MUHARRAM. The Real Meaning of The Real Meaning of. A Verse of The Holy Qur'an. A Tribute to Mirza Ghulam Ahmad

Transcription

1 SEPTEMBER VOL ISSUE NINE The Real Meaning of MUHARRAM A Tribute to Mirza Ghulam Ahmad A Verse of The Holy Qur'an The Real Meaning of Muharram Two Types of Divine Attributes

2 The Promised Messiah as & imam mahdi The Holy Prophet Muhammad sa prophesied that the Promised Messiah as would be raised near a white minaret, east of Damascus. This prophecy was fulfilled with the advent of the Promised Messiah as from Qadian, India, a city directly east of Damascus. WORLD FAITHS Sincerity Their flesh reaches not Allah, nor It matters not whether you do By the Truth I mean purity and does their blood, but it is your much or little, so long as your sincerity in their highest degree. righteousness that reaches Him. heart is directed to Heaven. He who lacks purity and sincerity ISLAM, THE HOLY QUR'AN, JUDAISM, TALMUD, BERAKOT cannot move others. Therefore Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi was born to a noble family in Qadian, India. From an early age he had a keen interest in religion and developed a love for the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa. He was also known for his honesty, friendliness and resolve. Over time his knowledge and understanding of religion and its application to society deepened. Being a Muslim it was his firm belief that all religions were true at their source but with the passage of time had drifted away from their original teachings; he upheld the dignity of religion and demonstrated its relevance to everyone. His earnest defence of religion was ultimately blessed when he started to receive direct revelation from Allah a blessing that he continued for the rest of his life. His mission was to revitalise the truth that all religions held within them and to revive the teachings of Islam. It was through this that he would bring mankind together and establish everlasting peace. In 1889, under Divine Guidance, Hazrat Ahmad as founded the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community a community that has since grown in its stature and strength and has remained active in conveying the message of Islam to the ends of the earth. Hazrat Ahmad as had established himself as a respected writer and had written over 80 books. His writings have been translated into more than 60 languages and continue to inspire readers to this day. One of his greatest scholarly works was The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, prepared as a paper and read out at the Conference of Great Religions in He also wrote a fascinating treatise in 1899 entitled Jesus in India, a book that uncovered remarkable evidence of Jesus s as journey to India. In 1902, the Promised Messiah as initiated The Review of Religions which has covered a vast array of topics on religion, philosophy and contemporary issues of the day. It is the longest running English magazine in defence of Islam and the values it teaches. From 1889 until the time of his demise in 1908 tens of thousands of people accepted him. This blessing has continued and will continue through his Khulafa (Successors). Currently under the fifth successor, we are seeing that the tide of acceptance is worldwide and that the message of Prophet Ahmad as has really reached the ends of the earth. makhzan-e-tasaweer 22:38 Abu Huraira ra reported God's Messenger sa as saying, God does not look at your figures and your possessions, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds. ISLAM, THE HOLY PROPHET SA, HADITH OF SAHIH MUSLIM, NO.7 Befriend God with a true heart, full sincerity and complete eagerness, so that He too may befriend you. ISLAM, PROMISED MESSIAH AS, NOAH S ARK, P A worship without love And an unfeeling act, Behold, my brothers, is A pictured loveliness-- No joy in its embrace; A painted sugarcane-- No relish in its taste. O Lord, without sincerity Is no piety. HINDUISM BASAVANNA, VACHANA 126 Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart. CHRISTIANITY, BIBLE, 1 PETER 1:22 he who forces himself to lament, though he may sound sad, will awaken no grief. He who forces himself to be angry, though he may sound fierce, will arouse no awe. And he who forces himself to be affectionate, though he may smile, will create no air of harmony. True sadness need make no sound to awaken grief; true anger need not show itself to arouse awe; true affection need not smile to create harmony. TAOISM, CHUANG TZU 31

3 CONTENTS SEPTEMBER 2018 VOL ISSUE NINE 8 The Ointment of Jesus as HAZRAT MIRZA GHULAM AHMAD AS, THE PROMISED MESSIAH AND IMAM MAHDI 40 A Glimpse into the Life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa HAZRAT MIRZA BASHIR-UD-DIN MAHMUD AHMAD RA, SECOND CALIPH OF THE AHMADIYYA MUSLIM 10 A Tribute to Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Featuring a tribute to the former Chief Editor of The Review of Religions, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, who passed away at the age of A Verse of The Holy Qur'an An article from the archives, written by the former Chief Editor of The Review of Religions analysing a single verse of the Holy Qur'an in depth. RESPECTED LATE MIRZA GHULAM AHMAD 36 The Real Meaning of Muharram Today, millions of Muslims around the world mourn the tragedy of Karbala each year in the first ten days of Muharram. In this article we examine how a true Muslim should observe this month. COMMUNITY 48 Two Types of Divine Attributes - Immanent and Transcendent God Almighty, in order to bestow perfect understanding upon His humble creatures, has set out in the Holy Qur an two aspects of His attributes. HAZRAT MIRZA GHULAM AHMAD AS, THE PROMISED MESSIAH AND IMAM MAHDI 62 Calendar of Religious Events SHAHZAD AHMED, UK Front cover picture: muratart Shutterstock 20

4 WORLD CRISIS MANAGEMENT BOARD Munir-Ud-Din Shams (Chairman), Syed Amer Safir (Secretary), Mubarak Ahmad Zafar, Abdul Baqi Arshad, Ataul Mujeeb Rashed, Naseer Ahmad Qamar, Abid Waheed Ahmad Khan, Aziz Ahmad Bilal and the Pathway to PEACE MIRZA MASROOR AHMAD The world is passing through turbulent times. The global economic crisis continues to manifest new and grave dangers at every juncture. The similarities of the current circumstances to the build-up of the Second World War are stark. Events appear to be moving us rapidly towards a Third World War. The consequences of a nuclear war are beyond our imagination. Read online at: Purchase the book here: CHIEF EDITOR & MANAGER Syed Amer Safir ASSOCIATE EDITOR Nakasha Ahmad ASSISTANT MANAGER Tazeen Ahmad NORTH & SOUTH AMERICAN COORDINATOR Tariq Haroon Malik ISLAM & CONTEMPORARY ISSUES Editor: Shahzad Ahmed Deputy: Zafir Malik RELIGION & SCIENCE Editor: Dr. Syed Muhammad Tahir Nasser Deputy: Dr. Tauseef Khan LAW & HUMAN RIGHTS Editor: Ayesha Mahmood Malik ANCIENT RELIGIONS & ARCHAEOLOGY Editor: Fazal Ahmad Deputy: Rizwan Safir CHRISTIANITY Editor: Navida Sayed Deputy: Arif Khan WOMEN S SECTION Editor: Aliya Latif Deputy: Meliha Hayat RACE & EQUALITY Editor: Hassan Wahab BOOK REVIEWS Editor: Dr. Sarah Waseem WEB TEAM Mubashra Ahmad, Hibba Turrauf SPECIAL COLLECTIONS Head: Razwan Baig EDITORIAL BOARD Sayed Mubashir Ahmad Ayaz, Mansoor Saqi, Bockarie Tommy Kallon, Professor Amtul Razzaq Carmichael, Mansoor Zia, Jonathan Butterworth, Tamim Abodaqa, Murtaza Ahmad, Qudsi Rasheed, Fiona O Keeffe, Waqar Ahmedi, Mansoor Dahri, Abdul Quddus Arif, Mansoor Clarke ART & DESIGN Art Editor: Ahsan Khan Deputy Art Editor & YouTube Coordinator: Zubair Hayat Design & YouTube Assistants: Musawer Din, Usman Shahzad Butt INTERNATIONAL SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION Muhammad Hanif ACCOUNTS & MARKETING Musa Sattar SUB-EDITORS Munawara Ghauri (Head), Maryam Malik, Nusrat Haq, PROOFREADERS Farhana Dar (Head), Hina Ahmedi, Amina Abbasi, Aisha Patel Mzien HOUSE STYLE GUIDE Maleeha Ahmad (Head), Sadia Shah EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Mariam Rahman, Mahida Javed, Munazza Khan SOCIAL MEDIA Mala Khan (Head), Hajra Ahmad (Deputy), Mishall Rehman (Deputy), Nudrat Ahmad, Shumaila Ahmad, Saniya Ahmad, Adeeba Tahir INDEXING, TAGGING & ARCHIVING Mirza Krishan Ahmad (Head). Amtus Shakoor Tayyaba Ahmed (Deputy). Humaira Omer, Humda Sohail, Shahid Malik, Ruhana Hamood, Mubahil Shakir, Adila Bari, Hassan Raza Ahmad LEGAL ADVISOR Khalil Yousuf

5 The Promised Messiah as & IMAM MAHDI (GUIDED ONE) The Ointment of Jesus as I have stated before that in order to ascertain the real truth about the crucifixion, the Ointment of Jesus as is an academic means of inquiry and a most excellent criterion for recognising the truth. The reason I am fully aware of this information is because I belong to a family that has practised medicine. My late father Mirza Ghulam Murtaza, a respectable chief of this district, was a most reputable and experienced physician. He spent almost sixty years of his life gaining experience in this field and insofar as possible, collected a large corpus of books on medicine. I myself have studied books on medicine and have always consulted them. Therefore, based on my personal experience, I can state that the Ointment of Jesus as is mentioned in more than a thousand books. They also mention that this ointment was prepared for Jesus as. Some of these books are by the Jews, others by the Christians and some by the Zoroastrians. Hence, this academic research proves that Jesus, peace be upon him, was surely delivered from the cross. 1 endnotes 1. Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as, A Hidden Truth (Tilford, Surrey: Islam International Publications, 2016), Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as

6 'He was an ardent devotee of Khilafat and served the Khalifah of the time diligently' Friday Sermon - A True Servant of Allah Hadhrat Khilafatul Masih V aba In February 2018, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, who served The Review of Religions for over 20 years, including 10 as its chief editor, passed away. We explore his life and legacy. A TRIBUTE TO Mirza Ghulam Ahmad 'Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return'

7 a tribute to mirza ghulam ahmad On February 5, 2018, former Chief Editor of The Review of Religions, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, passed away at the age of 78. Having worked at The Review of Religions for over 20 years in various capacities, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad worked on the magazine from its offices in Rabwah, Pakistan, through the sixties and seventies, serving as chief editor for nearly ten years before the publication moved to its current home in London. Born in 1939, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was a lifelong devotee of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, and a great-grandson of the Promised Messiah as, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. Having moved to Pakistan in his childhood after the partition of India and Pakistan, he graduated from Government College Lahore with a Master s degree in political science. He then sat the CSS, or public service exam, and passed the exam handily, even though it was known to be a difficult examination to pass. Having succeeded at this worldly endeavor, however, he passed up the opportunity to look for careers in government service and promptly devoted his life to work for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Indeed, that had always been his intention, having sat the exam only to show that he had not chosen to commit his life in service to the Community because he had not been successful in a worldly career. So, in May 1962, he officially joined the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community as a life devotee. The Review of Religions was his first posting, where he assisted then-chief editor Syed Mir Daud Ahmad in editing and producing the magazine, and he worked in this capacity until 1973, when, at the death of Syed Mir Daud Ahmad, he became the sole chief editor until In the ensuing three decades, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad served in a number of administrative capacities. For many years he served as Nazir Taleem, Director of Education for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community s educational services in Pakistan. He also served as Nazir Diwan, Director of Human Resources for Sadr Anjuman. His final post was as Nazir-e-Aala, or the Chief Director of Sadr Anjuman (central administrative body of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community located in Pakistan.) In addition to these official posts, he also had the honour of serving as private secretary to the third worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmad rh. Moreover, he served on countless committees and served as Naib Afsar [Deputy Event Organiser] Jalsa Salana. ( Jalsa Salana is the annual convention of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, held in every country. In Pakistan, however, the convention has not been held since 1983, due to the state-sponsored persecution of Ahmadi Muslims. In its final few years, the event drew over 100,000 people, all of whom were fed and accommodated.) In addition to his various work commitments, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad also had the honour of being imprisoned for a His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmad rh, third worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, greets a guest as Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, center, looks on. Having succeeded at this worldly endeavor, however, he passed up the opportunity to look for careers in government service and promptly devoted his life to work for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. 12 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS SEPTEMBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS 13

8 His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmad rh, third worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, presents a gift as Mirza Ghulam Ahmad looks on.

9 a tribute to mirza ghulam ahmad few days in 1989, under article 298C of the Pakistan Penal Code, under which Ahmadi Muslims performing any acts of worship within Islam (such as reciting the five daily prayers or saying the call to prayer) can be charged with the The love and passion I witnessed in his eyes for the Khalifah of the time was extremely moving and those few moments have become etched in my memory Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, far right, at Jalsa Salana, also served as the deputy organizer for this annual event that drew thousands of people from across Pakistan. crime of posing as a Muslim. As might be expected of one who had devoted himself at a young age to the service of the Community, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad s work ethic was also remarkable. He would frequently leave for work in the morning and not come back until late in the evening. Indeed, there was a period of time in the 1974 when he was working so much with His Holiness Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III rh, that he would not come home at all for days at a time. In another example of his efficiency and work ethic, he was once given a page book manuscript to proofread. The next morning, he had completed corrections for the entire book and had returned the manuscript. Another outstanding attribute was his devotion to Khilafat. A convert living in Malaysia, Shahid Abbas, stated: I performed the Bai at [oath of initiation] in 2005 and went to visit the headquarters. Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Sahib [term of respect used in the subcontinent] was going to his office and the mualim [local preacher] Daniyal Sahib, who was with me, said, He is a very close relative of the Khalifah of the time. You should request prayers of him. I approached him and told him that I had accepted Ahmadiyyat after being Shia and requested that he pray for me. He embraced me and then firmly gripped my hand and said with a very passionate voice, Should I not inform you of a person from whom I also request prayers? I enquired who that would be. He replied, The Khalifah of the time. You should write to him for prayers The love and passion I witnessed in his eyes for the Khalifah of the time was extremely moving and those few moments have become etched in my memory. In addition to the above qualities, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was also notable in his care for the poor and for his loyalty and assistance to his friends and for the care he took of his family. As His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, the fifth and current worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, said in his Friday Sermon of February 9, 2018, in which he remembered Mirza Ghulam Ahmad: May Allah the Almighty elevate his status. He has departed to go to a place where each one of us will go at the appointed time. However, fortunate are those who spend their lives striving to attain the pleasure of God Almighty. May Allah the Almighty elevate his status and enable his children to continue his virtuous deeds. Also all the Waqfeen [life devotees of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community] and office bearers should strive to fulfil their Waqf [pledge to devote one s life to the service of the Community] with sincerity, just as he did and also to continue their services. May Allah grant everyone the opportunity to fulfil their pledges. May Allah continue to grant the Community pious and righteous workers who serve with sincerity and passion in the future as well. 16 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS SEPTEMBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS 17

10 'May Allah the Almighty elevate his status. He has departed to go to a place where each one of us will go at the appointed time. However, fortunate are those who spend their lives striving to attain the pleasure of God Almighty. May Allah the Almighty elevate his status and enable his children to continue his virtuous deeds.' - His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba in reference to Mirza Ghulam Ahmad during the Friday Sermon on 9th February His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Photo by Makzhan-e-Tasaweer

11 ' Nay but that which they have earned has rusted their hearts. ' A verse from the HOLY QUR'AN Saida Shigapova Shutterstock

12 A Verse From The Holy Qur'an MIRZA GHULAM AHMAD In the previous pages we celebrated the memory of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, who served The Review of Religions for over 20 years, including 10 as chief editor. Here we reprint an article he wrote for the December 1964 edition of The Review of Religions analyzing a single verse of the Holy Qur'an in depth.... Nay but that which they have earned has rusted their hearts. 1 This verse states a great psychological and moral truth. It explains that in addition to the effect which is the direct result of an action, it also effects the future manifestation and working of man s morals, his wisdom and knowledge. For instance, take the vice of speaking falsehood. The act of telling a lie leaves its impact upon one who is prone to it. The immediate effect of telling a lie is that the liar earns a bad name; he comes to be looked down upon as a black sheep. Nobody trusts him; no one relies on him. By disobeying Allah he subjects himself to Divine punishment, which may overtake him immediately, or may be delayed. Those about whom he tells lies become his enemies and even his own friends desert him. These are the immediate, natural consequences, which directly flow from the act of telling lies. In addition to its immediate and direct results, which are easily perceived, every sinful action has various other effects on man s mind and heart. For instance, I have taken up the example of falsehood. Whenever a man tells a lie, the first effect of his action on his own mind and heart is that his dislike for falsehood is weakened; and in future telling lies becomes easy for him. [The] same is the case with other evils. On the first instance of stealing or quarreling, or use of abusive language, or making mischief, or on committing a murder for the first time a man is afraid of being caught and exposed to the public, as such. But once when he has committed such a deed, his mind is so affected by it, that not only his dislike of evil is decreased, but also it becomes easier for him to tell a lie, to steal, to abuse or to make mischief, for the second time. Thus he begins to commit these evil deeds without any hesitation. The second effect of doing an evil deed on the heart and mind of man is that his dislike of evil in general is lessened. For one who steals, it becomes easy to The Holy Qur an is a book of such depth and wisdom that even a single verse can capture many important truths. ibnu alias shutterstock commit other crimes, because the act of committing theft results in lessening the feelings of guilt for disobeying the Lord. Similar is the case with other sinful acts. Every sin is not only bad in itself but also it has an external effect of lessening the feeling of abhorrence of sin, and of making a man bold in dis- A liar believes that no one in the world speaks the truth; and he accuses others of telling lies, even when they speak the truth. 22 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS SEPTEMBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS 23

13 a verse from the holy qur'an obeying his Lord by committing similar evil deeds. The third effect of an evil action is that he begins to suspect others; when he himself has committed such a crime, he comes to hold, in his own mind, that others also must be doing the same. A liar believes that no one in the world speaks the truth; and he accuses others of telling lies, even when they speak the truth. This is because he himself is a habitual liar. In this way he is unable to know the truth; and instead of deriving benefit from truth and reality, he attributes false motives to other people s actions. The truth is presented to him; but instead of giving it due consideration, he rejects it out of hand; he thinks since he himself is lying, the others must also be doing the same thing. The fourth effect is that, as a consequence of doing sinful deeds, he is deprived of the beneficial company of pious and righteous people. The fourth effect is that, as a consequence of doing sinful deeds, he is deprived of the beneficial company of pious and righteous people. Because he judges everyone according to his own self and believes that no one is righteous, that all are liars, like himself, the righteous also avoid his company. This truth so succinctly presented in the Holy Qur an is further clarified in a Hadith [oral tradition of the Holy Prophet sa ] to the following effect: When a man commits a transgression it leaves a black mark on his heart. Then, if he repents and withdraws himself from that position, his heart is washed clean of that black mark. On the other hand, if he repeats the sin, the mark begins to grow and spread, until it blackens the whole heart. "إأن ال ع ب د إأذ ا أ ذ ن ب ذ ن ب ا ن ك ت ب ف أ ي ل بأ أ ه ن ك ت ة قل ل ب ه. س و د اء أ ف أإن ت اب و ن ز ع و اس ت غ ف ر ص أ و إأ ن ع ا د ز اد ت ح ت ى ت غ لأ ف ل ب ه ف ذ لأ الر ا ن ال أ ذي ذ ك ر ه الل ه س ب ح ان ه ف أ ي الق رآ أن: ك ل ب ل ر ان ع ل ى ل وبأأهم م ا ك ان وا ي ك أ سب ون." This is the meaning of the verse in the Holy Qur an: 1 Nay but that which they have earned has rusted their hearts. In short, the verse explains that every sinful deed has a manifold effect on man s conscious and unconscious mind; that the past actions of a man determine his future conduct. This is the great psychological and moral truth, which forms the basis of the moral system of Islam. It is by disregarding this basic psychological principle, that the modern man is today steeped in moral degradation of the worst type. endnotes 1. The Holy Qur'an, 83:15. YOUR FEEDBACK IS IMPORTANT TO US Write to us with comments, feedback and suggestions at info@reviewof Religions.org 24 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS SEPTEMBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS 25

14 The Promised Messiah as & IMAM MAHDI (GUIDED ONE) The Purpose of Establishing this Community Aside from this, another of our chief objectives is to remove the errors and self-invented beliefs that have crept into Islam. It would be unwise to suggest that there was no difference whatsoever between this Community and other Muslims. If the Muslims of today have remained unchanged in their beliefs and both are one and the same, then did God the Exalted establish this Community in vain? To entertain such a notion is a great dishonour to this Community, as well as an act of temerity and insolence in the face of Allah the Exalted. For He has repeatedly expressed that darkness has engulfed the world both in respect of practice and doctrine. Countless prophets and messengers appeared in the world, and tirelessly toiled and strove to establish the Oneness of Allah, but today a dark veil has been drawn over it. Further, the people have fallen victim to various forms of polytheism. The Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, enjoined that one ought not to love the world, but today, the love of the world dominates every heart and everyone seems immersed in this very love. When asked, some are averse to undertaking even an iota of work for the sake of religion, reluctance holds them back and they begin to invent thousands of excuses. Every form of misconduct and immorality is considered permissible and every possible transgression is brazenly committed. Religion has become fatally weak and stands helpless like an orphan. Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as

15 AMA GALLERY UK In this state, if Islam had not been helped and supported, when else was it to confront such circumstances as would lend reason for its support? Islam remains only in name. If even now it were not afforded protection, it would undoubtedly perish. 1 endnotes 1. Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, The Advent of the Promised Messiah (Tilford, Surrey: Islam International Publications, 2016), The English Rendering of the 5 Volume Commentary of the Holy Qur an One of the most comprehensive commentaries of the Holy Qur an ever written. Commentary by Hadhrat Mirza Bashir-Ud-Din Mahmud Ahmad(ra) Read it online at: Or Purchase the print version at:

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17 The HONOUR of PROPHETS The HONOUR of PROPHETS NEW BOOK Every human being seeks salvation in some form or another. The concept of salvation holds pivotal importance in matters of religion. A faith unable to deliver its followers from sin is worthless, yet the progress and benefit of society depends on this very salvation. So where should one turn to attain it? The HONOUR of PROPHETS HAZRAT MIRZA GHULAM AHMAD HAZRAT MIRZA GHULAM AHMAD The Promised Messiah and Mahdi Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community In this work, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, explains that since human nature is weak, salvation can only be attained through a mediator who, owing to their perfect relationship with God and deep sympathy for humanity, can serve as a link between God and man. In every era, God has conferred salvation upon humanity through His prophets, but none can match the unparalleled status held by the Prophet of Islam in this respect, who was the paragon of perfection. In the present age, it is this pure and blessed prophet who is the only intercessor that can grant humanity a living relationship with God and free mankind from the shackles of sin. The author presents an exquisite exposition on the philosophy of divine intercession, sinlessness, forgiveness, human frailty and his advent as the Promised Messiah.

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19 The Real Meaning of MUHARRAM Karbobala Photos Wiki Commons

20 The Real Meaning of Muharram SHAHZAD AHMED, UK For Muslims all around the world, the month of Muharram is a grim reminder of one of the greatest tragedies in the history of Islam. rasoulali Shutterstock The holy month of Muharram marks the first month of the Islamic calendar. Generally, across various cultures and traditions, the new year is a time of great jubilation and happiness. However, for Muslims all around the world, the month of Muharram is a very painful and grim reminder of one of the greatest tragedies in the history of Islam. It was in 61 AH that the beloved grandson of the Holy Prophet sa and other members of the Holy Prophet s sa family were mercilessly martyred by the army of Yazid in the fields of Karbala. Hazrat Amir Muawiyah ra, who claimed to be the Khalifah after Hazrat Ali ra, appointed his son Yazid as his heir apparent in 56 AH (after Hijrah, the starting point of the Islamic calendar). After the demise of Hazrat Amir Muawiyah ra in 60 AH, Yazid took charge and instructed the Muslims to take his Bai at [pledge of allegiance or initiation at the hands of a spiritual leader], pledging complete loyalty and obedience to him. Whilst many of the Muslims took the Bai at in order to avoid further divisions and bloodshed, certain prominent Companions including Hazrat Imam Hussain ra, Hazrat Abdullah bin Umar ra and Hazrat Abdullah bin Zubair ra refused to pledge Bai at as they disagreed with such appointment. They believed that Khilafat was divinely appointed and could not be simply inherited. It was an opposition to this fundamental principle which led to the tragic event of Karbala. Every year in the month of Muharram, Muslims around the world commemorate the martyrdom of Hazrat Hussain ra, grandson of the Holy Prophet sa. Whilst some hold gatherings and recount the events of this great tragedy, others take to the streets and hold processions by physically re-enacting and experiencing the pain as a way of remembering those who were martyred on that day. Moreover, many have distorted the historical accounts while narrating this incident as well as introducing all kinds of innovations in the way they mourn the tragedy. However, the worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba has expounded on how a true Muslim should observe this holy month. In his various Friday sermons on the occasion of Muharram, His Holiness has related the details of Karbala, the great sacrifice of the Companions ra and the lofty status of Hazrat Imam Hussain ra. Whilst explaining the background of Karbala, His Holiness granted a comprehensive overview: Hazrat Imam Hussain ra only had one purpose; he did not want any power; rather, he wanted to establish the truth and that is what he did. Hazrat Musleh Ma ud ra [Hazrat Mirza Bashir-Ud-Din Mahmud Ahmad, the second worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community] has beautifully explained how Hazrat Imam Hussain ra took his stand in support of a principle: that is, that the right of electing the Khalifah belongs to the people of the country, to the whole of the community. A son cannot inherit this right from his father and this principle is just as significant today as it was before. In fact, the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain ra has further highlighted this right. And so it 38 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS SEPTEMBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS 39

21 the real meaning of muharram was Hazrat Imam Hussain ra who succeeded, and not Yazid. 1 Hazrat Imam Hussain ra thus refused to pledge the Bai at to Yazid for he believed that the institution of Khilafat [caliphate] was neither a monarchic rule nor a dynasty; rather, the Khalifah is the one who is directly appointed by God, albeit through the will of the people. His Holiness aba further stated: Despite declining to pledge the Bai at, Hazrat Imam Hussain ra constantly tried to seek reconciliation and when he realised the danger of Muslim bloodshed, he told them to go back stating that those who could leave should leave. Approximately 30 to 40 people insisted upon staying with him, along with his family members, who also stayed behind with him. Furthermore, he told the representatives of Yazid that he did not want to fight and that they should let him go, so that he may go and worship God or so he could go to the frontier [of the Muslim empire] and take part in the Jihad and become martyred in the way of Islam. Or that they should take him to Yazid so he could tell him the reality of the matter but the representatives did not listen to a single word of his. 2 Expounding upon this great sacrifice and the lofty status of Hazrat Imam Hussain ra, His Holiness aba stated: Thus, Hazrat Imam Hussain ra, whom the Promised Messiah as declared to be among the chiefs of those dwelling in paradise, has, through his example of patience and steadfastness, demonstrated to us the pathway that leads to paradise. 3 Today, millions of Muslims around the world mourn this tragedy each year in the first ten days of Muharram. However, explaining how a true Muslim should observe this month, His Holiness aba stated: If the month of Muharram teaches us any lesson, then that is for one to always send Durood [special prayer that invokes blessings upon the Holy Prophet sa and his followers] upon the Holy Prophet sa and his family. In order to fulfil our duties towards the grand objectives set out by the Imam of the age, we must strive to send prayers upon the Holy Prophet sa, occupy ourselves in prayers and try our utmost to bring about a pure change within ourselves. At the same time we must demonstrate steadfastness when faced with adversaries who bear the characteristics of Yazid [son of Muawiyah]. 4 He further stated: Invoking blessings on the Holy Prophet sa is essential for the acceptance of prayer. We should send invocations upon the Holy Prophet sa generally, however, during this month we should pay particular attention towards invoking blessings on the Holy Prophet sa. 5 Indeed, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, whose advent was prophesied by the Holy Prophet sa himself, was his most truly ardent devotee. His noble practice is a perfect model for all in how one can truly demonstrate such true love and affection for the Holy Prophet sa. His books and pamphlets are suffused with his love of the Holy Prophet sa. In one of them, the Promised Messiah as has stated: We should send invocations upon the Holy Prophet sa generally, however, during this month we should pay particular attention towards invoking blessings on the Holy Prophet sa. It would not have been possible for me to have attained this grace if I had not followed the footsteps of my lord and master, the pride of all the prophets, the best of mankind, Muhammad, the chosen one, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. Whatever I have achieved, I have achieved by following him, and I know from verified reliable experience that no man can reach God and obtain a deeper understanding of His ways without following that prophet, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. Now, let me also make it known that the very first thing you are rewarded with, after having completely submitted yourself to the instructions and teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa, is that you are granted a new heart which is always rightly inclined, that is to say, a heart which has turned cold upon the love of this material world, and instead it begins to yearn for an everlasting heavenly pleasure. Having achieved this desire this heart is now fit to receive that perfect and purest love, the love of God. Because of your complete obedience to him, all these blessings are bequeathed to you as his spiritual heritage. 6 On another occasion speaking of the grand and lofty station of the Holy Prophet sa, the Promised Messiah as wrote: The sons of Adam have no messenger 40 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS SEPTEMBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS 41

22 The Review of Religions If the month of Muharram teaches us any lesson, then that is for one to always send Durood [special prayer that invokes blessings upon the Holy Prophet sa and his followers] upon the Holy Prophet sa and his family. In order to fulfil our duties towards the grand objectives set out by the Imam of the age, we must strive to send prayers upon the Holy Prophet sa, occupy ourselves in prayers and try our utmost to bring about a pure change within ourselves. At the same time we must demonstrate steadfastness when faced with adversaries who bear the characteristics of Yazid [son of Muawiyah]. 4

23 the real meaning of muharram and intercessor but Muhammad, the Chosen One, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. Endeavour, therefore, to cultivate true love for this prophet of glory and majesty, and do not give precedence to anyone over him, so that in heaven you may be counted as those who have attained salvation. Remember, salvation is not something that will be manifested after death. On the contrary, true salvation exhibits its light in this very world. Who is the one who attains salvation? The person who believes that God is true and that Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, is the intercessor between God and all His creation, and that under the heaven there is no messenger equal in rank to him, nor is there any book equal in status to the Qur an. God did not desire that anyone should remain alive eternally, but this chosen prophet lives forever. To keep him alive forever, God has ordained that his spiritual and law-giving blessings would last until the day of resurrection. 7 The month of Muharram thus serves a powerful reminder of the great sacrifice made by the early Muslims in order to uphold the truth and protect their faith. Today, the only way to truly commemorate and honour their sacrifice is by emulating the high standards they have set and invoking blessings upon the Holy Prophet sa and his noble family. Moreover, in this blessed era in which we have witnessed the advent of the Promised Messiah as and Mahdi, it is the duty of every Muslim to pledge their Bai at as per the instruction of the Holy Prophet sa and thus end all divisions and become united under the Imam of the Age. endnotes 1. Friday Sermon, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, 10 th December Ibid. 3. Friday Sermon, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, 23 rd November Friday Sermon, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, 10 th December Ibid. 6. Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as, Haqiqatul Wahi, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 22, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as, Noah s Ark (Tilford, Surrey: Islam International Publications Limited, 2016), Deep in the heart of the Arab Peninsula, amidst the desert and the valleys of Pharan, stands a modest bricked structure. This monument is undisputedly the single most sacred, revered and Holy Shrine of Islam; the compass point for which the Muslim world aligns itself on a daily basis in prostration to God. Its name is the Ka bah, literally translating from Arabic as the cube, but is synonymously referred to as Baytul Haram or the Sacred House. It was established for the benefit of the whole of mankind, to act as a centre for the unification of humanity. Does its inception lie with the earliest human populations viz-aviz Adam as and his Community or were Abraham as and his son Ishmael as the individuals responsible for its initial erection? And what purpose does the Ka bah actually serve? Purchase print copy: 44 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS SEPTEMBER 2018

24 A Glimpse into the Life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa Mutual Cooperation He used to teach that one of the best Islamic characteristics was that a man should not interfere in matters with which he was not concerned and that people should not go about criticizing others and interfering in matters that were not their concern. This is a principle which if generally adopted and enforced would go a long way towards securing peace and orderliness in the world. A large part of our troubles is due to the tendency of the majority of people to indulge in undue interference and to hold back their cooperation when it may be needed in providing relief for those in distress. The Holy Prophet sa laid great stress upon mutual cooperation. He had made it a rule that if any person was called upon to pay a sum of money by way of penalty and was unable to put up the whole amount, his neighbours or his fellowcitizens or his fellow-tribesmen should make up the amount by raising a subscription. People sometimes came and took up their residence near the Prophet sa, devoting their time to the service of Islam in various ways. He always counselled their relatives to assume the responsibility of providing for their modest requirements. It is reported by Anas ra that during the time of the Holy Prophet sa two brothers accepted Islam and one of them stayed on with the Holy Prophet sa while the other continued with his normal occupation. The latter, later on, complained to the Holy Prophet sa that his brother was spending his time in idleness. The Holy Prophet sa said: 'God provides for you also on account of your brother and it behoves you therefore to make provision for him and leave him free to serve the Faith' (Tirmidhi). During the course of a journey, when the Prophet's sa party arrived at their camping place, his Companions immediately occupied themselves with their respective tasks in Mainlake Shutterstock setting up camp for the night. The Holy Prophet sa said: 'You have allotted no task to me. I shall go and collect fuel for cooking.' His Companions protested and said: 'O Messenger of Allah sa! why should you occupy yourself in that way when all of us are here to do whatever may be necessary?' He said: 'No, no. It is my duty to do my share of whatever may have to be done,' and he collected fire-wood from the jungle for cooking the food. 1 endnotes 1. Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-din Mahmud Ahmad ra, Life of Muhammad (Tilford, Surrey, U.K.: Islam International Publications Limited, 2013),

25 Immanent & Transcendent Two types of divine attributes Ms_wittaya Shutterstock EXTRACTS FROM THE ESSENCE OF ISLAM VOLUME I EXTRACTS FROM THE ESSENCE OF ISLAM VOLUME I

26 Two Types of Divine Attributes - Immanent and Transcendent HAZRAT MIRZA GHULAM AHMAD AS, THE PROMISED MESSIAH & IMAM MAHDI The Promised Messiah as wrote over 80 books in Arabic, Urdu, and Persian. Excerpts of his collected works have been translated into English and organised by topic. The Review of Religions is pleased to present these excerpts as part of a monthly feature. Here, The Promised Messiah as elaborates on the subject of the two types of Divine attributes - immanent and transcendent. Extracts from The Essence of Islam, Vol.I, pp God Almighty, in order to bestow perfect understanding upon His humble creatures, has set out in the Holy Qur an two aspects of His attributes. First, He has described His attributes metaphorically as resembling some human qualities. For instance, He is Noble, Merciful, and Beneficent. He can be angry as well as loving. He has hands and eyes, legs and ears. He has been creating throughout eternity, though nothing has been eternally co-existent with Him. However, species have long existed and even that is not essential for the operation of His attribute of creation, for though creation is one of His attributes, the manifestation of His Unity and Singleness at certain times is also a part of His attributes. None of His attributes falls into permanent disuse, but a temporary cessation of its operation is permissible. Thus God manifested His attributes of resemblance to man. For instance, God is Creator, but to some degree, man also creates or fashions; and man can be called noble for, up to a point, he possesses the quality of nobility; and man can be called merciful for, up to a point, he possesses the quality of mercy. He also has the quality of anger; and he has eyes and ears, etc. This could create a suspicion in one's mind that man resembles God in respect of these attributes, and God resembles man. Therefore, God, by contrast, has also mentioned in the Holy Qur an His attributes of transcendence, i.e., such attributes of which man does not partake at all in his being or in his qualities. God's creation is not like man's creation, nor is God's mercy like man's mercy, nor is His wrath like man's anger, nor is His love like man's love, nor is He in need of space like man. Only God is able to fashion this world in the most beautiful way possible. Chen Liang-Dao Shutterstock The Holy Qur an sets out clearly that in His attributes God is quite distinct from man. For instance, it is said: Nothing in essence shares its substance or attributes with God. He is All-Hearing, All-Seeing. At another place it is said: True Being and True Existence and all true qualities belong only to God and that no one is an associate with Him in respect of them. He alone is alive in His Being and all others are alive through Him. He exists in His own Being and everything else exists through His support. As He is not subject to death so 50 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS SEPTEMBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS 51

27 two types of divine attributes - immanent and transcendant supports Him. He is not wearied by supporting the heavens and the earth. He is above all weakness and feebleness and lack of power. The Throne of Allah His Station of Singleness and Transcendence There was nothing except His Being. Then He created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them. This earth has only been in existence for a limited time. However God Almighty has existed since the beginning and will continue to exist for eternity. Triff Shutterstock also He is not subject to even temporary cessation of His senses like sleep or slumber; but others are subject to death, sleep and slumber. All that you see in the heavens or in the earth belongs to Him and manifests itself and exists through Him. There is no one who can intercede with Him without His permission. He knows all that is before or behind people, that is, His knowledge comprises that which is manifest and that which is hidden. No one can encompass any part of His knowledge except that much which He permits. His power and His knowledge encompass the heavens and the earth. He supports all and nothing At another place it is said: Your Lord is Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth in six periods and then settled Himself on the Throne. This means that having created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them and having manifested His attributes of resemblance, He then addressed Himself to His station of transcendence and aloneness, in order to demonstrate His attributes of transcendence which station is beyond of beyond and is farthest away from creation. That station which is the highest is called the Throne. The explanation of this is that in the beginning all creation was nonexistent and God Almighty manifested Himself at a station which was beyond of beyond and is named the Throne, that is a station which is higher than and above all the worlds. There was nothing except His Being. Then He created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them. When creation came into being, He hid Himself and desired that He should be known through His creation. It must be remembered that Divine attributes never fall into permanent disuse. Except God, no one enjoys eternal personal existence, but the permanence of species too is requisite. No Divine attribute falls into permanent disuse, but there is temporary disuse. As the attribute of creation and the attribute of destruction are inconsistent with each other, therefore, when the attribute of destruction comes into full operation, the attribute of creation falls into disuse for a period. In short, in the beginning it was the time of the operation of the Divine attribute of Singleness and we cannot say how often this period repeated itself, except that it is eternal and without limit. In any case, the attribute of Singleness has priority in time over other attributes. That is why it is said that to begin with, God was alone and that there was no one with Him. Then God created the heavens and earth and all that is in them and in that context 52 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS SEPTEMBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS 53

28 two types of divine attributes - immanent and transcendant But God, despite being near is far, and despite being far is near. In short, every Divine atttribute is distinct from human qualities. He manifested His attributes that He is Noble, Merciful, Forgiving, and Acceptor of repentance. But he who persists in sin and does not desist is not left without chastisement. He also manifested His attribute that He loves those who repent, and His wrath overtakes only those who do not desist from wrongdoing and disobedience. Nothing Approximates to the Attributes of Allah All His attributes are appropriate to Him. They are not like human qualities. His eyes etc. are not physical and none of His attributes resembles human attributes. For instance, when a man is angry he suffers from anger himself and his heart loses its comfort and perceives a burning sensation and his brain is oppressed and he undergoes a change; but God is free from all such changes. His wrath means that He removes His support from one who does not desist from mischief and, according to His eternal law, He metes out to him such treatment as a human being metes out to another when he is angry. Metaphorically, it is called God's wrath. In the same way, His love is not like the love of a human being, for a human being suffers in love also when he is separated from his beloved. But God is not subject to suffering. His nearness also is not like the nearness of a human being, for when a human being approaches near someone he vacates the space which he had occupied before. But God, despite being near is far, and despite being far is near. In short, every Divine attribute is distinct from human qualities. There is only a verbal resemblance and no more. That is why in the Holy Qur an Allah the Exalted says: Nothing approximates to God Almighty in its being or its qualities. Chashma-e-Ma rifat, Ruhani Khaza in, Vol. 23, pp The official website of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community worldwide. You can find a huge collection of free online material, including translation and commentary of the Holy Qur an and you can access literature of the Community including the books written by its founder, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as. 54 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS SEPTEMBER 2018

29 NEW BOOK NOAH S ARK AN INVITATION TO FAITH From 1896 to 1914 the plague ravaged British India, and more particularly, the province of Punjab. During these perilous times, as towns and cities were devoured, the British government undertook efforts to save the people from this pandemic through inoculation. It was in this backdrop that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian penned Noah s Ark in In it the author elaborates the essence of his teachings and states that those who sincerely follow its tenets would be saved miraculously from the onslaughts of this epidemic, even without inoculation. This was a prophecy vouchsafed to him by God. History testifies to the magnificent fulfilment of this prophecy. The book Noah s Ark shines as a beacon of hope not only for the people of the past, but also now and shall continue to grant salvation to the world in all ages. It is a book that stands as one of the most influential works of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, and continues to transform lives even today. Read online: Purchase print copy:

30 THE FRONT COVERS OF OUR 12 EDITIONS IN 2017 JANUARY VOL ISSUE ONE FEBRUARY 2017 MOSQUES VOL ISSUE TWO MARCH VOL ISSUE THREE APRIL 2017 WAYS TO ESTABLISH WORLD PEACE BUILDING BLOCKS for PEACE MAY 2017 VOL ISSUE FOUR The IN SOCIETY RESURREC T I ON Essence of Islam: The Veil A Mosque of Security and Peace JULY 2017 The Search for Enlightened Moderation in Pakistan 46 VOL ISSUE SEVEN Jihad with the Sword Ways to Establish World Peace A Tale of Three Cities Adhan The Call to Prayer Losing Your Head, Keeping Your Cool AUGUST VOL ISSUE EIGHT A Glimpse into the Life of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa 22 SEPTEMBER 2017 The Berlin Mosque Plan of 1923 Jihad with the Sword The Role of Women in Society VOL ISSUE NINE The Persecution of the Messiahs and Their Early Followers 28 OCTOBER 2017 GRAVITATIONAL WAVES The ECJ Headscarf Ruling Why Religion Shouldn t Be Pushed Aside at Work Meet the Men and Women Working at MTA 30 VOL ISSUE SIX and the of Global Conflicts & the Need for Justice Love for All, Hatred for None: Westminster Vigil Women March for Westminster Victims Fasting in School: A Religious Obligation? VOL ISSUE TEN NOVEMBER FUTURE GERMANY ISLAM The Ultimate Pilgrimage Solidarity Amidst Terror The Pillars of Islam Man s Ability to Receive Revelation Gravitational Waves The Pillars of Islam Jalsa Salana: What True Islam is Really All About The Three Functions of Pilgrimage: A Journey to the Holy Land Pillars of Islam the Angel Gabriel Honey: Nature s Golden Nectar The Promised Messiah of the Latter Days The Hunt to Capture the Real Islam Preparing for Tomorrow Raising Pious Children A Turning Point in History - Karbala Women s Rights and Equality The Meaning of the Muslim Pledge SUBSCRIBE 12 EDITIONS for just To subscribe go to Or call: To order back issues info@reviewofreligions.org The Caliph s Tour of Germany Zika Virus: Past and Future Resurrection: Three States of Existence DECEMBER GBP or $30 USD or $36 CAD The Purpose of the Promised Messiah s Advent 56 VOL ISSUE TWELVE BEHIND the SCENES at OXFORD UNIVERSITY'S ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM WHERE ARE THE MUSLIM YOUTH HEADING? HAJJ A new era of astronomy begins VOL ISSUE ELEVEN Churches, Synagogues and Mosques 10? TO CAPTURE Muslim Television Ahmadiyya: Celebrating 25 years The 50TH MOSQUE 12 The hunt the real I shall cause thy message to reach the corners of the Earth JUNE 2017 of Head-Transplant Surgery A historic address at the Calgary Peace Symposium Mosques Building Blocks for Peace VOL ISSUE FIVE GLOBAL CONFLICTS AND THE NEED FOR JUSTICE ROLE of WOMEN THE 12 Imagining The Divine - Art & The Rise Of World Religions Imagining the Divine: Ashmolean Museum s Blockbuster Exhibit 62 Christmas and Jesusas : What's The Connection? Exclusive Interview: The Man Behind Al-Qalam What True Islam Is Really All About Effort vs Natural Aptittude STUDENTS! 12 EDITIONS for just 5 GBP or $10 USD or $12 CAD

31 New Release igns of the Living God is comprised of two short essays in which Hazrat Musleh Ma'ud ra details Svarious prophecies of the Promised Messiah as to establish the truth of the Promised Messiah's as claim and to show that God manifested the same signs through him that were manifested at the hands of the prophets of the past. These prophecies include the one regarding Alexander Dowie, prophecies relating to the First World War and the prophecy about the fall of the Tsar of Russia. IN STORES NOW

32 CALENDAR of RELIGIOUS EVENTS & FESTIVALS SEPTEMBER 2018 Sunday 2 nd September 2018 Faith: Hinduism Event: Janmashtami This day marks the birthday of Krishna as and many Hindus will fast till midnight, when Krishna as was born. Krishna as is welcomed in the temples with singing, dancing and sweets, whilst others place an image of the newborn Krishna as in a cradle. Thursday 13 th September 2018 Faith: Jainism Event: Samvatsari Also known as International Forgiveness Day for Jains, Smavatsari is the last day of Paryushana. It is the holiest day of the Jain calendar. Many Jains observe a complete fast on this day. The whole day is spent in prayers and contemplation. Wednesday 12 th September 2018 Faith: Islam Event: First Month of Muslim Calendar The 1 st of Muharram is the first month of the Islamic Calendar which follows the lunar cycle. On this day, the Prophet Muhammad sa migrated from Makkah to Madinah allowing the Muslims to establish their community there, and thus it is commemorated as a new beginning. For Shia Muslims it is the start of the 10-day fast. Wednesday 19 th September 2018 Faith: Judaism Event: Yom Kippur This Hindu festival celebrates brotherhood and love. Traditionally, a bracelet made of interwoven gold and red threads are worn around wrists as a form of ritual protection and to celebrate their relationship. NOTE ABOUT REFERENCES Verse references to the Holy Qur an count Bismillah (In the Name of Allah ) as the first verse of each Chapter. In some non-standard texts, this is not counted. Should the reader refer to such texts, the verse quoted in The Review of Religions will be found a verse earlier, i.e. at one verse less than the number quoted in this journal. For the ease of non-muslim readers, sa or (saw) after the words, Holy Prophet, or the name Muhammad, are used normally in small letters. They stand for Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam meaning peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. Likewise, the letters as or (as) after the name of all other prophets is an abbreviation meaning peace be upon him derived from Alaihis salatu wassalam which are words that a Muslim utters out of respect whenever he or she comes across that name. The abbreviation ra or (ra) stands for Raziallahu Ta ala anhu and is used for Companions of a Prophet, meaning Allah be pleased with him or her (when followed by the relevant Arabic pronoun). Finally, rh or (rh) for Rahemahullahu Ta ala means the Mercy of Allah the Exalted be upon him. In keeping with current universal practice, local transliterations of names of places are preferred to their anglicised versions, e.g. Makkah instead of Mecca, etc. SUBSCRIPTION Subscription Contacts: UK - Athar Ahmad Bajwa uk@reviewofreligions.org Tel: USA - Tariq Haroon Malik usa@reviewofreligions.org Tel: Canada - Muhammad Dawood Khalid canada@reviewofreligions.org Tel: Nigeria - Qasim Oyekola nigeria@reviewofreligions.org Tel: Ghana - Omar Faruq Yahaya ghana@reviewofreligions.org Tel: India - Khursheed Ahmad india@reviewofreligions.org Tel: Tel: Tel:

33 The Review of Religions, in print since 1902, is one of the longest-running comparative religious magazines. The objective of the magazine is to present the teachings of Islam, reflecting its rational, harmonious and inspiring nature. It also brings together articles and viewpoints on different religions and seeks to make discussions on religion and religious philosophy accessible to a wider readership. The magazine is devoted to promoting intellectual and lively debate that is based on respect for all prophets and religions. Islam repeatedly stresses the need to seek knowledge and The Review of Religions provides a unique platform for people to acquire, and share knowledge. Yearly subscription is only 15 sterling or $30 for overseas customers. To subscribe, or for more info, visit Follow us on SPINE SEPTEMBER 2018 THE REAL MEANING OF MUHARRAM ISLAMIC PUBLICATIONS, 2018 ISSN NO VOL ISSUE NINE