Free Speech & Islam. special edition. Practical Response of True Muslims Worldwide 64. New Series - The Wives of the Holy Prophet sa 84

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1 november special edition vol issue eleven Free Speech & Islam Dialogue or Dissension? How Ahmadi Muslims reacted to Innocence of Muslims 46 New Series - The Wives of the Holy Prophet sa 84 Practical Response of True Muslims Worldwide 64 True Love for the Holy Prophet sa 20

2 The Promised Messiah and imam mahdi and founder of the review of religions 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. makhzan-e-tasaweer 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 (saw). 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 as s 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 Khalifas (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.

3 Allah likes not the uttering of unseemly speech in public, except on the part of one who is being wronged. Verily, Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. And good and evil are not alike. Repel evil with that which is best. And lo, he between whom and thyself was enmity will become as though he were a warm friend. The Holy Qur an: Ch.4:V.149 & Ch.41:V.35

4 contents

5 november 2012 vol issue eleven special edition 6 Editorial Free Speech and Islam: Dialogue or Dissension? 8 Notes and Comments A Leader of Love Ayyaz Mahmood Khan, London, UK 12 Respect for All Religions and Holy Personages Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as, the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi 20 True Love for the Holy Prophet sa Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, Khalifatul Masih V, Head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community 42 Worldwide Media Coverage & Response 46 The Message of True Islam Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, Khalifatul Masih V, Head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community 64 The Worldwide Practical Response of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community 84 NEW SERIES The Noble Wives of the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa Hafiz Muzaffar Ahmad, Rabwah, Pakistan 96 The Holy Prophet sa in the Eyes of Non-Muslims Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, Khalifatul Masih V, Head of the Worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community 120 The Issue of the Age of Hazrat A ishah The Life and Character of the Seal of Prophets Volume II, Chapter VI Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad ra

6 editorial Free Speech and Islam: Dialogue or Dissension? The passionate reaction to the crude film Innocence of Muslims has been one of the biggest news stories of Infuriated by the vulgar depiction of the holiest person in Islam the Prophet Muhammad sa a segment of Muslims responded by protesting violently and attacked Western targets and embassies, culminating in the tragic and unjust murder of the US Ambassador to Libya. On the other hand many in the West fiercely defended their right to unfettered freedom of speech, to the extent that a Spanish newspaper printed new cartoons mocking the Holy Prophet sa in what they asserted was an effort to uphold this right. Western leaders weighed in with their views, largely condemning the video as abusive yet still allowing it to be aired. Muslims who expressed their outrage in a violent manner, although justified in their anger, need to reflect on whether their response was in accordance with the teachings and practice of that Prophet sa whom they claim to be acting out of love for. Were their actions truly representative of the religion of Islam, which literally means Peace? History testifies that the Prophet Muhammad sa never responded violently to insults against him or Islam; rather he always responded to abuse with love and wisdom. He never infringed on anyone s right to free speech. Further, the Holy Qur an strongly condemns the killing of any innocent person, stating that it is akin to killing all of mankind. On the other hand, staunch supporters of unrestrained free speech in particular and people in the West in general need to ponder on whether or not freedom of speech requires a degree of responsibility to be exercised. It is one thing to express one s views in a respectful manner and to raise one s concerns and criticisms appropriately, against Islam or any other religion. However what is the purpose of resorting to outright mockery and abuse to highlight one s viewpoint? Will such an appropach promote peace, or disrupt it?

7 As in past similar controversies, we observe a voice emerging from the chaos to present a sound, reasoned and effective solution to these issues. In this Special Edition, we present a snapshot of the reaction to Innocence of Muslims by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, who represent the true revival of Islam. The solutions presented by Hazrat Mirza Ghluam Ahmad as, the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi and Founder of the Ahmadiyya Community to restoring world peace in such circumstances based on the Qur anic and Islamic teachings, the immediate response of Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, Khalifatul Masih V, current worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community; the start of a special series on the wives of the Holy Prophet sa, in depth analysis on the controversy surrounding the age of Hazrat A ishah, the wife of the Holy Prophet sa and a glimpse into the practical response of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community to the film are the main features of this edition. It is extremely important to thank all those who helped to produce this Special Edition. First and foremost to the team of The Review of Religions who worked diligently and passionately to help collate, edit, proofread and design all material and who dedicated a great amount of time and effort. Also our heartfelt gratitude extends to the Ahmadiyya Community of Canada, UK, USA, Ghana, Germany, Bangladesh, Indonesia and India who provided us with material for our practical response pages at extremely short notice; to the Mazkhan-e-Tasaweer department for providing the Friday Sermon photos and to Mrs Shermeen Butt for her invaluable help in the translations of the Friday Sermons. Amer Safir c h i e f ed i t o r MANAGEMENT BOARD Munir-Ud-Din Shams (Chairman) Syed Amer Safir (Secretary) Mubarak Zaffar, Ataul Mujeeb Rashed, Naseer Qamar, Abdul Baqi Arshad, Abid Waheed Ahmad Khan, Aziz Ahmad Bilal CHIEF EDITOR & MANAGER Syed Amer Safir EDITORIAL BOARD Amtul Razzaz Carmichael, Bockarie Tommy Kallon, Fazal Ahmad, Hibba Turrauf, Jonathan Butterworth, Mansoor Saqi, Munazza Khan, Nakasha Ahmad, Navida Syed, Sarah Waseem PROOFREADERS Abdul Ghany Jahangeer Khan, Farhana Dar, Munavara Ghauri, Hina Rehman Sub-Editors Maleeha Ahmad, Mariam Rahman, Ayesha Khan, Nusrat Haq, Maryam Malik, Khullat Munir, Sadia Shah DISTRIBUTION/SUBSCRIPTION MANAGER Muhammad Hanif. Distribution Team Member: Sami Ullah DESIGN AND LAYOUT Ahsan Khan Staff writer Arif Khan WEB DEVELOPER Masood Nasir INDEXING/TAGGING TEAM Team Leader: Taalay Ahmad. Deputy: Amtus Shakoor Tayyaba Ahmed. Team: Humaira Omer, Humda Sohail, Mirza Krishan Ahmad, Shahid Malik, Ruhana Hamood, Mubahil Shakir, Adila Bari, Hassan Raza Ahmad TWITTER Hibba Turrauf, Mala Khan, Nudrat Ahmad PUBLISHER Al Shirkatul Islamiyyah (ASI Ltd.) Views expressed in this publication are not necessarily the beliefs of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community. All correspondence should be forwarded to the Editor at: The Review of Religions Tahir House, 22 Deer Park Road London, SW19 3TL, United Kingdom Telephone: Fax: info@reviewofreligions.org

8 notes & comments A Leader of Love ay yaz mahmood khan, london, uk As many are aware, in the recent past a wave of conflict and violence has rippled through the world. Some attribute this conflict to the violent retaliation of Muslims, while others assert it is the work of a rude and uninformed film-maker. However, neither one of these assertions are correct independently; rather, it is a mixture of both. Muslims are absolutely justified in the anger and pain they feel at the crude film, Innocence of Muslims. The film is an immature, uncivilised and disrespectful approach to flaunt the right of freedom of speech. Yet there is no justification whatsoever for the violence perpetrated by some Muslims in retaliation either, because if the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa was present today, he would not have permitted such a response. The life of the Holy Prophet sa is full of examples where he repaid barbaric injustice with forgiveness, and returned enmity with love. The Quraish of Makkah subjected the Holy Prophet sa and his Companions to persecution which was unparalleled in its barbarity. His beloved Companions were butchered with no remorse. History testifies that they were tortured so horrifically that their bodies were left scarred for life, and many were martyred, only for the crime that they believed in One God. Yet, when these very same criminals of Arabia were at the mercy of the Holy Prophet sa, after about twenty years of persecution, the Holy Prophet sa showed them nothing but unprecedented mercy, and forgave them all. Indeed, the Prophet of Islam sa was a Mercy for all Mankind. Innocence of Muslims greatly hurt Muslims throughout the world. The Holy Prophet sa is held by Muslims 8 The Review of Religions august 2011

9 more dear than all of their loved ones. It is one thing to challenge another person s views in an academic manner, and quite another to resort to hollow mockery. The first brings about understanding and deepens the breadth of a person s view, and Islam encourages healthy debate and discussion, but the latter only creates rift, hatred, and conflict. Therefore, it is ironic that a law which has been instituted so that human rights may be safeguarded is being misused by some to create disorder and conflict in the world. This is not to infer that opposing views should be silenced. However, if someone has a genuine question or difficulty in understanding Islam or its Holy Founder, or any religion for that matter these concerns can be raised and presented in a respectful manner. After all, respect is the hallmark of a civilised nation. For example, the courts are a place where justice is administered, but even here, opposing views must be expressed with respect, dignity and self-control, otherwise a person is sentenced to contempt of court. Among the innumerable qualities of the Holy Prophet sa, one aspect of his life especially worthy of mention was the manner in which he protected the religious sentiments of others. On one occasion, the Holy Prophet sa rebuked a Muslim for stating that the Holy Prophet sa was superior to Moses as, so as to protect the sentiments of the Jews in Madinah. On another occasion, taking the religious sentiments of Christians into consideration, he gladly allowed them to worship in his own mosque. Once, he stood up in respect for a Jewish man s funeral procession. When the Companions asked, O Messenger august 2011 The Review of Religions 9

10 of Allah! This is a Jewish man, why the need to stand up? The Holy Prophet sa responded, Is he not a human being? There is not a single example in the entire life of the Holy Prophet sa where people of opposing views were silenced. Not only did the Holy Prophet sa openly permit the expression of opposing views, he went even further to ensure that the emotions of such people were safeguarded and protected. Islam encourages the importance of free speech, but this right should be exercised in a respectful and dignified manner. As a fundamental principle, it must be understood that all freedoms granted by law possess limits and boundaries. It is these very limits, boundaries and restrictions which differentiate civilised humans from animals. An act in the name of freedom, which infringes upon the rights of others, or injures the religious sentiments of others can not at all be conducive to world peace and harmony. Peace and harmony can only be established through respectful dialogue. Bridges of love can only be built between nations if a genuine and sympathetic desire to understand each other exists. It is this very true concept of Islam which has been taught to Ahmadis in this day and age by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as of Qadian, the Promised Messiah and Reformer of the latter days. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is striving to convey this very message to the world under the leadership of Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, the Khalifah or divinely appointed spiritual Head of the Community. It is this very Khalifah of Peace, who teaches us to respond to such vulgarity by promoting the true character of the Holy Prophet sa 10 The Review of Religions august 2011

11 throughout the world, and to not retaliate with violence and bloodshed. Any true Muslim would never respond to such mockery except in a manner of peace, because the Holy Prophet sa was also a Prince of Peace, he was a Herald of Harmony, an Emissary of Empathy, a Leader of Love, he was a Commander of Compassion, and a Ruler of Hearts. And every single moment of his life is a living testimony to this very fact. International ( in which religious and theological topics are discussed. Ayyaz Mahmood Khan recently graduated from the Jamia Ahmadiyya UK (Institute of Theology and Languages) and is a frequent lecturer on Islam. He translated the epic biography Seerat Khatamanun Nabiyyin The Life and Character of the Seal of Prophets Vol. 1, into English and is currently translating Vol. 2 of this book. He is a regular panelist on the TV show Faith Matters on Muslim Television Ahmadiyya Write to us with comments, feedback and suggestions at info@reviewofreligions.org august 2011 The Review of Religions 11

12 Respect for all Religions and Holy Personages -The Means to World Peace hazrat mirza ghulam ahmad as, the promised messiah and imam mahdi The impact of the recent anti-islamic film on YouTube rippled across the globe. Hardline proponents of free speech argued that people should be left completely free to speak their mind; regardless of how insulting or deriding it may be to others. On the other hand, many Muslims have protested violently to the film, causing widespread damage and destruction. Here, we present the approach presented by Hazrat Mirza

13 Ghulam Ahmad as to attaining peace in the world, which is based on the true teachings of Islam. Hazrat Ahmad as claimed to be the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi whose advent was prophesised in the Qur an and by the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa and whose task would be to revive the true teachings of Islam at a time when Muslims would no longer follow them. Although Hazrat Ahmad as originally addressed this treatise to Queen Victoria on her Diamond Jubilee, the principles and ideas he presented are precisely applicable to the present-day state of affairs in the world, and thus we urge our readers to reflect on this critical message. To introduce myself, I deem it necessary to state that, from among the subjects of Her Majesty, I am a member of an honoured family of the Punjab. I am known as Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian. My father was Mirza Ghulam Murtaza, his father was Mirza Ata Muhammad, and his father was Mirza Gul Muhammad. The latter was a ruler in an earlier period in time. As will be described later, God took me in His service, and as He has been conversing with His people since ancient times, He honoured me, too, with His converse and communication. He established me upon utmost pristine principles which are beneficial to humanity. One of the principles upon which I have been established is the following: God has informed me that of the religions which have spread and are firmly established in the world through Prophets, holding sway over a part of the world and achieving survival and long life, none was false in its origin. Nor were any of those Prophets false, because it is the eternal practice of God that a false prophet who lies against God who is not from God, but dares to forge things from him never prospers. God destroys such an audacious person who says that he is from God while God knows full well that he is not from Him. All his machinations are shattered, all of his followers are disbanded, and his future is worse than his past because he told a lie against God and brazenly maligned God. God does not give him the honour that is given to the righteous, and neither does He grant him the acceptance and stability, which is reserved for the true prophets. The question may arise that if this is the case then why did those religions spread in the world in whose books creatures such as humans, stones, angels, sun, moon, stars, fire, water or air, etc. have been accepted as deities? The answer is that such religions are november 2012 The Review of Religions 13

14 respect for all religions and holy personages - the means to world peace either from people who did not claim to be prophets and recipients of divine revelation and communication, but were inclined towards creature-worship through the falsity of their own thinking and understanding; or there were some religions whose foundation was in fact laid by a true prophet of God but their true teachings were forgotten with the passage of time. The followers of the latter turned to creature-worship by taking some similes or parables literally. The fact is that those prophets did not teach such a religion. It is not the fault of those prophets, as they brought a wholesome and pure teaching; rather, the ignorant followers assigned perverted meaning to their statements. Such ignorant people did not claim that God s word descended on them or that they were prophets. Rather, they misunderstood and misinterpreted the prophetic word. Though such mistakes and deviations are a sin and are hateful to God, yet He does not stop their proliferation as He stops the work of a liar who lies against God. No government, whether heavenly or earthly, gives respite to a liar who fabricates a law and claims that it is authenticated by the government. A government would never allow someone to pose as a government employee and exercise authority and make people believe that he is a government official when not only is he not an officer, he is not even a lowly employee. Therefore, this law is part of the eternal practice of Almighty God that He does not grant respite to a false prophet. Such a person is soon seized and suffers his punishment. In view of this, we shall honour and accept as true all those who claimed to be prophets at any time, and their claim was established and their religion became widespread and flourished over a long period. If we should discover mistakes in the scriptures of their religions or should observe the misconduct of their followers, we should not attribute these faults and shortcomings to the founders of these religions, inasmuch as the perversion of scriptures is possible and it is possible that mistakes of interpretation might find their way into the commentaries. But it is not at all possible that a person should fabricate lies against God and claim to be a prophet and then put forward his own compositions as the word of God falsely, and yet God should grant him respite like the righteous and allow him wide acceptance worthy of the truthful. Therefore, this principle is an ultimate truth and endless blessing, and withal 14 The Review of Religions november 2012

15 We affirm the truthfulness of all prophets whose religion has been well-established, has survived for a long time period and has had millions enter its fold. lays the foundation for conciliation, in that we affirm the truthfulness of all prophets whose religion has been wellestablished, has survived for a long time period and has had millions enter its fold. This is a very blessed principle. If all of the world were to adhere to this fundamental principle, thousands of disorders and blasphemies, which disturb the peace among the general public, would be eradicated. It is apparent that people who consider the adherents of a religion to be following a person, who, in their view, is a liar and fabricator, lay the foundation of many tribulations. They certainly commit the crimes of defamation and speak of the prophets with extremely disrespectful words, going as far as employing abusive language, and disrupt harmony and peace among the general public; notwithstanding that their estimation is wrong and they are transgressors in the eyes of God with regard to their disrespectful views. God, who is Merciful and Beneficent, does not like that a liar should prosper unfairly and then put people in doubt by establishing his own religion. Nor does He allow that, in the eyes of the world, a person be raised to the level of a true prophet while he is a fabricator and a liar. Therefore, this principle lays down the foundation of love, peace and harmony, and supports moral values, in that we consider all those prophets true who appeared in the world whether in India, or Persia or China or any other country. God instilled their respect and grandeur in the hearts of millions and made firm the roots of their religion, which remained established for centuries. This is the principle that the Qur an teaches us. In light of this principle, we honour all religious founders who fall under this description whether they are the founders of the religion of the Hindus, or the religion of the Persians, or the religion of the Chinese, or the religion of the Jews or the religion of the Christians. Unfortunately, our adversaries cannot treat us this way, and they do not bear in mind the pristine and unalterable law of God that He does not give that blessing and honour to a false prophet that He bestows upon the true one. The religion november 2012 The Review of Religions 15

16 respect for all religions and holy personages - the means to world peace A religion which spreads in the world, takes root, and finds honour and long life, cannot at all be false in its origin. of a false prophet does not take root and does not last long as does the religion of a truthful prophet. Therefore, people subscribing to this kind of belief who defame the prophets of other nations by declaring them false are always enemies of peace and harmony, because there is no greater mischief than abusing the elders of other nations. Sometimes a person would rather die than hear disparaging words for his elders. If we have an objection over the teaching of a religion, we should not attack the honour of the prophet of that religion or mention him in an unseemly manner. Rather, we should object only on the current practices of that nation. We should be certain that the prophet whom God Almighty has graced with the honour of acceptance by millions, and whose acceptance has continued for centuries, is thus firmly proven to be from Allah. If he were not the beloved of God, he would not have achieved so much respect. It is not the practice of God to grant honour to a fabricator, to spread his religion among millions, and to safeguard the fabricated religion for a long time. Therefore, a religion which spreads in the world, takes root, and finds honour and long life, cannot at all be false in its origin. Therefore, if anything in that teaching is found objectionable, it can either be because the teachings of that prophet have been altered, or because a mistake has been made in the explanation of his teachings. It is also possible that we may not be justified in our objections. It may be observed that some priests raise objections about certain tenets in the Holy Qur an, even though they believe them to be true and as the teachings of God according to the Torah. Therefore, such objections are due to one s own mistake or due to haste. In summary, welfare of humanity, peace, harmony, righteousness, and fear of God call for adhering to the principle that we do not declare such prophets as false concerning whose truth the opinion of millions of people for centuries has been established, and they have been supported by God since time immemorial. I am confident that a seeker of truth, whether 16 The Review of Religions november 2012

17 Asian or European, will cherish this principle, and will profoundly regret that he did not believe in it all along. I place this principle before Her Majesty, the Queen, the Empress of India and England because only this principle can spread peace in the world. This is our principle. Islam is proud to be unique in subscribing to this beautiful and handsome principle. Is it befitting that we malign the sages to whom God has subjugated a world and to whom kings have been bowing for centuries? Is it befitting that we be distrustful of God, thinking that He wants to deceive people by giving the status of the truthful to the liars, making them the sages of millions, giving their religions long lives and showing heavenly signs in their favour? If God Himself were to deceive us then how could we differentiate right from wrong? This is an important tenet: a false prophet should not achieve the grandeur, acceptance and greatness as that of a truthful one. Prosperity should not result from the plans of liars as it does from the activities of a truthful one. That is why the first sign of the truthful is that perpetual support is with the truthful, and God plants his religion in the hearts of millions, and grants it long life. Therefore, keeping in view the day of our passing away and the day of recompense, we should not malign such a great sage; rather, we should garner true respect and true love for a prophet who carries such signs. This is the first principle which God has taught us. Through this we have become inheritors of a great moral code I also dare to make another submission. It is evident from the historical records that when the third of the Roman Caesars ascended the throne, and had firmly established his authority, he thought of organising a debate among the two wellknown sects among the Christians, one who believed in the Oneness of God and the other that considered Jesus as as God. The debate took place in the presence of the Caesar of Rome in good decorum and arrangement. Hundreds of chairs were laid to seat honoured observers and members of the government according to their status to listen to the debate. The debate of the priests from both sides lasted for forty days in the court of the king. The Roman Caesar listened to the arguments from both sides and pondered over them. In the end, the sect considering Jesus as, the Messiah, to be only a messenger of God and a november 2012 The Review of Religions 17

18 respect for all religions and holy personages - the means to world peace This shows that such conferences were a tradition of the Christian kings of the past and led to great changes. prophet prevailed. The other sect faced such defeat that the Caesar disclosed in the gathering that he was drawn towards the sect believing in the Oneness of God due to their argument and not of his own consideration. Before leaving the gathering, he adopted the belief of the Oneness of God and became one of those mentioned also in the Holy Qur an, and stopped using the phrase son with reference to God. Thereafter, the next three Caesars who ascended the throne also believed in the Oneness of God. This shows that such conferences were a tradition of the Christian kings of the past and led to great changes. Pondering over such events, it is the earnest desire of my heart that our Empress of India may also hold such a conference presided from the throne. It would be a memorable spiritual event. This conference should be of a broader scope than that held by the Caesar of Rome, as our Honoured Empress has a higher status than the Roman Emperor. An additional reason for this request is that since the people of this country have come to know of the Conference of Religions in America, naturally hearts are excited that Your Majesty should also arrange such a conference in London so that, due to this event, groups of loyal subjects in this country and their leaders and scholars may meet Your Majesty at the capital; and so that Your Majesty s eyes may also fall on the thousands of loyal subjects of British India, and so that respected citizens of India be seen in the streets and boulevards of London for a few weeks. It will be necessary that every participant present his faith s excellences and not malign others. If such a conference takes place, it will be a legendary spiritual event from our Honoured Queen; and England, which has been fed with Islamic matters incorrectly, will be introduced to the true face of Islam. In this way, the people of England will be apprised of the true philosophy of every religion. It is not a satisfactory state of affairs that the information about the religions of India reaches England through priests, because the books of the priests which mention other religions are like a polluted drain of water containing much refuse and waste. The priests do not want to elicit the truth; rather they want to hide it. 18 The Review of Religions november 2012

19 There is such an adulteration of prejudice in their writings that it is difficult, indeed impossible, that the real truth about religions should reach England. If they had good intentions, they would not have raised such objections on the Qur an as can also be raised against the Torah of Moses as. If they had fear of God, they would not have relied upon such books, which, in the view of Muslims, are unauthentic and devoid of definitive truths. Therefore, justice dictates that even if the whole of Europe were to be considered angelic, the priests would be an exception. The reason that the Christians of Europe look at Islam with hatred and dislike is that these same priests have been giving the lessons of hate by presenting unauthentic incidents. I do accept that the behaviour of some ignorant Muslims is not worthy and they have habits borne of ignorance, as some ferocious Muslims apply the term jihad to cruel bloodshed and they do not know that public s rising against a just ruler is mutiny and not jihad. Severance of covenant, committing evil instead of good, and murder of the innocent, whoever commits such acts should be called an offender and not a hero. of the priests. There is no sign of them in the Book of God. The Word of God declares the punishment of the sword for the ones who raise the sword and does not teach mutiny against the ones who establish peace, benefit the public, and give every people the rights of freedom. It is dishonesty to malign the Word of God. Therefore, it is highly desirable that for the good of humanity that a conference of religions be held by the Empress of India to disseminate the reality of religions. 2 references 1 & 2. (A Gift for the Queen, Second Revised Edition, Islam International Publications Ltd. (2012), pp.25-31) These thoughts have been produced through the perverted interpretations november 2012 The Review of Religions 19

20 True Love for the Holy Prophet sa hazrat mirza masroor ahmad aba, khalifatul masih v, head of the worldwide ahmadi y ya muslim communit y

21 On the 11th of September 2012, 3000 Egyptian Muslims stormed the U.S. embassy in Cairo. After scaling the walls and removing the American flag, the protesters were eventually dispersed by riot police. In a similar incident on the same night in Libya, the protest ended with the deaths of four Americans, including the U.S. ambassador. These murders were only the beginning. Riots erupted across the Muslim world. Dozens were killed, hundreds injured, properties destroyed. The chaos had been provoked by the release of Innocence of Muslims, a film filled with grotesque abuse of the Prophet of Islam sa. The film had then been posted on YouTube on the 1 st of July 2012, but went unnoticed until September when an Egyptian TV channel broadcast parts of its trailer. Extremist Muslim clerics responded by inciting hatred and issuing death threats. From east to west, media outlets ensured the subsequent riots received maximum public exposure. Meanwhile, the response - or lack of it - from Muslim politicians, diplomats and influential figures appeared apathetic, even as the name of Islam s truly innocent Prophet sa was attacked. After ten days of escalating riots a tense atmosphere had developed. Finally, journalists from around the world gathered at Western Europe s largest mosque. Crowding onto the steps of an upper gallery, they looked down to see thousands of worshipers silently seated on the floor of the prayer hall below. At the front of the congregation, the Khalifah of Islam stood to deliver his sermon.

22 Friday Sermon delivered by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, Khalifatul Masih V, Head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, on 21 st September 2012 from the Baitul Futuh Mosque, London. Translated from the Urdu by Amer Safir and Murtaza Ahmad. After reciting Tashahhud, Ta awwuz and Surah al-faatihah, His Holiness read out verses of Surah al-ahzaab (chapter 33 of the Holy Qur an): His Holiness then said: The translation of these verses of the Holy Qur an is: Allah and His Angels send blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe! You also should invoke blessings on him and salute him 22 The Review of Religions november 2012

23 The indignation and anger of every Muslim is only natural. Holy Prophet Muhammad sa, he or she is nonetheless prepared to give up his or her life and be slain for the respect and honour of the Prophet sa. Opponents of Islam have produced a most obnoxious and offensive film regarding the Holy Prophet sa, in which they have portrayed him in the most crude and insulting manner. As such, the indignation and anger of every Muslim is only natural. with the salutation of peace. Verily, those who annoy Allah and His messenger Allah has cursed them in this world and in the Hereafter, and has prepared for them an abasing punishment. Nowadays, an intense wave of indignation and anguish is sweeping through the Muslim world and also amongst Muslims living in other countries, due to an extremely crude, offensive and grotesque act perpetrated by anti-islamic elements. The Muslims are certainly justified in their expression of sorrow and rage. Whether or not a Muslim has proper insight of the true station of the The Holy Prophet Muhammad sa was the Muhsin-e-Insaaniyyat (Benefactor of Mankind), the Rahmatul-Lil-Aalameen (Mercy for all Mankind) and the Beloved of God who would stay awake all night in deep anguish that humanity be saved from ruin. He would express such agony and sorrow to alleviate the pains of mankind that the God of the Heavens, addressing the Holy Prophet sa, stated that would he grieve himself to death in sorrow for those who did not believe in the Creator? The slanderous and vulgar film against the Benefactor of Mankind would most november 2012 The Review of Religions 23

24 true love for the holy prophet sa serpents and wild beasts, but we cannot, however, ever reconcile with those who stubbornly persist in insulting the Prophet Muhammad sa, our Master and Guide, the Seal of all the Prophets. The Promised Messiah as wrote: The vile anti-islamic film released on YouTube deeply wounded the sentiments of Muslims worldwide certainly cause the hearts of Muslims to bleed, and indeed this is what happened. More than anyone else, Ahmadi Muslims are hurt, for we are the followers of the True and Ardent Devotee of the Holy Prophet sa [that is the Promised Messiah, Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as ] who provided us with true understanding of the exalted station of the Master Prophet Muhammad sa. Thus, we are torn at this gross act. Our hearts have been ripped apart. We prostrate before God the Exalted and pray that may He take revenge from these wrongdoers. May they become a sign of admonishment that will remain a lesson until the end of time. The Imam of this age has provided us with discernment of true affection and devotion towards the Holy Prophet sa, explaining that we can reconcile with the Muslims are those people who give their lives for the honour of their noble Prophet sa. Death is their preference to the dishonour of genuinely reconciling with such people and becoming their friends, whose task is to day and night verbally abuse their Holy Prophet sa and cite his name extremely insultingly in their magazines, books and advertisements and mention him in utterly degrading words. The Promised Messiah as says: Remember, such individuals are not the well-wishers of their own nation as they create impediments in their path. I say most truthfully that it is possible for us to reconcile with wild snakes and wilderness beasts but we cannot reconcile with such people who do not desist from insulting the honour of God s holy prophets. They believe that there is triumph in abusive language and vulgarity but each triumph comes from the Heavens. He says further: 24 The Review of Religions november 2012

25 Through the blessing of their pure discourse, those with pure speech ultimately win hearts and minds, whereas those of wicked nature have no skill other than creating discord and conflict in the land in a disorderly way...experience also bears witness that such offensive people meet a sorry end. The sense of honour of God ultimately comes to pass for His beloved ones. 1 In the current era, in addition to newspapers and pamphlets etcetera, other forms of media are also being used for such vulgarity. Hence those who stubbornly persist in their transgression and in trying to contend with God will be seized by His wrath, God willing. In 2006, when some malicious people in Denmark drew vulgar caricatures of the Holy Prophet sa, I drew the Ahmadiyya community s attention to giving an appropriate response. I also told them that such wicked people existed before and they would not stop there. The protests by the Muslims would have no impact and they would continue acting in this manner. Thus we observe that their actions have become more vulgar and unjust than before. Since then, their behaviour in this regard has continuously worsened. This is their downfall and We are torn at this gross act. Our hearts have been ripped apart. defeat by Islam, which is compelling them to being offensive and slanderous in the name of freedom of conscience. As the Promised Messiah as stated that remember, these people are not the wellwishers of even their own nations. One day their wrong approach will clearly unfold upon them. The vulgarities and obscenities they perpetrate today will in fact harm their own nations, for such people are selfish and unjust. Apart from merely fulfilling their own desires, they are not interested in anything else. Currently, in the name of freedom of speech, both politicians and others, openly in some places and mostly indirectly, are speaking in their favour. Occasionally some are speaking up for the Muslims as well. However remember that this world has now become a global village. As such, these matters can destroy the peace of these countries if wickedness is not openly declared as wickedness, and this is separate to God s wrath that will november 2012 The Review of Religions 25

26 true love for the holy prophet sa Illustration of the Prophet Muhammad s Mosque in Madinah. Masood Tahir (Waqfe Nau), London, UK. come to pass. Remember the saying of the Imam of the age; that all victories come from the heavens and it has been decreed in the heavens that the Messenger whom you are trying to insult will prevail over the world. As the Promised Messiah as stated, he will prevail by winning over the hearts, because pure discourses have an impact. Pure discourses do not require extremist measures to be taken nor do they require that vulgarity should be responded to with vulgarity. The despicable behaviour and use of foul language has been instigated by these people and will, God willing, quickly come to an end. God will also deal with these perpetrators in the Hereafter. In the verses that I recited from the Holy Qur an, God the Almighty has also drawn the attention of the believers towards their responsibilities; that it is their duty to invoke Durood and Salaam (salutations and peace) upon the Holy Prophet sa. Vulgarities, maliciousness and mockery do not in the least affect the honour and dignity of the Prophet sa in any way, shape or form. He is such a great Prophet sa upon whom even God and His angels send Durood. It is thus the duty of believers to constantly engage in Durood (invoking blessings and salutations) upon the Holy Prophet sa. When the enemy exceeds in vulgar acts, then they should invoke Durood upon the Holy Prophet sa more than before. Bless O Allah, Muhammad and the people of Muhammad, as You did bless Abraham and the people of Abraham; You are indeed the 26 The Review of Religions november 2012

27 Praiseworthy, the Glorious! Prosper, O Allah, Muhammad and the people of Muhammad, as You did prosper Abraham, and the people of Abraham; You are indeed the Praiseworthy, the Glorious! Thus this alone is the Durood (invocation of salutations and blessings) and this alone is the Prophet sa for whom triumph in the world is destined. While an Ahmadi Muslim expresses abhorrence, deep grief and anger at these vulgar acts, he or she also tries to draw the attention of the wrongdoers themselves to desisting from these acts and those in authority towards stopping them. From a worldly perspective, an Ahmadi tries to make a personal effort to inform the world of the reality as opposed to this conspiracy, and presents the beautiful aspects of the blessed model of the Holy Prophet sa. An Ahmadi tries to demonstrate the blessed example of the Holy Prophet sa through his or her every act, and thus illustrate to the world its true image in practice. Indeed men, women, young, old and children, more than ever, should give greater attention towards Durood and Salaam (invoking salutations and peace upon the Holy Prophet sa ) and must fill their surrounding atmosphere with it. Everyone should make their actions a practical model of Islamic teachings. This is the beautiful response we should give. As far as the consequences of the wrongdoers is concerned, Allah has explained in the second verse [recited at the outset], that those who hurt the Messenger or who wound the hearts of the believers of this age by slandering the Messenger, will be dealt with by Allah Himself. These are the people who have been cursed by Allah the Exalted in this life, and due to this curse they will continue sinking further in filth and indecency. For such people Allah has decreed a humiliating chastisement after death. The Promised Messiah as has explained this subject pertaining to the end of those people who use vulgar language, that they will certainly reach their sorry end. In this life they will reach their fate in the form of God s curse, and in the hereafter it shall be in the shape of the abasing punishment of Allah. Other Muslims also, in accordance with the commands and teachings of Allah the Exalted, should react by filling their countries, their regions and their atmosphere with Durood (salutations and blessings) upon the Prophet Muhammad sa. This is how Muslims should react. It is futile to react by burning or setting fire to properties november 2012 The Review of Religions 27

28 true love for the holy prophet sa Man-made laws are prone to flaws as certain aspects can be overlooked whilst legislating. and possessions in their own countries or by killing their fellow countrymen or that the police are compelled to fire at their own citizens as protestors are killed. Through media and newspaper reports it has emerged that often the sincere people of the West, both in the USA and here, have expressed disgust and displeasure upon this crude act. However, on the one hand the leadership declares this to be wrong, but on the other hand, it backs it in the name of freedom of expression and freedom of speech. These double standards cannot continue. The law regarding freedom of speech is not a Divine scripture. Thus, as I also said in my address to politicians in the US, man-made laws are prone to errors and flaws. Certain aspects whilst legislating can be overlooked because man does not possess knowledge of the unseen, whereas God the Almighty is the Knower of the Unseen. Laws made by God are flawless. Do not consider, therefore, your manmade laws to be perfect and that there can be no alterations and changes made to them. While a law for freedom of speech exists, neither in any country nor in the UN Charter do we find a law that states that no person will be allowed the freedom to hurt the religious sentiments of others or insult the holy personages of other religions. This is not written in the law anywhere and it is because of this that the peace of the world is being destroyed. This causes the lava of hatred to erupt and the gulf between countries and religions to increasingly widen. While a law for freedom of speech has been made giving an individual freedom, which is fine, there should not be a law permitting playing with others sentiments. This is exactly why the UN is failing. It considers the formation of this futile law a huge accomplishment. 28 The Review of Religions november 2012

29 However, look at God s law. The law of God the Exalted states that do not even mock the idols of other people lest they in retaliation do the same to your All- Powerful God in ignorance by using disparaging words, which would make your hearts grieve, increase enmity, and lead to clashes, quarrels and disorder to break out in the country. Therefore, this is the beautiful teaching imparted by the God of Islam, the God of this world and the God of this universe. That God has given us this teaching Who sent His Beloved One, the Holy Prophet sa, with the perfect law and teaching for the reformation of mankind and to establish love and compassion. He conferred upon him the title of Rahmatul-Lil-Aalameen (Mercy for all Mankind) and thus sent the Prophet Muhammad sa as the Mercy for all peoples. Hence the educated people of the world, the politicians and those in power should ponder, that by not firmly dealing with these few despicable people are they too a party to this disorder? The people of the world at large also should think; that by playing with the religious sentiments of others and by agreeing with these few revolting creatures, are they also playing a part in destroying world peace? We, who are Ahmadi Muslims, do The UN charter does not contain a law to prevent hurting the sentiments of others. not leave any stone unturned to serve humanity. In the US, there was a need to give blood and so last year Ahmadis helped to collect 12,000 bottles of blood and they are currently carrying out a similar blood drive this year. I said to them that we Ahmadi Muslims are donating our blood to give life, whilst you make our hearts bleed through such despicable acts and by agreeing with those who committed them. Thus, this is the november 2012 The Review of Religions 29

30 true love for the holy prophet sa response of an Ahmadi a true Muslim. On the other side this is the response of a certain segment who think that they are establishing justice. They allege that Muslims are acting wrongly. It is correct that some of the Muslim reaction is wrong; damage and destruction, setting things on fire, killing of the innocent, leaving diplomats unprotected or killing or murdering diplomats are all entirely incorrect. However, derision and insult of the innocent prophets of God is also a huge sin. Following suit, recently a French magazine has published offensive caricatures which are even worse than the previous ones. These worldly people consider the world to be everything not realising that this world alone is the source of their destruction. Here I would like to state that the Muslim governments rule over much of the world. Allah the Almighty has given natural resources to many Muslim countries. Muslim countries are also a part of the United Nations. They read and believe in the Holy Qur an, which provides the perfect and complete code of conduct for every aspect of life. Why then have the Muslim governments not made an effort to impart to the world the beautiful teachings of the Holy Qur an at every level? Why do they not present to the world that according to the teachings of the Holy Qur an, playing with the religious sentiments of others or to try to dishonour the prophets of God is a major crime and major sin? Why do they not act in this manner? It is necessary for world peace that this is made a part of the UN peace charter so that no member country would allow any of its citizens to play with the religious sentiments of others and so that world peace is not allowed to be destroyed in the name of freedom of speech. Sadly however, all of this has been happening for so long. The Muslim countries have never made a combined and concerted effort to inform the world about the honour of the Holy Prophet sa and all the other prophets and they have never had this acknowledged at an international level. Although like other charters of the United Nations, this will similarly not be implemented, as which peace charter of the UN is being properly implemented at present? At the very least however, something would go on record. The OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) is established but it has never made rigorous efforts to try and establish the honour and dignity of Muslims in the world. Instead the Muslim leaders are busy pursuing their 30 The Review of Religions november 2012

31 The OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) is established but it has never made rigorous efforts to try and establish the honour and dignity of Muslims in the world. vested interests. They are not concerned about the splendour of the faith. If our Muslim leaders had made robust efforts then the public would not react inappropriately, as is currently occurring in Pakistan and in other countries, for they would be satisfied in the knowledge that their leaders, who have been appointed for this task, would strive to fulfil the right that for upholding the honour of the Holy Prophet sa and to uphold the honour of all the prophets, they would rise up on the world forum in a way that the world would have to accept that they are right. There are a large number of Muslims living in the West and in every part of the world. Muslims are the second greatest power of the world in terms of population and religion. Were they to abide by the commandments of Allah the Almighty they could become the greatest force in every sense. In such an instance, the anti-islamic forces would never even dare contemplating or perpetrating such heart-rending acts. Apart from the Muslim countries, a large number of Muslims live in every country of the world. In Europe, the number of Turks alone runs into millions. In fact, there are millions of them, living in every European country. Similarly, other Muslim ethnic groups have come from Asia to the UK, to november 2012 The Review of Religions 31

32 World Muslim Population in millions the US, to Canada and to every part of Europe. If they all decided that they would vote for those politicians who not only expressed religious tolerance verbally, but also demonstrated it practically, and who condemned people who perpetrated such vulgarities and made such films, then even from among these worldly governments a segment would rise up to denounce this indecency. Thus, if Muslims understood their importance they could bring about a revolution in the world. They could facilitate laws pertaining to respecting religious sentiments within countries. However it is unfortunate that they are unmindful of this. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is focused on this, yet Muslims are busy opposing it, and are instead strengthening the hand of the detractors. May Allah the Almighty grant sense and wisdom to Muslim leaders, politicians and religious scholars so that they may strengthen themselves, recognise their importance and give heed to Islamic teachings. The moral degradation of those who raised obscene allegations against the Holy Prophet sa and produced or worked for this film can be assessed from media reports regarding them. The main person behind the film is said to be a Coptic Christian living in the US by the name of Nakoula Basseley Nakoula or is referred to Sam Bacile or something or the other who is reported to have a criminal background and served time in jail in 2010 for fraud. The person who directed the film is a director of pornographic films and all the actors who featured in the film are actors of pornographic films. The excesses of pornography are beyond envisagement. So this is the level of their morality. This 32 The Review of Religions november 2012

33 is how low they have stooped in filth and indecency, yet they purport to criticise that person whose high morals and purity even God testified to. By committing this obscene act they surely continue to invite the wrath of God. The sponsors and supporters of this film also cannot avoid God s Punishment, amongst whom is also a Christian priest who time and again for cheap publicity in the US has attempted to burn the Holy Qur an. Our Lord, shatter them into pieces, a complete breaking up and reduce them to dust. Some sections of the media have condemned this film and have also condemned the reaction of the Muslims. Inappropriate reactions should indeed be condemned, but it should also be noted who instigated this. As I said earlier, it is the misfortune of Muslims that this has happened because Muslims have no unity and no leadership. Despite claiming to have ardent love and affection for the Holy Prophet sa, they are distant from their faith. They may claim to be strong in faith, but they have no knowledge of religion and are also continuously weakening in a worldly sense. No Muslim country has strongly protested to any other country in this regard. Where protests have been made they have been so weak that the media took no notice. The news item which has been given regarding the protests and objections of the Muslims was that 1.8 billion Muslims were reacting in a childish manner. As there is no one at the helm and they are scattered and walking lost, the reaction would then be childish. This was a cynical comment, but it also exposed the reality. May God enable the Muslims to at least now show some embarrassment and shame. The other people are spiritually blind and know nothing about the status of the prophets. They remain silent even when the rank of Prophet Hadhrat Isa as ( Jesus) is slighted. They would consider therefore, the passion of the Muslims towards the Holy Prophet sa as childish. As I stated earlier, in 2006 I also drew attention towards forming a robust plan of action so that in future no one would even dare to insult in this way, but if only Muslims paid heed to this. Every single Ahmadi should also make efforts to convey this message. By [Muslims] merely protesting for a short while and then keeping silent the problem will not be resolved. One suggestion was november 2012 The Review of Religions 33

34 true love for the holy prophet sa Protestors attempt to scale the gate of the US embassy in Yemen. presented (often people present various suggestions) that all of the Muslim lawyers of the world should join together and form a petition. If only Muslim lawyers with international standing deliberated upon the feasibility of this, or would come up with another option. For how long will you continue observing such vulgar and obscene acts? For how long will you go on protesting and causing damage and destruction, only to fall silent thereafter? This will have no effect upon the Western world or on the producers of the film. It is completely contrary to the teachings of Islam to attack innocent people in Western countries, to threaten them or to attempt to kill them and attack their embassies. Islam does not permit this is in any way, shape or form. By acting in this way you will be giving an opportunity for objections to be raised against the Holy Prophet sa. Thus, extremism is not the answer. The answer is, as I have explained before; to reform one s practice, to invoke Durood and Salaam (salutations and peace) upon the Holy Prophet sa, who is the means of salvation for mankind. It is by the Muslims uniting together and it is by Muslims living in the West gaining strength by their vote. Members of the Ahmadiyya Jama at must work in this manner wherever they are. They should also strive to convince their non-ahmadi acquaintances to tread on this path; that they should build their strength in such countries through the power of voting. Present the beautiful aspects of the blessed life of the Holy Prophet sa to the world. Today the world clamours over freedom of speech. They allege that it is nonexistent in Islam citing examples of the present day Muslim countries where citizens do not have freedom of speech. If this is the case in Muslim countries it has no link whatsoever with Islam and it is their misfortune that they are not implementing the Islamic teachings. In history there are examples of people addressing the Holy Prophet sa very 34 The Review of Religions november 2012

35 rudely and without any etiquette or respect whatsoever. Despite this the Holy Prophet sa displayed such forbearance and tolerance, the like of which is not found anywhere in the world. I shall present a few examples of such accounts, which although are normally presented relating to the munificence and generosity of the Holy Prophet sa, also demonstrate his fearlessness, resolve and forbearance. Hadhrat Jubair bin Mut am ra has related that once he was with the Holy Prophet sa and some other people were also with him. The Prophet sa was returning from Hunain. The Bedouins surrounded the Prophet sa making such persistent demands to him that he was forced to move towards a thorny tree, where his cloak became stuck in its thorns. The Holy Prophet sa stopped and said, Return my cloak. If I had as many camels as the wild trees I would have given them to you and thus you would not have found me niggardly, false or a coward. 2 In another tradition, Hadhrat Anas ra relates: Once I was in the company of the Holy Prophet sa who was wearing a cloak with thick edges. A Bedouin pulled his cloak so hard that the edges left a mark on his neck. He then said, O Muhammad [sa]! From amongst the wealth that Allah the Almighty has given you, load some of it upon these two camels of mine, because neither will you give out of your wealth nor from the wealth of your father. Initially the Holy Prophet sa kept quiet. He then stated that, Wealth is God s and I am God s servant. Then the Prophet sa said, Revenge will be extracted for the pain you have caused me. That Bedouin said, No. The Prophet sa said, Why will revenge not be taken? The Bedouin replied, Because you do not respond to badness with badness. The Holy Prophet sa laughed. He then instructed for barley to be loaded on one of the Bedouin s camels, and dates on the other. 3 This, therefore, is that highest station of tolerance and patience of Holy Prophet sa. He did not display this only to his followers, but even to his enemies. His high moral standards encompass munificence, compassion, patience, forbearance and also a demonstration of vast tolerance. Yet the ignorant detractors, without thought or consideration, come forth and allege that the Rahmatul-Lil- Aalameen (Mercy for all Mankind), the Prophet Muhammad sa, was severe, was harsh and so on. november 2012 The Review of Religions 35

36 true love for the holy prophet sa Objections have been raised against the Holy Qur an in the film demonstrating a lack of knowledge of true historical facts. Objections have also been raised against the Holy Qur an in the film. I have not seen the film myself, but have heard from people regarding it. It alleges that the Qur an was written by the cousin of Hadhrat Khadijah ra, Waraqah bin Naufal, who Hadhrat Khadijah ra took the Prophet sa to after he received his first revelation. During the life of the Prophet sa, the Kuffaar (disbelievers) would constantly raise the allegation as to why the Qur an was being revealed to him part by part, rather than all at once. Such pitiable people are completely devoid of knowledge and true historical facts. Those Christians who consider themselves knowledgeable in this area are actually completely ignorant. Waraqah bin Naufal actually said, I wish to be alive when your people will turn you out of your nation. Indeed, a short while after this he passed away. 4 Such Christian priests, as I stated, are completely uninformed of true historical facts. Orientalists have always engaged in the debate regarding the location of where Surahs (chapters of the Qur an) were revealed, whether in Makkah or Madinah. Yet they also believe that Waraqah wrote the Holy Qur an. The Holy Qur an has given the challenge itself that if they believe that it was written by someone else, then produce a chapter like it. With respect to taking care of the sentiments of others, the Holy Prophet sa was peerless also. Even though the Prophet Muhammad sa is greater than all other prophets, yet in consideration of the sentiments of a Jew he once said, Do not give me superiority over Moses as The Review of Religions november 2012

37 There is the Prophet s care for the sentiments of the poor and respect for their status. Once, for example, a very wealthy Companion expressed his superiority over others. The Holy Prophet sa heard this and stated: Do you believe your strength, your power, your wealth and your possessions were all acquired through your own efforts? Absolutely not! Your tribal strength as well as the power of your wealth were all acquired due to the poor. 6 Today the claimants of freedom establish the rights of the poor and endeavour to safeguard them. Yet 1400 years ago the Holy Prophet sa established these rights when he said that the labourer should be paid his wages before his perspiration dries off. 7 Thus, where can they possibly contend with the Benefactor of Mankind? There are countless accounts of the Prophet sa. Take any aspect of his life and in every respect you will find the highest moral example established by the Holy Prophet sa. Another allegation raised is that the Holy Prophet sa was a womaniser, and objections are raised against his marriages. Allah the Almighty knew, however, that such allegations and questions would be raised in the future and so facilitated such incidents which provide the rebuttal to these allegations. It is said regarding Asmaa bint Nu maan bin Abi Joan that she was amongst the most beautiful women of the Arabs. When she came to Madinah her beauty was praised by every woman who saw her. They would say that they had never seen such a beautiful woman in their lives. On the wish of her father her Nikah (Islamic official marriage pronouncement) was solemnised with the Prophet sa for a dowry of 500 Dirhams. When the Holy Prophet sa went to her she said, I seek God s refuge from you. The Holy Prophet sa replied, You have sought the refuge of a Great Sanctuary and then left. He then said to one of his Companions, Abu Usaid, to take her back to her family. It has been recorded in history that her family were extremely happy that their daughter was being married to the Holy Prophet sa. When she returned however, they were extremely upset. 8 Thus, this was that great person about whom dreadful allegations are made, that he was a womaniser; whilst he married according to God s command. The Promised Messiah as has explained that: november 2012 The Review of Religions 37

38 Jakobshavn Glacier in the Ilulissat Icefjord. Various inhabitations of the world are at a threat of being submerged by water due to global warming. According to NASA scientists, Jakobshavn is the single largest contributor to sea level rise in the Northern Hemisphere (Photo:Lawrence Hislop). Various inhabitations of the world are at a threat of being submerged by water due to global warming. If the Holy Prophet sa had not wives and children, and had not faced the relating trials and tribulations which he expressed and passed through, and had not treated his wives most kindly, then how else would we learn about his exemplary model in this regard? Every act of the Prophet was for the sake of the pleasure of God. 9 An erroneous allegation regarding Hadhrat Aa ishah ra being treated more fondly and also regarding her age is also raised. The Holy Prophet sa would say to Hadhrat Aa ishah ra on certain nights that, I wish to worship my God all night, Who is the most beloved to me. 10 Hence people with perverted minds will indeed raise such allegations; as they have done in the past and they may perhaps continue to do so in the future. As I have stated earlier, Allah the Almighty has already decreed that He will fill Hell with such people. They and their supporters should be fearful of the chastisement of God. As the Promised Messiah as has stated, Allah the Almighty has great honour for His beloved ones The Review of Religions november 2012

39 In this age He has sent His Messiah and Mahdi and He has drawn the attention of the world towards reformation. If they do not desist from their wrongdoing and mockery then the wrath of God is also severe. Today, natural disasters are prevalent and there is destruction all around. Storms and hurricanes are occurring in the US at a greater frequency than before. The economic crisis is worsening. Various inhabitations of the world are at a threat of being submerged by water due to global warming. The world is thus engulfed in perils and dangers. These excesses should draw the attention of such people towards God, rather than towards obscenities. Unfortunately, the opposite is occurring. They are trying to transgress beyond all limits. The Imam Flooding and damage caused from the recent Hurricane Sandy that struck the US. of this time has already warned everyone openly. He has said clearly that if the world does not take heed and listen, then every step they take will lead them towards destruction. The message of the Promised Messiah as is a message that should be repeated again and again. This is oft repeated and presented and I will present it here again today. He said: Remember that God has informed me about the coming of earthquakes. So remember surely that in accordance with the prophecy, earthquakes came in America and also in Europe. They will november 2012 The Review of Religions 39

40 true love for the holy prophet sa also occur in different parts of Asia. Some of them will be as terrifying as doomsday. There will be death on such a large scale that rivers will run with blood. Even birds and animals will not escape it. Such destruction will overtake the Earth as has not happened since man was born. Most places will be turned upside down as if they had never been inhabited. There will also be other terrible afflictions both in the Heaven and in the Earth and every sensible person will realise that they are no ordinary phenomena and no trace of them will be found in books of astronomy or philosophy. Then people will be seized by anxiety and will wonder what is going to happen. Many will be saved and many will perish. Those days are near. Indeed they are at the doorstep, that the world shall witness a spectacle of doomsday. Not only will there be earthquakes but other terrible calamities will also appear; some from the heaven and some from the Earth. This will happen because men have given up the worship of their God and all their thoughts and their designs and all their resolves are diverted towards this world. Had I not come, these calamities might have been delayed for a while but with my coming, the secret designs of God s wrath that had been long hidden have been manifested. As God Almighty said, We never punish until We have sent a Messenger. Those who repent shall find security and those who fear before the calamity overtakes them will be shown mercy. Do you think that you will be saved from the earthquakes? Or that you can save yourselves by your own designs. No, you cannot. All human designs will come to nought that day. Do not imagine that only America has been shaken by the earthquake and that you are safe for you may experience even greater calamities. O Europe, you are not secure! O Asia, you are not secure! O you who dwell in the islands, no artificial God will come to your aid. I see the cities falling and I see the habitations in ruin. The One and the Unique has long remained silent. Abominations were committed before His eyes and yet He remained silent, but now He shall reveal His Countenance in a dreadful manner. He, who has ears to hear, let him hear. The hour is not far. I try to bring everyone under the security of God but the decrees of destiny had to be fulfilled. Assuredly, I say that this country s turn is also drawing near. The days of Noah shall appear before your eyes and you will see with your own eyes what happened to the land of Lot. But God is slow to wrath. Repent so that you are shown mercy. He who abandons God is a worm, not a man and he who does not fear Him is dead not alive The Review of Religions november 2012

41 May Allah the Almighty grant wisdom to the world and enable them to desist from their wrong and unjust ways. May He also enable us to fulfil our responsibilities. endnotes 1. Chashma-e-Ma rifat in Ruhaani Khazaa in; vol.23, pp Sahih Al-Bukhari Kitaabo Farzil-Khumus Baabo maa Kaanan-Nabiyyo Yu til-mu allafati Quloobihim wa Ghairihim, Hadith No Ash-Shifaa by Qaazi Ayaaz, part 1, p.74, Al-Baabus-Saani fi Takmeelillaahi Ta alaa, al-faslo wa ammal-hilm Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah published in Beirut Sahih Al-Bukhari Kitaab Bad ul-wahyi. Ch.3, Hadith No Sahih Al-Bukhari Kitaabo fil-khusumaat Baabo maa Yudhkaro fil-ashkhaas walkhusumah; Hadith No Sahih Al Bukhari Kitaabul-Jihad was-siyari baabo man Isti aana biz-zua faai was-saaliheen fil-harb, Hadith No Sunan Ibn-e-Maajah Kitaabur-Ruhun baabo Ajril-Ujaraai Hadith No Quoted from At-Tabaqaatul-Kubraa Libni Sa d, Part 8, pp , Zikro man Tazawwaja Rasulallaahi Sallallaaho Alaihi wa Sallam... Asmaa bintin-nu maan, Daaro Ihyaait-Turaath al-arabi, Beirut Quoted from Chashma-e-Ma rifat, Ruhaani Khazaa in, Vol. 23, p Ad-Durrul-Manthur fit-tafsir Bil-Maathur Le Imaam As-Suyuti, Surah Ad-Dukhaan under verse no. 4, vol. 7, p.350, Daaro Ihyaait- Turaath al-arabi, Beirut Quoted from Tiryaaqul-Quloob, Ruhaani Khazaa in, vol.15, p Haqiqatul-Wahi, Ruhaani Khazaa in, vol.22, pp Write to us with comments, feedback and suggestions at 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. november 2012 The Review of Religions 41

42 Worldwide Media Coverage and Response to the Sermon of the Khalifah collated by s. taalay ahmad 42 The Review of Religions november 2012

43 Pakistan: The Express Tribune Speaking to a media gathering, Mirza Masroor Ahmad said that the Muslims across the world should peacefully unite in their opposition to the film which has stirred up great resentment and anger among Muslims worldwide. He condemned the violent response witnessed in a number of countries by Muslims and the killings of innocent people including ambassadors and diplomats. He said, Damaging property or burning buildings was completely wrong and benefited no party. New Zealand: TVNZ In Europe, moderate Muslim leaders have been trying to stop the violence spreading to their region and it seems to be working so far The Khalifa condemned the film makers and cartoonist, Allah Almighty is going to fill Hell with such people. Just as quickly reminded listeners that it s not up to them to punish the wicked, We do not believe in any kind of and you will never see any Ahmadi involved in this type of protest or violence, but their leader, the Khalifa, admitted to me that there are many more Muslims willing to do much worse. He says it s not antiwestern sentiment, more a case of others inciting violence to increase their own following. USA: Fox News (interviewing Ahmadiyya Muslim Community representative) Our Khalifa has repeatedly reminded us on how to respond to this, which is not only to turn to God as faithful Muslims, but to respond with the pen and our response should be one that s lucid in conveying the blessed model of The Holy Prophet sa. Malta: One TV (interviewing Ahmadiyya Muslim Community representative) The head of our community has instructed and enlightened not only our community, but all the Muslims around the world that the reaction should be very november 2012 The Review of Religions 43

44 peaceful, we should remain patient, we should speak about the character of The Prophet sa. point in his statement last week when he said, Let it not be that in the name of freedom of speech the peace of the entire world be destroyed. India: The Times of India Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat world head Mirza Masroor Ahmad called on Muslims across the world to peacefully unite in their opposition to the movie. Expressing differences over spate of violence and killing of innocent people following the release of trailer for the movie, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad condemned the violent response witnessed in a number of countries. He said, The killing of innocent people, including ambassadors and diplomats, is completely in contradiction to the teachings of Islam. USA: The Huffington Post Treating freedom of speech as supreme at the expense of world peace and harmony is an incredibly flawed concept. His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the worldwide leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, which is in more than 200 countries, made this same UK: Wimbledon Guardian Thousands of worshippers turned out in force on Friday to hear their spiritual leader condemn violent protests across the world against an anti-islamic film. Members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community gathered at the Bait-ul Futuh mosque in London Road, Morden, to hear His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad deliver a one-hour sermon. In a live global broadcast, he deplored the protestors actions and said a peaceful approach should have been used to condemn the film. Speaking after his sermon, His Holiness said: We cannot tolerate it, not even the smallest thing against the Prophet. Is it freedom of expression for somebody to insult your father in front of you? You will obviously retaliate. He also called for the ridicule of other religions to be made illegal. Canada: Ottawa Citizen Last week in London, the world head 44 The Review of Religions november 2012

45 of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat called on all Muslims to unite peacefully in opposition to the film and condemned the violence. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad also suggested there should be limits to freedom of speech to protect religious beliefs. example embody the noble qualities of the Prophet. That, he explained, would be a more effective and lasting answer than riots and burning flags or effigies could ever be. Canada: Metro On Sept. 21, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, a spiritual leader of the Ahmadi, called for limits to free speech so that the religious sentiments of all people are protected. India: News Track India The head of the Ahmadi community in Pakistan has said the anger of Muslims regarding the anti-islam film produced in the United States, is fully justified, but has condemned the violent reaction to it. UK: Wandsworth Guardian His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad said the violent protestors were not following the true teachings of Islam and lacked leadership. He added: The way these Muslims are protesting is not the right way. The Official Press Release regarding this sermon was also sent out by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and was reproduced on Iankaweb UK: Belfast Telegraph The supreme head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, has told his followers to turn increasingly to prayer and through their personal november 2012 The Review of Religions 45

46 The Message of True Islam hazrat mirza masroor ahmad aba, khalifatul masih v, head of the worldwide ahmadi y ya muslim communit y Friday Sermon delivered by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, Khalifatul Masih V, Head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, on 28 th September 2012 from the Baitul Futuh Mosque, London, UK. Translated by Amer Safir and Murtaza Ahmad, UK After reciting Tashhahud, T aawwuz and Surah Faatihah, His Holiness said: As I arrived at the Mosque last Friday to lead the Friday Prayer, as soon as I stepped out of the car I observed that a large number of journalists were standing in view. Upon inquiry, Ameer Sahib [national president of the Ahmadiyya Community] explained that they had come here in light of the Muslim reaction to the extremely hurtful film produced in the United States and to observe the response of the Ahmadis.

47 Friday Sermon delivered by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, Khalifatul Masih V, Head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, on 28 th September 2012 from the Baitul Futuh Mosque, London, UK. Translated by Amer Safir and Murtaza Ahmad After reciting Tashhahud, T aawwuz and Surah Faatihah, His Holiness said: As I arrived at the Mosque last Friday to lead the Friday Prayer, as soon as I stepped out of the car I observed that a large number of journalists were standing in view. Upon inquiry, Ameer Sahib [national president of the Ahmadiyya Community] explained that they had come here in light of the Muslim reaction to the extremely hurtful film produced in the United States and to observe the response of the Ahmadis. makhzan-e-tasweer.org

48 the message of true islam I replied, That is fine, inform them I am about to deliver a sermon on this topic in which the reaction of the Ahmadis will be expressed. Indeed, this is also the work of God the Exalted in that He drew the media in such large numbers there. Furthermore, He placed it in my heart that I should give a sermon on this subject. Initially, I had intended to deliver a sermon on something else, however, only one day previously, my attention was diverted to saying something on this subject. Nevertheless, these are the doings of Allah the Exalted. He makes things happen in whatever manner He pleases and circumstances thereafter testified that the topic addressed had the succour of God with it. Although in a restricted time, only a limited amount can be said, God the Exalted conveyed the message, or the essence of what I had stated, not only to the Ahmadis around the world, but He also caused the message to be widely circulated amongst non-ahmadis as well. As I exited the Mosque after the Friday Prayer, Ameer Sahib stated that the media desired to briefly ask me some questions directly. I replied that I had already covered everything in the sermon, and also during the sermon I had observed that the media was standing in the upper section taking photos and videos with their cameras and were recording and listening to the translation. They had heard the message; so what more did they need? However, because the media was already seated in the room and had been informed that I would attend, I agreed to proceed. This was considering that if upholding the honour and dignity of the Holy Prophet sa required additional things to be explained, then I would do so. Further, I thought that, if as a result of this interview, a better message could be conveyed to the world regarding the Prophet s status and his teachings, it would be something positive, and thus I should go ahead and meet them. When I entered the room, television reporters in addition to newspaper journalists, including Newsnight from the BBC, another reporter from the BBC, a reporter from New Zealand National Television, French television, as well as numerous other journalists, were all present. The reporter from New Zealand was sitting to my right and had the first opportunity [to ask questions]. He asked, What message do you wish to convey? I replied that he had already heard the message as he was listening to 48 The Review of Religions november 2012

49 the translation of the sermon in which I had expounded on the rank and status of the Holy Prophet sa as being the loftiest, and that his example for every Muslim was worthy of being emulated. As far as the enraged reaction of the Muslims was concerned, in a way it was right, and indeed such a reaction should have been shown, however, it was manifested and expressed inappropriately in certain places. The status that we hold for the Holy Prophet sa in our hearts cannot be perceived by worldly persons. It is for this reason that worldly people do not realise the extent to which we have been deeply hurt by these acts acts which destroy the peace of the world. The reporter from New Zealand kept on stressing, that I had said in very harsh terms that such people would be cast into hell; and thus he said that I was no different than others. Although these were not his exact words, his tone seemed to imply this, and he repeatedly asked the same question. I told him that people who utter such profanities concerning the beloved ones of Allah the Exalted and persistently attempt to make them a target of mockery and derision and do not desist in any way no matter what explanation is given. For them the decree of God comes to pass, and a punishment can and does also descend. The reporter kept silent, but it seemed that he had been somewhat scared and frightened by this. He sent his report to New Zealand National Television and it november 2012 The Review of Religions 49

50 the message of true islam was broadcast on it. It was the first time that a news item was featured regarding the Ahmadiyya Jama at on New Zealand national TV. The New Zealand Jama at [i.e. the Ahmadiyya Community in New Zealand] was delighted that they were introduced in this manner, with reference to my sermon and interview. The words of the English translator had been recorded and included in the news item, [Allah the Almighty] will fill hell with these people. However the reporter displayed a decency, which sometimes other non- Muslim reporters either do not possess or fail to demonstrate. They could have taken this statement out of context which would then have led to a negative reaction. In order to offset this or perhaps Allah the Exalted put it in his heart he included my interview in his report that was broadcast. In the interview I stated, We do not believe in this type of violence. You will never see any Ahmadi involved in this type of protest. After including my response in this segment, the news reporter stated that the Community is 50 The Review of Religions november 2012

51 conveyed not only to New Zealand, but via satellite to its neighbouring countries, and through their website to large parts of the world. Even if we tried, Ahmadiyyat could not have been introduced and the true message of Islam could not have been conveyed in such a manner. The Ahmadiyya Community in New Zealand should now try to devise a proper plan and endeavour to convey the message of Islam and Ahmadiyyat to all parts of the country. This message may well have been heard in the countries surrounding New Zealand. The Ahmadiyya Communities there should also form comprehensive programmes to convey the true life of the Holy Prophet sa, and the true teachings of Islam to these countries. a minority Muslim Community and are treated badly by Muslims themselves. [Furthermore he said] that in any case, it remains to be seen whether or not the words and message of the Khalifah have any effect upon the other non-ahmadi Muslims. The report also featured footage of other Muslims reacting violently and Maulawis protesting and raising slogans. As I have previously stated, through this means, the true message of Islam was The reporter from Newsnight stated that he had seen the film and there was nothing in it to merit such a fierce reaction and such a commotion, from the Muslims. He said that I had delivered a detailed sermon upon this and in some parts I had rebutted it in rather strong words. This [film] was just a light joke! Inna lillah! This is the standard of their moral condition. I told him that: I do not know how you viewed the film or what your moral standard is. You november 2012 The Review of Religions 51

52 the message of true islam cannot perceive the status that Muslims hold for the Prophet Muhammad sa in their hearts and the heartfelt love every single Muslim has for him. I also said: I have not seen the film but the one or two aspects I was informed of by someone who has seen it, are unbearable; yet you say it is nothing. Having heard about the content of the film, I could never watch it. Merely hearing about it makes one s blood boil. I asked him: If somebody verbally abused your father, insulted him and used obscene and vulgar language, what would your reaction be? You would definitely react. Is this correct or not? Now a Muslim views the station and rank of the Holy Prophet sa as much higher and no one can attain it. He returned to speaking about the film once again. I said, As I have already asked you, would you be able to endure someone insulting about your father? He did not answer Yes or No, rather, he kept silent. Although perhaps this reporter did not report this in the media; nevertheless, my statement, Would you react if somebody verbally abused your father was relayed by many other media outlets and was even added on various websites. Moreover, with reference to the sermon and press conference, the viewpoint of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama at was thoroughly conveyed to the world through some websites, online newspapers, commentators as well as a Pakistani English language newspaper. Some commented on the Internet that every intelligent person would say the same thing. What original thing has Mirza Masroor Ahmad said, in particular? One Ahmadi, however, wrote to me and said that: I have listened to all the analyses, I have watched all the news reports and I have observed all the statements of the Ulema and the leaders. They have said many things, but not a single one has drawn attention towards invoking Durood (sending salutations and blessings) upon the Holy Prophet sa. Thus, it is only the Ahmadiyya Jama at 52 The Review of Religions november 2012

53 in this manner, because otherwise even if we tried our best, the world would not have come to know the correct Islamic viewpoint presented by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama at nor would we have been able to convey it to the world, on such a large scale. It is the duty of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and Ahmadis everywhere to further this message and to avail of this media coverage. that has drawn the attention of its members towards Darood. One response that should be demonstrated is that they should invoke more and more Darood upon him. Others have also written that the people whom they label as non- Muslims [i.e. Ahmadis] have displayed the correct Islamic response. So this has been widely publicised, and in this way, the correct response of a true Muslim has also been presented to the world. The world has come to learn of the true message of Islam as portrayed by the Ahmadiyya Community and the Muslim world and the rest of the world have received the message of what the correct response of a true Muslim is and should be. As I have mentioned, it was the special blessing and support of Allah the Almighty, that we received coverage As far as guidelines from the central departments of the Ahmadiyya Community are concerned, regarding efforts and methodology, I have already instructed for the Friday Sermon to be published. The guidelines and messages that will be conveyed to the branches of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community from the central departments, and then to the members of the Community locally, may take a short while, even a few days. All Ahmadis who are listening to my words should take advantage of this opportunity that has been provided by God the Exalted. First, as I mentioned in the previous Friday Sermon, present the beautiful teachings of Islam to the world through your practice. However, alongside this, the related central office and the Community should promptly give heed and translate the Friday november 2012 The Review of Religions 53

54 the message of true islam Today, the state of chaos and disorder in the world is the same as it was in that era. In some respects, in fact, it is worsening. Sermon into their native languages and publicise it widely; it was only a brief sermon. They should also mention this with relation to the press. Convey the Islamic viewpoint to every sensible person. They should also mention that if anyone wants to see the beautiful aspects of the life of the Holy Prophet sa, we can and do provide literature and books based on facts and history. The various website addresses of Ahmadiyya Community Chapters and the address of the central or main website on which literature is available should also be presented. As I mentioned, I have already provided guidelines. Some have also presented their own suggestions, namely, that through the Friday Sermon and the Q & A session with the press, the worldwide publicity of the viewpoints of the Ahmadiyya Jama at should be fully utilised to highlight the beautiful aspects of the life of the Holy Prophet sa. Maximum efforts should be made to achieve this. Books on the life of the Holy Prophet sa, which have been translated into English, should be placed in libraries in Europe, England, and English-speaking countries. These books can be provided free if necessary, especially books which have been translated into English, or which have been translated into other languages. Such books should be widely distributed. For example, the book by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II ra [Second worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Community], Life of Muhammad, has been published in English. Similarly, there is the book by 54 The Review of Religions november 2012

55 aspect of the life of the Holy Prophet sa and this should be widely published. The Wakeel-ul-Isha at and Wakeel-ut- Tasneef should report the languages that The Introduction to the Study of the Holy Qur an has been translated into to me. If it is not currently in stock, it should be re-published immediately. I believe the German and perhaps the French translation are available. In any case, a report should be submitted to me. We have to present the beautiful aspects of the blessed life of the Holy Prophet sa before the world. This is our task, and we should discharge this with a concerted effort in every circumstance Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad ra, The Life and Character of the Seal of Prophets, part of which has been translated into English. The Wakalat-ut-Tasneef department should have the remaining parts quickly translated and published. Life of Muhammad by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II ra is a short book; however, it has covered all aspects of the Prophet s sa life concisely. This is actually a part of the Introduction to the Study of the Holy Qur an and cites both historical and biographical aspects. Almost all, in fact all of it, is part of the Introduction to the Study of the Holy Qur an. Reading it highlights every Today, only the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community can carry out this task with dedication. For this, efforts should be made for all types of programmes to be formulated to a greater extent than before. Seminars and conventions should be held and maximum numbers of non-muslims should be invited to these functions. As I mentioned, my previous week s Friday Sermon should be translated into every language, formed into leaflets and distributed through a campaign, in the same way the peace leafleting campaign occurred. However, this should not take too long. This work can and should be carried out within one week or ten days. november 2012 The Review of Religions 55

56 the message of true islam This publication work can be easily carried out in large countries. These people are not desisting in their schemes and neither will they. Seeing the general reaction of the Muslims, it appears that they are in pursuit of paining our hearts further. They are spreading their malicious ways from one country to another. Just two days ago, a Spanish newspaper made and published new caricatures, and said it was just a joke. This too was a response to the reaction of the Muslims. Thus, in order to silence such people we have to make thorough and concerted efforts to at least inform educated and decent people, that this wrong approach is destroying world peace. This is required in order to uncover their maliciousness as much as possible, before the world. The Queen s Diamond Jubilee was recently celebrated here in the UK and also in the Commonwealth. When the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria took place, the Promised Messiah as wrote a book, Tohfa-e-Qaisariyah (A Gift to the Queen), and he sent it to the Queen. Whilst he praised the fair and just government of the Queen, he also conveyed the message of Islam to her. He drew attention towards the establishment of world peace, interfaith relations and respect and reverence for religious leaders and prophets. He also explained in detail the means for peace. At the recent Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth, a beautifully bound translation of Tohfa-e-Qaisariyah (A Gift to the Queen) was published and sent to her. The related royal department was personally handed this book along with my letter, sent a reply of thanks to me, mentioning that it had been added to the Queen s collections of books and that she would read it. Whether or not the Queen reads it, we have in any case, made an effort to discharge our responsibility. Today, the state of chaos and disorder in the world is the same as it was in that era. In some respects, in fact, it is worsening. People are significantly transgressing in their persistent attacks against Islam and in their insults to and derision of the Holy Prophet sa. Thus, there is an immense need to disseminate this message of the Promised Messiah as today also. This is why the section [of this book] relating to respect for religions and peace mentions that conferences should be held, and explains the manner in which they should be organised. All such sections should be collated and formed into a leaflet, published and distributed here and all across the world. Work on this should also begin immediately. This leaflet would total two or three pages, or 56 The Review of Religions november 2012

57 at most four or five pages. The Promised Messiah as, with reference to the Prophets of God, gives the example of a person who tries to promote a false law and acts as a false representative in the name of a government; the government machinery would come into action and take steps against such a person or group. How then, could it be possible that Allah the Almighty would tolerate something being falsely attributed to Him and give [such persons] a free hand? Thus, when Prophets claim to bring a message from God and their Communities grow, it proves that they have been sent by Allah the Exalted. This is why those who are from God should be respected, so that world peace can be maintained. In this regard, I shall present a section from the book A Gift to the Queen, in which the Promised Messiah as discusses how peace should be established and also the mission of the Prophets. He states: Therefore, this law is part of the Eternal practice of Almighty God Just as worldly governments do not tolerate anything being wrongly attributed to them, how then can Allah the Almighty then tolerate it? He states: This law is part of the Eternal practice of Almighty God; that he does not grant respite to a false prophet. Such a person is quickly seized and suffers his punishment. In view of this, we shall honour and accept as true, all those who claim to be prophets at any time and whose claim was established and a religion became widespread and flourished over a long period. If we should discover mistakes in their scriptures of their religions or should observe the misconduct of their followers, we should not attribute these faults and shortcomings to the founders of these religions, inasmuch as the perversion of scriptures is possible and it is possible that mistakes of interpretation might find their way into the commentaries. But it is not at all possible that a person should fabricate lies against God and claim to be a prophet and then put forward his own compositions as the word of God falsely, and yet God should grant him respite like the righteous (that all of this should be as such, yet God grants him respite) and allow him wide acceptance worthy of the truthful. Therefore, this principle is an ultimate truth and endless blessing and withal lays the foundation for conciliation, in that, we affirm the truthfulness of all prophets whose november 2012 The Review of Religions 57

58 the message of true islam religion has been well established, has survived for a long time period and has had millions enter its fold. This is a very blessed principle. If all the world were to adhere to this fundamental principle, thousands of disorders and blasphemies which disturb the peace among general public, would be eradicated. It is apparent that people who consider the adherence of a religion to be following a person who in their view is a liar and fabricator, this lays the foundation of many tribulations. They certainly commit the crimes of defamation and speak of the prophets with extremely disrespectful words, going as far as employing abusive language, and disrupt harmony and peace amongst the general public. Notwithstanding that their estimation is wrong and they are transgressors in the eyes of God with regards to the disrespectful views. God who is merciful and beneficent, does not like that a liar should prosper unfairly and then put people in doubt, by establishing his own religion. Nor does He allow that in the eyes of the world a person be raised to the level of true prophets, while he is a fabricator and a liar. Therefore this principle lays down the foundation of love, peace and harmony, and supports moral values. In that we consider all those prophets true who appeared in the world, whether in India or Persia or China or any other country, God instilled their respect and grandeur in the hearts of millions, and made firm the roots of their religion which remained established for centuries. This is the principle that the Qur an teaches us. In light of this principle we honour all religious founders who fall under this description, whether they are the founders of the religion of the Hindus or the religion of the Persians, or the religion of the Chinese, or the religion of the Jews, or the religion of the Christians. Unfortunately, our adversaries cannot treat us this way and they do not bear in mind the pristine and unalterable law of God, that He does not 58 The Review of Religions november 2012

59 give that blessing and honour to a false prophet, that He bestows upon the true one. The religion of a false prophet does not take root and does not last long as does the religion of a truthful prophet. Therefore people subscribing to this kind of belief who defame the prophets of other nations by declaring them false, are always enemies of peace and harmony, because there is no greater mischief than abusing the elders of other nations. Sometimes a person would rather die than hear disparaging words about his elders. If we have an objection to the teaching of a religion, we should not attack the honour of the prophet of that religion or mention him in an unseemly manner; rather we should object only to the current practices of that nation. If there are shortcomings in that nation, we should object to those shortcomings rather than to the prophet himself. Furthermore, he says: We should be certain that the prophet whom God Almighty has graced with the honour of acceptance by millions and whose acceptance has continued for centuries, is thus firmly proven to be from Allah. If he were not the beloved of God, he would not have achieved so november 2012 The Review of Religions 59

60 the message of true islam The Promised Messiah as also said that conferences should be held in which people of different faiths present the excellences of their religions. much respect. It is not the practice of God to grant honour to a fabricator to spread his religion amongst millions and to safeguard the fabricated religion for a long time. Therefore a religion which spreads in the world, takes root and finds honour and long life, cannot at all be false in its origin. Therefore, if anything in that teaching is objectionable then it can either be because The Promised Messiah as has given three reasons why a current day religion may be objectionable; firstly, the teachings of that prophet have been altered. In other words the guidance given by the Prophet has been distorted and changed. A second reason is that, because a mistake has been made in the explanation of his teachings. Their teachings were interpreted wrongly. Thirdly, It is also possible that we may not be justified in our objections. That one may not comprehend a matter and raises an objection such as those who criticise the person of the Holy Prophet sa without edifying themselves about his history and who do not study or understand the Qur an or the accounts of his life. The Promised Messiah as said: It may be observed that some priests raise objections about certain tenets in the Holy Qur an. Even though they believe them to be true and as the teachings of God according to the Torah, therefore such objections are due to one s own mistake or due to haste. Then he wrote: In summary, welfare of humanity, peace, harmony, righteousness and fear of God call for adhering to the principle that we do not declare such prophets as false concerning whose truth the opinion of millions of people for centuries has been established and they have been supported by God since time immemorial. I am confident that a seeker of truth whether Asian or European will cherish this principle, and will profoundly regret that he did not believe in it all along. Addressing the Queen he wrote: I place this principle before Her 60 The Review of Religions november 2012

61 Majesty the Queen the empress of India and England. (At the time Queen s government also extended over India); because only this principle can spread peace in the world. This is our principle. Islam is proud to be unique in subscribing to this beautiful and handsome principle. Is it befitting that we malign the sages to whom God has subjugated a world, and kings have been bowing to them for centuries? Is it befitting that we be distrustful of God, thinking that he wants to deceive people by giving the status of the truthful to the liars, making them the sages of millions, giving their religions long lives, and showing heavenly signs in their favour? If God himself were to deceive us, how could we differentiate right from wrong? This is a most important tenet. A false prophet should not achieve the grandeur, expectance and greatness as that of a truthful one. Prosperity should not result from the plans of liars as it does from the activities of truthful ones. That is why the first sign of the truthful is that perpetual support is with them and God plants His religion in the hearts of millions, and grants it long life. Therefore, keeping in view the day of our passing away and the day of our recompense, we should not malign such a great sage. Rather we should garner true respect and true love for a prophet who carries such signs. This is the first principle which God has taught us. Through this we have become inheritors of a great moral code. The Promised Messiah as also said that conferences should be held in which people of different faiths present the excellences of their religions. As we observe, Islam is currently the foremost religion of the world in terms of actually being practised. It is the second largest religion of the world in terms of population. Thus, undoubtedly other religions should respect Muslims. They should make an effort to discharge the right of respecting the Holy Prophet sa or otherwise chaos and disorder will be created in the world. When we extend respect and honour to the religions of the world and when we consider their elders and Prophets as being sent by God, it is due only to the beautiful teachings provided to us by the Holy Qur an and taught to us by the Holy Prophet sa. In spite of the fact that the opponents of Islam use offensive and irreverent language against the Holy Prophet sa and create crude and obscene caricatures of him, we do not respond by using wrong or disparaging comments against the prophets of any other faith. Yet, Muslims are blamed for disturbing world peace, november 2012 The Review of Religions 61

62 the message of true islam whilst it is those people who perpetrate such acts to disrupt world peace, and attempt to inflame the sentiments of Muslims. When passions flare up they say, Look, Muslims are extremists; all manner of action should be taken against them. As I explained in the previous week s sermon, the opponents of Islam have been emboldened to act in this manner, by the fact that the Muslims are disunited. However, we Ahmadi Muslims, whom God the Almighty has united upon the hand of the Promised Messiah as as one, should show the world the path of guidance, and the ways of peace and security. The message of the Promised Messiah as, which I read out earlier, should be widely publicised. The people of the world should come to learn the true message of Islam. Worldly people are completely unaware of the station of the Holy Prophet sa that we hold in our hearts; that true Muslims hold in their hearts. They are oblivious to how beautiful the teachings and the blessed model of the Holy Prophet sa are. They cannot even envisage how much love and devotion a Muslim has for the Holy Prophet sa. by Hassan bin Thabit ra, in the following couplet of poetry that he recited upon the demise of the Holy Prophet: O Muhammad sa you were the pupil of my eye. Now that you have passed away I am blinded. I care not if any one dies now; I feared your death alone. In this age the Promised Messiah as has also inspired deep love and devotion for the Holy Prophet sa in our hearts. Depicting this profound love and affection, in the long Arabic Qaseedah, he says: A group of people has seen you whilst the whole nation has been informed about you. That full moon that has captivated me! Not only 1400 years ago, was ardent love for the Holy Prophet sa expressed, 62 The Review of Religions november 2012

63 They weep fervently upon remembrance of your beauty, Yearning and aching from the misery of separation. And I see the hearts desperately in anxious in agony; And I see the tears flowing from the eyes. The last line of poetry in this long Qaseedah which most, even children have memorised, reads: My body yearns to fly to you, so intense is my desire that it has soared high, Would it that I had a power to fly These were the lessons of love and devotion that the Holy Prophet sa taught us. Yet worldly people assert, What is the harm in light humour and jokes? When moral standards sink to such a low level and instead of improving they fall to their lowest ebb, it is then that world order is also ruined. As I stated, it is our duty to make maximum efforts to convey the various aspects of the blessed life of the Holy Prophet sa to the world. For this, the short but concise and very comprehensive book The Life of Muhammad sa, or the section of The Introduction to Study of the Holy Qur an, containing the biography of the Prophet sa, should be read by every Ahmadi. Virtually all aspects of the life of the Prophet sa have been mentioned in it, or it can be said that the important aspects have been covered. Further, in accordance with your interest and intellectual capacity, Ahmadis should read the other books on the life of the Holy Prophet sa also. Through different means such as contacts, articles and leaflets, you should make the world aware of the blessings and compassion of the Holy Prophet sa. May Allah the Almighty enable every single Ahmadi to discharge this most important responsibility. May He grant wisdom to the world, that such people who unjustly mock, deride and demonstrate enmity in this manner, may be rebutted by a category of intellectual and wise persons, so that the world be saved from disorder, chaos and the wrath of God. May Allah the Almighty facilitate this. november 2012 The Review of Religions 63

64 The Practical Response of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Worldwide TO THE RELEASE OF INNOCENCE OF MUSLIMS

65 A huge campaign is currently underway by all chapters of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community worldwide now established in over 200 countries to present to the world the true image of the Holy Prophet sa and Islam in a peaceful, rational and loving manner through exhibitions, conferences, flyer distribution, lectures, dissemination of literature interfaith peace seminars and through demonstrating the Islamic teachings in practice. The Ahmadiyya Community has always undertaken such endeavours since its inception. However, these efforts have now intensified in the aftermath of the release of Innocence of Muslims. Over the next few pages we will depict just some of the efforts the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has carried out since the release of the anti-islamic film, and will display how true Muslims react in such situations. This is only a mere glimpse into a fraction of the total ongoing worldwide response of the Ahmadiyya Community. We present examples from a small selection of countries.

66 CANADA Over 40 educational events, such as Focus on Islam symposia, interfaith seminars, Seerat conferences and exhibitions on the Holy Qur an and the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa were held across Canada where Canadians were informed of the true status of the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa. Meetings were held with over 50 Muslim Community leaders from various ethnic backgrounds. Each group endorsed actions taken by the Ahmadiyya Community and they categorically stated that only the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama`at can truly respond to attacks on Islam. On October 14 th, thousands of Ahmadi men, women and children visited homes in 114 cities of Canada. Over 300,000 specially designed flyers were distributed. Over 20 media outlets, included TV and newspapers provided coverage to efforts. 66 The Review of Religions november 2012

67 the practical response of the ahmadiy ya muslim community worldwide Front and back of new leaflet designed by Ahmadiyya Community in Canada. Letters stating our concerns were sent to all MPs in Canada, where as a result, two statements have been issued in our favour and a meeting has been held with the Deputy Secretary to the Foreign Affairs Minister. Personal discussions have also been held with current and former MPs.

68 CANADA Mubarak Nazir, Missionary In-Charge of the Ahmadiyya Community Canada delivering a lecture to packed audience. A Jalsa Seeratun Nabisa titled Muhammad sa The Astonishing Story of the Prophet was held on November 20, 2012 in Downtown Toronto at the stunning Roy Thomson Hall. Over 2000 guests attended this premier event. Additional thousands viewed via live stream. 68 The Review of Religions november 2012

69 the practical response of the ahmadiy ya muslim community worldwide Azhar Hanif, Vice President of the Ahmadiyya Community USA, delivering a speech regarding the excellences of the Holy Prpohet Muhammad sa.

70 UK Front cover of new leaflet designed by the Ahmadiyya Community United Kingdom. On the day of the Friday Sermon itself in the UK, a number of the world s media gathered to meet His Holiness after the Sermon including Sky News, Sky Arabic, BBC News, BBC Newsnight, New Zealand TV, French TV, Reuters, Getty Images, London News Pictures, Press Association, Wimbledon Guardian, The Guardian (national), BBC Radio. 55,000 copies of the Friday Sermon have been printed and sent to all Parliamentarians and other dignitaries and contacts. More than 30,000 copies of the leaflet The Holy Prophet Muhammad sa are currently being distributed. A 50-bus campaign was launched in central London on 29 th October carrying the message ISLAM: Freedom of Speech with Respect. A new leaflet on Freedom 70 The Review of Religions november 2012

71 the practical response of the ahmadiy ya muslim community worldwide of Speech has been published and 20,000 copies are being distributed. A full-page advert on the noble character of the Holy Prophet sa has been developed to go into a national daily and several local and regional papers. A special set of 18 banners on the Holy Prophet sa have been prepared for exhibitions around the country. 5 lectures have been held on the Holy Prophet sa at major UK universities. 15 seminars were held by Lajna the ladies auxiliary of the Community. 10 newspapers publications and 5 radio interviews were achieved. Several others seminars and exhibitions have taken place in libraries throughout the UK. november 2012 The Review of Religions 71

72 UK Jonathan Butterworth of the Ahmadiyya Community UK delivering a lecture. The Attorney General, Rt Hon Dominic Grieve MP A special Seeratun Nabi conference was organised by Ahmadiyya Community in the United Kingdom at the Tahir Hall of the Baitul Futuh Mosque attracting Members of Parliament, dignitaries, professors, doctors, teachers and local residents. 72 The Review of Religions november 2012

73 the practical response of the ahmadiy ya muslim community worldwide The Ahmadiyya Community UK raised 142,500 for the Queen s Diamond Jubilee charitable trust over the last many months.

74 GERMANY Above: Senior officials including Chief Prosecutor, Head of Criminal Investigation and Deputy Chief Prosecutor, of Koblenz (all to the left) with the National President of the Ahmadiyya Community in Germany, Mr. Abdullah Wagishauser (to right, back towards camera). Above right and immediate right: Open Mosque days. Next page: Exhibition held to promote Islam 3 rd October 2012 was an Open Mosque Day. This day was celebrated in 80 branches of the Ahmadiyya Community in Germany. More than 6000 guests visited the Mosques of the Community. The prominent feedback was that this was the right way to react to this film. According to initial reports, more than 25,000 printed copies of the Friday Sermon of 21 st September 2012 have been distributed. More than 1000 people have read this sermon on the homepage of the Ahmadiyya Community Germany. More than 35 Seeratun Nabi functions, on the life of the Prophet Muhammad sa, have already been planned. The press release on the sermon by His Holiness, consisting of quotes from the sermon, was sent to the media. Two online papers printed this PR in full and most local branches of the Ahmadiyya Community distributed it to the local media The Review of Religions november 2012

75 the practical response of the ahmadiy ya muslim community worldwide newspapers and a TV channel published interviews of representatives of the Jama at on the topic of the film. Front of new leaflet designed by Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Germany.

76 USA A major campaign is underway under the title I LOVE MOHAMMAD which will be worn as buttons or as a head band and flyers will also be distributed. The wearing of the slogan in any form would draw attention to the person who carries the pamphlets. A large number of reprints of Life of Muhammad are in the works, for free distribution. The Friday Sermon of 21 st September 2012 has been published in the form of 50,000 pamphlets and a coordinated distribution effort is being planned. Life of Muhammad has been placed on ibookstore, Kindle store and iphone. Muhammad the Liberator of Women on ibook, iphone and Kindle. 29 different letters, opinion editorials and live interviews by members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA were published/broadcast in the US media in 76 The Review of Religions november 2012

77 the practical response of the ahmadiy ya muslim communiaty worldwide Front of new leaflet designed by Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in USA. response to Innocence of Muslims.Links can be found below to a select few. Fox News O Reilly Factor. Why do so many Muslims hate the US? com/watch?v=fdatqtmsv-a and watch?v=iletsaju9wa

78 GHANA Maulawi Wahab Bin Adam, Ameer (National President) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Ghana and member of the National Peace Council of Ghana, wrote articles to illustrate the exemplary life of the Prophet sa in light of the 21 st September Friday Sermon, that were published in the Daily Graphic, the Chronicle, the Ghanaian Times and the Daily Guide. A gist of the Sermon of 21 st September 2012 was released to the Press and published in The Daily Graphic and The Ghanaian Times. In total the articles and press releases reached a readership of 145,000 people. The press release of the Sermon and the article by Maulawi W. Adam were telecast on Ghana Television and GBC Radio. This is the only TV network and radio station with nationwide coverage the combined audience of both reaching 10 million people. Peace FM Station also broadcast the release, which has 50% coverage in Ghana. 20,000 copies of Friday Sermon of 21 st September 2012 are being prepared for distribution. Symposia are being organised in Accra and 10 other regions of Ghana to present aspects of the life of the Holy Prophet sa to people from all walks of life. 78 The Review of Religions november 2012

79 INDONESIA Nasr Mosque of the Ahmadiyya Community in Indonesia. The Friday Sermon was widely distributed amongst prominent dignitaries as well as ordinary citizens through literature and talks. Toiman, chief of Himpunan Mahasiswa Islam (Islamic Student Association) said: This is a very good outlook and the matter must be discussed so that every follower of all religions can think well rather than in an extremist way. Martin, chief of Komite Nasional Pemuda Indonesia (National Committee of Indonesian Youth): Every leader of an organisation must have a standpoint regarding this [response to Innocence of Muslims]. Ahmadis have a very good standpoint. It is a very hard task for Ahmadis to explain to people the truth about Ahmadiyya, because people only get information from the media, which discredits Ahmadi friends. Mr. Niam, chief of MUI (Majelis Ulama Indonesia) or Indonesian Ulema Council in Sintang Regency, West Kalimantan Province; a strong opponent of the Ahmadiyya Jama at in 2005: It should be responded to in a good manner; not by extremism. Although we as Muslims are very angry, we should not respond with harshness. In the time of the Holy Prophet sa, a Bedouin urinated and spitted in the Prophet s sa mosque. He was not killed, but was taught good manners. Although MUI has a separate opinion and standpoint to Ahmadiyya, but in this regard, we have the same view. november 2012 The Review of Religions 79

80 INDIA New leaflet designed by Ahmadiyya Community in India. Exhibition - Islam for Peace Peace conference held in Qadian, Punjab, India. 60,000 leaflets in Urdu and English are being distributed all across India. The numerous branches of the Ahmadiyya Community in India are also holding Peace Conferences. In Qadian, District Gurdaspur a major peace conference was held. Dignitaries as well as journalists were all invited and introduced to the beautiful aspects of the life of the Founder of Islam. Discussions were held on the means to peace and also on respect and regard for all religious leaders and holy founders. The book Life of Muhammad sa is being translated into 9 regional languages of India and is being sent as gifts to libraries, politicians and prominent personalities etc. 80 The Review of Religions november 2012

81 the practical response of the ahmadiy ya muslim community worldwide Seeratun Nabi conference Branches of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community throughout India are holding Seeratun Nabi conferences to present the various aspects of the life of the Prophet Muhammad sa to non- Muslims. An exhibition was organised called ISLAM FOR PEACE in which the life of Muhammad sa was presented. Life of Muhammad published by Ahmadiyya Community India.

82 BANGLADESH On the 10th of November a press conference was held at the Ahmadiyya Centre in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Intellectuals, human right activists and many reporters of national dailies, including 7 national TV channels, were present. All were given printed copies of the Friday Sermon on the life of the Holy Prophetsa of Islam, which was delivered by the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community. On 23 rd October an invitation was sent by Professor Meer Mubasher Ali of the Ahmadiyya Community to very prominent personalities and dignitaries at his residence in Dhaka. Among the invitees, there were an MP, an ex-minister and jurist, members of the intelligentsia, some human rights activists, advocates and lawyers of the Bangladesh Supreme Court and some senior journalists. They were shown the address by the Head of the Ahmadiyya Community at Capitol Hill on 27 th June 2012 and were given a copy of the Friday sermon of 21 st September. All received it very warmly and many commented by saying that this was a timely action on behalf of the Muslims by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba. 82 The Review of Religions november 2012

83 the practical response of the ahmadiy ya muslim community worldwide New leaflet designed by Ahmadiyya Community Bangladesh. Copies of the Friday sermon and the address at Capitol Hill were sent to all 64 District Commissioners (DCs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs). These endeavours are intensely being undertaken throughout Bangladesh. Just recently, the Inspector General of Prisons Brigadier General (Retd.) Ashraful Islam Khan, during a meeting with senior members of the Ahmadiyya Community, inquired about the Ahmadiyya belief regarding the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa. In response, he was given this 21 st Sep. sermon and requested to discuss the matter in detail in order to understand the depth and sincerity Ahmadis hold with regards to the love of the Holy Prophet of Islam sa. november 2012 The Review of Religions 83

84 The Noble Wives of the Holy Prophet sa 1. Hazrat Khadijah Al-Kubra ra The First of the Muslims by hafiz muzaffar ahmad, rabwah, pakistan Illustrations by Masood Tahir (Waqfe Nau), London, UK. NEW SERIES 84 The Review of Religions november 2012

85 The lives of the Prophet Muhammad sa, his wives and the women of early Islam are often portrayed by numerous Western historians and scholars in negative light. This is largely based on inaccurate historical material or without consulting original sources. This misinformation has been disseminated in the media, magazines and news reports forming an adverse image of the women of early Islam to the world. The Review of Religions has commissioned a special series on the wives and female Companions of the Holy Prophet sa to present the true life stories of the noble women of early Islam. Our purpose is not to individually respond to such historians, but only to present the actual history and to let our readers make up their own minds, based on facts. We begin with Hazrat Khadijah ra. Translated by Murtaza Ahmad Introduction She believed in me when the whole world refuted me and she attested to my veracity when the whole world accused me of falsehood. She offered me compassion and loyalty with her wealth when everyone else had forsaken me. (The Holy Prophet Muhammad sa ). 1 Hazrat Khadijah ra was the first to believe in Prophet Muhammad sa. Therein lay her principal virtue and merit and an attribute which the Prophet Muhammad sa always cherished. She would prove to be the Prophet s sa steadfast ally at all times. She shared in all his troubles and difficulties, and was his constant support. At the age of 40, a widow and a wealthy businesswoman, Khadijah ra married the Prophet sa when he was 25, in what proved to be a relationship of profound love, loyalty and friendship. The Prophet Muhammad sa said, Of all the women in Paradise, the most noble are Hazrat Khadijah bint Khwaild ra, Hazrat Fatima-tul-Zohra ra bint Muhammad sa, Hazrat Mariam ra bint Imran as, and Hazrat Asiya ra (wife of Pharoah). 2 Background Hazrat Khadijah ra belonged to a tribe of the Quraish Clan, the Banu Asad. Her father was Khuwalid bin Asad bin Abdul Uzza, and her mother Fatima bint Zaidah belonged to the Luayy tribe. 3 Khadijah s ra first husband was Atiq bin A idh bin Abdallah bin Umar, november 2012 The Review of Religions 85

86 a respectable figure from the Makhzum tribe. She bore a daughter named Hind. After Atiq died, Khadijah ra married Abu Hala bin al-nabbash. She bore him two children, Hind and Hala. Hind was nurtured under the care of the Holy Prophet sa. He passed away as a Muslim and used to take great pride in saying, My parents, brothers and sisters are the most revered among all people. This is because my father is the Messenger of Allah, my mother is Hazrat Khadijah ra, my brother is Qaasim bin Muhammad ra and my sister is Fatima-tu-Zahra ra. 4 Hazrat Khadijah ra was a very distinguished and affluent member of the Quraish, and was generally regarded as an exceptionally chaste, pure, and abstemious lady, and had the epithet of Tahira (meaning pure ). She was a merchant and used to send her goods via the trade caravan to Syria. Marriage to the Holy Prophet sa Hazrat Khadijah ra needed an honest person in her service, and she was informed of the integrity and the honour of Muhammad sa. Based on a suggestion by the Prophet s sa uncle, Abu Talib ra, she sent a message to Muhammad sa asking him to trade on her behalf in Syria, in exchange for twice the remuneration, namely four camels instead of the customary two. Preparing him for the undertaking, Abu Talib ra said to Muhammad sa, God Himself has arranged this means of living for you. Muhammad sa agreed to trade in Syria on behalf of Hazrat Khadijah ra and one of her slaves by the name of Maisrah was sent with him. The integrity and honesty of Muhammad sa brought such blessings that the Syria trip reaped four times the usual profit. Upon their return, the slave of Hazrat Khadijah ra informed her of Muhammad s sa honesty, integrity, and truthfulness. Moreover, upon 86 The Review of Religions november 2012

87 receiving glad tidings from a meeting with a Christian priest named Rahib Nastoor, her esteem and respect for the Muhammad sa grew, thus resulting in their marriage. 1 Before the wedding itself, Hazrat Khadijah ra sent her friend and confidant, Nafeesa, to meet with Muhammad sa, and to find out what he thought of the marriage She then put forth Hazrat Khadijah s ra proposal. Muhammad sa was pleased by the idea because of Hazrat Khadijah s ra reptuation for goodness. Since Hazrat Khadijah s ra father had been killed in the battle of Fajar, the marriage proceedings were overseen by Abu Talib ra and Hazrat Khadijah s ra uncle, Umro. However Abu Talib ra expressed his concern that Hazrat Khadijah ra, coming from an affluent and dignified house, might not receive the approval of her uncle Umro. After consulting with Hazrat Khadijah ra, Nafeesa arranged an event at the house of Hazrat Khadijah ra, to which all the wealthy Quraish were invited. At the dinner, in front of the guests, permission for the Nikah was sought from Hazrat Khadijah s ra uncle. Muhammad sa was twenty-five years old, and Hazrat Khadijah ra was approximately forty. Despite the significant age difference, the marriage proved to be extremely successful. 5 At the time of the Nikah, Abu Talib ra spoke about the blessings of being from the progeny of Hazrat Abraham as, as well as being the guardians of the House of God. When he mentioned the financially weak position of his nephew (the Holy Prophet sa ), he also spoke of his many admirable qualities. Hazrat Khadijah s ra cousin, Warqah bin Naufal, expressed his willingness to accept the Nikah on behalf of Hazrat Khadijah ra at a sum of 400 dinars. Abu Talib ra declared that it would be better if her uncle, Umro, also approved of this agreement. At this, Hazrat Khadijah s ra uncle said, O leaders of the Quraish! I have settled the Nikah of Muhammad sa to Khadijah ra. Some traditions report that the Haq Mehar (dower money) of Hazrat Khadijah ra from the Prophet Muhammad sa was twenty camels and 12 ounces of silver. Abu Talib ra agreed to the terms and payment of the Haq Mehar, which Muhammad sa increased and then duly paid. The marriage was not only a great source of comfort and solace to Mohammad sa, but was also a great reassurance for Abu Talib ra. He expressed his relief by saying, May all Praise be for that Being who has removed november 2012 The Review of Religions 87

88 the noble wives of the holy prophet sa from us our agony and worry. Hazrat Khadijah ra and her mother, Fatima, were very happy at the occasion and ordered the maid servants to arrange for some small tambourines to be played to enliven the house. Muhammad sa offered lunch to the guests and then laid down to rest in the house of Hazrat Khadijah ra. Hazrat Khadhijah s ra relationship with the the Holy Prophet sa In spite of the disparity between their economic position and age, the marriage proved to be extremely successful. This union was destined by the Will of God. Hazrat Khadijah ra was mature and influential; she was to become the helper, the assistant, the supporter, and the shield of Muhammad sa. Enormous responsibility was to be bestowed upon him. To bear such a duty may have been too demanding a task for a younger woman. Hazrat Khadijah ra was married to Prophet Mohammed sa for 24 years, 5 months, and 8 days. Ibn Ishaq relates that whenever the Prophet sa would feel troubled by the accusations and abuse that were meted out against him by people, Hazrat Khadijah ra would reassure him, allay his troubles, lighten his burden, and ease his difficulties by her attestation and acceptance of his claim. 6 The secret of the success of this extraordinary marriage lay in the fact that its foundations were based on the virtuous disposition of both. In her proposal of marriage to Muhammad sa, Hazrat Khadijah ra said that she was inclined towards him due to the beauty of his virtuous character. After marriage, their relationship grew stronger in love and trust. Hazrat Khadijah ra allowed him independence from all kinds of financial worries, and sacrificed everything for the cause of his Prophethood. Hence, Prophet Muhammad sa is quoted to have once said, Khadijah ra aided me with her wealth at a time when no one else did. 7 Once, Hazrat Khadijah ra observed the Prophet Muhammad s sa empathy for one of her slaves, Zaid bin Harisa ra, and the manner in which he appreciated and praised his services. As a result, she bequeathed him to the Prophet sa, and in turn, the Prophet Muhammad sa set him free. 8 Hazrat Khadijah ra noticed the love and devotion with which the Prophet Muhammad sa undertook his prayers, and always sought to support and assist the performance of his spiritual duties. She would take it upon herself to prepare his provisions when he would 88 The Review of Religions november 2012

89 seek solitude in the cave of Hira to worship. In one incident, it is narrated that she set out towards the northern parts of Makkah with provisions in search of the Prophet Muhammad sa. On her way, the angel Gabriel as appeared before her and enquired about the Prophet Muhammad sa. Hazrat Khadijah ra became anxious since an unknown man was asking about her husband. Upon meeting the Prophet sa, she related the earlier encounter, to which he replied: That was Gabriel as and he said to give Salam to you. He brings glad tidings of a resting place in paradise for you, a place where there shall be neither fatigue nor racket nor clamour. Another tradition relates that Gabriel as said, Salam to Hazrat Khadijah ra from her Lord. 9 The beauty of her response to these words bears witness to her wisdom and intelligence. She replied: Allah the Almighty is Salam (meaning that He is the source of peace Himself, and peace pours forth from Him), and Salam to Gabriel as as well. 10 The glad tidings concerning Hazrat Khadijah s ra abode in Paradise was a significant tribute to her character. She continuously provided the Prophet sa with encouragement. She also undertook the task of personally attending to the Prophet s sa every need, despite having come from a wealthy family that could have provided her with servants. Allah has predestined a glasshouse of pearls and gems for Hazrat Khadijah ra, a house mirroring her pure and sincere heart. She filled her home with peace and made it heavenly for the Prophet sa during her lifetime. For her reward, Almighty Allah sent forth a message of glad tidings and conveyed the message of her eternal abode in heaven. Just as she caused no fatigue to reach the Prophet Muhammad sa through her care and support, her eternal abode shall know no fatigue either. After he received his first revelation in the cave of Hira, Hazrat Khadijah ra alone gave the Prophet Muhammad sa succour and encouragement. On this occasion, an unknown person came and addressed the Holy Prophet sa during his meditation, which caused him to be overcome with fear and trepidation. He made his way home to Hazrat Khadijah ra trembling, and asked his wife to cover him in a blanket. He was overwhelmed with anxiety and said, Khadijah ra! What is happening to me? Fear for my life is november 2012 The Review of Religions 89

90 Illustration of the Cave Hira, where the Prophet Muhammad sa received his first revelation. In addition to her reassuring words, she took him to her cousin Warqah bin Naufal, a Christian well-versed in Hebrew, and who possessed extensive knowledge of the Torah and the Gospels. Khadijah ra addressed her cousin and asked him to listen to what Muhammad sa had to say. After listening to the Prophet Muhammad sa, Warqah bin Naufal said: This is the same angel that was sent down to Moses as. Alas! I wish I were young and healthy in this age, when your people will oust you from this land. beginning to overtake me. At this crucial juncture, Hazrat Khadijah ra provided her husband with courage and solace; she held his noble and virtuous disposition as a testament to his character and reassured him with fullest conviction by declaring: Your life and your being would never be subjected to any fear or danger. Instead, glad tidings of a noble and august message have come to you. God will never abandon you because you treat your relatives well, you speak the truth, you lighten the burden of others, you offer them hospitality and help those stricken and in need. What can a man in possession of such a virtuous disposition have to fear? The Prophet Muhammad sa asked in astonishment, Will my people oust one such as me (meaning bearer of good and servant to mankind)? Warqah said, Indeed! It has always been so in the past. 11 Thus it was Khadijah ra who first believed in the Prophet Muhammad sa after his revelation. She also became a means of his attestation by encouraging him to meet with Warqah bin Naufal. 2 Hazrat Khadijah ra once asked the Prophet Muhammad sa about Warqah bin Naufal, O Prophet of Allah! Although he believed in you after your first revelation, he died shortly afterwards. The Prophet Muhammad sa replied, Yes, I saw him in a dream of mine and he was clad in white. 90 The Review of Religions november 2012

91 If he was of the inmates of the fire, then he would not have been dressed so. 12 Personal Characteristics of Hazrat Khadijah ra Allah blessed Khadijah ra with children from the Prophet Muhammad sa four sons, Qasim, Tahir, Tayyab and Abdullah, and four daughters, Hazrat Zainab ra, Hazrat Ruqayya ra, Hazrat Umm-e- Kalsoom ra and Hazrat Fatima-tul- Zohra ra. It was Hazrat Khadijah s ra wish that her eldest daughter, Hazrat Zainab ra, would marry her nephew, Abdul-Aas. During the battle of Badr, Abdul-Aas, son-in-law to the Prophet sa, was captured along with other non-muslims from Makkah. At the time, Hazrat Zainab ra was residing in Makkah. In exchange for the freedom of her husband, she offered the necklace her mother had given her at the time of her marriage as payment. Upon seeing and recognising the necklace, the Prophet Muhammad sa was stirred and overwhelmed with emotion. What an extraordinary moment it was to behold when his eyes shed tears at the memory of her kindness! He consulted his Companions over granting freedom to Abdul-Aas without payment. As a result, the necklace was returned to Hazrat Zainab ra, and remained a keepsake memory of her noble mother Hazrat Khadijah ra. However, Abdul- Aas was released on the terms that upon his return to Makkah, he would arrange safe passage for his Muslim wife, Hazrat Zainab ra, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad sa, to Madinah. 13 Abdul-Aas, proved loyal and true to his word; upon his return to Makkah, according to his promise, he made arrangements for Hazrat Zainab ra to be transported to Madinah, where the Prophet sa was residing. The Prophet sa never forgot the good deed done by his son-in-law. He used to say, Abu-ul-Aas is a righteous man in that he fulfilled the promise that he made to me. 14 It was this very righteousness that enabled Abu-ul-Aas to accept Islam in the end. All the male children borne by Hazrat Khadijah ra passed away during her lifetime. Following the pure example of Prophet Muhammad sa, she too bore with great patience the trial and adversity of losing her children. Hazrat Qasim was not yet weaned when he passed away, yet Hazrat Khadijah ra showed a great example of patience. Only once did she say to the Prophet Muhammad sa : O Prophet of Allah! The lactating days of Qasim were not yet over. If only Allah november 2012 The Review of Religions 91

92 the noble wives of the holy prophet sa had permitted him a few more days, he would have finished his two years of lactation. Would it not have been wonderful and we would have spent some more time with our child. The Prophet Muhammad sa replied, He will complete his lactating days in Paradise. Hazrat Khadijah ra replied, If that was to be believed, it would ease the grief that I bear for Qasim. The Prophet Muhammad sa said: If you wish, I shall pray to Allah that He may let you hear your son s voice so that you may believe that he will indeed finish his lactating days in Paradise. Thus you may feel reassured. Hazrat Khadijah ra answered with great alacrity and presence of mind by replying, O Prophet of Allah! I believe what Allah and His messenger say and accept it to be the truth. 15 After accepting Islam, Hazrat Khadijah ra faced trials and adversities with respect to the breakup of her daughters marriages. Utba and Utaiba, sons of an uncle of the Prophet Muhammad sa, Abu Lahab, were married to Hazrat Ruqayya ra and Hazrat Umm-e-Kalsoon ra, respectively. After claiming prophethood, the opposition in Makkah grew, during which time the Quraish instigated the two sons to divorce the daughters of the Prophet Muhammad sa. 16 As a result, both marriages were dissolved. Hazrat Khadijah ra bore the pain of her daughters with great fortitude. No word of impatience or displeasure crossed her lips. Hazrat Khadijah s ra reaction to such trials bore testimony to her patience and to the magnitude of her faith. The strength of her belief and conviction enabled her to bear the increasing hardships alongside the Prophet Muhammad sa with great fortitude. From the 7 th of Nabawi, Hazrat Khadijah ra spent three years in conditions of great difficulty with the Prophet Muhammad sa, as they were besieged and boycotted in Shi b-e-abi-talib. Although Hazrat Khadijah ra came from a noble and wealthy family, she chose to bear grief and pain for the cause of Allah and His Messenger sa. She chose a righteous path and stayed with the Prophet Muhammad sa until the day of her death. The Holy Prophet s sa High Regard for Hazrat Khadijah ra The Prophet Muhammad sa spoke highly of Hazrat Khadijah s ra characteristics 92 The Review of Religions november 2012

93 Illustration of the Ka abah and the sacred Mosque in Makkah. saying, Khadijah ra is better and above all other women. 17 The Prophet Muhammad sa had great respect for the kindness of Hazrat Khadijah ra. Hazrat A ishah ra related that whenever an animal would be slaughtered, the Prophet sa would name all of Hazrat Khadijah s ra friends and say: Send a portion to that house, for she loved Hazrat Khadijah ra dearly. Send a portion to that house, for she was a friend of Hazrat Khadijah ra. Hazrat A ishah ra said that she once asked the reason for this, to which the Prophet Muhammad sa replied, Those who were dear to Khadijah ra are dear to me too. 18 Hazrat A ishah ra relates that once an old lady came to the house of the Prophet sa. The Prophet sa asked her, Who are you? She said, I am from the neighbourhood of the Muzeena clan. After that, every time she came to visit, the Prophet sa would hold her high in esteem, and express happiness upon her visit. He would ask: How are you? How is everything? How have you been doing since we last met? Hazrat A ishah ra says that she once asked the Prophet sa, O Prophet of Allah! Why do you shower such care and attention over this old lady? The Prophet sa replied: This old lady used to come to our house in Hazrat Khadijah s ra time, and loyalty is a part of faith too. Through this old lady, I reminisce about the time I spent with Hazrat Khadijah ra. 19 november 2012 The Review of Religions 93

94 the noble wives of the holy prophet sa His manner was an expression of loyalty to Hazrat Khadijah ra. Hazrat A ishah ra relates that Hazrat Khadijah ra died three years before her marriage. Every time, before leaving the house, the Prophet Muhammad sa would reminisce fondly about Hazrat Khadijah ra : I became weary of hearing of her all the time. For this reason I never felt any indignation against any of the wives except for Hazrat Khadijah ra. The Prophet sa would say that Allah has given me glad tidings in a revelation of a resting place for her in Paradise. Once, Hazrat Khadijah s ra sister, Hala, came to our house and she asked permission to come in. Due the similarity between her voice and Hazrat Khadijah s ra voice, the Prophet sa recognised her beforehand and said, Dear God! It is Hala who has come. At this exclamation, I felt a strong sense of indignation and said, O Prophet of Allah! Why is it that of all the old women of Quraish, you keep mentioning only one, she who died a long time ago. Allah has blessed you with better wives than her since then. You mention Khadijah ra as if there is no woman but her on earth. The Prophet Muhammad sa took amiss at these words and his face showed such signs of anger that I felt limp. I prayed to Allah that if his anger were to fade today, I would never again in my life say another word against Hazrat Khadijah ra in my life. At that point, looking at my countenance, the Prophet Muhammad sa said to me, O A ishah ra! The truth of the matter is that no one can be better than Khadijah ra. She believed in me when the whole world refuted me and she attested to my veracity when the whole world accused me of falsehood. She offered me compassion and loyalty with her wealth when everyone else had forsaken me. O A ishah ra! What can I do? Love for her runs in my blood and is nestled in my heart. 20 And why should it not be so, for Allah Almighty sent His Salam to Hazrat Khadijah ra. Hazrat Khadijah ra died on the 4 th of Nabawi, and the year was known as Aam-ul-Huzn: the year of common grief. Her death appeared to the Prophet Muhammad sa like a mountain of sorrow, for his foremost supporter and partner in life departed that year. Hazrat Khadijah ra died three years prior to the migration to Madinah, and she was buried at Hujoon. At the time of her death, funeral rites were not officially instated. Hazrat Hakim bin Hizam ra relates that: 94 The Review of Religions november 2012

95 When our aunt, Hazrat Khadijah ra, died, the funeral procession left and we buried her at a place called Hujoon. 21 The Prophet Muhammad sa himself descended into the grave. 22 Let us give our Salam to this noble and grand woman, one to whom the Master and Creator of this Universe sent His Salam. Salam to you O Khadijah Al-Kubra ra! The series continues in the next Edition. Hafiz Muzaffar Ahmad is an eminent scholar of the Holy Qur an, Hadith and Islamic history. The Hafiz in his name denotes that he has memorised the entire Holy Qur an by heart. He has authored several books, including on the life of the Holy Prophet sa and his Companions. He is a regular panellist on the popular religious discussion programme Rahe Huda, which broadcasts on Muslim Television Ahmadiyya International ( endnotes 1. Musnad Ahmad, Vol.6, p.117 Qasira. 2. Musnad Ahmad, Vol.1, p.293, Ma rifatul-sahaba Libni Naeem, Vol. 22, p.235, Wal Mu jamul Kabir Tabrani, Vol.19, p Al Mu jamul Kabir Tabrani, Vol.22 p.448 and Majma Al-Zawa id, Vol.9, p Al-Tabakatul Kubra Libni Sa d, Vol.1, p ; Seeratul Halabiyyah Vol.1, p Ibni Hishaam, Vol.1, p Musnad Ahmad, Vol.6, p Seerat Ibni Hisham, Vol.1, p Bukhari Bad Al-Wahy wa Amlul Yaumi libni Sani, Al-Tabrani Al Kabir, Vol.23, p.25, wa Majma Al-Zawa id, Vol.9, p Bukhari Badul Wahy. 12. Kanzul Ummal, Vol.12, p Abu Daud Kitabul Jihad Bab fi fidaail aseer bil maal. 14. Bukhari Kitabun Nikah Baabushuroot fil-nikah. 15. Sunan Ibni Majah Kitabul Janaa iz bab ma jaa fisalaati al-ibni rasulillah sa. 16. Al-Seeratun Nubuwwah libni Hishaam, Vol.2, p.296 and Al-Tabaqatul Kubra libni Sa d, Vol.8, pp Musnad Ahmad, Vol.1, p Al-Tabarani Al-Kabir, Vol.23, p.13 and Al-Isaabah fi Seerah Al-Sahaba Vol.8, p Al Mustadrak lil-hakim, Vol.1, p.15, Al-Tabarani Al-Kabir, Vol.23, p Musnad Ahmad, Vol.6, p.117 Qasira. 21. Al-Tabaqatul Kubra, Vol.8, p Zawjatun Nabi Wa alul Bayti, p.125, from Al Mutawalli Al Shaa rawi Maktabatul Asr, Beirut. november 2012 The Review of Religions 95

96 The Holy Prophet sa In the Eyes of Non-Muslims hazrat mirza masroor ahmad aba, khalifatul masih v, head of the worldwide ahmadi y ya muslim communit y

97 Friday Sermon delivered by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad aba, Khalifatul Masih V, Head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, on 5 th October 2012 from the Baitul Futuh Mosque, London. Translated from the Urdu by Amer Safir and Murtaza Ahmad. After reciting Tashahhud, Ta awwuz and Surah al-faatihah, His Holiness said: The Promised Messiah as stated: If one has knowledge of the life experiences of the Holy Prophet sa [that is, the circumstances he faced and incidents that occurred in his life], is fully aware of the condition of the world at the time of his advent and what the Holy Prophet sa achieved, he would call out in a trancelike state, O Allah, Bless Muhammad sa! I say most truthfully, this is not mere thought and imagination, for the Holy Qur an and world history fully bear testimony to what the Holy Prophet sa did. Otherwise why would it have been stated especially for the Holy Prophet sa : That is, Allah and His angels send blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe! You also should invoke blessings on him and salute him with the salutation of peace. 1 Such a pronouncement was not made for any other prophet. The only man who came to this world with complete success and complete conciliation was Muhammad sa. 2 The Promised Messiah as said: It is evident from this verse that the pious practices of the Holy Prophet sa were such that Allah the Exalted, did not specify any word to praise them [in other words to limit it] or quantify his attributes. Words may have been found, but they were not used. [That is to say, praise of his pious practices was immeasurable]. A verse such as this has not been stated in the glory of any other prophet. His soul was so pure and honest and his practices were liked by God to such an extent, that Allah the Exalted gave the perpetual commandment that in future, people should invoke blessings on him as a mark of gratefulness. 3 It is, therefore, the duty of a believer that as he reads the teachings brought by the Holy Prophet sa and learns about his blessed model, he should also strive november 2012 The Review of Religions 97

98 the holy prophet sa in the eyes of non-muslims to follow in his footsteps and adopt those practices. He should, alongside this, send Durood and Salaam (salutations and peace) upon the Prophet sa, for the great favour the Benefactor of Mankind bestowed on us. The Holy Prophet sa demonstrated the practical illustration of every teaching of Allah the Almighty to us, encompassing all aspects of life. By admonishing us to act in this way, he guided us to the path leading to God. He has shown to us the ways to obtaining the highest standards of worship of God. He provided to us understanding and realisation of our responsibilities of discharging the rights of creation, through which a believer can obtain the pleasure of God. All this demands that whilst we send Durood and Salaam (salutations and peace) upon the Prophet Muhammad sa, we should also inform the world of his blessed model. We should make the world aware of his excellences and compassion. Whenever aspects of the blessed life of the Prophet Muhammad sa have been presented to non-muslims who possess even the slightest amount of justice and fairness, then despite differences of opinions, they were compelled to praise the various characteristics of the life of the Prophet Muhammad sa. Presently, opponents of Islam raise objections against the Holy Prophet sa or upon the teachings that he brought. Such people s hearts are either completely devoid of justice or they are entirely unacquainted with the various aspects of excellence in the blessed life of the Holy Prophet sa. Further, they do not even want to make an effort to learn about them. As such, it is also our duty to make the world aware of the excellences of the life of the Holy Prophet sa and to this end we should use every single possible means at our disposal. I have already stated this numerous times previously. The nature of some people is such, or some people are so steeped in materialism or worldliness, that worldly people influence them more. When a worldly person or someone from amongst them makes a statement regarding the Prophet Muhammad sa they are more prepared to accept what he says and it has a greater impact upon them and they sometimes make an effort to reflect, as compared to when a Muslim says the same thing to them regarding the Holy Prophet sa. It is for this reason that the views of their own famous people such as writers and scholars, regarding the Prophet Muhammad s sa life, should be conveyed to them. I shall now present extracts from the 98 The Review of Religions november 2012

99 writings of those who were impressed by the life and personality of the Holy Prophet sa and subsequently wrote about him. Some amongst these writers and scholars were fiercely opposed to the Prophet Muhammad sa, yet they were compelled to write the truth. In his English translation of the Holy Qur an, the writer George Sale writes with reference to Spanhemius a staunch opponent of Islam, who said many negative things against the Prophet Muhammad sa yet Sale writes: for how criminal soever Mohammed may have been in imposing a false religion on mankind, the praises due to his real virtues ought not to be denied him; nor can I do otherwise than applaud the candour of the pious and learned Spanhemius, who, though he owned him to have been a wicked imposter, yet acknowledged him to have been richly furnished with natural endowments, beautiful in his person, of a subtle wit, agreeable behavior, showing liberality to the poor, courtesy to everyone, fortitude against his enemies, and above all a high reverence for the name of God; severe against the perjured, adulterers, murderers, slanderers, prodigals, covetous, false witnesses &c. a great preacher of George Sale ( ) Orientalist and practising solicitor. He reputedly spent 25 years in Arabia, thus acquiring knowledge of the Arabic language and customs. patience, charity, mercy, beneficence, gratitude, honouring of parents and superiors, and a frequent celebrator of the divine praises. 4 Despite acknowledging all of this, in other parts of his book George Sale raises allegations against the prophet Muhammad sa. Stanley Lane-Poole ( ) Orientalist and Archaeologist. He worked for nearly 20 years in the British Museum as Professor of Arabic Studies at Dublin University. Another writer, Stanley Lane-Poole, wrote: november 2012 The Review of Religions 99

100 the holy prophet sa in the eyes of non-muslims Professor H. G. Wells ( ) De Lacy O Leary ( ) Prolific writer, bestselling author and social commentator. His famous books include: The Time Machine, The War of the Worlds and The Invisible Man. Renowned historian and senior lecturer at the University of Bristol. He freely forgave the Koreysh all the years of sorrow and cruel scorn in which they had afflicted him, and gave an amnesty to the whole population of Mekka It was thus that Mohammad entered again his native city. Through all the annals of conquest there is no triumphant entry comparable to this one. 5 In The Outline of History, professor H.G. Wells wrote regarding a major proof of the prophethood of the Prophet Muhammad sa : Because those who knew Muhammad best believed in him the most Muhammad was no impostor at any rate there can be no denying that Islam possesses many fine and noble attributes They created a society more free from widespread cruelty and social oppression than any society had ever been in the world before. 6 In his book, Islam at the Crossroads, De Lacy O Leary wrote: History makes it clear, however, that the legend of fanatical Muslims sweeping through the world and forcing Islam at the point of the sword upon conquered races, is one of the most fantastically absurd myths that historians have ever repeated. 7 In other words, he says that historians who say that Islam was spread through force are relating ridiculous tales. In a statement published in Young India, Mahatma Ghandi stated: I wanted to know the best of the life of 100 The Review of Religions november 2012

101 Mahatma Gandhi ( ) Sir John Bagot Glubb ( ) Leader of the Indian Nationalist Movement, the father of India and renowned spiritual figurehead.one of the most influential and iconic leaders of the 20th century. Lieutenant General, scholar and author, best known for leading Transjordan s Arab Legion. one who holds today an undisputed sway over the hearts of millions of mankind... I became more than ever convinced that it was not the sword that won a place for Islam in those days, in the scheme of life. It was the rigid simplicity, the utter selfeffacement of the Prophet, the scrupulous regard for pledges, his intense devotion to his friends and followers, his intrepidity, his fearlessness, his absolute trust in God and in his own mission. These, and not the sword, carried everything before them and surmounted every obstacle. When I closed the second volume [of a book on the Prophet s biography], I was sorry there was not more for me to read of that great life. 8 Sir John Bagot Glubb, a Lieutenant General who passed away in 1986, wrote at the conclusion of his book: Whatever opinion the reader may form when he reaches the end of this book [which he was writing], it is difficult to deny that the call of Muhammad seems to bear a striking resemblance to innumerable other accounts of similar visions, both in the Old and New Testaments, and in the experience of Christian saints, possibly also of Hindus and devotees of other religions. Such visions, moreover, have often marked the beginnings of lives of great sanctity and of heroic virtue. To attribute such phenomena to self-delusion scarcely seems an adequate explanation, for they have been experienced by many persons divided from one another by thousands of years of time and by thousands of miles of distance, who cannot conceivably have even heard of each other. Yet the accounts which they give of their visions seem to bear an extraordinary likeness to one november 2012 The Review of Religions 101

102 the holy prophet sa in the eyes of non-muslims hostile inhabitants of Makkah, a situation which proves him to have possessed a considerable degree of moral courage and conviction. 10 In his book A History of the Intellectual Development of Europe, John William Draper wrote: John William Draper ( ) Scientist, philosopher, physician, historian and photographer; credited with producing the first detailed photograph of the moon. He was the first president of the American Chemical Society and a founder of the New York University School of Medicine. another. It scarcely appears reasonable to suggest that all these visionaries imagined such strikingly similar experiences, although they were quite ignorant of each other s existence. 9 Regarding the migration of the companions of the Holy Prophet sa to Abyssinia (the Prophet sa was in Makkah at the time) he wrote: The list seems to have included very nearly all the persons who had accepted Islam and the Messenger of God must have remained with a much reduced group of adherents, among the generally Four years after the death of Justinian, A.D. 569, was born at Mecca, in Arabia the man who, of all others, exercised the greatest influence upon the human race... Mohammed, by Europeans surnamed the Impostor Mohammed possessed that combination of qualities which more than once decided the fate of empires. A preaching soldier, he was eloquent in the pulpit [when delivering speeches], valiant in the field. His theology was simple: There is but one God. [That the sum total of the religion is that God is One.] Asserting that everlasting truth, he did not engage in vain metaphysics, but applied himself to improving the social condition of his people by regulations respecting personal cleanliness, sobriety, fasting, prayer. Before all other works he esteemed almsgiving and charity. 11 A famous Orientalist, William Montgomery Watt, wrote in his book, Muhammad at Medina: 102 The Review of Religions november 2012

103 William Montgomery Watt ( ) Historian, Professor in Arabic and Islamic Studies at the University of Edinburgh; one of the foremost and influential non-muslim scholars of Islam. The more one reflects on the history of Muhammad and of early Islam, the more one is amazed at the vastness of his achievement. Circumstances presented him with an opportunity such as few men have had, but the man was fully matched with the hour. Had it not been for his gifts as a seer, statesman, and administrator and, behind these, his trust in God and firm belief that God had sent him, a notable chapter in the history of mankind would have remained unwritten. It is my hope that this study of his life may contribute to a fresh appraisal and appreciation of one of the greatest of the sons of Adam. 12 Such is a testimony of a biographer who was not favourably disposed towards the Holy Prophet sa. Reverend Bosworth Smith ( ) Schoolmaster and author. In 1874 he delivered before the Royal Institution in London four lectures on Muhammad and Islam They were published in the same year (3rd edn, 1889). He both defended the character and teaching of the Prophet and acknowledged the benefits of Islam to Africa, a positive assessment which drew much criticism from missionary societies. The book was translated into Arabic, and its author was for many years prayed for in the mosques of western Africa. (Source: Oxford Dictionary of National Biography) The famous Christian historian, Reverend Bosworth Smith, in his book Muhammad and Muhammadanism, wrote: Head of the State as well as of the Church, he was Caesar and Pope in one; but he was Pope without Pope s pretensions and Caesar without the legions of Caesar: without a standing army, without a bodyguard, without a palace, without a fixed revenue; if ever november 2012 The Review of Religions 103

104 the holy prophet sa in the eyes of non-muslims Washington Irving ( ) Author, essayist, biographer and historian of the early 19th century. He achieved international fame for his fictional works, and biographies on George Washington, the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa and others. He also served as the United States Ambassador to Spain. any man had the right to say that he ruled by the right divine, it was Mohammed, for he had all the power without its instruments and without its supports. 13 Those who knew him best, his wife, his eccentric slave, his cousin, his earliest friend he who, as Mohammed said, alone of his converts, turned not back, neither was perplexed were the first to recognize his mission [that is, his prophethood]. The ordinary lot of a prophet was in his case reversed; he was not without honour save among those who did not know him well. 14 The practices that Mohammed forbade, and not forbade only, but abolished, human sacrifices [that is, sacrificing humans] and the murder of female infants, and blood feuds, and unlimited polygamy, and wanton cruelty to slaves, and drunkenness, and gambling, would have gone unchecked in Arabia and the adjoining countries. 15 Nor could anyone have done what Mohammed did without the most profound faith in the reality and goodness of his cause [he had firm faith and conviction in his mission, claim and that he was sent from God; it is thus that a revolution was brought about] there is everything to prove the real enthusiast arriving slowly and painfully at what he believed to be the truth. 16 To say that Arabia needed renovation was to say in other words that the time for a new prophet had come, and why might not that prophet be Mohammed himself? Sprenger, the most recent and exhaustive writer on the subject, has shown that for some hundred years before Mohammed the advent of another prophet had been expected and even predicted. 17 On the whole, the wonder is to me not 104 The Review of Religions november 2012

105 how much, but how little, under different circumstances, Mohammed differed from himself. In the shepherd of the dessert [when he tended sheep], in the Syrian trader, in the solitary of Mount Hira, in the reformer in the minority of one, in the exile of Medina, in the acknowledged conqueror, in the equal of the Persian Chosroes and the Greek Heraclius, we can still trace a substantial unity. I doubt whether any other man, whose external conditions changed so much, ever himself changed less to meet them: the accidents are changed, the essence seems to me to be the same in all. 18 Washington Irving, in his book Life of Muhammad, wrote: His military triumphs awakened no pride, nor vain glory, as they would have done had they been effected for selfish purposes. In the time of his greatest power he maintained the same simplicity of manner and appearance as in the days of his adversity. So far from affecting regal state, he was displeased if, on entering a room, any unusual testimonial of respect was shown to him. 19 Sir William Muir was an Orientalist, who although saying quite a lot against Islam; wrote: Sir William Muir ( ) Famous oriential historian. Muir was born in Scotland and spent a long period of time in India as an Indian civil servant. He later served as Principal of the University of Edinburgh for nearly twenty years. Muir wrote on Islam and his works include a four-volume biography on the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa. He became President of the Royal Asiatic Society in 1884, receiving their Centennial Gold Medal in Thorough and complete in all his actions, he took in hand no work without bringing it to a close. The same habit pervaded his manner in social intercourse. If he turned in a conversation towards a friend, he turned not partially, but with his full face and his whole body. In shaking hands, he was not the first to withdraw his own; nor was he the first to break off in converse with a stranger, nor to turn away his ear. A patriarchal simplicity pervaded his life. His custom was to do everything november 2012 The Review of Religions 105

106 the holy prophet sa in the eyes of non-muslims for himself. If he gave alms he would place it with his own hands in that of the petitioner. He aided his wives in their household duties He was to all of easy access - even as the river s bank to him that draweth water from it. Embassies and deputations were received with the utmost courtesy and consideration. In the issue of prescripts bearing on their representations, or in other matters of state, Muhammad displayed all the qualifications of an able and experienced ruler. What renders this the more strange is that he was never known himself to write. A remarkable feature was the urbanity and consideration with which Muhammad treated even the most insignificant of his followers. Modesty and kindliness, patience, self-denial, and generosity, pervaded his conduct, and riveted the affections of all around him. He disliked to say No. If unable to answer a petitioner in the affirmative, he preferred silence. He was not known ever to refuse an invitation to the house even of the meanest, nor to decline a proffered present however small. He possessed the rare faculty of making each individual in a company think that he was the favoured guest. If he met anyone rejoicing at success he would seize him eagerly and cordially by the hand. With the bereaved and afflicted, he sympathized tenderly. Gentle and unbending towards little children, he would not disdain to accost a group of them at play with the salutation of peace. He shared his food, even in times of scarcity, with others, and was sedulously solicitous for the personal comfort of everyone about him. A kindly and benevolent disposition pervaded all those illustrations of his character. Muhammad was a faithful friend. He loved Abu Bakr with the close affection of a brother; Ali, with the fond partiality of a father. Zaid, the freedman, was so strongly attached by the kindness of the Prophet that he preferred to remain at Mecca rather than return home with his own father. I will not leave thee, he said, clinging to his patron, for thou hast been a father and mother to me. The friendship of Muhammad survived the death of Zaid, and his son Usama was treated by him with distinguished favour for the father s sake. Uthman and Umar were also the objects of a special attachment; and the enthusiasm with which, at Hudaibiyya, the Prophet entered into the Pledge of the Tree and swore that he would defend his beleaguered son-in-law even to the death, was a signal proof of faithful friendship. Numerous other instances of Muhammad s ardent and unwavering 106 The Review of Religions november 2012

107 Sir Thomas Carlyle ( ) Scottish writer, essayist and historian. He was one of the most famous social commentators of his time. In literature he was the pioneer who explored and made known the work of modern Germany. (Source: British Authors of the Nineteenth Century). regard might be adduced. His affections were in no instance misplaced; they were ever reciprocated by a warm and selfsacrificing love. In the exercise of a power absolutely dictatorial, Muhammad was just and temperate. Nor was he wanting in moderation towards his enemies, when once they had cheerfully submitted to his claims. The long and obstinate struggle against his pretensions maintained by the inhabitants of Mecca might have induced its conqueror to mark his indignation in indelible traces of fire and blood. But Muhammad, excepting a few criminals, granted a universal pardon; and, nobly casting into oblivion the memory of the past, with all its mockery, its affronts and persecution, he treated even the foremost of his opponents with a gracious and even friendly consideration. Not less marked was the forbearance shown to Abdullah and the disaffected citizens of Medina [that is, the hypocrites], who for so many years persistently thwarted his designs and resisted his authority, nor the clemency with which he received submissive advances of tribes that before had been the most hostile, even in the hour of victory. 20 Although he wrote in several places in opposition to the Qur an etc., here he wrote: It is strongly corroborative of Mahomet s sincerity that the earliest converts to Islam were his bosom friends and the people of his household; who, intimately acquainted with his private life, could not fail otherwise to have detected those discrepancies which, more or less, invariably exist between the professions of the hypocritical deceiver abroad, and his actions at home. 21 Sir Thomas Carlyle, discussing the fact that Prophet Muhammad sa was illiterate, wrote: One other circumstance we must not forget: that he had no school learning; of the thing we call school-learning none at all. The art of writing was but just introduced into Arabia; it seems to be the true opinion that Muhammad never could write! Life in the Desert, with its experiences, was all his education. What of this infinite Universe he, from his dim place, with his own eyes and thoughts, november 2012 The Review of Religions 107

108 the holy prophet sa in the eyes of non-muslims could take in, so much and no more of it was he to know. Curious, if we will reflect on it, this of having no books. Except by what he could see for himself, or hear of by uncertain rumour of speech in the obscure Arabian Desert, he could know nothing. The wisdom that had been before him or at a distance from him in the world, was in a manner as good as not there for him. Of the great brother souls, flame beacons through so many lands and times, no one directly communicates with this great soul. He is alone there, deep down in the bosom of the Wilderness; has to grow up so, alone with Nature and his own Thoughts. 22 Discussing the Prophet s sa marriage and his domestic relations, Carlyle wrote: How he was placed with Kadijah, a rich Widow, as her steward, and travelled in her business, again to the Fairs of Syria; how he managed all, as one can well understand, with fidelity and adroitness; how her gratitude, her regard for him grew: the story of their marriage is altogether a graceful intelligible one, as told us by the Arab authors. He was twenty five; she forty. He seems to have lived in a most affectionate, peaceable, wholesome way, with this wedded benefactress; loving her truly, and her alone. It goes greatly against the impostor theory, the fact that he lived in this entirely unexceptionable, entirely quiet and commonplace way, till the heat of his years, was done. 23 Our current hypothesis about Mahomet, that he was a scheming Impostor, a Falsehood incarnate, that his religion is a mere mass of quackery and fatuity, begins really to be now untenable to anyone. The lies, which well-meaning zeal has heaped round this man, are disgraceful to ourselves only It is really time to dismiss all that. The word this man spoke has been the life-guidance now of a hundred and eighty millions of men these twelve hundred years [He was writing this in the 19th Century] A greater number of God s creatures believe in Mahomet s word at this hour, than in any other word whatever. 24 In other words this is an entirely incorrect notion. Lamartine, a French philosopher, wrote in his book, History of Turkey: If the grandeur of the design, the pettiness of the means, the immensity of the results, be the three measures of human genius, who would dare to 108 The Review of Religions november 2012

109 John Davenport ( ) Writer and biographer. Alphonse de Lamartine ( ) French writer, poet and politician. As a poet and author he was one of the key figures in the Romantic movement in French literature. (Britannica). As a politician he was instrumental in the foundation of the Second Republic of France. compare humanly the greatest men of modern times to Mahomet? The most famous of them have agitated but armies, laws, empires; they have founded [when they founded anything] but physical potencies, often crumbled to the earth before themselves. Mahomet has recast armies, legislations, empires, peoples, dynasties, with millions of men, throughout a third of the inhabited globe. More than this, he recast altars, gods, religions, ideas, creeds, souls. He has founded upon a book, of which every letter is become a law, a spiritual nationality which embraces peoples of every tongue and race 25 Philosopher, orator, apostle, legislator, warrior, conqueror of ideas, restorer of rational dogmas, the founder of twenty terrestrial empires and of one spiritual empire, that is Muhammad. As regards all standards by which human greatness may be measured, we may ask, is there any man greater than he? 26 John Davenport wrote: Is it possible to conceive, we may ask, that the man who directed such great and lasting reforms in his own country by substituting the worship of the one only true God for the gross and debasing idolatry in which his countrymen had been plunged for ages to have been a mere impostor, or that his whole career was one of sheer hypocrisy? Can we imagine that his divine mission was a mere invention of his own, of whose falsehood he was conscious throughout? No, surely, nothing but a consciousness of really righteous intentions could have carried Mohammed so steadily and constantly, without ever flinching or wavering, without ever betraying himself to his most intimate connections and companions, from his first revelation to Khadijah, to his last. 27 november 2012 The Review of Religions 109

110 the holy prophet sa in the eyes of non-muslims Michael H. Hart (1932 ) American astrophysicist and author of several books, including The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History, which has sold hundreds of thousands of copies and has been translated into 15 languages. He earned his Ph.D. in astrophysics from Princeton University and was a research scientist at NASA. Western princes had been lords of Asia instead of the Saracens and Turks, they would not have tolerated Mohammedanism as Mohammedans have tolerated Christianity, since they persecuted, with the most relentless cruelty, those of their own, faith whom they deemed heterodox. 28 There is no doubt that amongst all Lawgivers and Conquerors, there is not a single one whose life story is found in more details and authenticity than that of Prophet Muhammad 29 Michael H. Hart, in his book, A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History, wrote: My choice of Muhammad to lead the list of the world s most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the religious and secular level. 30 How, then, is one to assess the overall impact of Muhammad on human history? Like all religions, Islam exerts an enormous influence upon the lives of its followers. It is for this reason that the founders of the world s great religions all figure prominently in this book. Since there are roughly twice as many Christians as Muslims in the world [this refers to the time he wrote this], it may initially seem strange that Muhammad has been ranked higher than Jesus. There are two principal reasons for that decision First, Muhammad played a far more important role in the development of Islam than Jesus did in the development of Christianity. Although Jesus was responsible for the main ethical and moral precepts of Christianity [those that differed from Judaism), St. Paul was the main developer of Christian theology, its principal proselytizer, and the author of a large portion of the New Testament. Muhammad, however, was responsible for both the theology of Islam and 110 The Review of Religions november 2012

111 its main ethical and moral principles. In addition, he played the key role in proselytizing the new faith, and in establishing the religious practices of lslam. Moreover, he is the author of the Muslim holy scriptures, the Quran [in other words opponents will most certainly allege this], a collection of certain of Muhammad s insights that he believed had been directly revealed to him by Allah. Most of these utterances were copied more or less faithfully during Muhammad s lifetime and were collected together in authoritative form not long after his death. The Quran, therefore, closely represents Muhammad s ideas and teachings and to a considerable extent his exact words. No such detailed compilation of the teachings of Christ has survived. Since the Quran is at least as important to Muslims as the Bible is to Christians, the influence of Muhammad through the medium of the Quran has been enormous. It is probable that the relative influence of Muhammad on Islam has been larger than the combined influence of Jesus Christ and St. Paul on Christianity. On the purely religious level, then, it seems likely that Muhammad has been as influential in human history as Jesus. 31 This is the writer s own view point; however he does acknowledge that the Holy Prophet sa ranks first, in this regard. Further on, he also wrote that the Holy Prophet sa was both a spiritual leader and the head of state, but Jesus as did not obtain this status. Thus, in every aspect the example of the Holy Prophet sa presents his character in greater illumination. Karen Armstrong wrote in Mohammed: A Biography of the Prophet: Muhammad had to start virtually from scratch and work his way towards the radical monotheistic spirituality of his own. When he began his mission, a dispassionate observer would not have given him a chance. The Arabs, he might have objected, were just not ready for monotheism: they were not sufficiently developed for this sophisticated vision [that is Tauheed, belief in the Unity of God]. In fact, to attempt to introduce it on a large scale in this violent, terrifying society, could be extremely dangerous and Muhammad would be lucky to escape with his life. Indeed, Muhammad was frequently in deadly peril and his survival was a near-miracle. But he did succeed. By the end of his life he had laid an axe to the root of the chronic cycle of tribal violence that afflicted the region and paganism was no longer a going concern. november 2012 The Review of Religions 111

112 Annie Besant ( ) A prominent British social reformer, women s rights activist, writer and orator and supporter of Indian nationalism. Karen Armstrong (1944 ) One of the most famous writers on religion today. She has authored numerous books including her best-seller A History of God. She studied at Oxford University and is a former Roman Catholic religious sister. Armstrong s achievements as an independent scholar focusing on the three great monotheistic religions, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, have earned her a reputation as a major contributor to interfaith understanding and respect. Her books on Islam and Muhammed have given many Westerners their first clear and unbiased insight into the history and teachings of this great tradition and its prophet. (Source: EnlightenNext Magazine) The Arabs were ready to embark on a new phase of their history. 32 Referring to Christianity and the West, Armstrong wrote: Finally it was the West, not Islam, which forbade the open discussion of religious matters. At the time of the Crusades, Europe seemed obsessed by a craving for intellectual conformity and punished its deviants with a zeal that has been unique in the history of religion. The witch-hunts of the inquisitors and the persecution of Protestants by the Catholics and vice versa were inspired by abtruse theological opinions, which in both Judaism and Islam were seen as private and optional matters. Neither Judaism nor Islam share the Christian conception of heresy, which raises human ideas about the divine to an unacceptably high level and almost makes them a form of idolatry. 33 Annie Besant wrote in the book, The Life and Teachings of Muhammad: It is impossible for anyone who studies the life and character of the great Prophet of Arabia, who knows how he taught and how he lived, to feel anything but reverence for that mighty Prophet, one of the great messengers of the Supreme. And although in what I put to you I shall say many things which may be familiar to many, yet I myself feel whenever I re-read them, a new way of admiration, a new sense of reverence for that mighty Arabian teacher. 34 Ruth Cranston wrote in World Faith: Mohammad never instigated fighting 112 The Review of Religions november 2012

113 Godfrey Higgins ( ) and bloodshed. Every battle he fought was in rebuttal. He fought in order to survive and he fought with the weapons and in fashion of his time. Certainly no Christian nation of 140,000,000 people [as this book was published in 1949] who today dispatch 120,000 helpless civilians with a single bomb, can look askance at a leader who at his worst killed a bare five or six hundred. The slayings of the Prophet of Arabia in the benighted and bloodthirsty age of the seventh century look positively puerile compared with our own, in this advanced and enlightened twentieth. Not to mention the mass slaughter by the Christians during the Inquisition and the Crusades when, Christian warriors proudly recorded, they waded ankle-deep in the gore of the Muslim infidels. 35 Godfrey Higgins wrote: Nothing is so common as to hear the Christian priests abuse the religion of Mohamed for its bigotry and intolerance. Wonderful assurance and hypocrisy! Who was it expelled the moriscoes from Spain because they would not turn Christians? Who was it murdered the millions of Mexico and Peru, and gave Archaeologist, humanist, social reformer and author of several books. them all away as slaves because they were not Christians? What a contrast have the Mohamedans exhibited in Greece! For many centuries the Christians have been permitted to live in the peaceable possession of their properties, their religion, their priests, bishops, patriarchs and churches 36 He is comparing the Christians with the Muslims. In all the history of the Caliphs, there cannot be shewn anything half so infamous as the Inquisition, nor a single instance of an individual burnt for his religious opinion; nor, do I believe, put to death in a time of peace for simply not embracing the religion of Islam. 37 Thus, this was the impact of the teaching that the Holy Prophet sa gave to the Muslims. In History of the Saracen Empire, Edward Gibbon wrote: It is not the propagation but the permanency of his religion [that it november 2012 The Review of Religions 113

114 Edward Gibbon ( ) English historian and Member of Parliament. His chief academic work focused on the history of Rome. His most famous publication, Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, appeared between 1776 and 1788 and remains a much cited orthodox study of the Roman world and its achievements. (Source: Oxford Reference). has always remained established] that deserves our wonder, the same pure and perfect impression which he engraved at Mecca and Medina, is preserved after the revolutions of twelve centuries by the Indian, the African and the Turkish proselytes of the Koran...The Mahometans have uniformly withstood the temptation of reducing the object of their faith and devotion to a level with the senses and imagination of man. I believe in One God and Mahomet the Apostle of God is the simple and invariable profession of Islam [that is, there is none worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger]. The intellectual image of the Deity has never been degraded by any visible idol [in other words, this was the image of God which the Muslims never formed into an idol].; the honours of the prophet have never transgressed the measure of human virtue, and his living precepts have restrained the gratitude of his disciples within the bounds of reason and religion. 38 What he is trying to say is that on the other hand the Christians made a man into a god. May God the Almighty enable the world to understand the rank of the greatest man. Instead of opposing and mocking him, may they strive to hold on to his mantle and come under his refuge, so that they can be saved from God s Punishment. The only means of salvation today is the Holy Prophet sa. Every just writer and every truthful and sincere non-muslim will acknowledge this. I have presented many extracts to this effect and there are innumerable other similar extracts from other non- Muslims in this regard. The truthfulness of the earlier Prophets is testified by following the Holy Prophet sa. This is the status of the Seal of Prophethood, that every Ahmadi must promote all across the world and should make efforts to achieve this. With this reference I should mention that a Khatme Nabuwwat conference began in Rabwah yesterday, and would have finished by today. There was nothing else in this conference apart 114 The Review of Religions november 2012

115 from politically motivated talks, morally bankrupt dialogue and the uttering of profane and foul language against the Promised Messiah as. All of this was carried out in the name of the love and the Seal of Prophethood of the Prophet Muhammad sa. May Allah the Almighty grant such people wisdom. Despite acting in this manner, they believe that they are informing the world of the status of the Khatme Nabuwwat of the Prophet Muhammad sa. Nonetheless, this is the way these people act. However as I stated, Ahmadis are duty-bound to enlighten the world of the reality and truth of the Khatme Nabuwwat (Seal of Prophethood) and this can be achieved by conveying the message of the Prophet Muhammad sa to the world. May Allah the Almighty enable us to accomplish this. In my Friday sermon of 21 st September two weeks ago, I mentioned lawyers and stated that the Muslims lawyers of the world should unite together. Whether other Muslim lawyers unite together or not, I do not know. However our Ahmadi lawyers have begun some work on this, including in Pakistan, with regards to the issues surrounding respect for religious sentiments and the limits of freedom of expression and freedom of conscience. They are looking into the degrees of restriction of freedom of speech. They have collected together some details in this respect and formed some points. The court verdicts in certain countries relating to this issue, their national laws and international laws have all been kept in view and certain issues have been raised. These have been sent here and I have then forwarded this to various Ahmadi lawyers across the world. As Ahmadi lawyers previously drew attention towards this, they have reported that they were sitting with some Muslim lawyers all of whom said to them, If anyone can further this work in an organised way, it is the Ahmadiyya Jama at. Therefore, you should raise this concern and issue in the world. In any case, I have sent this to various Ahmadi lawyers across the world to reflect upon. They should report back regarding what could be done about this. They should promptly deliberate and send me whatever opinions they form. This is so that the various recommendations that are sent from Ahmadi lawyers in the world, can lead to an exchange of opinions. Thereafter, practical implementation of any of the selected opinions can be carried out, if required. May Allah the Almighty grant all these Ahmadi lawyers the ability to carry out this work rapidly. november 2012 The Review of Religions 115

116 the holy prophet sa in the eyes of non-muslims Similarly, Ahmadi politicians across the world or those who are closely acquainted with politicians, should present this matter in some forum or the other in the best possible manner, that there should be some boundaries to freedom of speech or freedom of expression, otherwise the world will become embroiled in even more disorder than before. In this connection I would also like to make an appeal for prayers, which I often appeal for. Pray most profusely for the Muslim Ummah [the Muslim world at large]. May Allah the Almighty grant wisdom to Muslim leaders, that they should not play with the lives of their citizens. May Allah grant wisdom to the citizens that they should not become tools for their unjust leaders and smite each other s necks. May Allah the Almighty grant wisdom to Muslim Governments, that they should not become tools of the West and then attack one another. Nowadays, tension is building up between Turkey and Syria. Anti-Islamic forces are working to make Muslims fight amongst each other and to take full benefits themselves, and are making full efforts to implement this foremost agenda of theirs. Muslims do not understand this point. May Allah the Almighty keep the Muslims of the world in His protection and safety, and may Muslims come to understand this reality, and may they discharge their responsibilities. endnotes references 1. The Holy Qur an, Ch.33:V Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. Malfoozat. Vol. 1. Rabwah. p. 421 (2003). 3. Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. Malfoozat. Vol. 1. Rabwah. p.24 (2003). 4. George Sale. To the Reader. In: The Koran: Commonly called the Alkoran of Mohammed. J. B. Lippincott & Co., PA. pp.vi-vii (1860). 5. Stanley Lane-Poole. Introduction. In: Speeches and Table Talk of the Prophet Muhammad. Macmillan & Co., London. p xlvi (1882). 6. H.G. Wells. Part II: Muhammad and Islam. In: The Outline of History. University of Michigan Library., MI. p 269 (1920). 7. De Lacy O Leary. Islam at the Crossroads. Kegan Paul., London, p.8 (1923). 8. Mahatma Gandhi. Young India. September 23 rd John Bagot Glubb. The Life and Times of Muhammad. Hodder & Stoughton (reprint 2002). 10. John Bagot Glubb. The Life and Times of Muhammad. Hodder & Stoughton (reprint 2002). 116 The Review of Religions november 2012

117 11. John William Draper, M.D., L.L.D. A History of the Intellectual Development of Europe. Harper and Brothers Publishers., NY. P.244 (1863). 12. William Montgomery Watt. Muhammad at Madina. Oxford University Press. pp. 335 (1981). 13. Rev. Bosworth Smith. Character of Mohammad. In: MOHAMMAD AND MOHAMMADANISM. Smith, Elder & Co., London. p. 235 (1876). 14. Rev. Bosworth Smith. Character of Mohammad. In: MOHAMMAD AND MOHAMMADANISM. Smith, Elder & Co., London. p. 127 (1876). 15. Rev. Bosworth Smith. Character of Mohammad. In: MOHAMMAD AND MOHAMMADANISM. Smith, Elder & Co., London. p. 125 (1876). 16. Rev. Bosworth Smith. Character of Mohammad. In: MOHAMMAD AND MOHAMMADANISM. Smith, Elder & Co., London. p. 127 (1876). 17. Rev. Bosworth Smith. Character of Mohammad. In: MOHAMMAD AND MOHAMMADANISM. Smith, Elder & Co., London. p. 133 (1876). 18. Rev. Bosworth Smith. Character of Mohammad. In: MOHAMMAD AND MOHAMMADANISM. Smith, Elder & Co., London. p. 133 (1876). 19. Washington Irving. The Life of Mahomet. Bernard Tauchnitz,. Leipzig. pp (1850). 20. Sir William Muir. Life of Muhammad. (Volume IV). Smith, Elder and Company., London. pp (1861). 21. Sir William Muir. Life of Muhammad. (Volume II). Smith, Elder and Company., London. pp (1861). 22. Thomas Carlyle. On Heroes, Hero-Worship and the Heroic in History. Wiley and Putnam., NY. p.47 (1846). 23. Thomas Carlyle. On Heroes, Hero-Worship and the Heroic in History. Wiley and Putnam., NY. p.48 (1846). 24. Thomas Carlyle. On Heroes, Hero-Worship and the Heroic in History. Wiley and Putnam., NY. pp.60-1 (1846). 25. A. De Lamartine. History of Turkey (English Translation). D. Appleton &Co., NY. p.154 (1855-7). 26. A. De Lamartine. History of Turkey (English Translation). D. Appleton &Co., NY. p.155 (1855-7) 27. John Davenport. An Apology for Mohammed and the Koran. J.Davy & Sons., London. p.139 (1869). 28. John Davenport. An Apology for Mohammed and the Koran. J.Davy & Sons., London. p.82 (1869). 29. John Davenport. An Apology for Mohammed and the Koran. J.Davy & Sons., London. (1869). 30. Michael H. Hart. THE 100: A RANKING OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSONS IN HISTORY. Carol publishing group., p Michael H. Hart. THE 100: A RANKING november 2012 The Review of Religions 117

118 the holy prophet sa in the eyes of non-muslims Note about references OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSONS IN HISTORY. Carol publishing group., pp Karen Armstrong. Muhammad - A Biography of the Prophet. Harper Collins Publishers., NY. p (1993). 33. Karen Armstrong. Muhammad - A Biography of the Prophet. Harper Collins Publishers., NY. p.27 (1993). 34. Annie Besant. The Life and Teachings of Muhammad. Theosophical Publishing House., India. p. 4 (1932). 35. Ruth Cranston. World Faith. Harper and Row Publishers., NY. P. 155 (1949). 36. Godfrey Higgins. Apology for Mohammed. Lahore. Pp (1829). 37. Godfrey Higgins. Apology for Mohammed. Lahore. Pp. 52 (1829). 38. Edward Gibbon, Simon Oakley. History of the Saracen Empire. Alex Murray & Son., London. P.54 (1870). 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. 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 Radhiallahu 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.

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120 N E W A N D E X C L U S I V E volume 11 Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad ra chapter vi Rukhsatanah [marriage] of Hazrat A ishah ra and an Exposition of Her Age at the Time, the Issue of Polygamy and Two Fabricated Incidents part i Masjid Quba, the first Mosque built in Islam

121 The age of Hazrat A ishah ra, the blessed wife of the Holy Prophet sa, has been fiercely debated over the centuries. Numerous Western historians and writers allege that the Prophet Muhammad sa married Hazrat A ishah ra when she was at a very young age and thus object to the character of the Holy Prophet sa. However original sources or true historical facts are not researched or utilised. In this Special Edition we are skipping straight to featuring Chapter VI of The Life and Character of the Seal of Prophets, Volume II. In this chapter the author undertakes perhaps one of the most extensive and comprehensive analyses into the debate surrounding the age of Hazrat A ishah ra. This is the first ever serialisation of the newly translated Volume II of Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad ra s outstanding biography, Seerat Khatamun Nabiyyin, on the life and character of the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa. translated from the urdu by ayyaz mahmood khan Rukhsatanah 1 of Hazrat A ishah ra - Month of Shawwal 2 A.H. It has already been mentioned in Volume I of this book that after the demise of Hazrat Khadijah ra, the Holy Prophet sa was tied in a bond of matrimony to A ishah Siddiqah ra. This was in 10 Nabawi during the month of Shawwal. 2 At the time, Hazrat A ishah ra was seven years of age. 3 However, even at the time, it seems that her growth and development had matured remarkably well; otherwise, there was no reason for Khaulah bint Hakim ra, who had suggested this marriage, to consider her as being a suitable match for the Holy Prophet sa. In any case, she had not fully matured until then, and for this reason, although the Nikah 4 had taken place, the Rukhsatanah was yet to take place and thus, according to local custom, she continued to reside with her parents. However, now, in the second year of Hijrah, after five years had elapsed since the announcement of her marriage she had fully matured at the age of twelve. As such, it was Hazrat Abu Bakr ra himself who approached the Holy Prophet sa and requested for the Rukhsatanah to take place. 5 Upon this, the Holy Prophet sa arranged for the dowery to be paid (in that era it was customary for the dowery to be paid in cash) and in the month of Shawwal 2 A.H., Hazrat A ishah ra bid the home of her parents farewell and entered the household of the Holy Prophet sa. november 2012 The Review of Religions 121

122 the life & character of the seal of the prophets In this day and age, the question of how old Hazrat A ishah ra was at the time of her Rukhsatanah has become a bone of contention. In this day and age, the question of how old Hazrat A ishah ra was at the time of her Rukhsatanah has become a bone of contention. In most books of history and Ahadith, the age of Hazrat A ishah ra has been recorded to be nine or ten years. Even in Sahih Bukhari, a narration is related by Hazrat A ishah ra herself that on the occasion of her Rukhsatanah she was only nine years of age. It is on the basis of this very narration that many historians have mentioned an age of nine years. 6 However, in contrast to this, by varying methods of deductions, some modern-day research scholars have attempted to establish her age as being fourteen, or even sixteen years of age. Although we do not agree with the opinion of these modern-day research scholars, a study of the circumstances reveals that the notion of her being nine years of age is also erroneous. Rather, as we have mentioned above, at the time of her Rukhsatanah, it is proven that Hazrat A ishah ra was a full twelve years of age, or nearly twelve years of age. In actuality, the early scholars have misjudged the entire issue because they have considered the nine-year approximation of Hazrat A ishah ra, which has been recorded in authentic Ahadith, as being completely definite and categorical, and have thus, not directed their attention to anything else; although every sensible individual can understand that for a narration to be authentic is one thing, and for an approximation to be correct is quite the other. In other words, although the narrations in which the estimate of Hazrat A ishah ra as being nine years of age at the time of her Rukhsatanah may well be authentic in terms of narration, this estimate of Hazrat A ishah ra in itself may be incorrect, as many a time, the estimates of people with respect to their own age prove to be inaccurate. In contrast, as for those people who have attempted to undertake an independent study considering the nine-year notion as being incorrect, the mistake which they have committed is that by abandoning the straight and simple route for research, they have employed such a complicated method, that a person s heart is left unsatisfied. Any intelligent individual would concur 122 The Review of Religions november 2012

123 that the most correct and easy method by which the age of Hazrat A ishah ra may be discerned is to determine her date of birth on the one hand and the date of her Rukhsatanah on the other. After the specification of both these dates, no room for any uncertainty or doubt remains as to her age at the time of the Rukhsatanah. First we take up the question of her birth. Ibni Sa d has recorded a narration in Tabaqat that: Hazrat A ishah ra was born in the beginning of 4 Nabawi. 7 With regards to the birthdate of Hazrat A ishah ra, except for this narration, no other specific narration from any book of the early historians has crossed my eye; nor has any narration been related in any book of Hadith. Hence, the date of birth has been easily determined, and it is the beginning of 4 Nabawi. Now we take up the second question which relates to the date of her Rukhsatanah. In this respect, there is undoubtedly a disagreement in narrations. In various narrations, the date which has been recorded is Shawwal 1 A.H. and in others, Shawwal 2 A.H. However, if one contemplates, the latter narration proves to be more correct. The actual source of the narration which suggests Shawwal 1 A.H. is Ibni Sa d, who has traced this narration to Hazrat A ishah ra through a chain of narrators. 8 Most historians have taken this narration of Ibni Sa d as a basis and declared the date of Rukhsatanah as being Shawwal 1 A.H. However, although Ibni Sa d is trustworthy in himself, in this narration, one narrator from among its narrators is Waqidi, with regards to whom scholars are almost at a consensus that he was untrustworthy and unreliable - as a matter of fact, he was a liar. 9 Hence, the foundation of a historic event cannot be placed merely on this narration of Waqidi, especially when it contradicts other narrations. Contrary to this, Allamah Nawawi, Allamah Aini and Qastalani as well as various other scholars have declared the narration of Shawwal 2 A.H. to be authentic and worthy of precedence. 10 As for Allamah Nawawi, he has written very clearly and with great emphasis that in comparison to this narration, the narration of Shawwal 1 A.H. is weak and worthy of being disregarded. 11 Hence, there is no reason to disregard a more solid view merely on the basis that most historians have followed the narration of Shawwal 1 A.H. Moreover, in actuality, the only reason most november 2012 The Review of Religions 123

124 the life & character of the seal of the prophets By adding both of these periods together, we acquire the very same result of twelve years, which is exactly what we stated in the beginning. historians have given regard to this narration of Waqidi is because it is in greater harmony with the nine-year estimate, which has been mentioned in authentic Ahadith. Hence, a scholar as great as Zarqani, clearly writes that the narration of Shawwal 2 A.H., cannot be accepted because this results in an age which is greater than nine years. 12 However, when the age itself and the narrations which relate to it are under discussion, it is false to assume that a particular narration is correct. Furthermore, as we have mentioned above, to consider the nine-year approximation as being incorrect does not necessarily mean that the narrations which state this are false in themselves. Then it is strange that at another place. 13 Allamah Zarqani himself has given precedence to the statement of Shawwal 2 A.H. In these circumstances, the narration of Shawwal 1 A.H., cannot be considered as being worthy of acceptance in comparison to the narration of Shawwal 2 A.H. The reality appears to be that the Rukhsatanah of Hazrat A ishah ra took place in Shawwal 2 A.H. Now, when the date of birth and date of the Rukhsatanah have been determined, it is no difficult task to deduce an age. This remains to be a basic question of mathematics, which can be calculated even by a child. Hazrat A ishah ra was born in the beginning of 4 Nabawi and the migration of the Holy Prophet sa took place in Rabi ul-awwal 14 Nabawi. 14 In this manner, up until the migration, the age of Hazrat A ishah ra proves to be a few months over ten years. After the migration, which took place in Rabi ul- Awwal 1 A.H., up until Shawwal 2 A.H., when the Rukhsatanah of Hazrat A ishah ra took place, there is a period which equates to a little under two years. By adding both of these periods together, we acquire the very same result of twelve years, which is exactly what we stated in the beginning. According to Ibni Sa d if the Rukhsatanah is accepted as having taken place in the first year of migration, even still this period equals eleven years and not nine or ten years. This is a mathematical calculation in 124 The Review of Religions november 2012

125 comparison to which no approximate guess can be accepted. The question which now remains is why Hazrat A ishah ra has related her own age as being nine years in numerous Ahadith. The answer to this is that we do not label these narrations as being false. In other words, we accept the opinion of Hazrat A ishah ra that she was nine years of age on the occasion of her Rukhsatanah. However, invariably, this view was merely an estimate, not definite. This is nothing strange because any individual can understand that at times, a mistake may be committed by people in estimating ages. Therefore, if the mathematical calculation deduced from the date of birth and date of Rukhsatanah do not result in the age of Hazrat A ishah ra as being nine years, then the narration of nine-years cannot be accepted merely due to an estimate made by Hazrat A ishah ra that she was nine-years of age at the time of her Rukhsatanah. Albeit, if the birthdate of Hazrat A ishah ra has been reported to be something other than the beginning of 4 Nabawi in an authentic Hadith, or the date of her Rukhsatanah is established as being something other than Shawwal 2 A.H., then no doubt these narrations would be worthy of acceptance, and the age of Hazrat A ishah ra would be calculated on this basis. However, a mathematical result cannot be rejected merely on the basis of an estimation or idea even though it may have been reported in an authentic Hadith. This is a fundamental discussion which we have presented at this instance. However, the reality is that even if the narrations which contain these estimates are thoroughly analysed, ultimately, the result proves to be the same as what we have mentioned above, i.e., at the time of her Rukhsatanah, the age of Hazrat A ishah ra was twelve, not nine. In order to understand this, it is important to note that in actuality, Hazrat A ishah ra has not only stated her approximate age at the time of her Rukhsatanah, rather, she has also reported her approximate age at the time of her Nikah along with this as well. Both of these estimates have been recorded in the books of Ahadith and history. As such, the statement of Hazrat A ishah ra has been oft-related that she was six or seven years of age at the time of her Nikah and at the time of her Rukhsatanah she was nine years of age. In some narrations the age at the Rukhsatanah has been reported to be ten years as well. Now according to basic principle, from among these two november 2012 The Review of Religions 125

126 the life & character of the seal of the prophets estimates, we should consider the first estimate, which relates to the time of her Nikah as being more correct - the reason being that this estimate relates to a younger age and a relatively lesser chance of there being an error exists with respect to an estimate relating to a younger age. Secondly, since this was the very first estimate, it is to be considered as being the actual one, and those estimates which relate to subsequent ages are to be considered as being subordinate to this estimate and not independent estimates. Hence, in the discussion of estimates, the actual foundation must be placed on the first estimate, which relates to the age at the time of the Nikah and in which an age of six or seven years has been mentioned. Now when we perform a mathematical calculation in order to discern the age at the Rukhsatanah, the same twelve year age is established, not nine or ten years. However, before presenting this mathematical calculation it is necessary to reconcile the mutual discrepancy between six years and seven years. It has already been mentioned that in various narrations, the age at the time of marriage has been recorded as being six years, whereas in other narrations an estimate of seven years has been reported. Both these types of narrations are found in books of Ahadith as well as in books of history. The narration of seven years has been related particularly in Sahih Muslim and Nasa i 15, Ibni Hisham 16, Ibni Sa d 17 and Tabari 18. In contrast, the narration of six years has been related in all these books, with the exception of Sirat Ibni Hisham, and in addition to this, the narration of six years has been related in Bukhari as well. Now we must look to see which narrations are worthy of preference from the two types mentioned above. Any individual who possesses even the slightest knowledge of the Science of Narration would concur that as far as the mere authenticity of a narration is concerned, both types of narrations are absolutely authentic and reliable, and we cannot reject either of them, deeming one to be false. As such, it must be accepted that it was Hazrat A ishah ra herself who mentioned these two varying estimates at different occasions. In other words, at times she has related her age as being six years and at times, seven years; sometimes she has mixed both estimates to state that on the occasion of her marriage, she was six or seven years of age. Hence, in terms of Riwayat 19, there is no difference whatsoever, but in terms of Dirayat 20, if one contemplates the estimate of seven 126 The Review of Religions november 2012

127 years must be given preference. For it is a general practice that until the year of a person s age has fully elapsed, the year below is always mentioned, and the time remaining for the completion of the following year is ignored. The next year is only mentioned when it has fully elapsed, or is so close to completion that practically it can be considered as having fully elapsed. Hence, with respect to the age of Hazrat A ishah ra, the mention of six years in certain narrations and seven years in others, categorically demonstrates that on the occasion of her Nikah, the age of Hazrat A ishah ra had passed the six year mark and reached so close to seven, that general expression permitted the use of seven years to describe her age. Due to a very minute time left in her becoming seven years of age, which was almost insignificant, she would refer to herself as being six years, otherwise, she was practically seven years of age. Therefore, it is by this consideration that some historians have altogether abandoned the mention of six years and have only mentioned seven years. For example, Ibni Hisham 21 has not even mentioned six years, and has only alluded to the seven year estimate. In contrast, I have not come across any authentic book of history, which alludes to the six year estimate alone. Then, where the author of Sirat-e-Halabiyyah has referred to the wives of the Holy Prophet sa, he has only mentioned the age of Hazrat A ishah ra as being seven years and has made no mention of six years. 22 Whilst alluding to the Nikah of Hazrat A ishah ra, both ages have been mentioned, but he has clearly written that the narration of seven years is more correct. 23 In these circumstances, although both types of narrations are correct in terms of Riwayat, but in terms of Dirayat, there can be no room for doubt or uncertainty that at the time of her Nikah, the age of Hazrat A ishah ra was so close to seven, that she was seven years of age as it were. Now that it has been proven that on her Nikah, Hazrat A ishah ra was seven years of age, the subsequent calculation is not a difficult one. It has already been mentioned that the marriage 24 of Hazrat A ishah ra took place in Shawwal 10 Nabawi 25 and this is the date which is accepted by most historians. In other words, in Shawwal 10 Nabawi, Hazrat A ishah ra was seven years of age, or very close. After this, the migration took place in Rabi ul-awwal 14 Nabawi. 26 In this manner, the time between the marriage and the migration equates to three years and a few months, and at the time of november 2012 The Review of Religions 127

128 the life & character of the seal of the prophets Most definitely, the belief of Hazrat A ishah ra that she was nine years of age at the time is based on an incorrect estimate or calculation. migration, the age of Hazrat A ishah ra is established as being ten years and some months. After this, we now ascertain the time period between the migration and Rukhsatanah. As such, it is accepted that the migration took place in Rabi ul- Awwal and for this reason, the first year after migration was nine and a half months. Then, since the Rukhsatanah took place in Shawwal 2, the second year was also nine and a half months. If both of these time periods are added, we find that the era between the migration and Rukhsatanah equates to nineteen months, i.e., one year and seven months. If this is added to the period prior to migration, the total turns out to be the very same twelve years, which we have proven from another angle. In summary, irrespective of whether we perform the calculation according to the estimate of Hazrat A ishah ra or whether we do so based on her date of birth, in both cases, the result is that on the occasion of her Rukhsatanah, Hazrat A ishah ra was twelve years of age and not nine years. Most definitely, the belief of Hazrat A ishah ra that she was nine years of age at the time is based on an incorrect estimate or calculation. It seems that when Hazrat A ishah ra ignored the remaining months until the start of the following year and estimated her age as being six years, she did not take into account the period in between thereafter when performing her calculation, and roughly estimated her own age as perhaps being nine years at the time of her Rukhsatanah, and therefore, this idea firmly took root in her heart. In addition to this, until then, a calendar system had not yet become customary and the Hijri calendar system was yet to be officially devised and formulated. Furthermore, the time period between the marriage and Rukhsatanah was spread across two different categories of years (i.e., the Nabawi years and Hijri years). It is plausible, therefore, that Hazrat A ishah ra perhaps committed a mistake in calculation by an oversight, and then this incorrect notion became so deeply rooted in her heart that for the rest of her life thereafter, she never happened to take notice of this 128 The Review of Religions november 2012

129 miscalculation. However, in any case, if it is correct that Hazrat A ishah ra was seven years of age, or around this age, when her Nikah took place, the estimate of her being nine years of age at the time of her Rukhsatanah cannot be correct in any case. This is a question of mathematics, which cannot be proven wrong by any other argument. In summary, irrespective of which angle this issue is analysed from, the age of Hazrat A ishah ra proves to be twelve, or close to this, at the time of her Rukhsatanah. Moreover, if the date of her Rukhsatanah is declared to be Shawwal 1 A.H., even still her age is established as being eleven years. Hence, the approximation of nine years is incorrect and inaccurate. However, hypothetically, even if the age of nine years is accepted as being correct, there is still no point of objection, because it is not out of the ordinary for a girl to mature at the age of nine or ten years in a country like Arabia. Even in our own country, India, some girls who possess extraordinary faculties of development mature at an age of ten years. In actuality, the age of maturity depends primarily on weather and climate, food and the surrounding environment. In colder countries, and especially in such countries where hot spices are used in foods to a lesser degree, girls generally mature at a later age. As such, in England and other such countries, on average, the age of maturity is eighteen years, and girls are generally married at an age of twenty years; rather, in many cases, at an even older age than this. However, in our country, if at the age of twenty a girl is still sitting unmarried, people generally begin to raise fingers, alleging that there must be something wrong with her and this is why she has not been able to find a match yet. The reason being that here, the age of maturity is thirteen to fourteen years, on average. Since the country of Arabia is even hotter and dryer than India, the average age of maturity is even lesser than that of India, and many girls can be found who reach the age of maturity at nine or ten. In these circumstances, for Hazrat A ishah ra to mature at the age of nine or ten years and become fit for her Rukhsatanah cannot be considered strange at all; especially if it is taken into account that Hazrat A ishah ra possessed faculties of development which were higher than average, as Sir William Muir has also accepted in his book. 27 In any case, Hazrat A ishah ra had now november 2012 The Review of Religions 129

130 the life & character of the seal of the prophets Despite her young age, the intelligence and memory of Hazrat A ishah ra was absolutely remarkable, and under the education and training of the Holy Prophet sa she developed astonishingly at a most extraordinary pace. fully matured. At the time, the mother of Hazrat A ishah ra was residing in the suburbs of Madinah in a place named As-Sunh. The women from among the Ansar gathered there and adorned Hazrat A ishah ra for her Rukhsatanah. Then, the Holy Prophet sa went there himself, after which Hazrat A ishah ra bid her home farewell and entered the household of the Holy Prophet sa. 28 The dowery was set at 500 dirhams, 29 or in light of various narrations 400 dirhams, 30 i.e., 100 Rs. more or less, which was paid in cash at the time of the Rukhsatanah. 31 From among all the wives of the Holy Prophet sa, Hazrat A ishah ra was the only one who was unmarried prior to marrying the Holy Prophet sa. 32 The rest were either widows or divorced and Hazrat A ishah ra would at times, count this unique aspect as being one of her distinctions. At the time of the Rukhsatanah of Hazrat A ishah ra, the Holy Prophet sa was approximately fiftyfive years of age. Taking into account the young age of Hazrat A ishah ra, the Holy Prophet sa would treat her very lovingly and take special care of her emotions. As such, on one occasion when some Abyssinian swordsman began to demonstrate an acrobatic spectacle of lances in the presence of the Holy Prophet sa and his Companions, the Holy Prophet sa instructed them to show their demonstration in the veranda of the Masjid-e-Nabawi, and held Hazrat A ishah ra himself standing along the wall of his residence, whilst shielding her from the public, so that she too could enjoy their acrobatic display; until Hazrat A ishah ra did not become content of this military demonstration herself, the Holy Prophet sa continued to accompany her. 33 On another occasion, the Holy Prophet sa raced Hazrat A ishah ra. On the first occasion, Hazrat A ishah ra managed to outstrip the Holy Prophet sa, but after some time, when the Holy Prophet sa raced her again, she was left behind, upon 130 The Review of Religions november 2012

131 which the Holy Prophet sa smiled and said, There you are A ishah, now the debt has been repaid. 34 At times, when some of the friends of Hazrat A ishah ra would gather in her home, and amuse themselves by singing innocent couplets the Holy Prophet sa would not object in the least. As a matter of fact, on one occasion, when Hazrat Abu Bakr ra saw this and attempted to slightly reprimand the girls, the Holy Prophet sa stopped him saying, Abu Bakr, let it be. Today is the day of Id and girls enjoy entertaining themselves. But when the Holy Prophet sa turned to the other side, Hazrat A ishah ra made an indication to the girls herself and saw them off. 35 Despite her young age, the intelligence and memory of Hazrat A ishah ra was absolutely remarkable, and under the education and training of the Holy Prophet sa she developed astonishingly at a most extraordinary pace. In actuality, this was the very purpose of the Holy Prophet sa in bringing her to his home at such a young age; so that he could train her from a tender age according to his wishes, and she could receive the longest possible opportunity to remain in his company; so that she could be made fit for the sensitive and magnificent work which fell upon the wife of a law-giving Prophet. As such, the Holy Prophet sa succeeded in this purpose and Hazrat A ishah ra rendered such service in the reformation, education and training of the Muslim women, as is unparalleled in the history of the world. A very large and significant portion of the Ahadith of the Holy Prophet sa are based on the narrations of Hazrat A ishah ra. As a matter of fact, the number of her narrations alone reach a grand total of The level of her knowledge and wisdom and deep understanding of religion was such that the most eminent Companions accepted her as an authority and would benefit from her grace. It is even related in narrations that after the Holy Prophet sa, the companions were not confronted with a single scholarly issue, for which Hazrat A ishah ra did not have an answer. 37 There is a statement of Urwah bin Zubair ra on record that: In knowledge of the Holy Qur an, in knowledge of the law of inheritance, in knowledge of lawful and unlawful things, in the science of jurisprudence, in poetry, in medicine, in knowledge of the narrations of Arabia, and in the science of genealogy, I have not seen a greater scholar than A ishah ra. 38 november 2012 The Review of Religions 131

132 the life & character of the seal of the prophets In virtue and contentment, she possessed such a great status that on one occasion, she happened to receive a sum of 100,000 dirhams from somewhere, and before sunset, she had distributed the entirety of it in charity, even though she did not have anything to eat for that evening in her own home. 39 It was due to these very praiseworthy attributes, which had begun to show their splendor even in the era of the Holy Prophet sa, that she was held especially dear by the Holy Prophet sa. At times, he would say, From among all the people, A ishah is most beloved to me. 40 At another instance, the Holy Prophet sa said, There have been many excellent models among men, but very few among the women. Then the Holy Prophet sa named Asiyah, the wife of Pharaoh and Mary, the daughter of Imran, then he continued by saying, A ishah possesses such superiority over the women, as Tharid, which is among the best foods of Arabia, possesses over other foods. 41 On one occasion, some of the other Azwaj-e-Mutahharat 42 complained to the Holy Prophet sa about Hazrat A ishah ra, but he remained silent. However, when his wives persisted, the Holy Prophet sa said: What shall I do with these complaints? All that I am aware of is that I do not receive revelation from my God in the quilt of any other wife, but I often receive this revelation in the quilt of A ishah. 43 Goodness gracious! How holy was the wife who was endowed with this distinction, and how holy was the husband whose criteria for domestic love was nothing other than sanctity and purity! CHAPTER VI CONTINUES IN THE NEXT EDITION. endnotes 1. Marriage Refer to glossary for further details. (Publishers). 2. Al-Isti abu Fi Ma rifatil-ashab, by Abu Umar Yusuf bin Abdillah, Vol. 4, p. 436, A ishah bint Abi Bakr As-Siddiq, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon (2002). 3. As-Siratun-Nabawiyyah, by Abu Muhammad Abdul-Malik bin Hisham, p. 891, Dhikru Azwajihi sa Ummahatil-Mu minin, Darul- Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (2001). 4. Formal announcement of marriage (Publishers). 5. Sharhul- Allamatiz-Zarqani Alal-Mawahibil- 132 The Review of Religions november 2012

133 Ladunniyyah, by Allamah Shihabuddin Al-QasTalani, Vol. 4, p. 383, A ishah Ummul- Mu minin, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 6. Umdatul-Qari Sharhu Sahihil-Bukhari, by Imam Badruddin Abi Muhammad Mahmud bin Ahmad Al- Aini, Vol. 17, p. 50, Kitabu Manaqibil-Ansar, Babu Tazwijin-Nabi sa A ishah, Hadith No. 3894, Daru Ihya it-turathil- Arabi, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (2003). 7. At-Tabaqatul-Kubra, by Muhammad bin Sa d, Vol. 8, p. 283, Dhikru Azwaji Rasulillahi sa / A ishah bint Abi Bakr As-Siddiq, Daru Ihya it- Turathil- Arabi, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 8. At-Tabaqatul-Kubra, by Muhammad bin Sa d, Vol. 8, p. 271, Dhikru Azwaji Rasulillahi sa / A ishah bint Abi Bakr As-Siddiq, Daru Ihya it- Turathil- Arabi, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 9. Tahzibut-Tahzib, by Al-Imam Shihabuddin Abul-Fadl Ahmad bin Hajar Al- Asqalani, Vol. 7, pp , Muhammad bin Umar bin Al-Waqidi, First Edition, Da iratul-ma arifin- Niẓamiyyatil-Ka inah, Hyderabad, Dakkan (1326 A.H.). 10. * Sharhul- Allamatiz-Zarqani Alal- Mawahibil-Ladunniyyah, Vol. 2, p. 194, Dhikrul-Mu akhati Bainas-Sahabati Ridwanullahi Alaihim Ajma in, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). * Sharhul- Allamatiz-Zarqani Alal-Mawahibil- Ladunniyyah, Vol. 4, p. 383, A ishah Ummul- Mu minin, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). * Umdatul-Qari Sharhu Sahihil-Bukhari, by Imam Badruddin Abi Muhammad Mahmud bin Ahmad Al- Aini, Vol. 17, p. 51, Kitabu Manaqibil-Ansar, Babu Tazwijin-Nabi sa A ishah, Hadith No. 3896, Daru Ihya it-turathil- Arabi, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (2003). * Tarikhul-Khamis Fi Ahwali Anfasi Nafis, by Husain bin Muhammad bin Hasan, Vol. 1, p. 357, Bina uhu sa Bi- A ishah, Mu assasatu Sha ban, Beirut. 11. Sharhul- Allamatiz-Zarqani Alal- Mawahibil-Ladunniyyah, Vol. 4, pp , A ishah Ummul-Mu minin, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 12. Sharhul- Allamatiz-Zarqani Alal- Mawahibil-Ladunniyyah, Vol. 4, pp , A ishah Ummul-Mu minin, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 13. * Sharhul- Allamatiz-Zarqani Alal- Mawahibil-Ladunniyyah, Vol. 2, pp , Dhikru Tazwiji Ali Bi-FaTimah Radiyallahu Anhuma, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). * Sharhul- Allamatiz-Zarqani Alal-Mawahibil- Ladunniyyah, Vol. 4, p. 333, Fi Dhikri Auladihil-Kiram, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 14. * Tarikhur-Rusuli Wal-Muluk (Tarikhut- Tabari), by Abu Ja far Muhammad bin Jarir AT- Tabari, Vol. 3, p. 5, Dhikrul-Waqtilladhi Umila Fihit-Tarikh, Darul-Fikr, Beirut, Lebanon, november 2012 The Review of Religions 133

134 the life & character of the seal of the prophets Second Edition (2002). * Tarikhul-Khamis Fi Ahwali Anfasi Nafis, by Husain bin Muhammad bin Hasan, Vol. 1, p. 322, Al-MauTinul-Awwalu Fi Waqa i is- Sanatil-Ula Minal-Hijrah, Mu assasatu Sha ban, Beirut. 15. Sharhul- Allamatiz-Zarqani Alal- Mawahibil-Ladunniyyah, by Allamah Shihabuddin Al-QasTalani, Vol. 4, p. 383, A ishah Ummul-Mu minin, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 16. As-Siratun-Nabawiyyah, by Abu Muhammad Abdul-Malik bin Hisham, p. 891, Dhikru Azwajihi sa Ummahatil-Mu minin, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (2001). 17. At-Tabaqatul-Kubra, by Muhammad bin Sa d, Vol. 8, p. 272, Dhikru Azwaji Rasulillahi sa / A ishah bint Abi Bakr As-Siddiq, Daru Ihya it- Turathil- Arabi, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 18. Tarikhur-Rusuli Wal-Muluk (Tarikhut- Tabari), by Abu Ja far Muhammad bin Jarir AT-Tabari, Vol. 3, p. 9, Dhikru Ma Kana Minal- Umuril-Madhkurati Fi Awwali Sanatin Minal- Hijrah / KhuTbatu. Rasulillahi sa Fi Awwali Jumu ah, Darul-Fikr, Beirut, Lebanon, Second Edition (2002). 19. Narration (Publishers). 20. Rationalisation (Publishers). 21. As-Siratun-Nabawiyyah, by Abu Muhammad Abdul-Malik bin Hisham, p. 891, Dhikru Azwajihi sa Ummahatil-Mu minin, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (2001). 22. As-Siratul-Halabiyyah (Insanul- Uyuni Fi Siratil-Amini Wal-Ma mun), by Allamah Abul- Farj Nuruddin Ali bin Ibrahim bin Ahmad Al- Halabiyy, Vol. 3, p. 440, Babu Dhikri Azwajihi Wa Sararihi sa, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (2002). 23. As-Siratul-Halabiyyah (Insanul- Uyuni Fi Siratil-Amini Wal-Ma mun), by Allamah Abul- Farj Nuruddin Ali bin Ibrahim bin Ahmad Al-Halabiyy, Vol. 1, p. 491, Babu Dhikri Wafati Ammihi Abi Talib Wa Zaujatihi sa Khadijah, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (2002). 24. That is, the formal announcement of the marriage, after which the Holy Prophetsa and Hadrat A ishahra were contractually bound together in a tie of matrimony (Publishers). 25. At-Tabaqatul-Kubra, by Muhammad bin Sa d, Vol. 8, p. 271, Dhikru Azwaji Rasulillahi sa / A ishah bint Abi Bakr As-siddiq, Daru Ihya it- Turathil- Arabi, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 26. Tarikhur-Rusuli Wal-Muluk (Tarikhut- Tabari), by Abu Ja far Muhammad bin Jarir At- Tabari, Vol. 3, p. 5, Dhikrul-Waqtilladhi Umila Fihit-Tarikh, Darul-Fikr, Beirut, Lebanon, Second Edition (2002). 27. * The Life of Mahomet, by Sir William Muir, Chapter VI (Sawda and Ayesha), And is betrothed to Ayesha, p. 117, Published by Smith, Elder, & Co. London (1878). 134 The Review of Religions november 2012

135 * The Life of Mahomet, by Sir William Muir, Chapter VI (Ayesha), Ayesha s influence over him, p. 117, Published by Smith, Elder, & Co. London (1878). 28. sahihul-bukhari, Kitabu Manaqibil-Ansar, Babu Tazwijin-Nabisa A ishah, Hadith No sahihul-muslim, Kitabun-Nikah, Babussidaqi Wa Jawazi Kaunihi..., Hadith No At-Tabaqatul-Kubra, by Muhammad bin Sa d, Vol. 8, p. 327, Dhikru Muhuri Nisa in- Nabisa, Daru Ihya it-turathil- Arabi, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 31. At-Tabaqatul-Kubra, by Muhammad bin Sa d, Vol. 8, p. 274, Dhikru Azwaji Rasulillahisa / A ishah bint Abi Bakr As-siddiq, Daru Ihya it- Turathil- Arabi, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996) 32. sahihul-bukhari, Kitabun-Nikah, Babu Nikahil-Abkar, Hadith No sahihul-bukhari, Kitabun-Nikah, Babu Husnil-Mu ashirati Ma al-ahli, Hadith No Sunan Abi Dawud, Kitabul-Jihad, Babun Fis-Sabqi Alar-Rijuli, Hadith No sahihul-bukhari, Kitabul- Idain, Babul- Hirabi Wad-Daraqi Yaumal- Id, Hadith No Sharhul- Allamatiz-Zarqani Alal- Mawahibil-Ladunniyyah, By Allamah Shihabuddin Al-QasTalani, Vol. 4, p. 389, A ishah Ummul-Mu minin, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 37. Sunan At-Tirmidhi, Kitabul-Manaqib, Babu Fadli A ishah, Hadith No Sharhul- Allamatiz-Zarqani Alal- Mawahibil-Ladunniyyah, by Allamah Shihabuddin Al-QasTalani, Vol. 4, p. 389, A ishah Ummul-Mu minin, Darul-Kutubil- Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 39. At-Tabaqatul-Kubra, by Muhammad bin Sa d, Vol. 8, p. 276, Dhikru Azwaji Rasulillahi sa / A ishah bint Abi Bakr As-siddiq, Daru Ihya it- Turathil- Arabi, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996). 40. sahihul-bukhari, Kitabu Fada ili Ashabin- Nabisa, Bab 34, Hadith No sahihul-bukhari, Kitabu Fada ili Ashabin- Nabisa, Babu Fadli A ishahra, Hadith No Holy Wives of the Holy Prophetsa. (Publishers). 43. sahihul-bukhari, Kitabu Fada ili Ashabin- Nabisa, Babu Fadli A ishahra, Hadith No november 2012 The Review of Religions 135

136 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 Islamic Publications, 2012 ISSN No