LETTER FROM NATIONAL TABLIGH SECRETARY... 2 SPIRITUAL ASPECT OF TABLIGH... 4 BAI AT TARGETS FOR LAJNA IMAILLAH

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1 Table of Contents LETTER FROM NATIONAL TABLIGH SECRETARY... 2 SPIRITUAL ASPECT OF TABLIGH... 4 BAI AT TARGETS FOR LAJNA IMAILLAH THE ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A TABLIGH SECRETARY THE ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A REGIONAL TABLIGH MONITOR TEN SUCCESSFUL METHODS OF TABLIGH- A USEFUL REMINDER FOR ALL DAI ILALLAH TABLIGH THROUGH THE MEDIA A GUIDE ON HOW TO CONDUCT A TABLIGH FORUM TABLIGH CONTACTS THE 10% CAMPAIGN USEFUL TABLIGH RESOURCES ESSENTIAL INFORMATION SAMPLE MONTHLY TABLIGH REPORT TABLIGH YEAR PLAN TABLIGH YEAR PLAN T abligh

2 LETTER FROM NATIONAL TABLIGH SECRETARY My Dearest Sisters Assalamo Alaikum wa rahmatullahi wabarakatohu October marks the beginning of a new year for Lajna; a time to look back and say Alhamdolillah and Mashallah to everyone for all their efforts in the field of Tabligh. It is an opportunity to look ahead and pray that Allah Almighty guides us, blesses our future efforts, enables us to take even greater steps and helps us to reach out to an even larger audience to spread the message of true Islam. Ameen. Our beloved Huzoor (may Allah be his Helper) has repeatedly emphasised the importance for all Dai ilallah to ensure they endeavour to be the best role models and radiate the high morals and attributes taught by Islam. Silent Tabligh, that is, Tabligh carried out by sharing with others our pious, humble manner, is one of the most powerful forms of Tabligh. We should strive to be exemplary individuals in all aspects of our lives, whether at home, at work, in any other external environment or within the Jama at. As well as bettering ourselves, we need to remember that knowledge is our strength. You will note that great emphasis has been placed on learning about and understanding other faiths in the new Tabligh Syllabus. The more knowledge we have about the beliefs and values of others, the better equipped we will be to engage in religious dialogue with them. It is crucial that we endeavor to develop a better understanding of our faith as well as the faith of others. We should be active in engaging in interfaith forums and debates, visiting other places of worship and enhancing our own understanding through reading and research. Beloved Huzoor (may Allah be his Helper) has also emphasized that we need to understand how atheists think. We should not be afraid to engage in Tabligh with atheists, or worry about where to even start the conversation. Focusing on discussing the needs of society is a good way to engage atheists. Discussing how society can achieve peace enables us to convey the beautiful teachings of true Islam, showing examples from the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Huzoor (may Allah be his Helper) has also directed us to study books such as 'Our God' by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (may Allah be pleased with Him), which explains the proof and magnificence of Allah the Almighty. We have included this Book as part of our Book Club this year and I would encourage you all to read and understand it thoroughly. The last two years have seen our Lajna grow from strength to strength in Tabligh. Some of the many events that have been held include school talks and assemblies, interfaith gatherings, coffee mornings, fundraising events and numerous one to one sittings. 2 T abligh

3 With Allah s grace Lajna also participated in several national Tabligh campaigns, including responding to the comments made by Prime Minister David Cameron about Muslim women in January Alhamdolillah more than 5000 responses were sent to the Prime Minister from Lajna and Nasirat. We also held a very successful Shelters campaign in March 2016 whereby Lajna across the UK donated beautifully packaged Tabligh hampers to women s shelters, spreading love and awareness about the Jama at. Online Tabligh has also progressed significantly over the last year. Mashallah all regions now have their own twitter accounts and we also have a dedicated online blog for Lajna. The increase in social media as an outlet for Tabligh is an important step forwards toward spreading the message of true Islam. However, it also brings with it increased responsibilities and you will see that we have included a section within our current syllabus which sets out the guidelines Lajna must always adhere to when engaging in this forum. Although we have made progress, there is still a great deal more to do. With that in mind, I would like to take this opportunity to say a few words about the importance of the new Tabligh Syllabus. Just as you may have targets at work to enable you to progress in your careers and just as students have a curriculum that they follow in order to attain the highest level of educational excellence, your Tabligh Syllabus is crucial to your spiritual development and progression as Dai ilallah. The Year Planner provides a month-bymonth structure of events, activities and workshops to help you gain a better understanding of Islam, spread its true message and develop Tabligh contacts. You are encouraged to study the Tabligh Syllabus and follow the Year Planner, building on it with additional programmes both locally and at a regional level. Finally, I want to remind you that the most important conduit of successful Tabligh, the light that blesses our efforts and enlightens the hearts of others; prayer. I want to conclude by sharing with you the beautiful words and wisdom of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (Mercy of Allah the Exalted be upon him): Last but not the least, I call your attention towards prayer. Pray at every step during Da wat ilallāh. Pray while you are engaged in this task. When you return home, pray again. Even ask your children to pray for you. If you will pay attention seriously, you will put your heart and soul in the job. You will sincerely request your children to pray for you, and then you will see that the prayers of your innocent children will join your prayers, and strengthen you. Your words will carry wonderful force. You have been created to conquer the nations, but it will be done with love, affection and prayers. Learn these ways and methods. Teach these ways to your children. If you will do so, the condition of the Jama at will be revolutionized. You will get new life and fresh spirituality (Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV, (Mercy of Allah the Exalted be upon him) Friday Sermon, 28th August 1987) May Allah bless all of our humble efforts. Ameen. Wassalam, Farzana Yousuf. National Tabligh Secretary UK 3 T abligh

4 SPIRITUAL ASPECT OF TABLIGH The spiritual aspect of Tabligh is the most important aspect to calling people towards Allah. Without it all our efforts are in vain. We do not accomplish anything on our own, but it is Allah the Gracious who showers his blessings upon our efforts. We must recognize that effectiveness in Tabligh is far more reliant on prayers than individual knowledge. Thus, one should constantly engage in prayers and Istaghfar whilst conducting Tabligh. PRAYER Remember, we cannot change the hearts of people on our own. It is only with Allah s decree that a person enters the fold of Islam Ahmadiyyat. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that all Lajna members engage in sincere supplications. Prayers of the Holy Qur an: O our Lord! Bestow on us Your mercy, and guide us to success in our affair. [18:11] O My Lord, open up for me my heart (increase my understanding) and ease for me my task. [20:26-29] Prayers of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him) for Success in Preaching O Allah! I supplicate You to grant me Your love, and the love of those who love You and the action which may lead me to win Your love. And make my love for You dearer to me than myself, my family and cold (refreshing) water (Tirmidhi Kitab-ud-Da waat). 4 T abligh

5 Prayers of the Promised Messiah (peace be on him) for success in preaching: O my Lord, show me how You give life to the dead. O my Lord, Grant me Your forgiveness and mercy (Tazkirah p.532). O my Lord, I am overcome (by the enemy), so come to my help (Tazkirah p. 419). Prayers of the Promised Messiah (peace be on him) for reformation of Muslims O my Lord, reform the followers of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) (Tazkirah p. 57). USEFUL EXCERPTS FOR TABLIGH Below are excerpts that all Lajna members are requested to read thoroughly: THE HOLY QUR AN STATES My Lord, open out for me my breast, and ease for me my task, and loose the knot of my tongue, that they may understand my speech. [20:26-29] Behold! The friends of Allah shall certainly have no fear, nor shall they grieve Those who believed and kept to righteousness For them are glad tidings in the present life and also in the Hereafter there is no changing the words of Allah that indeed is the supreme triumph. [10:63-65] 5 T abligh

6 Call unto the way of thy Lord with wisdom and goodly exhortation, and argue with them in a way that is best. Surely, thy Lord knows best who has strayed from His way; and He knows those who are rightly guided. [16:126] But if they turn away, We have not sent thee as a guardian over them. Thy duty is only to convey the Message (42:49) Surely thou wilt not be able to guide all whom thou lovest; but Allah guides whomsoever He pleases (28:57) And who is better in speech than he who invites men to Allah and does good works and says, I am surely of those who submit? (41:34) THE HOLY PROPHET (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) I swear by Him who holds my life in His hands, that you must enjoin on people to do good and forbid them from doing wrong: otherwise it is quite likely that some punishment from Allah may be inflicted upon you. Then, too late, you will offer supplication but they will not be accepted. [Tirmidhi Selected sayings of the Holy Prophet of Islam, p.31-32] Make religion easy for others to follow, do not make it difficult. Similarly, present religion in a pleasing manner; do not make it repulsive to others. [Muslim Selected sayings of the Holy Prophet of Islam, p.34] By Allah! If Allah helps you to guide a single person to the truth, it is better for you than (the most precious) red camels. [Muslim Selected sayings of the Holy Prophet of Islam, p.33] 6 T abligh

7 THE PROMISED MESSIAH (Peace be on him) If it was in my power, I would knock on the door of every house just like a beggar, in order to spread the true word of God so that the people may be saved from disbelief and atheistic tendencies, which is prevalent all over the world. If God were to teach me English, then I would go around and propagate His Message even if it means that I may have to sacrifice my life in the progress! [Mafoozat Vol 3 p. 291] God Almighty desires to draw all those who live in various habitations of the world, be it Europe or Asia, and who have virtuous nature, to the Unity of God and unite His servants under one Faith. This indeed is the purpose of God for which I have been sent to the world. You, too, therefore should pursue this end, but with kindness, moral probity and fervent prayers. (The Will, pp 8-9) HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH I (May Allah be pleased with him) Injury and its pain, sleeplessness and its anguish, weakness and infirmity set aside, the passion for Tabligh is such that when brother Mufti Muhammad Sadiq returned (from preaching), Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I listened to the narration of his journey with extraordinary attention. He became extremely happy on learning his details of the Tablīgh work that had been carried out in those areas [where he had travelled to]. When Khawaja Kamal-ud-Din visited Ḥazrat Khalifatul-Masiḥ for the first time during his illness, he mentioned that he had received a telegram from Sahibzaada Aftab Ahmad Khan informing that he (Khawaja Sahib) was to deliver the first lecture at a conference in Aligarh. Khawaja Sahib told Sahibzaada Sahib that he would not be able to attend due to the ill health of the Khalifatul Masih I. On this Sahibzaada Sahib sent a telegram inquiring about the health the Khalifatul Masih I and called Khawaja Ṣāḥib to say not to come until the Khalifatul Masih I had recovered. On hearing this, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I said, No, my illness should not stop Tabligh work. You should definitely go there. Write to him that I do not like to make myself a hindrance in the work of the religion of truth. My desire is that I should give my whole life in service of the religion of truth. You must go there. [Al-Ḥakam, January 7, 1911, p. 5] HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH II (May Allah be pleased with him) The task with which you have been entrusted is an onerous one. I should say it is beyond the power of man. It cannot be accomplished without His help. The heart of man is in His hands. The regeneration and purification of heart are His work. You should, therefore, repose complete trust in Him. Never entertain even for a moment the idea that you are capable of doing anything. Your heart should be ever full of Divine love and you should steer clear of pride and boasting. Humiliate yourself before God whenever you meet an opponent. Banish the idea from your mind that you will answer him nay, even assure yourself that you know nothing. Forget all that you know, yet at the same time have firm faith that God is with you and He will instruct you in all things. Pray to God and do not 7 T abligh

8 entertain for even a moment the idea that your adversary will get the better of you. Rest assured that you will be victorious. But at the same time, keep in view the Divine independence and bear in mind that He does not stand in need of human help. He, who is proud of his knowledge, is brought low even though he is working for the Divine cause. [Directions given in writing to Maulana Q. Abdullah B.A., B.T., on the occasion of his departure for England as a missionary.] HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH III (May Allah be pleased with him) I wish to draw the attention of our missionary brothers that in order to become a true missionary in the sight of Allāh, two fundamentals are required. One is the light of understanding and the other is a tender heart. The Holy Qur ān has also stated, I am the One who removes the weakness in your intellect and takes it to greater heights, and all its defects will be effaced through me and all its darkness will turn into brightness through me ; Furthermore the Holy Qur ān has said, One of the reasons for my descent is to produce tender hearts, as Allāh Almighty says in Sūrah Yusuf: We have revealed it, the Qur ān in Arabic that you may understand (12:3). [Al-Faḍl, March 3, 1969] HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH IV (Mercy of Allah the Exalted be upon him) Every Aḥmadī who receives this message should become a guardian for himself, and, he should take a solemn vow before Almighty God, and promise that he will convert at least one person to Aḥmadiyyat within one year. If he prays then this will not be difficult. When God is willing to bestow a favor upon you, it is the height of ungratefulness not to stretch your hand and receive it. [Friday Sermon, September 27, 1985] HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (May Allah be his Helper) Today the task of the revival of Islam is the task of each Ahmadi. For this we need to pay attention to our own condition and actively work towards it In this day and age, the majority of Christians are far-removed from religion and many have lost belief in the existence of God. They have to be initially brought towards God. For this we need to present good practices and also need to work at our own spiritual development and enhance our taqwa levels otherwise Tabligh efforts will not be blessed. [Friday Sermon, 9 April 2010, Spain] The Promised Messiah (peace be on him) did not say that Bai at was the ultimate objective of our lives. Rather, he said that in order to establish Unity of God and to gather people on the one true faith he (Promised Messiah, peace be on him) should be followed, then alone would taking his bai at be honored. However the task has to be done with gentility which is accomplished with the use of proofs and reasoning. [Friday Sermon 9 April 2010, Spain] 8 T abligh

9 Here where you live in freedom you should utilise your freedom in a manner that every woman and every girl should feel that Today the responsibility of defending Islam and the Holy Prophet (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is mine and only mine, and that I have to try my very best, using all my capabilities and strengths, to duly fulfil the responsibility of providing this safeguard. I have to increase my knowledge and spirituality, and I will not rest in peace until I establish the flag of Islam all over the world. To strengthen yourself, to strengthen the Jam at you should take up good acts. Then spread these to others. Then you will be performing good deeds and avoiding sin, which will make Dawat illallah easier. The Jam at will be receiving the best training as good acts will be put into practice and people will be stopped from sin. Good acts and deeds which are mentioned in the Holy Qur an, are innumerable. [Friday Sermon 16 th June 2006] The only thing to do is work, work and work. You have to get a firm grip on the work of Dawat illalllah. Take responsibility for this work. [17 th June 2006, addressing Khuddam ul Ahmadiyya Majlis-e-Aamla] Citing verse 34 of Surah Ha Mim Al Sajdah (41:34) Huzur (may Allah be his Helper) said, first and foremost we have to espouse the Qur anic teaching in our daily lives otherwise no effort will ever bear fruit. It is essential to keep all one s affairs wholesome with God and to pay the dues of fellow humans, to honour the rights of close relatives, the rights of the neighbours and the rights of the environment. It is important to help whoever is in need of help. If one s own situation is such that parents are unhappy with one or one s wife and children are discontented or women who indulge improperly in fashion or those who do not control their temper and create discord all these are not good deeds and people who give in to them are not effective at Tabligh. Therefore it is vital to be exemplary. Remember that it is God s promise with the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) that I shall grant you dominance. Now this dominance/triumph will be worldwide, in Europe, Asia, Africa, America and InshaAllah Oceania. It is your task to carry out Tabligh demonstrating total obedience and good deeds. The Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) said This hope of mine is not imaginary, rather I have received this glad tiding through the holy revelation of God. In conclusion Huzur (may Allah be his Helper) said this derision of religion is there for us to take note of our task. The final decision has been made, however, we need to focus and take this message forward. This is the greatest service to humanity. May Allah enable us all to do so. [Summary of Friday Sermon 22 nd December 2006] 9 T abligh

10 BAI AT TARGETS FOR LAJNA IMAILLAH REGION BAI'AT TARGET Bait-ul-Futuh 12 London 13 Bait-ul-Noor 13 East 8 Middlesex 7 Midlands 14 South 7 Northwest 10 Northeast 6 Islamabad 7 Yorkshire 5 Hertfordshire 6 Scotland 3 Southwest 4 Ayesha 12 The table above indicates target numbers allocated to each region, for a total target Ba iat of 127 from May Allah help us achieve this goal, Ameen. 10 T abligh

11 THE ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A TABLIGH SECRETARY YOUR ROLE AS A TABLIGH SECRETARY Tabligh, or Da wat ilallah, means to call towards Allah. Thus, the primary role of Tabligh is to spread the true message of Islam and bring new members into the fold of Islam. It is essential to realise that the task at hand is more spiritual than mechanical; hence it is imperative to focus on prayers throughout the process. As a Tabligh Secretary, you are tasked with facilitating your Majlis along the noble path of Tabligh: you are there to guide, support and encourage your Majlis to engage in Tabligh activities, build new contacts, learn more about their faith and those of others. You should organise a monthly plan of events, activities and workshops, engaging all members of your Majlis, young and old. Each one of us has unique strengths; some may be good at writing articles; others may be good at 1-1 sittings. Some of the younger members of your Majlis may be better able to engage in online Tabligh whilst mothers may be well placed to deliver school talks at their children s schools. Tabligh is the responsibility and duty of each and every Ahmadi. Each member of your Majlis should be given the opportunity to participate in, and reap the blessings of, Tabligh. STEPS TO SUCCESS The first step in Tabligh is to employ righteous conduct in all aspects of our lives; whether it is at school, university or place of work, we must endeavour to spread the peaceful, loving message of Islam by example. Secondly, every Lajna member should become the voice of true Islam, ensuring that no opportunity of spreading the true teachings of Islam is wasted. Following is an extract from a Friday Sermon delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (Mercy of Allah the Exalted be upon him) highlighting the responsibility of a Tabligh Secretary: The job of the Dai ilallah is to prepare the crops and gardens of Da wat ilallah. And this does not happen just by a mere piece of advice or a reminder; it needs developing a close attachment with them. Creating a love for this work is an art and upon this the Holy Qur an has thrown some light, from which we should benefit. Allah gave Hazrat Ibrahim (peace be on him) the task of giving life to nations and he was told, Through you nations will get new life. Hazrat Ibrahim (peace be on him) had a very humble character. He said, O God! I understand that you will give life to nations, but how? In reply, he was commanded, Take four birds and attach them to yourself. Then send them in different directions and then call them, and you will see how they come flying back to you. This was the example of Hazrat Ibrahim (peace be on him). So every Missionary, Amir, President and Office bearer should get hold of some members of their Jama at, and under sorhonna ilaik (2:261) should attach them to themselves, train them with love and affection, give them a task and spread them in the world. Likewise according to one s capability one should get hold of four, eight or 10 members, train them and employ them. In this way this number should increase. [Friday Sermon, August 28, 1987) 11 T abligh

12 PRACTICAL GUIDELINES FOR TABLIGH SECRETARIES Each Tabligh Secretary should have a Team that consists of four Team members. All Team members must be actively engaged in Tabligh The Tabligh Secretary must ensure that there is a database of all local Tabligh contacts in your Majlis. The Dai ilallah responsible should follow up these contacts with regularly and the database should be checked and updated by the Tabligh Secretary each month. The Tabligh Team should hold a meeting at the beginning of each month and use this meeting to plan activities for that month. The Tabligh Secretary should allocate each Tabligh Team member to plan and arrange a particular activity each month. For example, Team Member A will contact local schools and try to arrange a school talk this month, Team Member B will contact a local library to arrange an exhibition. Team Member C will try and arrange an interfaith coffee morning and Team Member D will arrange for an article to be written on a current topical issue and send it to local papers or to be published on our Tabligh online blog. It is good practice to keep minutes of each Tabligh meeting and to circulate these, as well as action points, to each Team member following the meeting. Red Book Meetings should be held after each Tabligh event. The Tabligh Team should hold a Tabligh workshop each month. All Lajna in the Majlis should be invited to attend. Suggested topics for workshops can be found in the Tabligh Syllabus. The Tabligh Secretary should ensure Tabligh reports are submitted to the local Sadr on time each month. The Tabligh Secretary should ensure that that Regional Tabligh Monitors are kept informed of all Tabligh activities and that approval from local and Regional Sadran and/or the National Tabligh Team is sought where appropriate. Tabligh Secretaries should write to Huzoor (aba) on a regular basis seeking prayer and guidance in all Tabligh efforts. 12 T abligh

13 THE ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A REGIONAL TABLIGH MONITOR As a Tabligh Monitor for your Region, you are the first point of contact for any queries, questions or concerns your Tabligh secretaries may have. You should ensure that you build a close relationship with each of your secretaries through regular contact and support. This will also enable you to keep up to date with all the Tabligh work, projects and activities that are going on within your region. Some of the specific responsibilities of Regional Tabligh Monitors include: Ensuring the distribution within your region of 10% Campaign Packs received at the Annual Refresher Course each year Collecting of 10% Tabligh Campaign reports from Local Secretaries, collating this information and sending your report to the National Tabligh Team by the 25 th of each month. Organising and facilitating the implementation of national Tabligh campaigns for your region Ensuring all local secretaries are kept informed of events such as National Tabligh Training Forums, National Peace Conference and Study Circles Ensuring that all Local Secretaries submit their Monthly Tabligh Report on time. We would recommend you ask secretaries to copy you in when they their reports to their Local Sadrs each month. Keeping a record of Tabligh resources such as posters, pop-ups and presentations within your region. This will not only enable you to share resources amongst your region but to also share resources with other regions. It will also help you to identify any deficient resources, which the Tabligh Team can then assist you in preparing/obtaining. 13 T abligh

14 TEN SUCCESSFUL METHODS OF TABLIGH- A USEFUL REMINDER FOR ALL DAI ILALLAH Following is an extract taken from pages of Inspiring Events in the Field of Tabligh by Maulana Ataul Mujeeb Rashed, Imam Fazl Mosque London. It sets out ten successful methods of Tabligh, as directed by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (May the Mercy of Allah the Exalted be upon him) in his Friday Sermon on February 25, We would encourage all Tabligh Secretaries to familiarize themselves with these steps and implement them in all Tabligh initiatives. Call unto the way of thy Lord with wisdom and goodly exhortation, and argue with them in a way that is best. Surely, thy Lord knows best who has strayed from His way; and He also knows those who are rightly guided. And if you desire to punish the oppressors, then punish them to the extent to which you have been wronged; but if you show patience then, surely, that is best for those who are patient. And, endure thou with patience; and verily thy patience is possible only with the help of Allāh. And grieve not for them, nor feel distressed because of their plots. Verily, Allāh is with those who are righteous and those who do good. (Holy Qur ān, 16: ) It is not a simple calling to God that is contained in this verse but it is a call towards the glory with which Allāh manifested Himself to the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him) that the world was invited to; for He is the God Who is the Lord of all the worlds. Following are ten important points in this respect. 1. The Message is for All the Believers: Although the message is for all the believers, but here only the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him) has been addressed. It is not said that O Muhammad! You alone go and start calling people towards Allāh and no companion should accompany you. Thus, it is addressed to the Holy Prophet, but is meant for all the believers. By pondering over the word Hikmat it seems that we should first look towards the history. By looking over the events of history, we shall have to deal with our adversaries with extreme love and affection. It is then that our point of view will be accepted, otherwise not. 2. Approach According to the Circumstances: The second point of Hikmat, which is usually ignored, is keeping the circumstances in view. Analyze the circumstances and then start the work of calling towards Allāh. Everything is fine if it is done at proper time. Delivering your message to someone who is in a hurry or mentally upset is not proper. This will not be according to circumstances. If a man dislikes something and it is presented to him, he won t accept it even if it is good. Therefore, if the way of presentation is not so agreeable that it overpowers the hatred to hear the message, Tablīgh will not be effective for him. Therefore, mind that you are engaged in a very delicate task. Follow the model of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him), and be kind to others. Similarly adopt a wise way of communication. You will have to think that your addressee will surely change by normalcy, therefore, you need to communicate gently. 14 T abligh

15 3. In Accordance with Human Nature: One of the demands of Hikmat is to talk according to the trend of the person you are talking to, and you should never be oblivious to it. Understand the tendency of the person whom you are conversing with. You should know what he avoids and then deal with him accordingly. 4. Within Your Capabilities: Another demand of Hikmat is to take stock of your own temperament and tendencies. Everyone can not do all kinds of Tablīgh. God has blessed faculties according to one s own temperament. For instance, a brother used to wear a robe with Qur ānic verses inscribed on it. Another brother, Qureshi Muhammad Hanīf used to roam and preach on his bicycle. To say that one does not have the capacity for Tablīgh is to blame Allāh. It is right to say that as every one has different capacities, therefore, to face the other person will also be in different ways. Everyone has his own personality and should treat others according to his own capacity. You yourself have different temperaments. God has granted you different capacities. Therefore, you will have to adopt the right way of thinking about yourself and how you can discharge your obligations in a befitting manner. Some do not have good conversational or public speaking skills while others lack in effective writing. Some are shy in public, but are good talkers in a small company. There are others who can address large gatherings. Therefore, if someone will act against his/her personality granted to him/her by God, s/he will become a laughing stock. 5. Times Also Change: There are different periods. Needs of time also change. Hikmat demands that one should take advantage of those times. Therefore, different ways of talk suit at different times. There are times when one is sad and that time demands a different kind of talk. Way of talking at happier times will be of different sort. Similarly you will have to adopt a different way at the times of panic. 6. Appropriate Selection: Another demand of Hikmat is to choose the right person. There is innumerable creation of God who you have to call towards Allāh. With a general view, one can learn as to who will require lesser hard work. There are Ahmadīs who sometimes work hard on someone who is prejudiced, adamant and far from Taqwā. They forget that Allāh has promised to guide those who are righteous and have the courage to call spade a spade. (So said Christ also not to throw pearls before the swine. Matthew 7:6) Therefore, select good natured people especially those who are courageous and may themselves become muballigh later. 7. Remain Constantly in Contact: To take care of your crop is another demand of Hikmat. When you engage in Da wat ilallāh or will engage, you will enjoy it. If you will not see the person you are preaching again and again, you will lose him like destroying your harvest. This is because the effect of your tablīgh has not gone very deep. You will have to pay constant attention. If you will not do so, your labor will go to waste. 8. Prayers are Needed: If you do not irrigate your crop, it will bear no fruit. There are two ways of irrigation. One is the water of your knowledge, you impart in this world. But the real harvest is when it receives the heavenly water. If you will irrigate your crop with merely your own water of knowledge, it will not bring out blessed fruit. Therefore, prayers are essential and you will have to shed tears in front of God Almighty. Seek help from Him. It is the tears of a believer which bring torrents of blessings. Therefore, Hikmat was mentioned first and then good word is mentioned. Good word is clear, true and pious advice which has a pull. It has nothing to do with any sectarian difference. It comes direct from heart and goes straight to heart. Therefore, arguments come later, but begin with a good word. 15 T abligh

16 First, tell the people that you have sympathy for them. They are ruining themselves. The society is being destroyed. Think, why it is being destroyed. Tell them that divine people come and after delivering their message depart. Give them the message that a caller has come and it is better for them to accept that divine caller. This is the reason that the Holy Qur ān advises not to hurry. Begin with Hikmat so that people should know that you are truthful and their sympathizer. They should realize that you are not interested only in yourself, but are interested in them as well. 9. Discussion: Despite your good and wise word, people will be ready to argue with you. Allāh says, therefore, we also advise you to face them and do not show your back to them. Now, be prepared and you have the right to argue with full strength and vigor with those who counter you. But this encounter should not be with brute force and it is said that argue with them with what is good. Therefore, even now, encounter with evil will be with goodness. They will come with evil but you will have to present goodness. They wish to harm you, but you wish good for them. They will bring feeble arguments but you present strong and powerful proofs. Represent goodness every time whereas they will be representing hatred and evil. 10. Patience: And if you will remain patient, then know that this is better for those who remain patient (Holy Qur ān, 16:127). Therefore, remember that you should show patience, and Allāh tells you that those who show patience are more successful than others. It is better for those who show patience, in religious contests, they should not take revenge but should keep overlooking mistakes of others and remain tolerant. Call towards the way of Allāh began with singular number and now it has become plural. That is why I had concluded that the duty of tablīgh is not confined to the Holy Prophet alone and it is obligatory for his followers as well. Allāh says to the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him), And endure thou with patience; and verily, thy patience is possible only with the help of Allāh. (Holy Qur ān, 16:128) This means that Allāh says to him, O Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him), We do not say that you may show patience or take revenge, as you please. For you, Our advice is that you have to show patience. We know that you are already showing patience for the sake of Allāh. Therefore, you are not to abandon this path because this is the way that is the best. You should know that patience is of two kinds. One is patience in anger and other is patience during grief. You know that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him) never went even near rage. Therefore, always remember that we have to follow the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him) in whom there was least anger. He was the man who showed patience of real mother, and even more. He is the man who is pining for his opponents who are harming themselves by not accepting him. That s why Allāh says: And grieve not thou for them. (Holy Qur ān, 16:128). 16 T abligh

17 TABLIGH THROUGH THE MEDIA HARNESSING MEDIA FOR THE PURPOSE OF TABLIGH Technology today is shaping the world and age we live in, so much so that it has become the foundation of much of the world s method of communication. Evidence for the ascendancy of social media can be seen through simple statistics- out of an estimated world population of 7.1 billion people: Approximately 3 billion have access to the Internet There are approximately 1.5 billion Facebook users There are approximately 900 million WhatsApp users There are approximately 320 million Twitter users worldwide. [ The Media has a powerful and pervasive voice, in both Western and Eastern countries alike, resulting in a strong influence over mankind. As Dai ilallah, it is our great responsibility to promote our own peaceful voice in efforts to enlighten the world with the message of true Islam. Recognising that this growing media presence and use of technology is a source of Divine blessing for the spreading of the true, beautiful teachings of Islam, will allow us to use media as an asset. Social Media vs. Traditional Media Definition: Social Media Social media is the collective of online communication channels dedicated to communitybased input, interaction, content-sharing and collaboration, and includes websites and applications that enable users to participate in social networking. Some prominent examples of social media include Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Google+. 17 T abligh

18 Definition: Traditional Media Also referred to as 'old media', this sort of media includes methods introduced before the use and advent of the Internet, such as magazines, books, newspapers, and radio and television broadcasts. USING SOCIAL AND TRADITIONAL MEDIA TO HIGHLIGHT GOOD WORKS The Holy Qur an enjoins us to vie with one another in the doing of good works, and indeed categorically depicts the doing of good works as a vital counterpart towards belief. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (may Allah be his Helper) has stressed that the doing of good works does not mean a short sharp burst of intense worship and short-lived charitable undertaking; rather it connotes continual and resolute practice of doing good and being ever mindful to excel the next person in doing so. [Friday Sermon delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (May Allah be his Helper ) on 10 September, 2004] And as for those who believe and do good works, He will pay them their full rewards. And Allah loves not the wrongdoers. (Holy Qur an Chapter 2, Verse 149) But as for those who believe and do good works and believe in that which has been revealed to Muhammad and it is the truth from their Lord He removes from them their sins and improves their condition. (Holy Qur an Chapter 47, Verse 3) Social media sites, online blogs and twitter can be utilized to promote the ongoing good works done by Lajna, thus reaching a wider audience. Media coverage highlighting the positive and peaceful actions of the jama at helps to educate those who may not have any knowledge of Islam, and establishes confidence in those who have never been in contact with the jama at- an essential step in bringing the hearts of such people closer to faith. In addition, traditional media can be engaged to further publicize good works. It is encouraged for Lajna to write to local papers, journals and relevant magazines, their local councillors and MPs, and to call in to radio programs, commenting on current affairs affecting Islam. METHODOLOGIES AND TECHNIQUES Twitter: Twitter is a text-based social networking platform, limiting output to 140 characters, which has recently begun to incorporate photos/videos. The premise is to share via posting links which is an excellent opportunity to link people to jama at resources, articles, and campaigns. 18 T abligh

19 Official jama at twitter @LajnaUK The following websites are suggestions to link to: Lajna Regional Twitter Accounts: Alhamdolillah, each Region now has its own regional twitter account. These accounts are to be administered under strict guidelines, summarised below. à Administering the Account Each region has been directed to allocate one responsible person to manage the account. This person will be the Social Media Monitor for the Region, under the supervision of the Regional Sadr. Please note that there should be limited access to the account (only the Regional Sadr and the designated Social Media Monitor should have access) - kindly do not provide the account details and password widely, as this will lead to security and privacy issues. à Twitter Guidelines We have compiled a detailed list of guidelines for the safe and proper usage of Twitter and would urge you to thoroughly familiarise yourself with them. In particular, please be aware of maintaining proper purdah at all times- through the content/pictures posted, language used, and method of interaction online. 19 T abligh

20 LAJNA TWITTER GUIDELINES MANAGEMENT 1) The Twitter Account must be managed by the Social Media Monitor for each Region, working alongside the Regional Sadr. 2) All tweets must be pre-approved by the Regional Sadr before they can be posted online. This is particularly important for any photographic content. 3) If there is any doubt over whether potential content to be posted is appropriate, the Regional Sadr should consult with her regional representative from the National Tabligh Team. 4) The National Tabligh Team, together with the National Lajna Press and Media Team will monitor all accounts. CONTENT 1) You may wish to tweet about local events, activities and initiatives, as well as articles that have been published from your region. Supporting other regions is also important so do retweet events and activities by Lajna across the UK. 2) Online cyber purdah must be observed in all instances. This requires that you engage in a polite, humble and dignified manner at all times. 3) You may only post pictures of Lajna if strict purdah has been observed. Pictures must be taken at a distance, be without makeup and all hair, forehead and chin must be covered. 4) No tweets should be posted which go against Jama at teachings. 5) Avoid interacting with trolls and getting into fruitless debates. 6) Do interact with local Tabligh contacts if the opportunity arises; for example, after local events. 7) Do interact with local press, councillors and politicians where appropriate. 8) Do follow and re-tweet relevant content from official Jama at accounts in order to keep your regional account current and up to date with Jama at activities. Some official @LajnaUK 20 T abligh

21 SAFEGUARDS 1) Account passwords should be complex and should not be widely shared. 2) Remain vigilant to online risks such as cyber hacking. Do not link to personal information/details. Facebook: Facebook is a social networking site primarily built to share information with friends. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (may Allah be his Helper) has repeatedly provided guidance as to the proper use of Facebook for Tabligh purposes, and has explained that the jama at has created provision in the form of official Jama at Facebook pages that can be utilized for Tabligh. Lajna Imai llah and other auxiliary organizations also have official pages which one can redirect people towards. Facebook should not be used for frivolous, personal use and must be accessed with the intention of bringing others closer to our faith. Blogs/Online Articles/Op-Eds: The internet provides the opportunity to wage a modern Jihad of the Pen in that posting articles online allows them to reach a wide audience. Other media elements (e.g. linking to articles via Twitter and Facebook) can be used to draw further attention to your written work. LAJNA ONLINE BLOG SITE This blog site has been set up by the National Lajna Social Media Team. Its tagline is Reflections of Ahmadi Muslim Women. All Lajna are encouraged to write articles on topical issues and to send them to the National Lajna Social Media Team to be posted on this blog. If you wish to post articles elsewhere online, please do seek the approval of the National Lajna Social Media Team before doing so. GENERAL MEDIA SAFEGUARDING AND ETIQUETTE Technology has provided immediate access to information- the volume of content that we can draw from has grown exponentially. Now, there is no shortage of viewpoints and sources from which we can draw our own conclusions about what is really happening in the world. We are less dependent on a news team to interpret it on our behalf. However, the benefit of having a globalized voice often comes hand-in-hand with negative aspects; encountering ignorance, dealing with other users hiding behind anonymity, becoming easily distracted and immersed in social media leading to wasting time and energy. 21 T abligh

22 The following are strategies that can be used to ensure appropriate use of Media for Tabligh. 1. Online Cyber Purdah must be observed in all instances. When engaging in Tabligh online, please remain aware of how you are conducting yourself- the same pardah that applies when you are face-to-face applies when you are behind a computer screen. Always engage in a pious and humble manner. Heed the advice of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (may Allah be his Helper): The instinct for women to be modest is from Allah, and an Ahmadi woman should cultivate this and enhance it even more. A storm of nudity and vulgarity has erupted due to television and the Internet. It is the duty of every Ahmadi girl to not suffer an inferiority complex so that she drowns in this flood of Western indecency. Instead, she should --through her good character and high morals create such a strong wall against this onslaught that she proves to the world that by following Islamic teachings, she can protect herself against all trials and temptations. [Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (may Allah be his Helper) Q&A Session with Ahmadi Muslim Students, California, May 2013] 2. It may be difficult to control or predict the negative influences one encounters when engaging in online discourse. These influences can be widespread and hard to combat, especially in view of a faceless nameless opponent. Be mindful of not engaging in debate/discourse with those who abuse or seek to cause mischief. Re-direct such inquiries, politely, to approved jama at resources Keep a stark barrier between politics and religion; if you are propagating a message of peace, you should have no comment on politics, especially as it is a very divisive subject. Always recall your intention for Tabligh and resort to prayer as a safeguard against detrimental thoughts or actions. 3. Utilize the words of the Promised Messiah (peace be on him) as your best guidance in response to any negative encounters; In order to incite you, people are abusive about me. But you should never be provoked by the abuse and should not be abusive in return. If you are abusive to them in response, they will be abusive about me, and this abuse will not be from the, but will be from you. On the contrary, you should pray for them when they are abusive and be kind and affectionate to them, so that they become closer to you. [Summarized by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (may Allah be his Helper) in a Friday Sermon on 8 th April, 2011] Remember the following verse of the Holy Qur an: 22 T abligh

23 Call unto the way of thy Lord with wisdom and goodly exhortation, and argue with them in a way that is best. Surely, thy Lord knows best who has strayed from His way; and He knows those who are rightly guided [16:126] 4. Keep the Fifth Condition of Bai at at the forefront of your mind when engaging in online Tabligh: That he/she shall remain faithful to God in all circumstances of life, in sorrow and happiness, adversity and prosperity, in felicity and trial; and that he/she shall in all conditions remain resigned to the decree of Allah and keep himself/herself ready to face all kinds of indignities and sufferings in His way and shall never turn away from it at the onslaught of any misfortune; on the contrary, he/she shall march forward. [ Conditions of Bai at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (may Allah be his Helper)] 5. Per the sage advice of the Promised Messiah (peace be on him) and in order to maintain the freedom to say what we wish in defense of our faith, we must develop thick skins in response to some of the negative comments online. However, a few things cannot be tolerated and must be reported (as hate-speech). These include: -Offensive remarks against the person of the Holy Prophet (may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) -Derogatory remarks about the Holy Qur an -Offensive remarks about the Promised Messiah (peace be on him) MEDIA TRAINING Each Region should ensure that adequate training in social media is provided to all Lajna on a regular basis, either at a regional level or locally. NATIONAL LAJNA SOCIAL MEDIA TEAM CONTACT If you have any questions relating to media, please do not hesitate to contact the National Lajna Social Media Team on: lajnauk@outlook.com 23 T abligh

24 A GUIDE ON HOW TO CONDUCT A TABLIGH FORUM WHAT IS A TABLIGH FORUM? A seminar which discusses topical issues related to Islam. It can be structured as a training forum for Lajna only, or you may wish to invite guests along to listen and share their views. PLANNING YOUR EVENT ORGANISER S CHECKLIST It is advised that you start planning your Tabligh Forum at least 6-8 weeks prior to the date of the event. 24 T abligh

25 NEED AND NATURE OF EVENT: WHAT IS THE AIM OF YOUR FORUM Is your Tabligh Forum? a refresher for key Tabligh topics for your Lajna or would you like to make this an external event and invite guests? INTERNAL EVENT Plan event according to checklist provided and include topics relevant to training of Dai ilallah. EXTERNAL EVENT Plan the event using the Checklist provided keeping in mind content and arrangements should be tailored to guests needs TABLIGH FORUM TIPS Ø Engage your audience to the maximum to ensure they are understanding the topics discussed Ø If the Forum is internal, include a mixture of presentations and workshops Ø You may wish to set a theme for your Forum, such as Existence of God. Ø If the Forum is external, include an exhibition at the venue for guests to observe Ø Hold a Question and Answer session at the end of the Forum with the option to discuss topics in a 1:1 session as some guests/lajna may be shy. Ø Try to include a keynote speaker to maximize attendance. 25 T abligh

26 SUGGESTED TOPICS: Below is a non-exhaustive list of topics that you could cover in your Tabligh forums. The true Jihad Women s rights in Islam Women and the Veil Social Media Extremism and Terrorism FGM (Female Genital Mutilation) Islam and The Promised Messiah (peace be on him) Jesus (as) in Islam Science vs. Religion The Existence of God Preaching to Atheists Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) The true Caliphate Freedom of Speech Remember, long speeches lose their essence and aim and we would therefore recommend that all speeches are kept between 5-15 minutes depending on your topics. Keep the speeches as interactive as possible and try to engage the audience. Guest speakers should be given an outline of the topic on which they are expected to speak and you should, ideally, ask to see their speech/presentation beforehand. Workshops are a good idea, for both internal and external Tabligh Forums they are interactive and allow the audience to share their thoughts on the topics. A Q&A to conclude your Forum is essential this gives attendees an opportunity to ask any questions they had on any of the presentations they heard during the event. It also allows them to raise any general questions they have about Islam. EXTERNAL TABLIGH FORUM: How to publicise your event: Create invitation cards and send to guests in good time Send a flyer about the event to all Lajna Take pictures of the set-up and guests and send to your local paper Post the event on your Regional twitter account or on the Lajna Imaillah twitter account, tagging the guests into the tweet so that they can re-tweet the event on their page Send pictures to the National Lajna Social Media Team to post on our Jama at central Facebook page 26 T abligh

27 Send a press release of the event to your local, regional and national newspaper for coverage Try to get radio coverage of the event summarising the key speeches, the message of peace in Islam and the topics discussed along with a mention of the key guests. It is advised that you contact radio and newspapers a couple of weeks before the event and tell them you are keen to come into the studio and talk about the event. A small video clip can be sent to the National Lajna Social Media Team to post on our MTA YouTube account when guest speakers are invited to speak. Inviting Guests: Invitations should be sent to your guests 4-6 weeks prior to the scheduled event. Keep a database of confirmed guests so you know how many guests you are expecting and can make appropriate seating/catering arrangements. Recommended guests to invite would be: ü Local Councilors ü MPs ü Local Mayor ü Head teachers ü Doctors ü Dentists ü Local charities ü Local press ü Work colleagues ü Business contacts ü Company executives ü Women s charities ü Interfaith representatives Practical guidelines: Your conduct - Importance is stressed on being sociable and extremely hospitable. The way you should behave should reflect the beauty of our teachings and attract people towards you. Your Purdah - Lajna should be presentable, well-spoken and maintain their purdah to the highest standard. Guest Packs It is a good idea to prepare simple guest packs for your invited guests as well as gifts for your guest speakers. General Guest packs can include leaflets, a contact card, a bookmark which you can design yourself, a Jama at pen/keyring. Gifts for guests can include Jama at Books or other items printed with the title of your event. Please give copies of the Holy Qur an to those whom you are certain will treat it with the utmost respect. 27 T abligh

28 Exhibition/Display You should include an exhibition or display at your Forum, especially if it is an external event. Tours - If the Tabligh Forum is being conducted in a mosque then an excellent opportunity for Tabligh would be to offer a guided tour where others can see how peaceful and serene our Mosques are. Follow-Up: ü Keep a note of all guests that attended your Tabligh Forum and follow up with them on a regular basis ü Request feedback from all attendees and make a note of comments/suggestions made ü Send Thank You cards to guests who attended Record Keeping: Please note, it is important that you keep note of: ü Topics covered so different topics can be discussed in the next Forum ü Literature and handouts distributed ü Finance and cost aspects of the Forum to see how arrangements will be managed in future ü Press releases from all media Insha Allah with the above guidance and sincere prayers we anticipate great success will be achieved. The Lajna National Tabligh Department wish you all the best and are always here to assist you with materials and support for a successful Tabligh Forum. May Allah the Almighty reward your efforts abundantly. Ameen. 28 T abligh

29 TABLIGH CONTACTS TABLIGH CONTACT DATABASE It is vital to keep an accurate and timely record of your Tabligh contacts in order that you may successfully stay in touch with the contact and maintain a close relationship. Beloved Huzoor (may Allah be his Helper) has on many occasions expressed that we must keep a detailed record and conduct follow-ups to build strong links with those who have attended events in the past. All local Tabligh Secretaries are requested to keep a record of guests that they invite to a particular event, along with any other Tabligh contacts. Please also send a copy of this record to your Tabligh Monitor who will then forward it to the relevant national Tabligh assistant. This will contribute to the national figure of Tabligh contacts compiled by Lajna Imaillah. No. Name Religion Ethnic Origin Contact details (phone/ ) Occupation Events attended (eg, Jalsa Salana, Peace Conference) Da ilallah Responsible Other Notes 29 T abligh

30 TABLIGH CONTACT CARDS This year, the Tabligh Team have designed and printed a contact card which can be given out to Tabligh contacts and aid follow-up. The cards include relevant contact details for Lajna Ima illah on the front, and a QR code link to the website on the reverse. It is encouraged for anyone handing out the card to also include personal contact details by hand writing in such details on the card - this should include your name, title, and (either personal or one which you may have set up for Tabligh contacts). Please find below a sample of the contact card that will be printed and available to Tabligh Secretaries: 30 T abligh

31 THE 10% CAMPAIGN In 2010, our beloved Huzoor (may Allah be his Helper) gave instructions to the Jama at that over the next 10 years the whole of the UK should be aware of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Huzoor (may Allah be his Helper) requested that 10% of the UK population should be contacted every year for the next 10 years (2020). Lajna has been instructed to distribute leaflets to the following establishments: Schools Libraries GP Surgeries Hospitals Each year, at the Annual Refresher Course, the National Tabligh Team will provide all Regional Monitors with 10% Packs containing leaflets, covering letters, envelopes and address labels. It is the responsibility of the Regional Tabligh Monitor to allocate the addresses amongst the Majalis in their region. 10% Campaign Guidelines: 1. You must gain permission from the respective establishments before sending them leaflets. 2. It is very important that you report back to the Centre with accurate and regular information. In order to make the reporting process more efficient and simple for you, report forms are now available in MS Word format, making them easier for you to complete electronically and to us. 3. All Local Tabligh Secretaries must ensure that they give regular updates to their Regional Tabligh Monitors by the 20 th of each month. 4. Regional Tabligh Monitors must send their monthly report via to the National Lajna Tabligh team by 25 th of each month. By the Grace of Allah, Lajna has managed to do great work with this campaign. The following graph shows our achievements between 2010 and 2015: 31 T abligh

32 USEFUL TABLIGH RESOURCES By the grace of Allah, there are several new resources that are particularly beneficial within the field of Tabligh. These include new leaflets, a new FAQ booklet as well as our new radio station, Voice of Islam. As you hear, read and gain knowledge and inspiration from these resources, our hope is that it will bolster your desire to spread the message of Allah, and that you will seek to use it to touch the hearts of others, Insha Allah. LEAFLET ABOUT MUSLIM WOMEN: This leaflet, entitled Muslim Women: The Reality introduces an Ahmadi Muslim Woman as one who endeavors to live her life according to the teachings of the Holy Qur an and the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him), whilst standing for peace and serving the community. The leaflet addresses common myths perpetuated about Muslim women and utilizes history to dispel them. The high spiritual, intellectual, and economic status of Muslim women is highlighted through simple Ahadith and verses of the Holy Qur an. Emphasis is placed upon the many rights given to women in Islam. These leaflets will, Insha Allah, be a useful tool in raising awareness, educating the public, and opening a dialogue with Tabligh contacts. muslim women: The Reality AHMADIYYA MUSLIM WOMEN S ASSOCIATION U.K. (2016) 32 T abligh

33 FAQ BOOKLET: Lajna Imaillah has compiled a new booklet, entitled Simplified Answers to Frequently Asked Questions, It sets out simplified answers to a selection of questions commonly posed by non-muslims. The intention is to make it easier for those in the field of Tabligh to provide concise and easily comprehendible answers when time is short. This text has been formulated in simple language, which gives just enough information but also gives the opportunity to take the conversation further. 33 T abligh

34 ANTI-EXTREMISM LEAFLETS: In the words of our beloved Huzoor, Khalifatul Masih V (May Allah be his Helper)), It is a dire need of the time to respond to all forms of fanaticism and Extremism with Islam s true message of peace and harmony. In much of today s world, there exists the perception that Islam is a religion of extremism and force. This has been perpetuated by the disturbing rise of ISIS and prevalence of Muslim governments acting against the true Islamic principles of justice and equality. It is our responsibility to defend Islam s real teachings and preserve Islam s beautiful face. The below leaflets are a direct response to extremism and an invaluable resource to combat such widespread fallacies held by the media, society, and peers. In the Words of the Caliph His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad Caliph (Spirit al Leader) of the Worldwide Ahmadiy a Muslim Communit Islam s Response to Extremism Islam s Response to E X T R E M I S M Whosoever killed a person... it shall be as if he had killed all mankind. (The Holy Qur an: Ch.5: V.33) VOICE OF ISLAM: Voice of Islam Radio is a new Digital DAB 24hr radio station, which offers news, views, discussion and insight into the Islamic perspective of the world today. This new channel aims to give everyone a space for discussion; for people of faith, no faith or just those with an interest in social peace and greater justice. Several programmes are very relevant to tune in to or to recommend to your Tabligh contacts, including; 34 T abligh

35 -Women s Hour: A programme presenting pertinent issues impacting the Modern Muslim Woman and inviting discussion from experts and callers alike -Faith in Focus: Faith in Focus is a programme that ponders over various aspects of religion. It discusses theology in traditional and modern context and seeks to demonstrate the ways in which faith remains an integral part of life today. -Pathway to Peace: A series of programmes that discuss the issues that face man in the world. Man has a yearning for peace, however there are many troubling conflicts which disturb peace. Each programme concentrates on a single issue. The opinion of the public is given through the interviews recorded on the streets of London and an in-studio panel discusses these and sheds further light on the subject. The opinion of authorities is also sought, and the programme also highlights the various worldwide initiatives to remove barriers to peace. -The Voice of the Caliph: This programme features various keynote addresses of His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (may Allah be his Helper), the head of the Worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. These were delivered at a range of national and international forums including parliaments of the UK, EU and the USA, as well as major interfaith conferences across the world. ADDITIONAL TABLIGH RESOURCES: MTA Programmes such as Faith Matters and Real Talk Jama at Publications such as Review of Religions, Al-Nusrat and The Ahmadiyya Bulletin Books & Pamphlets Sermons and Q&A of Khulafa (MTA and media archive on ( Tabligh Guide (by Naseem Ahmad Bajwa) USEFUL WEBSITES: T abligh

36 ESSENTIAL INFORMATION CONTACTING THE NATIONAL TABLIGH TEAM If you have any questions for the National Tabligh Team, please them to: TABLIGH WEBSITE Please spend some time to access the Lajna Imaillah UK Tabligh website. On this website you will find: Presentations which have been prepared and delivered by Lajna and which you can use for your events, school talks or other seminars; Copies of the Monthly Report Form as well as the 10% Campaign Report Forms Copies of the quarterly Tabligh Newsletter and the fortnightly Newsbriefs Tabligh News and Details of Forthcoming Events Links to useful Tabligh resources such as E-books and websites Guides on planning an organising Tabligh events And lots more! Below is the link to the website: BOOK CLUB The Tabligh book club was a Shura proposal approved by beloved Hazoor (may Allah be his Helper) to help increase our knowledge. The questions for each book will be set out in the quarterly Tabligh Newsletter. The books for the next two years are set out below. All of the books are available online through the Al-Islam website, : Date Book Summary Oct - Dec Muhammad - Liberator of women Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (may Allah be pleased with The teachings of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) elevated the spiritual and social status of women. This book demonstrates how the Founder of Islam was truly The Liberator of Women. 36 T abligh

37 him) 2017: Date Book Summary Jan Mar Apr - June July Sept Oct-Dec 2018: Our God Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (may Allah be pleased with him) Islam s Response to Contemporary Issues Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (Mercy of Allah the Exalted be upon him) The Criterion for Religions The Promised Messiah (peace be on him) Women in Islam Sir Muhammad Zafrullah Khan Sahib The Second Khalifa (may Allah be pleased with him) wrote this book largely for the youth of the time who were being swept by the onslaught of atheist literature. The text sets out in a brief and simple manner the arguments that prove the existence of God, and how to describe His attributes and the advantages and means of establishing communion with Him. Islam s response to contemporary issues is a lecture delivered at the Queen Elizabeth II conference centre by Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IV (Mercy of Allah the Exalted be upon him) on 24 February The central theme of the lecture is the teachings of Islam regarding peace. This book makes a detailed comparison of the major religions of the world from the standpoint of reason and human nature. It discusses at length why other religions, particularly Christianity and Hinduism, fail to present the perfect and Omnipotent God as proclaimed by Islam This short booklet, largely based on the Qur anic teachings, deals with the rights enjoyed by Muslim women, the diversity of their functions as Islam sees it, the concepts of marriage, divorce and polygamy and how social and moral values are preserved in Islam Date Book Summary Jan-Mar Blessings of Khilafat Hazrat Khalifatul This book is a compilation of the speeches delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (may Allah be pleased with him) during the proceedings of Jalsa Salana Qadian in The speeches 37 Tabligh

38 Masih II (may Allah be pleased with him) elaborate on the subject of Khilafat with references to the Holy Qur an and Bible and emphasise that Khilafat is a divine institution and the Khalifah a manifestation of the power of God Apr - Jun Christianity a Journey from Facts to Fiction Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (Mercy of Allah the Exalted be upon him) Jul - Sept Ahmadiyyat Renaissance of Islam Sir Muhammad Zafrullah Khan Sahib This book looks at the current Christian beliefs on the basis of logic and reason and discusses subjects such as the Sonship of Jesus Christ, Atonement, Trinity and the second coming of the Messiah. This book looks at the life, character, claims, status, doctrines and teachings of the founder of Ahmadiyyat, The Promised Messiah (peace be on him). DAI ILALLAH - QUARTERLY TABLIGH NEWSLETTER The Tabligh newsletter, Da ilallah (callers to Allah), is a quarterly publication which highlights the wonderful work our Lajna across the UK are doing in the field of Tabligh. The newsletter is a great opportunity to share news about your Tabligh events and activities and at the same time learn about what other regions are doing. It is also a great opportunity to share ideas and suggestions on how to do Tabligh. Please send reports and pictures of your Tabligh events to the following lajnadainilallah@gmail.com If you do not currently receive the Tabligh newsletter, please contact your regional monitor. TABLIGH MATTERS - FORTNIGHTLY TABLIGH NEWSBRIEF The Tabligh Newsbrief is circulated to all Tabligh Secretaries and Tabligh Monitors every fortnight. It includes useful quotes and directions given by our beloved Huzoor (may Allah be his Helper) in Friday sermons as well as in other speeches and seminars. The Newsbrief is a valuable resource for Tabligh and we would encourage all Tabligh secretaries to be reading it regularly. 38 T abligh

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40 SAMPLE MONTHLY TABLIGH REPORT In order to streamline the Tabligh Report Form, a new, user-friendly format has been in use since January Below, we have included a sample form as a suggested guide to help secretaries complete the form - it gives an idea of the extent of the information that we are looking for in the details section. 40 T abligh