza Mahmood has Quran with him, and a deep knowledge of Quran, What have you got? ... You have never read Quran in dream." [Ek Khofnak Saazish, by Moulvi Mazher Ali Azhar, pg. 196]

On his death, in a condolence note written in Sidq-e-Jadid, Lucknow, it was mentioned:

"May Allah reward the Imam Jamaat Ahmadiyya's effort towards world-wide publication of The Holy Quran and its wisdom and also for the propagation of Islam in all the corners of the Earth and in lieu of this let us overlook all other matters. The learned manner in which he has interpreted in detail, the truth and wisdom of the Holy Quran was real unique." [Sidq-e-Jadid Lucknow, Vol. 51, Nov. 18th 1965]

Translation and Publication of the Holy Quran in Various Languages

It was also one of his great achievements that he got the Holy Quran translated in various important languages of the world so that, those who did not know Arabic, the glory and wisdom of the divine book could be made available to them in their own languages. This work was continued in Khilafat-e-Salisa and further in Khilafat-e-Rabia. First of all the English translation of the Holy Quran was published, then its commentary. During his Khilafat, translations in 14 other languages were in progress.

Establishment of Mosques in foreign countries

The main aim of Jamaat Ahmadiyya was to spread the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and by practising it, lead the humanity to the heights of spiritualism and purity. In order to attain this, wherever the Jamaat is formed, Missions and later Mosques are built. And the mosques also serve as academics for spiritual knowledge and training. During his Khilafat many mosques were constructed in foreign countries as well.

Imparting of moral training

Along with the missionary work he did a great deal towards imparting moral training to the Jamaat. Some of his achievements in this direction were as under.

• He affirmed the Divine System of Khilafat on solid foundations and declared, "Khilafat is a source and beacon of Divine Light. So hold on firmly to Khilafat." Once again he declared,

  "Friends, my last advice would be that all blessings are in Khilafat. Prophethood is a seed after which the Khilafat spreads its benevolence in the world around. Hold on firmly to true Khilafat and spread its blessings in the world. Allah would be merciful to you and would bless you in this world and in the hereafter."

• In order to consolidate and organise the Jamaat he established the central and regional Anjumans and, for better functioning various important Nazarats were established under the aegis of Sadar Anjuman Ahmadiyya Qadian.
  • Nazarat Dawato Tabligh
  • Nazarat Taleem
  • Nazarat Umoor-e-Aamma
  • Nazarat Bait-ul-Mal and
  • Nazarat Ulia above them to oversee,
  guide and direct all sections of the Jamaat. In order to make them capable of successfully shouldering the important assignments and responsibilities of the future, separate organisations were formed in Jamaat:
  • The Organisation of Ansaarullah for men above 40 years of age.
  • The organisation of Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya for youth below 40.
  • The Organisation of Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya for boys of below 15 years.
  • The organisation of Lajna Imaullah for women.
  • The Organisation of Nasirat-ul-Ahmadiyya for girls.
  Through all these organisation, essential moral and organisation training was imparted on firm grounds.

Migration of Jamaat from India

In 1947, when the country was divided, along with other Muslims, the Ahmadis also left for Pakistan. In order to ensure their unity, integrity and cohesiveness, a great city Rabwah was built, wherein, offices, schools, colleges and various departments were re-established and re-organised. All the necessities of life were also made available. Hazrat Musleh Maoud himself spoke thus of Rabwah: "I am astonished, as to what was the force that brought and habilitated you in a place which even the Governemt had failed to habitat. Seeing Rabwah one is reminded of the times when Allah had re-laid the foundation of Mecca through Hazrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his son Hazrat Ismail (peace be upon him). [Al-Fazal Nov. 26th 1961]

Mobilisation of the Jamaat for Sacrifices

Hazrat Musleh Maoud planned, re-organised and consolidated the financial structure of the Jamaat on very sound footings by initiating various schemes and appeals for donation and contribution. Some of them were as under:

1. On 12th April 1914 he appealed for financial donations for Anjuman Taraqqi-e-Islam in order to send his missionaries to all the cities and towns of India for the preaching of Islam. For this he foreset an expenditure of Rs. 12,000 a year. The Jamaat willingly responded to the call.
2. The scheme for the completion of Minaratul Masih - On November 1914, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih-II (peace be upon him) called on the Jamaat for financial contribution for the completion of the Minaratul Masih. As a result the Minaret was completed in December, 1916. [Al Fazl, 28th December, 1916]
3. Call to women to mobilise funds for preaching - In December, 1916, he appealed to the ladies of the movement for donation stating that till now only the men were bearing the expenses of around Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 10,000 a month from which various religious requirements were met. But since the expenditure on propagation were met. But since the expenditure on propagation in foreign countries was rising a further sum of Rs. 500 per month was estimated to be required. [Supplement Al Fazl, December 16th, 1916]
   Allah, gracefully, enabled the ladies of the Jamaat to respond to Huzur's call, and they readily took upon themselves, the responsibility of meeting the extra expenditure.
4. Call to donate for the London Mosque - On 7th February 1920, he called upon the Jamaat to contribute towards the building of a mosque in London and the Ahmadis responded overwhelmingly and willingly. [Taarikhe Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5, pg. 258]
5. Call for the publication of "A Present to the Prince of Wales" - Prince of Wales who later became King Edward the VIII, came to visit India in December, 1921. Hazrat Musleh Maoud (may God be pleased with him) proposed that a befitting gift be presented to His Highness, the Prince of Wales. After this call Huzur wrote a book "A present to the Prince of Wales", which conveyed to the Prince the Islamic teachings. Through individual per head contribution of one Anna by more than 20,000 members of Jamaat this book was printed. On the 27th of February 1922, an Ahmadiyya delegation presented the book in a studded Silver Tray to the Prince.
6. Participation in the Wembley Conference London - Huzur, along with a few Khuddam himself went to England to participate in the Wembley Conference. All the Expenses were borne by the Jamaat. [Al Fazl 16th July, 1925]

Tehrik-e-Jadid

Through this important scheme many Ahmadiyya Muslim Missions were established the world over. In 1934, the Majlis-e- Ahrar, according to a well laid conspiracy, sent some of its volunteers to create mischief by organising conferences at Qadian. And, with great uproar and drum-beat announced that they would destroy Qadian itself. The atmosphere in the rest of the country was also vitiated for the Jamaat. Government was also backing these elements. It seemed all the forces had combined against Ahmadiyyat. However, the foundations of this holy Jamaat were laid by the Lord of Heavens Himself, in the face of the strong and piercing winds of opposition, provision to safeguard the meek and delicate plant of Ahmadiyya was to be made by God Himself. As the nefarious intentions of the Majlis-e-Ahrar unfold, Allah through His chosen Servant, initiated a great Universal Scheme of Tehrik-e-Jadid, which not only brought to naught, the plans of the opponents, in a very short time the truth of Ahmadiyyat also became manifest and the flags of its Spiritual Conquest and Supremacy were pitched firmly and high. This scheme was based on 27 demands and contained comprehensive and all embracing provisions by which every member of the Jamaat was convinced that in order to establish the Oneness of God, to restore the dignity of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him), and to prove the truth of Islam and to establish a righteous society one had to first bring about a palpable and manifest change in his own life and conduct as well.

Hazrat Musleh Maoud (may God be pleased with him), in the beginning, demanded only 27,500 rupees from the Jamaat. The Jamaat in only one and a half month made a cash contribution of 29,712 rupees. And in the first year 103,000 rupees and in the second year 110,000 rupees and in the third year 140,000 rupees were presented. Initially this scheme was optional and for three years only. Later it was extended to seven years, again to ten years. On completion of the ten year period this scheme was further extended by Huzur to 19 years and in 1953, when the 19 year term ended Huzur made it a permanent scheme. Under it the preaching activities were extended to many other foreign countries.

Waqf-e-Jadid

Similarly the scheme of Waqf-e-Jadid was initiated so as to promote missionary and reformative activities of the Jamaat in every city, town and village in India and Pakistan by appointing Teachers everywhere. This scheme was introduced on 27th September, 1957.

Tours abroad

Though Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (may God be pleased with him) was over busy shouldering the responsibilities of Khilafat, yet Huzur visited Europe twice. First in 1924, to participate in the Wembley Conference along with 12 companions, breaking journey at Damascus, Palestine and Egypt halting briefly at each of these places Huzur reached England passing through Italy and France. He met Mussolini in Italy enroute. On reaching London his visit was much publicised by the media. In many of them his photographs also appeared, and the Britishers welcomed Huzur with extra-ordinary warmth and zeal. On 23rd, September 1924, Chaudhary Muhammad Zafarullah Khan read out Huzur's article in the conference, which was published in the form of a book titled"Ahmadiyyat the true Islam". At the conclusion of the reading the hall reverberated with cheers and applause. The chairman praised the success of the article in glowing terms.

During his stay in England, Huzur laid the foundation of the Ahmadiyya Mosque on the 19th of October, 1924. On this occasion, apart from British elite, prominent citizens including ministers, ambassadors, diplomats and other dignitaries of Japan, Syria, Czechoslovakia, Ethiopia, Egypt, America, Italy, Australia and Hungary also participated. Huzur after an absence of 4 months, returned home with unique and tremendous success.

The second journey Huzur undertook was in the first week of April 1955. In this tour, passing through Damascus and Lebanon, Huzur visited Geneva, and thereon via Zurich, Hamburg and Hague reached London. This tour was mainly for the treatment of Huzur's ailment which he suffered after a murderous attempt on his life. But Huzur, despite his illness, opened various missions in Europe. Wherever he went he met people individually and in groups. In Damascus he delivered the Friday Sermon in Arabic and in European countries in English. During his stay in London Huzur convened a historic conference on the Missionaries working in all countries. This was held on 22nd, 23rd and 24th of July, 1955. In this conference Huzur emphasised the urgent necessity of expanding the activities of Tabligh-e-Islam, publication and translation of the Holy Quran, construction of mosques, establishment of schools and seminaries to train new missionaries. Huzur himself attended all sittings. This tour extended for six months.

In the long 52 year span of his Khilafat, various other achievements are credited to him. He guided the Muslims in Politics especially during the Non-Co-operation Movement of the Congress, devoted his attention towards the scheduled classes and Harijans and countered the "Shuddhi" movement in Malkanas. During the Simon Commission and the Round Table conferences he guided the nation through his valuable writings and speeches.

In order to establish peace, understanding and good-will among the communities he laid the foundation of regular and frequent holding of "Founders of Religions Day" meetings, in which speakers from various faiths were invited to speak about the teachings of their own religion and founders from one platform.

During the first year of his Khilafat, he wrote a book "Haqeeqat- ul-Nabuwwat" in which he said:

"Ignorant men blame us that by believing in the Promised Messiah as a Prophet we insulted the Holy Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). What do they know about the state of One's heart? How could they fathom the great love, deep affection and high reverence we have for the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). And what do they understand, how did the love of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) penetrate in my heart. He is my life, my heart, my desire. In his slavery is my honour and his shoe-bearing, is more valuable to me than the Imperial throne. The control of Seven Continents is nothing in comparison to sweeping in his house. He is the beloved of the Lord - why should I then not love him? He is the intimate of God so why should I not search for his intimacy? My condition corresponds to the spirit in the couplet of the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him):

"Next to God, intoxicated with Muhammad love, I am and if this be infidelity, by God I am the greatest Infidel."

This is only the love of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) which compels me to falsify the belief of the total closure of the Chapter of Prophethood. This is an insult and affront to the Holy Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).

"Allah sends down His blessings on the Prophet and His angels pray for him. O ye who believe, you too should invoke His blessings on him and salute him with the salutation of peace." Holy Quran 33:57

http://www.alislam.org/library/mahmood1.html

Hazrat Hafiz Mirza Nasir Ahmad

Khalifatul Masih III

In Talmud, there is a passage which indicates that on the death of the Messiah his spiritual Kingdom will pass to his son and grandson. Again, in Haqiqatul Wahi, the Promised Messiah thanks God for the grant of four sons and the birth of a grandson at a future date. The much awaited prophecy was fulfilled when Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad was granted a son on 16th November, 1909. He was named Nasir Ahmad. The grandson spoken of in the prophecy is none other than Hazrat Hafiz Mirza Nasir Ahmad, Hazrat Ummul Momineen (wife of the Promised Messiah) used to call Nasir Ahmad "my Mubarak and my Yahya". In one of her dreams, she saw that Mubarak had come back and clung to her saying: "Mother, I shall not go away now." Hazrat Nawab Mubaraka Begum also had a dream to this effect.

Further, on 26th September, 1909, before the birth of Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmad, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad, the second Caliph, wrote to a friend that God had informed him that He would give him a son who would strengthen the fabric of Islam. The prophecy about the grandson speaks of Yahya. Basing his conclusion on the word "Yahya", the Promised Messiah thought rightly that the child would be given a long life unlike Mubarak Ahmad son of the Promised Messiah who died at a tender age. From the Holy Quran, we learn that Yahya was taught the word of God at a young age. Similarly, Hazrat Hafiz Mirza Nasir Ahmad committed the Quran to memory in his younger years.

Hazrat Hafiz Mirza Nasir Ahmad succeeded as the third Caliph in the year 1965. Since then he tremendously expanded the Missionary activities of this Community.

He said in 1967,

"I would like to inform Ahmadis all over the world that the next 25 years will be very crucial, for a spiritual revolution shall shake the world to its very foundations. I cannot say which nations will be fortunate enough to accept the message of Ahmadiyyat enbloc or in great force and whether those nations will be African, British or otherwise. But I do tell you that the day is not far off when certain countries or parts there-of will accept Ahmadiyyat and their governments will be run Ahmadis. The prophecies and visions of the Promised Messiah are quite clear on this point... It is not know through what furnace you will have to pass in order to bring about that electrifying change in the world throughout, but you shall be put on trial in a variety of ways before that day of fulfilment. So, you must be prepared for that momentous occasion heralding the advent of God's kingdom on earth, in the manner foretold by the Holy Prophet and his accredited representative, the Promised Messiah."

During his historic tour to Europe in 1967, Khalifatul Masih III warned Europe:

"The Promised Messiah also prophesied that a third world war of even bigger dimensions would follow the second. The two opposing Camps will clash with such suddenness that everyone will be caught unaware. Death and destruction will rain from the sky and fierce flames shall engulf the earth. The colossus of modern civilisation will tumble to the ground. Both the communist and the opposing blocks will perish in the process. Russia and its satellites on the one hand and the U.S and its allies on the other, shall be destroyed, their might broken, their civilisation ruined and their system shattered. The survivors shall stand aghast and amazed at the tragedy... The end of the third world war will be the beginning of the triumph of Islam. People will accept its truth in large numbers and will realise that Islam alone is the true religion and that the emancipation of Man is to be won through the message of Muhammad alone (on whom be peace).. But gentlemen, let us not forget that this prophecy, like all prophecies, is a warning and its fulfilment can be delayed or even averted provided man turns to his Lord, repents and mends his ways. He can yet avert divine wrath if he stops worshipping the false deities of wealth, power and prestige, establishes a genuine relationship with his Lord, refrains from all transgression, does his duty to God and man, and learn to work for the true human welfare."

In his historic visit to the six West African countries in 1970 Khalifatul Masih III declared:

"All men are equal, there is no difference between one man and another man. If the world realises this, there will be far less trouble."

On 3rd July, 1970, in a sermon at Abbotabad, he declared:

"On the soil of Africa shall be fought the last spiritual battle between Islam and Christianity."

"Looking at the world from the religious point of view, we find that a major portion of humanity is in the grip of atheism or agnosticism. Take the example of Soviet Russia. Communist China is one of those countries which have officially banished God. In certain European countries, the condition is much the same, ideologically, though no official declaration has been made to this effect.. We can say, broadly speaking that the whole of Europe is Christian by faith. In everyday talk, England is spoken of as a Christian country. This also holds good for Australia, New Zealand, Canada, The United States, North America and some parts of Africa. You will be surprised to know that I saw "For Sale" posters attached to certain churches in London. These countries are Christian in name only. The citizens do not even know what Christianity is... Well, according to the world map as it stands to-day, we find that some countries have openly adopted atheism or agnosticism. On top of it, there stands the battlefield of Africa where the forces of Islam and Christianity are locked in deadly struggle for superiority... If we win Africa, it will be difficult for Christian missionaries to regroups their forces in Spain or South America for a counter-attack (Spiritual one). They shall have no prospect of success. The material marshalled by the Promised Messiah against Christian dogma is so massive and impressive that one is simply astonished at the immensity of the task, with meticulous care and precision he has demolished the fabric thoroughly and completely."

"The Fazle Omar Foundation", "The Nusrat Jehan Leap Forward Programme", "The Jubilee Fund", only to name a few, are the highlights of the achievements of the third Caliph. But his golden achievement is the guidance he offered to the Community when Pakistan declared this God- fearing Community a Non-Muslim minority. That the Community in its totality has not suffered from disintegration, establishes the fact that the Caliph is no paper-tiger and that he can stand trials and tribulations. Equally historic is his sermon that we are Muslims.

"We have passed through painful times and now we are receiving reports that where-ever the number of Ahmadis is small and they are weak they are being boycotted. They cannot obtain food or drink. Shopkeepers are told not to sell even the indispensable necessities of life to them, and water carriers have been told not to supply water to them. We are not worried that we are being afflicted with hunger, as we have been warned of it in the Holy Quran:

"We will surely try you with somewhat of fear and hunger, loss of wealth and lives and the fruits of your labour." (2:156)

Reports that are coming in indicate that just now the emphasis is on depriving the Ahmadis of food and drink. On receipt of such reports I call to mind and remind those who are in touch with me that our beloved master, the Seal of the Prophets, Muhammad Mustafa (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was during the Meccan period besieged along with all the Muslims in the narrow valley of Abu Taib for a period of 2 and half to 3 years. They were all sorely tried and were denied the necessities of life. Allah so ordained that they were able to obtain just enough to maintain life with difficulty."

Under the guidance of Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmad (may mercy of Allah be upon him) the Ahmadiyya Community progressed at a remarkable speed in the propagation of Islam throughout the world building and running schools, colleges, hospitals, preaching centres, mosques, translating and publishing of Holy Quran.

In one of his Friday sermons after his tour to West Africa, he described his impressions as under:

"I left for West Africa carrying Islam's message of love, amity and fraternity for the people of that country. I have returned on the conclusion of my tour, extending to a month or so, to tell you, how God manifested His kindness to me at every stage of my journey. I can not attire in words what I saw, observed and experienced. For my part, I conveyed to them and through them, to other nations of the world, the great message of love which Islam has promulgated for the benefit of entire humanity. I talked to them with feelings of affection, sympathy and brotherhood and communicated to them the Gospel of Islamic equality. I went a step further and demonstrated to them by action, referring to the life of the Holy Prophet that as Homo sapiens, there is not distinction between one human being and another. I caressed thousands of children and shook hands with numerous persons. Sometimes I did this when the heat was at its highest and I felt as if I would faint."

In another sermon he predicted that the last spiritual battle between Christianity and Islam would be fought on the soil of Africa. He exhorted Ahmadis to redouble their efforts, so that the day of victory might come nearer than expected.

In one of his address, Huzur said,

"Whenever God commissions someone to reform the world, He Himself helps him and creates a congenial atmosphere for the success of the person sent by Him, He sends down His blessings. Every change that has taken place since the advent of Hazrat Masih Maoud, whether it was big or small, has been favourable to the Movement. Take the example of the Russian revolution in 1917, it wiped out Christianity from a large part of the world. Christianity had presented a human being as a "God", this idol was broken to pieces, but not with the sticks; it was broken with cogent arguments, historical proofs and scientific evidence. The Promised Messiah, may peace be on him, had said that he would break the cross, which is said to have wounded the body of Jesus Christ (peace be on him). Indeed he proved with irrefutable proofs that Jesus had not died on the cross. The International Conference on the Deliverance of Jesus from the Cross has shaken the Christian world. The Christian Missionaries have not been able to accept the invitation that was extended to them for a dialogue on the subject. They are the people who, before the advent of Promised Messiah, may peace be on him, were of the opinion that they would wipe out Islam from India, Mecca and Medina. They asserted that Africa was in their lap. But what to talk of India, Mecca and Medina! Africa where they had bought the people with milk tins, sugar and clothes and scholarships, there the Ahmadiyya Missionaries with the Grace of God have turned the tables."

A paper, Calgary Herald so reports on September 6th, 1980:

Islam Leader Here "Hafiz Mirza Nasir Ahmad, head of the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam, will begin a four day visit to Calgary on Sunday, known to his followers as Khalifatul Masih III, the grandson of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad and believed third successor of the Promised Messiah, he holds an M.A in Economics from Oxford University. The Ahmadiyya Movement is a Missionary branch of Islam, with a world- wide membership of more than 10 million and has translated and published the Holy Quran and other Islamic literature in more than 100 languages."

Huzur toured America, Canada, Norway, West Germany, Holland, Sweden and England in 1976 and inaugurated the "Nasir Mosque" in Sweden. Again Huzur visited Switzerland, Holland, Sweden, Denmark and West Germany, attended the London Conference in 1978 and later Huzur laid the foundation stone of "Basharat Mosque" in Pedroabad, Spain. After over sixteen years of Khilafat, having unqualified success in stepping stones to further triumphs of Islam, Huzur expired on 9th of June, 1982. (may his soul rest in peace)

http://www.alislam.org/library/nasir1.html

The Promised Messiah and founder of the Jamaat Ahmadiyya Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani's blessed son, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad (The Khalifatul Masih II and Musleh Mauod) married Hazrat Syeda Maryam Begum on 7th February, 1924. She was the daughter of Hazrat Dr. Abdul Sattar Shah, scion of an eminent Syed family. In his Nikah sermon, Syed Sarwar Shah Sahib, a venerable companion of the Promised Messiah said,"I am now advanced in years and would soon pass away, But those who live would witness the advent of Servants of the faith born in this wedlock with a Syeda as occurred before. This is my resolute conviction." And so this Servant of the faith was born on 18th December, 1928. He grew up righteousness and virtuous under the guidance of his illustrious father and devout mother and with divine blessings. Once, during his childhood, he was asked by a well-know Ahmadi Savant, Maulana Abdul Rahim Nayyer, "Which reward would you cherish most for doing good work?" "Allah - Only Allah" was the 10 year old's spontaneous answer. The blessed personage was named Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad. His erudition encompasses wide range of knowledge both spiritual and material. After graduation, he obtained the "Shahid" degree from Jamia Ahmadiyya (Theological Academy) at Rabwah. Then he studied in Europe for two and half years. After completing his higher education, he dedicated his life to the service of faith. In October 1958, he was given charge of "Waqf-e-Jadid" the department for propagation of the highest grades of virtue and for fostering welfare of Ahmadis. From 1960 to 1969 he was vice-president and then president of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya in which capacity he displayed remarkable qualities of leadership. From 1979 to 1982, he was president of Majlis Ansarullah. He served as Director of Fazl-e-Omar Foundation in the time of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III. He was patron of the International Ahmadiyya Association of Architect and Engineers (IAAAE). Allah has bestowed upon him extraordinary talents of speech and writing. The books authored by him gave greatly enriched the repository of Ahmadiyya literature. Some of the well-known titles are: Biography of Hazrat Fazl-e-Omar, Murder in the name of Allah, Maudoodi Islam, What Ahmadiyyat gave to the world, and The Moral Excellence of the Holy Prophet in Wars. Hazrat Hafiz Mirza Nasir, Khalifatul Masih III passed away on the 9th of June, 1982 and the following day Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad Sahib was elected as Khalifatul Masih IV. Under his able guidance and with divine help, the Jamaat is making great strides. Progress and advancement is evident in every respect - geographically, historically, morally, and spiritually. Allah says in the Holy Quran, "He indeed prospers who purifies it" 91:10. As such purification of soul is regarded the foremost guiding principle for the followers of Allah's prophets. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV has exhorted the Jamaat to achieve this end in various ways some of which are mentioned here. Huzur emphasised on the importance of observing congregational Prayer Service. He dealt with this topic in three phases - in Friday Sermon of 1st April 1983 and in various sermons since 8th November 1985. On 17th June 1988, he once again stressed the need for establishing and strengthening communion with Allah through prayers. With Allah's grace, these dynamic exhortations are producing good results and the general improvement in moral and spiritual standards of the Jamaat in quite evident. The so-called modern society has shattered the dignity of woman under the illusion of equality. The manner in which Islam has safeguarded the honour and esteem of woman in deprecated and subjected to misplaced criticism. In his question and answer session and Press Conferences, Huzur not only refuted this criticism, he also enunciated the true status of woman in Islam. He exhorted the Ahmadi women to observe "Purdah" strictly and to safeguard the Islamic values. In his sermon at the annual Ahmadiyya conference of 1982, he warned the Ahmadi women against the perils of western culture and conveyed to them the significance and importance of Islamic Purdah. In consequence of this guidance, most of the Ahmadi ladies in western countries now meticulously observe Purdah. Islam has propounded very noble teachings about family life and the Holy Prophet was a model of moral excellence in this respect. Some people do not follow this good example and transgress Quranic teachings. In his Friday Sermon of 14th February, 1986, Huzur exhorted the Ahmadis to completely root out this behaviour from their daily lives and foster graciousness between kindred and in-laws. In response many families have forsworn their past attitude. The Ahmadis as a group stand out from others as comparatively free from the shackles of un-Islamic customs and superstitions. Shortcomings do arise at times and Huzur has particularly laid stress to eradicate them. In his sermons of 8th March, 1985 and 10th May, 1985, Huzur enjoined the Ahmadis to eschew giving dowry beyond means, exchanging gifts on New Year Day or other similar customs. The Muslims celebrate Eid twice a year. The affluent generally move within the narrow confines of their own circle. In his Eid Sermon of 1983, Huzur asked the wealthy Ahmadis to go to the homes of their poor brethren to wish them happy Eid and offer them gifts. In compliance of this directive, the delectation of Eid in Ahmadi society has escalated significantly and this is the very substance and philosophy of Islamic festival of Eid. To derive real profit from the teachings of Quran, one must be righteous. Allah says, "It is a guidance for the righteous." 2:3. In a gathering the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) pointed his finger towards his chest and said, "The righteousness should be here". Elucidating this Hadith, the Promised Messiah pronounced "Righteousness is a virtue that should be rooted in the heart." The Khalifatul Masih IV reflected elaborately on this topic in various sermons. The righteousness nourished with the awe and love of Allah is supreme and perpetual. The preaching of Islam is obligatory for every Muslim. In the present age it is only the Ahmadiyya Movement which is actively engaged in this great effort and this fact is conceded by our antagonists also. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV has vastly expanded this programme of preaching and propagation. The Ahmadis by and large are now perceptive to this call and in addition there is a regular cadre of preachers. On the whole, the implementation of the programme in as many as 152 countries of the world. In the era of the 4th Caliph, the Jamaat has come to exercise considerable influence winning more and more adherents, among them eminent personalities and tribal kings. In 1987, two such kings from Nigeria made the covenant and joined Jamaat. Thus the Promised Messiah's revelation, "Kings will seek blessings from thy clothes" found fulfilment once again. Huzur bestowed sacred relics of the Promised Messiah on these two kings when they presented themselves during the annual Ahmadiyya Conference in London in 1987. The Promised Messiah was commissioned by God for rejuvenating Islam and disseminating the Holy Quran. During the time of the 2nd and 3rd Caliphs, translation of the Holy Quran was done in different languages. This work has been considerably accelerated now. Translations in fifty one languages of the world have been completed and published. Translation of 300 selected verses of the Quran in 118 languages of the world have been done. This monumental achievement has no parallel in the last 1400 years. To achieve the highest grades of excellence and purification, spending in the cause of Allah is proclaimed a virtue of great merit subordinated only to the performance of prayer. It is a measure of the grand spiritual revolution brought about by the Promised Messiah that the Ahmadis are always prepared and eager to spend money in the cause of Allah. Their zeal for such voluntary sacrifices has been ever growing having greatly accelerated in the era of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV. The annual budget of Jamaat has reached 1 billion mark. This figure represents the Obligatory Donations only. There are other categories like Tehrik-e-Jadid, Waqf-e-Jadid, Syedna Bilal Fund and Propagation of Quran Fund. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV journeys many countries each year. This is to oversee, streamline, extend and accelerate the multifarious activities of the Jamaat. The countries graced by him are Africa, East and West, Far East, Europe, America and Canada. Only one and half month after becoming Khalifa, Huzur travelled to Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, Holland, UK and Australia. He inaugurated the "Basharat Mosque" the first ever to be built in Spain in 750 years. He addressed 18 press conferences wherein he provided erudite interpretation of Islamic teachings. For seven weeks in 1983 (Aug. 22 - Oct. 14) he visited Singapore, Fiji, Australia and Sri Lanka. Laying the foundation stone of "Bait-ul-Huda" mosque and Mission House at Sydney was a momentous event of this tour. He also addressed a crowded press conference at the University of Canberra where he expounded the beauty of Islamic values. In December 1984, he undertook a tour of Holland, Germany and France. Plans for establishing big centres were discussed. In September 1985, Huzur again visited European countries. New Missions in Holland, Belgium, West Germany were declared open. A sprawling and spacious centre, "Nasir Gardens" was inaugurated. Huzur travelled to seven European countries, opened five new missions and examined the prospects of establishing another four. In addition to question and answer sessions, four press conferences were addressed. From Mid August to 7th October, 1986, Huzur visited Canada, Holland, West Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Spain where he met eminent personalities and also the press. During the tour, foundation stone of the first Ahmadiyya Mosque in Canada was laid. The same year he graced the Annual Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya gathering in Frankfurt and also visited Belgium and Holland. In 1987, he travelled twice to European countries, USA and Canada. This was indeed a history making tour as many new Missions were inaugurated. He met a cross section of eminent persons and conveyed to them the Islamic teachings in a most persuasive way. He was hailed in many cities of America where the day was declared "Mirza Tahir Ahmad Day". In January 1988, he set his foot in West Africa for the first time. This tour of six countries spanning over five weeks was highly successful. Tumultuous welcome greeted him everywhere, Gambia, Sierra-Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana and Nigeria. Various Presidents, Ministers, Parliamentarians and Paramount Chiefs met him. The President of Sierra Leone was with him for half an hour. He offered him the use of his personal helicopter and also assigned Police Personnel for his security. Throughout the country, the government made arrangements for his stay. Likewise the government of Liberia provided him use of two Chauffeur-driven cars as well as a Police Squad for security duty. There was meeting with the President and Vice President of Ghana. In almost all these countries, Radio and TV gave ample and appreciative coverage to Huzur's activities. Medical and educational institutions provided by the Movement for the benefit of the people were highly praised. Returning from his tour, Huzur proclaimed: "I perceive Light not Darkness in this continent. Many outsiders came here and exploited the people. The wealth of Africa was used elsewhere. Allah has inspired a plan in my mind that the Ahmadiyya Movement would procure funds elsewhere in the world but utilise here in Africa." Huzur created an exclusive department and charged it with fostering the renaissance and revival of the African people. He also urged Ahmadi doctors, teachers and specialists in other fields to offer themselves for service in Africa. Same year in March/April, Huzur visited Frankfurt and Glasgow. In August/September, he travelled to East Africa and Mauritius. This was the first time ever that an Ahmadi Khalifa had travelled to this part of the world. He visited Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania besides Mauritius. This was, again a very successful visit. Some mosques were inaugurated. Various Ahmadis got the opportunity of meeting with exalted personage and benefiting from his sublime discourses. All these tours by the head of the world-wide Ahmadiyya Movement strengthened and uplifted the spirituality and created awakening among the Ahmadi masses. These were instrumental in dispelling the wrong notions about Islam held by a section of the educated classes. On occasions, the critics were confounded when Huzur expounded the correct interpretation of Islamic teachings and were impelled to embrace Islam there and then. In the course of his African tour, hundreds of persons got initiated in Ahmadiyyat. Whenever any prophet of Allah comes, he and his followers are opposed and derided. It has been the same with Jamaat Ahmadiyya the followers of the Promised Messiah ever since its inception. In 1974 the government of Pakistan embarked on their persecution which reached most cruel dimensions with the promulgation of Zia-ul-Haq's Ordinance XX in 1984. The Ahmadis were tormented and persecuted continuously and life was made unbearable for them. But they displayed amazing steadfastness and spirit of sacrifice. In the face of such horrible oppression they stood firm like a rock. Their fearless resolve stems from their unshakeable faith that they hold fast the rope of Allah in the form of Khilafat. Under the guidance of Khilafat the machinations, intrigues and campaigns of derision are met with fortitude, highest grade of virtues and beneficence, reminiscent of the earliest Muslims. The tortures perpetuated on peace loving Ahmadis grew ever harsher. Some two dozen Ahmadis are martyred. The Holy Founder of the Ahmadiyya Movement is subjected to slander and blasphemous allegations. Profane and foul language is used against other venerable persons of the Jamaat. Such dirty propaganda is spread throughout the world. The Jamaat does not posses enough resources to reply. Yet our Imam, Khalifatul Masih administered cogent refutations to the "White Paper" brought out by the government of Pakistan. This refutation was contained in a series of 18 booklets issued from London, and later published in one volume. All efforts of their reformation having failed, all precepts fallen on deaf ears, warning of Divine punishments unheeded and having exhausted every other avenue, the Khalifatul Masih IV, on 10th June, 1988, now challenged all their TOP leaders for a "Mubahala". Let the matter be judged by Allah, The Best of Judges. One month after the challenge of Mubahala, Maulavi Aslam Qureshi who had gone underground capriciously, reappeared. It had been alleged that he was abducted and then murdered, and the name of the Head of Ahmadiyya Community was maliciously implicated. Aslam Qureshi's appearance was an ignominious disgrace for the opponents. The admonitory destruction of General Zia-ul-Haq on 17th August, 1988 (only nine weeks after the challenge of Mubahala) is the manifestation of another Grand Sign for the Truth of Ahmadiyyat. Blessed are those who take heed of divine signs, recognise the Reformer of the Age and come together under the banner of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and those who are steadfast in their allegiance to the institution of Khilafat. May Allah shower His Blessings on them. Ameen! http://www.alislam.org/library/tahir1.html His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifa-tul Masih V Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Introduction His Holiness, Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (Mir-za Mas-roor Ah-mad), is the fifth Khalifa (Caliph) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Elected to this lifelong position on 22nd April 2003, he serves as the worldwide spiritual and administrative head of an international religious organisation with tens of millions of members spread across 206 countries. Peace Initiatives His Holiness is the world's leading Muslim figure promoting peace and inter-religious harmony. Through his sermons, lectures, books, and personal meetings, His Holiness has continually advocated the worship of God Almighty and serving humanity. He also continually advocates for the establishment of universal human rights, a just society and a separation of religion and state. Since being elected Khalifa, His Holiness has led a worldwide campaign to convey the peaceful message of Islam, through all forms of print and digital media. Under his leadership, national branches of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community have launched campaigns that reflect the true and peaceful teachings of Islam. Ahmadi Muslims the world over are engaged in grassroots efforts to distribute millions of 'Peace' leaflets to Muslims and non-Muslims alike, host interfaith and peace symposia, and present exhibitions of The Holy Qur'an, to present its true and noble message. These campaigns have received worldwide media coverage and demonstrate that Islam champions peace, loyalty to one's country of residence and service to humanity. In 2004, His Holiness launched the annual National Peace Symposium in which guests from all walks of life come together to exchange ideas on the promotion of peace and harmony. Each year the symposium attracts many serving ministers, parliamentarians, politicians, religious leaders and other dignitaries. In 2009, His Holiness also launched the annual 'Ahmadiyya Muslim Prize for the Advancement of Peace'; an international peace award for individuals or organisations that have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment and service to the cause of peace and humanitarianism. Public Service His Holiness has travelled globally to promote and facilitate service to humanity. He regularly meets presidents, prime ministers, other heads of state, parliamentarians and ambassadors of state. His Holiness takes a particular interest in alleviating the suffering of developing nations, by helping to improve their agriculture and facilitating access to food, clean water and electricity. He oversees the work of the International Association of Ahmadi Architects and Engineers (IAAAE), an organisation briefed with leading various humanitarian and development projects, in remote areas of the world. The scope and expertise of this organisation has grown at a rapid rate under his leadership. Likewise, His Holiness supports the work of "Humanity First", an international non-profit disaster relief and development charity and other such organisations. Under the leadership of His Holiness, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has built a number of schools and hospitals that provide high class facilities in remote parts of the world. And through various schemes of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, His Holiness has funded the tuition and education of numerous underprivileged students around the world, irrespective of their religious background. Communication with Ahmadi Muslims His Holiness receives thousands of letters every day from Ahmadi Muslims worldwide, seeking his guidance and prayers. As well as responding to all such letters, His Holiness meets with individual members of the Community, on a daily basis. Every week, His Holiness delivers a Friday Sermon in which he addresses all members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community worldwide. The sermon is broadcast globally live on MTA International, an Ahmadi Muslim satellite television station established in 1994, and translated into various languages. His Holiness uses his sermons to counsel Ahmadi Muslims about various issues of importance. Response to Persecution Following his election in 2003, His Holiness was forced into exile from Pakistan, his native country. Pakistan's Constitution and Penal Code restricts members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community from practising or associating with Islam, or from even identifying themselves as Muslims. Violations of these repressive laws results in fines, imprisonment, and potentially capital punishment. Consequently the legislation prevents His Holiness from fulfilling his duties as Head of the Community and accordingly he is unable to return to Pakistan. Despite the continued sectarian persecution that Ahmadi Muslims are subjected to in various Muslim majority nations, His Holiness expressly forbids any violence. On 28 May 2010, anti-Ahmadiyya terrorists attacked two mosques belonging to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Lahore, Pakistan. 86 Ahmadi Muslims were martyred during their Friday Prayers, whilst scores more were injured. Despite the barbaric nature of this pre-meditated crime against humanity, His Holiness instructed Ahmadi Muslims worldwide to respond only through prayers and entirely peaceful means. Personal Biography His Holiness was born on 15th September 1950 in Rabwah, Pakistan to the late Mirza Mansoor Ahmad and the late Nasira Begum Ahmad. Upon completing his Masters Degree in Agricultural Economics in 1977 from the Agriculture University in Faisalabad, Pakistan, His Holiness formally dedicated his life to the service of Islam. From 1977 to 1985, His Holiness served in Ghana, engaged in social, educational and agricultural development projects. He is accredited with successfully growing wheat on Ghanaian soil for the first time in the nation's history. His Holiness returned to Pakistan in 1985 and served in various senior administrative posts within the Community during the next 18 years, including as Chief Executive of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Pakistan from 1997 until his election as Khalifa. His Holiness resides in London, UK with his wife, Amtul Sabooh Ahmad. He has two children and three grandchildren. His hobbies include gardening, reading, photography and walking. About the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a dynamic, fast growing international revival movement within Islam. Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, India (peace be on him), founded the Community in 1889. Ahmadi Muslims believe him to be the long awaited Promised Messiah and the Imam Al-Mahdi, whose advent was foretold by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). The current headquarters of the Community are in the United Kingdom, where His Holiness, Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad resides. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is an entirely self-funded religious organisation and has no political ambition whatsoever. About the Khalifa-tul Masih (Successor to the Messiah) The Holy Qur'an, which Muslims believe to be the direct Word of God, has promised Muslims who are good and righteous the reward of 'Khilafat' whereby a 'Khalifa' (spiritual Successor), is appointed by Allah to continue the work of a Prophet. Today the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is the only Muslim sect in the world that is united at the hand of one leader, who is known as the Khalifa. The Khalifa-tul Masih is the successor to the Promised Messiah, Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian (peace be upon him). After his demise in 1908, the institution of Khilafat was re-established in Islam on 27 May 1908. In 2008 the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community celebrated 100 years of the Khilafat. The institution of Khilafat is the source of the Community's unity, vibrancy, organisation, progress and its focus on peace. Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad is the fifth Khalifa of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Although Khilafat is not in any way a hereditary institution, Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad also has the distinct honour of being the great-grandson of the Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. http://www.alislam.org/khilafat/fifth/index.html