Lajna Imaillah-USA

CONDITIONS OF INITIATION (BAI'AT) The initiate shall solemnly promise: I That he/she shall abstain from Shirk (association of any partner with God) right up to the day

of his/her death. II That he/she shall keep away from falsehood, fornication, adultery, trespasses of the eye,

debauchery, dissipation, cruelty, dishonesty, mischief and rebellion; and will not permit himself/herself to be carried away by passions, however strong they might be.

III That he/she shall regularly offer the five daily prayers in accordance with the

commandments of God and the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him); and shall try his/her best to be regular in offering the Tahajud (pre-dawn supererogatory prayers) and invoking Darood (blessings) on the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him); that he/she shall make it his/her daily routine to ask forgiveness for his/her sins, to remember the bounties of God and to praise and glorify Him.

IV That under the impulse of any passions, he/she shall cause no harm whatsoever to the

creatures of Allah in general, and Muslims in particular, neither by his/her tongue nor by his/her hands nor by any other means.

V 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 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.

VI That he/she shall refrain from following un-Islamic customs and lustful inclinations, and shall

completely submit himself/herself to the authority of the Holy Quran; and shall make the Word of God and the Sayings of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) the guiding principle in every walk of his/her life.

VII That he/she shall entirely give up pride and vanity and shall pass all his/her life in

humbleness, cheerfulness, forbearance and meekness. VIII That he/she shall hold faith, the honor of faith, and the cause of Islam dearer to him/her than

his/her life, wealth, honor, children and all other dear ones. IX That he/she shall keep himself/herself occupied in the service of God's creatures for His

sake only; and shall endeavor to benefit mankind to the best of his/her God-given abilities and powers.

X That he/she shall enter into a bond of brotherhood with this humble servant of God, pledging

obedience to me in everything good, for the sake of Allah, and remain faithful to it till the day of his/her death; that he/she shall exert such a high devotion in the observance of this bond as is not to be found in any other worldly relationship and connections demanding devoted dutifulness.

(Taken from www.alislam.org)

Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook

2013 – 2015

Prepared by the Taleem & Tarbiyat Departments Lajna Imaillah - USA

Sadr Lajna Imaillah – USA Saliha Malik

National Secretary Taleem Mubarika Shah

Taleem Committee

Nudrat Salik Salima Ahmed Attiya Salik Fareeha Haroon Akavish Khan Sahar Choudhary Saira Ijaz Mabroor Jattala

* Special Contribution made by Samina Arian

National Secretary Tarbiyat Aziza Rahman

Tarbiyat Program Assistants

A. Bushra Salam Bajwa Mabroor Jattala Sadiqa Mian

Lajna Imaillah-USA 2 Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2013 – 2015

Lajna Imaillah-USA Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook

2013 – 2015

Table of Contents

Page

Taleem Program Summary 3 Etiquettes for Reading the Holy Qur’an 11 Taleem Program April/May/June 2013 13 July/August/September 2013 24 October/November/December 2013 31 January/February/March 2014 41 April/May/June 2014 54 July/August/September 2014 63 October/November/December 2014 72 January/February/March 2015 84 Taleem Appendices

Appendix A – Mary (Hadhrat Maryam) 95 Appendix B - Prophethood Chart 100

Appendix C – References on Islamic Concept of Creation 103 Appendix D – Remainder of Salat 104

Appendix E – Response Prayers 107 Introduction to the Tarbiyat Program 112 Tarbiyat Program April/May/June 2013 116 July/August/September 2013 126 October/November/December 2013 138 January/February/March 2014 147 April/May/June 2014 156 July/August/September 2014 167 October/November/December 2014 174 January/February/March 2015 183 Etiquettes and Guidelines 192 References & Sources to Complete Workbook 195

Lajna Imaillah-USA 3 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2013 – 2015

Taleem Program Summary 2013 - 2015

“Rabbe Zidni Ilma” O my Lord! Increase me in my knowledge. (20:115) The goal of the Taleem program is to enhance and improve the religious knowledge of Lajna USA through mutual collaboration and religious education programs at local and national levels. This is a program that meets the learning needs of Lajna of all age groups.

AREAS OF FOCUS:

HOLY QUR’AN

Holy Qur’an Nazirah: Learn correct reading and pronunciation of the Holy Qur’an with translation:

In general meetings, Tilawat with translation and revision of Holy Qur’an recitation & rules

One-to-one teaching at local levels

Nazira classes online

Difficult word meanings identified in the Workbook Holy Qur’an Study: The workbook provides focused study, for small groups, Halqa meetings and at home, with questions on Surah Al-Imran with commentary as well as identifying Qur’anic vocabulary and split-word translation. Memorization of Holy Qur’an and Prayers:

Selected verses of Surah Al-Imran are identified in the Workbook

Selected prayers are listed in the Workbook

SALAT Learn split-word translation of Salat and understand the deeper meaning of each part of the Salat wording and position. Increase knowledge of Salat and Ibadat (prayers) using various resources including Friday sermons. Use special articles, speeches and Q&A sessions in general meetings.

AHADITH Read Ahadith in the meeting related to the Attributes of Allah selected for the month & quarter, from the book Words of Wisdom.

BOOKS OF THE PROMISED MESSIAHAS

Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to the Hadith topic should be read in the meetings. Books of the Promised Messiahas should be read in Book Clubs, individually or by other methods of choice.

Lajna Imaillah-USA Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2013 – 2015

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GENERAL ISLAMIC KNOWLEDGE The assigned book for this program is Life of Muhammadsaw by Hadhrat Mirza

Bashir-ud-din Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masihra II. Questions on the book are provided in the Workbook as a study guide.

Four subject-based modules are provided to increase general Islamic Knowledge. Each Majlis will select one module per quarter. Majaalis are encouraged to study a subject that meets the needs and interests of their local Lajna. General information should be provided for current or upcoming special events such as Ramadhan, Eid, and Hajj. Special events are counted towards a module activity for the quarter. Use creative methods when studying a module, such as presentations, seminars, or workshops, etc.

SEERATUN-NABI JALSA: Month of October will be designated as Seeratun-Nabi month for Lajna. All Lajna Majaalis are requested to plan and hold Jalsa Seeratun-Nabi during this month. Special meetings and activities should be held to learn and celebrate our beloved Prophet. Invite non-Ahmadi and non-Muslim guests to this special meeting/Jalsa.

ANNUAL TALEEM TEST 50% questions on the Holy Qur’an from the Workbook

25% questions on the Ahadith

25% questions on the assigned books

ACHIEVEMENTS IN SECULAR EDUCATION The Taleem department encourages members to accomplish outstanding achievements in secular education as well. Well rounded members who actively participate in Lajna activities and achieve success in their secular education will be recognized by Lajna U.S.A.

SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF PROGRAM:

HOLY QUR’AN NAZIRA To ensure correct reading of the Holy Qur‘an, several resources have been made available: Lajna is offering classes for learning the correct pronunciation of the Holy Qur’an. A

website has been setup by the Jama’at with trained and certified Lajna teachers. You can register for these classes through the Lajna website at: http://www.lajnausa.net/web/learn-correct-pronunciation.

CDs of Holy Qur’an Recitations by Qari Muhammad Aashiq are available at www.lajnausa.net/web/node/251.

Al-Tarteel is offering a simple method to improve the recitation of the Holy Qur’an. A link is provided on the Lajna website, www.lajnausa.net.

Special classes with certified teachers can be arranged at a local level.

http://www.lajnausa.net/web/learn-correct-pronunciation

http://www.lajnausa.net/web/node/251

http://www.lajnausa.net/


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Individuals can study on their own using Holy Qur’an Nazira, Taleem-ul-Qur’an by Dr. Karimullah Zirvi.

Pronunciation can be improved by chorus reading during the Lajna meeting with a teacher. Practice reading some verses and words accurately. The number of Lajna attending the meeting should be reported in the monthly report.

Visit www.alfurqan.us to get more information and/or to register for a class.

HOLY QUR’AN STUDY The Holy Qur’an program is organized on a quarterly basis in the workbook but listed on a monthly basis. Assigned verses for the month should be recited at the start of the meeting as Tilawat with translation. Lajna members should complete the workbook questions at home to fully comprehend the subject. Workbook questions should be reviewed in Halqa meetings or in study groups.

SALAT All members must know the entire Salat with meaning. Split word Salat is provided in the Workbook to improve understanding of the Salat and to increase the quality of their Salat. Each Majlis may come up with their own method to learn the meaning. A suggested method would be to discuss the assigned portion of the Salat with the entire group of attendees during the meeting. Do not ask individual members about their understanding of Salat as it may result in an uncomfortable situation. Emphasize the importance of Salat during the year through general knowledge activities.

AHADITH Ahadith are listed by chapter number in each month’s program from Words of Wisdom. The selection is based on the Attributes of Allah being studied for the month. The same Hadith can be repeated in the Halqa meeting held in the same month.

ASSIGNED BOOK Encourage and remind members to read the book at home. The assigned book has been divided into monthly portions and questions are provided in the Workbook for enhancement of the study and should be discussed in the meeting.

GENERAL RELIGIOUS KNOWLEDGE Modules are reduced from once a month to one per quarter in this program. Select one module that you think will be most beneficial for your Lajna. Use identified sources related to the topic or use Jama’at websites. The amount of time spent on the activity can be based on available meeting time and based on other program requirements. It can be as short as reading one page of a book or spending 30 to 40 minutes on a workshop or Q&A session. Activities could include one of the following:

Select a topic from the module list and assign a few members to prepare for a group discussion or Q&A session

Select a topic, such as financial sacrifice, and ask one or more members to do a presentation based on this selection

http://www.alfurqan.us/


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Select a topic and ask everyone to find references related to the topic to share with others in the meeting

MODULES

Module 1: Book Reading- Encourage Reading Books Especially Students who attend Schools & Colleges Reading, discussion and presentation of a selected book through individual reading or forming of book clubs is encouraged. Following suggested books are available at www.alislam.org library.

Any book of the Promised Messiahas

Baraheen-e-Ahmadiyya Parts I & II

Ahmadiyyat or The True Islam

An Elementary Study of Islam

Conditions of Bai’at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi

World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace

Our God

Views of Scientists on the Existence of God

Module 2: Researched Based Speeches/Presentations on Religious Knowledge

Encourage members to create a presentation on any of the following:

Financial Sacrifice

Prophets Mentioned in Holy Qur’an

Duties Toward God and Fellow-beings

Sharia Laws & guidance for daily life

Oneness of God

Women in Islam

Contemporary Issues

Importance of Knowledge

Any topic suggested by members

Module 3: Special Projects

Workshops or Group discussion can be arranged on these topics.

The Existence of God

The last Surahs of the Holy Qur’an that contain prophecies for the Latter Days,

how these prophecies have been realized with recent events.

Holy Qur’an topics: science, finance, health, family life/relationships

Safe Internet

Any topic suggested by members

http://www.alislam.org/


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Module 4: History of Islam & Ahmadiyyat The Taleem Department will post some topics on the web in a Q&A or Presentation format

History of Islam

History of Ahmadiyyat

Seerat (characteristics) of the wives of the Holy Prophet saw

Seerat of Hadhrat Amma Jaan (wife of the Promised Messiah as)

OVERVIEW OF THE TALEEM PROGRAM April – June 2013

Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short commentary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 1-10 Ahadith: Assigned hadith with Translation & Malfoozat/References of Promised Messiahas Salat: Niyyah, Takbir, split word translation with commentary for deeper understanding. General Knowledge: Read pages 12-63 from the book ‘Life of Muhammad’ saw, and answer questions from the Workbook. Memorization: Prayer from Al-Imran verse #9 Special Activity: Special program on Ramadhan in June or July on the importance of this month including revision of prayers.

July – September 2013

Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 11-21, (note: One month of the Taleem program is reduced due to the month of Ramadhan) Ahadith: Assigned hadith with Translation & Malfoozat/References of Promised Messiahas Salat: Thana, split word translation with commentary for deeper understanding. General Knowledge: Read pages 63-97 from the book ‘Life of Muhammad saw, and answer questions from the Workbook. Memorization: Any prayer listed in the Workbook Special Activity: Special program on Ramadhan in June or July on the importance of Ramadhan including revision of prayers. October – December 2013 Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 22-37 Ahadith: Assigned hadith with Translation & Malfoozat/References of Promised Messiahas Salat: Ta’awwudh, Surah Al-Fatiha, split word translation with commentary for deeper understanding. General Knowledge: Read pages 97-151 from the book ‘Life of Muhammad saw, and answer questions from the Workbook. Memorization: Al-Imran verse #27 & 28 Special Activities: 1) Hold Jalsa Seeratun-Nabi with invited guests. Address the topics


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of Peace and Liberation of Women. 2) Give a presentation on the sacrifice of Hadhrat Ishmael as (due to Eid-ul-Adhia) and blessings on the progeny. 2) In December hold a workshop on the birth of Mary (Hadhrat Maryam) and Jesus as January – March 2014

Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 38-55 Ahadith: Assigned hadith with Translation & Malfoozat/References of Promised Messiahas Salat: Surah Al-Fatiha, split word translation with commentary for deeper understanding. General Knowledge: Read pages 151-199 from the book ‘Life of Muhammad saw, and answer questions from the Workbook. Memorization: Al-Imran verse #27 & 28 Annual Taleem Test April – June 2014 Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 56-68 Ahadith: Assigned hadith with Translation & Malfoozat/References of Promised Messiahas Salat: Surah Ikhlas or Talawat, split word translation with commentary for deeper understanding. General Knowledge: Read pages 199-249 from the book ‘Life of Muhammad’ saw and answer questions from the Workbook. Memorization: Any prayer listed in the Workbook Special Activity: Special program on Ramadhan in June on the importance of this month including revision of prayers. July – September 2014 Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 69-76 (note: One month Taleem program is reduced due to month of Ramadhan) Ahadith: Assigned hadith with Translation & Malfoozat/References of Promised Messiahas Salat: Ruku, Sajdah, split word translation with commentary for deeper understanding. General Knowledge: Read pages 249-278 from the book ‘Life of Muhammad’ saw and answer questions from the Workbook. Memorization: Any prayer listed in the Workbook Special Activity: Special program or workshop on Hajj & Sacrifice

October – December 2014

Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 77-92 Ahadith: Assigned hadith with Translation & Malfoozat/References of Promised Messiahas Salat: Prayers between Sajdah, Tashahhud, split word translation with commentary for deeper understanding. General Knowledge: Read pages 278-327 from the book ‘Life of Muhammad’ saw and


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answer questions from the Workbook. Memorization: Any prayer listed in the Workbook Special Activities: Hold Jalsa Seeratun-Nabi. Arrange special activities during the month of October, to learn and understand the life and characteristics of the Holy Prophetsaw.

January – March 2015

Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 93-106 Ahadith: Assigned hadith with Translation & Malfoozat/References of Promised Messiahas Salat: Darood, split word translation with commentary for deeper understanding. General Knowledge: Read pages 327-379 from the book ‘Life of Muhammad’ saw and answer questions from the Workbook. Memorization: Any prayer listed in the Workbook Annual Taleem Test

Mubarika Shah, National Secretary Taleem

"The best among you is the one who learns and teaches the Holy Qur'an" (Sahih Bukhari) Lajna is offering classes for learning to read the correct pronunciation of the Holy Qur'an on a website that has been setup by Jamaat with trained Lajna teachers. You can register for these classes through the Lajna website at: http://www.lajnausa.net/web/learn-correct-pronunciation You can get information about online Holy Qur'an classes for learning translation, which are organized by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Department of Taleem-ul-Qur'an. These classes are helpful for reading the Holy Qur'an (in Arabic) with correct pronunciation and understanding the meaning. Please visit www.alfurqan.us to get more information and/or register yourself.

http://www.lajnausa.net/web/learn-correct-pronunciation

http://www.alfurqan.us/


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GUIDELINES ON HOW TO USE THIS WORKBOOK

Members should study the Holy Qur’an and answer the questions in the workbook at home. The questions should be reviewed and discussed in Halqa meetings or in the main meeting, depending upon the size of your Majlis.

Before the Holy Qur’an questions, a brief summary of the verses is given to provide insight into the subject of the verses. It is recommended to read the summary before the questions are discussed.

It is important that the verses assigned for the quarter are covered in that quarter; however, there is flexibility as to how many questions are covered within each month of the quarter. The primary focus is to ensure that all of the specified verses are covered within the assigned quarter.

The assigned verses should be recited at the start of the meeting as Tilawat with translation. To improve the correct reading of the Holy Qur’an, you may establish a special class. The suggested book for Holy Qur’an Nazira is Ta’limul Qur’an by Dr. Karimullah Zirvi.

Selected words from the verses of Holy Qur’an, read during the quarter, are provided. Members are required to memorize the translation of these words. This will improve the understanding of the translation of the Holy Qur’an.

In each quarter, Salat with split word meaning is provided. Members are required to learn this section of word meanings at home during the quarter. The word by word meaning of the Salat should be discussed in the meeting along with the commentary to improve our quality of Salat.

The assigned reading book, Life of Muhammadsaw

, must be read at home by all

members. A breakdown of chapters is provided each month with a question relating to those chapters. A brief discussion on the question in the meeting is encouraged; this will

improve members’ knowledge of the life of the Holy Prophetsaw

and the history of Islam.

IMPORTANT NOTES: 1) The Arabic text in this workbook has been copied from alislam.org. We apologize and seek forgiveness of Allah for any unintentional human errors. 2) For selected words of the Holy Qur’an, we copied the words as they were in the Holy Qur’an text. The A’raabs of each stand-alone word may not follow Arabic grammar rules. Our intention is to learn the meaning of the word as it appears in the Holy Qur’an. 3) The Salat commentary presented after word by word translation have been taken from Quotes and sayings of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh:

“Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e-Namaz”: Collection of transcripts from Urdu classes in which Huzurrh had taught young children meanings of Salat and matters related to it.

“Zauq-e-Ibadat and Adaab-e-Du’a”: A collection of Huzur’srh sermons about Salat. Lajna Imaillah USA has translated some portions of these references for the Taleem Workbook. A complete list of references is given at the end of the book.


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ETIQUETTES FOR READING THE HOLY QUR’AN

Be physically and spiritually clean.

That this is indeed a noble Qur’an; In a well preserved book; Which none shall touch except those who are purified (56:78-80)

We should be physically clean and, preferably, perform wudū before its recitation. Also to fully absorb the blessings of the Qur’an and to understand its real meanings, one should be spiritually pure, clean and sincere in one’s beliefs.

Recite the following prayer before reciting the Holy Qur’an. The Holy Qur’an directs us to say Ta’awwudh before reciting the Holy Qur’an: a‘üdhu billähi minash-shaitänir-rajïm Seek refuge with Allah from Satan the rejected. (16:99)

Remain silent and listen when the Holy Qur’an is recited. "And when the Qur'an is recited, give ear to it and keep silence, that you may be shown mercy." (7:205)

Handle the Holy Qu’ran respectfully. We should not place workbooks or any written pages of the Holy Qur’an on the floor or in a dirty place. We should always have the utmost outward respect for the words of Allah.

Recite the Holy Qur’an at dawn. Daily recitation is preferred at dawn. The Holy Qur’an states: And recitation of the Qur’an in Prayer at dawn. Verily, the recitation of the Qur’an at dawn is specially acceptable to God. (17:79)


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TALEEM PROGRAM

2013 - 2015

Lajna Imaillah-USA 13 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2013 2013 – 2015 Quarter 1

TALEEM PROGRAM

Quarter 1

(April, May, & June 2013)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER: Memorization: Prayer from Al-Imran verse #9 Special Activity: Special program before Ramadhan in June or July on the importance of this month including revision of prayers.

April 2013

Holy Qur’an Read Surah Al-Fatihah and discuss the Importance of the Holy Qur’an and Introduction to Surah Al-Imran below.

[1:1] In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.

[1:2] All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of all the worlds,

[1:3] The Gracious, the Merciful,

[1:4] Master of the Day of Judgment.

[1:5] Thee alone do we worship and Thee alone do we implore for help.

[1:6] Guide us in the right path —

[1:7] The path of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy blessings, those who have not incurred Thy displeasure, and those who have not gone astray.

Lajna Imaillah-USA Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2013 2013 – 2015 Quarter 1

14

Hadith Attribute of Allah: Al Nur - Light We can reflect this attribute of Allah through Obedience to the Holy Prophetsaw. Abu Huraira, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, say: “He who obeys me obeys Allah and he who disobeys me disobeys Allah, and he who obeys my appointee obeys me and he who disobeys my appointee disobeys me.” (Muslim) Urdu and Arabic Page 211 of Words of Wisdom

Read Malfoozat or writing of the Promised Messiahas

on the same subject as this Hadith.

Importance of the Holy Qur’an

The Holy Qur’an is a compilation of the verbal revelations given to the Holy Prophet

Muhammadsaw

over a period of twenty two years. The Holy Qur’an is divided into 114 Surahs or

Chapters and each Chapter consists of individual Ayaats or verses. There are in total 6,348 verses in the Holy Qur’an. The Surahs are of varying lengths, some consisting of a few lines while others run for many pages. Surah Al-Baqarah (Ch:2) is the longest Chapter comprising of 287 verses while Surah Al-Kauthar (Ch:108) is the shortest with only four verses including the tasmia. The Holy Qur’an is the Word of God and contains complete guidance for mankind. Much of the Holy Qur’an is about God, His attributes and man's relationship to Him, but it also contains directives for its followers, historical accounts of certain prophets and peoples, arguments for

accepting Muhammadsaw

as a genuine Prophet and good news for the believers and warnings

for the disbelievers. Allah Ta’ala Himself revealed to us:

“This is a perfect Book; there is no doubt in it; it is a guidance for the righteous,”

“Alif Lam Ra. This is a Book which We have revealed to thee that thou mayest bring mankind out of the depths of darkness into light, by the command of their Lord, to the


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path of the Mighty, the Praiseworthy.” (The Holy Qur’an 14:2)

The Holy Prophetsaw

told us:

“The best among you is the one who learns the Holy Qur’an and teaches it to others” The Promised Messiahas had a deep and intense love for the Holy Quran and inspired the whole Jamaat by saying: “The real and perfect paths of salvation have been opened only by the Holy Qur’an; all others were only its shadows. Therefore, you should study this Holy Scripture with the utmost attention and deepest thought; and you should love it as you have never loved anything else. For indeed, as God has conveyed to me: All sort of virtues are in the Holy Qur’an. All kinds of good are to be found in it – and this is truth. Unfortunate, indeed, are the people who give preference to other things over it. The Holy Qur’an is the fountainhead of your salvation for all betterment and success. There is not even a singly spiritual need which has not been met for you in this Holy Book. The supporter or falsifier of your faith on the Day of Judgement would be the Holy Qur’an, and apart from this book, there is no other under the heavens, which can provide you with direct guidance. It is indeed a great blessing of God upon you that He has bestowed upon you a book like this… Realize, therefore, the value of blessings bestowed upon you. It is a precious blessing and a great treasure.” (Kashti Nuh, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 19, page 26)

The Holy Qur’an has three qualities. First, it guides people to the knowledge of the faith that had disappeared. Secondly, it sets forth the details of such knowledge as had been briefly stated. Thirdly, it sets forth the decisive word concerning matters over which differences had arisen and thus distinguishes between truth and falsehood. …All knowledge of faith has been set out in detail in this Book and it points out those means and teaches that perfect knowledge which should lead man not only to partial progress but to full development. …This Book has been revealed so that every religious eternal truth might be plainly stated and this perfect statement might prove the means of guidance and mercy for those who submit wholly to God. The Holy Qur’an removes every kind of doubt that passes through a man’s mind and puts down false notions, and bestows the light of perfect understanding; that is to say, it bestows all the insights and verities or eternal truths that are needed for turning to God Almighty and believing in Him. “It is an excellent touchstone whereby we can distinguish between truth and falsehood. It is the one bright lamp, which shows the way of truth. Without doubt, the hearts of those who have a relationship with the straight path are drawn to the Holy Qur’an. [Izala-e-Auham, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 3, pp. 381-382] Source: http://www.alislam.org/library/articles/Promised-Messiah-and-The-Holy-Quran-20080306MN.pdf Hadrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba emphasizes the importance of daily recitation in his Friday sermon of September 24, 2004:

http://www.alislam.org/library/articles/Promised-Messiah-and-The-Holy-Quran-20080306MN.pdf

http://www.alislam.org/library/articles/Promised-Messiah-and-The-Holy-Quran-20080306MN.pdf


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“Every Ahmadi should make sure that he himself, and his wife and children recite the Holy Qur’an regularly. He should also make a full effort to learn the translation of the Holy Qur’an. In addition, he should read Hadrat Masih Mau’d’sas Commentary of the Holy Qur’an. They should recite the Holy Qur’an as if it is not an ordinary book, but rather keeping in mind that it is the Word of God Almighty.”

Introduction to Surah Al-Imran This Surah was revealed in the third year after Hijrah (migration to Medina). It contains 201 verses including Bismillah. It especially discusses the third group of ‘Za’aleen’ (those who have strayed from the right path). This Surah has a deep connection with Surah Al-Baqarah in that both are given the name Al-Zahra’wa’n (The Two Bright Ones). Surah Al-Baqarah deals with wrong beliefs and practices of the Jewish religion and this Surah mainly deals with wrong Christian doctrines. This Surah also begins with the abbreviated words of Alif, Lam Mim (I am Allah, the All-Knowing), which are intended to draw attention to the Divine attribute of knowledge. The Surah proceeds to say that Jews and Christians have strayed away from the right path. The Torah and Gospels have been abrogated and therefore, are unable to satisfy human needs and requirements. The main subject of the Surah is Christianity. It starts from the birth of Mary (Hadhrat Maryam)

and Hadhrat Jesusas

. Information on Allah’s special favors on Mary and her exalted status is

highlighted. Allah’s blessings and favors upon Jesusas

and miracles associated with Jesusas

are

described in such a way that the misunderstandings developed after reading the Bible are

removed. The death of Jesusas

, refuting the main theme of the Divinity of Jesusas

, is clearly

explained. The Surah emphasizes the unity of God, and the attention of the People of the Book is drawn to the fact that Muslims also believe in the truth of the Divine origin and source of their Faith. Therefore, instead of wasting their energies in fighting with each other they should come together to preach the doctrine of the Oneness of God. They are further reminded that Muslims

and Jews have a meeting-point in Abrahamas

. The Surah recognizes good people among the

People of the Book and the Muslims are directed to avoid those with undesirable morals. There is a brief reference made to the Battle of Badr. This Surah entitles special respect and status to those who die while fighting for the cause of the Truth. They receive eternal life. The theme of sacrifice is developed in a way where the moral condition of the People of the Book is described as those who hesitate to spend in the way of Allah. Believers are warned that they will be foolish to not make sacrifices for national cause. Success requires a lot of sacrifices, including wealth and life itself.

Note: All Holy Qur’an questions and summary points were derived from THE HOLY QUR’AN (English Translation & Short Commentary) edited by Malik Ghulam Farid, which is also available at www.alislam.org. Some answers may be found in the English Five-Volume Commentary available at

http://www.alislam.org/quran/tafseer/guide.htm?region=E1

http://www.alislam.org/

http://www.alislam.org/quran/tafseer/guide.htm?region=E1


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Salat

Our goal is to improve the quality of our Salat. We will make a special effort during this program, to learn the split word translation of the Salat and a deeper understanding of the wording of the Salat. This second pillar of Islam is the most powerful tool in establishing and strengthening a person’s communion with his or her Maker.

“Abu Hurairah relates that the Holy Prophetsaw

said: The first item in respect of which a person

would be called to account on the Day of Judgment will be Prayer. If that is found in order he would be successful and prosper, but if that is not in order he would be ruined and lost.” In order to perform Salat in its true meaning, it is very important to not just only recite the Arabic words like a parrot, but also to ponder over and understand its’ meaning.

Promised Messiahas

says:

“Salat should be offered in the Most befitting manner. It is folly to be satisfied with the outward performance of Salat. Most people observe Salat only formally and get through it quickly as if it were a burdensome tax, which should be got rid of speedily. You should seek to make your Salat delicious like food and cold water, lest it should bring woe upon you rather than a blessing. Salat is an obligation due to God. It should be carried out in excellent manner” (Essence of Islam Vol. II, page 303)

On His recent visit to the USA in 2012, our beloved Imam, Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba

explained the importance of Salat and advised us in raising our standards of Salat in following words: “Every Ahmadi is expected to offer the most excellent form of Salat. The Importance of Salat should be understood by every Ahmadi, so that our Jamaat can demonstrate through practical actions and show the world that after coming into the bai’at of the Promised Messiah, we have

undergone such pure transformations that have led us to God. The Promised Messiahas

said

that interest in Salat is attained through the blessings of God, therefore the first prayer to be offered is this: O Lord, inculcate in me this desire for prayer.” (From summary of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba's Friday Sermon on June 22, 2012 at Masjid Bait-ur-Rahman in Maryland: http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2012-06-22.html). In each quarter we will learn a small portion of the Salat with split word translation, along with

the commentary of Salat as explained by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh

in Urdu classes and

various other sermons, and few other references.

http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2012-06-22.html


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Niyyah

Wal’ ardha fataras -samaawaati Lil’ladhi Wajhi’ya Wajjah’tu

And the earth Created the heavens Towards him

(who) My full

attention I have turned

Al’mushrikeen min Anaa wwa maa Hanifan

Who associated partners with Allah

Among those I am And not

Being ever inclined to Him

Book Reading

Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 12 – 29) Topics: Arabia at the time of the Holy Prophet’ssaw Birth, Marriage to Khadija ra, First Revelation, and First Converts Briefly describe the condition of Arabia at the time of the birth of the Holy Prophet

Muhammadsaw

. Explain that even though the Arabs traced their decent to Abrahamas

, a

monotheistic teacher, how did they defend their polytheistic beliefs?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


19

May 2013

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 1 to 6 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:1] In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.

[3:2] Alif Lam Mim.

[3:3] Allah is He beside Whom there is no God, the Living, the Self-Subsisting and All-Sustaining.

[3:4] He has sent down to thee the Book containing the truth and fulfilling that which precedes it; and He sent down the Torah and the Gospel

[3:5] Before this, as a guidance to the people; and He has sent down the Discrimination. Surely, those who deny the Signs of Allah shall have a severe punishment. And Allah is Mighty, Possessor of the power to requite.

[3:6] Surely, nothing in the earth or in the heaven is hidden from Allah.

Hadith

Attribute of Allah: Al Nur - Light We can reflect this attribute of Allah through Obedience to the Holy Prophetsaw. Abu Huraira, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, say: “All my people will enter Paradise, except those who deny me.” He was asked : Who will be the deniers, Messenger of Allah? He said: “He who obeys me will enter Paradise and he who disobeys me denies“ (Bokhari) Gardens of Righteous, Hadith Number 59




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Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 1 - 6 Surah Al-Imran opens with the abbreviated letters, Alif Lam Mim (I am Allah, the All-Knowing). It draws the attention to the Divine attribute of knowledge. The mention of the attributes, the Living, the Self-Subsisting and All-Sustaining is meant to point out that in this Surah the Divine attribute of knowledge has been substantiated by God’s attributes, the Living, the Self-Subsisting and All-Sustaining. Allah has sent down the Holy Qur’an with true teachings as a source of guidance that has been predicted in previous scriptures including the Torah and the Gospel.

May 2013 Questions 1. How does verse 3 of Surah Al-Imran refute the false doctrine of the divinity of Jesus?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ 2. Verse 4 of Surah Al-Imran declares the Holy Qur’an as the book containing “the truth.”

What does the expression “containing the truth (Bil Haqq)” signify?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 29 – 45) Topics: The Faithful Persecuted, The Message of Islam, Emigration to Abyssinia Discuss the following points:

Why did the Meccan people come to see Abu Talib, and what was his response?

Why were the Meccans upset when some of the Muslims migrated to Abyssinia? What plan

did the Meccans come up with to force the Muslims to return to Mecca?

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


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June 2013

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 7 to 10 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:7] He it is Who fashions you in the wombs as He wills; there is no God but He, the Mighty, the Wise

[3:8] He it is Who has sent down to thee the Book; in it there are verses that are decisive in meaning — they are the basis of the Book — and there are others that are susceptible of different interpretations. But those in whose hearts is perversity pursue such thereof as are susceptible of different interpretations, seeking discord and seeking wrong interpretation of it. And none knows its right interpretation except Allah and those who are firmly grounded in knowledge; they say, ‘We believe in it; the whole is from our Lord.’ — And none heed except those gifted with understanding. —

[3:9] ‘Our Lord, let not our hearts become perverse after Thou hast guided us; and bestow on us mercy from Thyself; surely, Thou alone art the Bestower.

[3:10] ‘Our Lord, Thou wilt certainly assemble mankind together on the Day about which there is no doubt; surely, Allah breaks not His promise.’


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Hadith Attribute of Allah: Al Nur - Light We can reflect this attribute of Allah through Obedience to the Holy Prophetsaw.

Abdullah ibn Amr ibn, may Allah be pleased with him relates that he heard the Holy Prophetsaw

say: “He who calls down blessings on me, Allah sends down blessings on him ten times”. (Muslim) Garden of the Righteous, Hadith Number 1402, Page 234



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 7 - 11 Verses 7 to 11 of Surah Al-Imran point out that the Mighty and Wise God who created human beings has sent down the book with secure, decisive and clear meaning to establish the truth. They comprise a very important prayer that may the favors and blessings of Allah continue to be source of guidance and not be misinterpreted, so they are not punished on the Day of Judgment when whole mankind will be gathered.

June 2013 Questions

3. How did the Holy Prophetsaw

relate the early development of a human being to disprove the

so-called divinity of Jesusas

?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ 4. Describe the differences between the Mukhamat and Mutashabihat types of verses of the

Holy Qur’an as described in verse 8 of Surah of Al-Imran. What golden rule is laid down in the Holy Qur’an to prove any contentious point?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


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Holy Qur’an Words Learn these words with translation:

`

Al-Wahhabu La Tuzigh Azeezun Musaddiqu Al-Qayyoomu Al-Hayyu

Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 45 – 63)

Topics: Umarra

Accepts Islam, Persecution Intensifies, The Prophetsaw

Goes to Ta’if, Islam

Spreads to Medina

Describe how the Meccan people boycotted the Muslims. How did the boycott end and what were the consequences of the boycott?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________

Lajna Imaillah-USA 24 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2013 2013 – 2015 Quarter 2

Quarter 2

(July, August, & September 2013)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER: Special Note: Due to Ramadhan activities, the Taleem program has been reduced for this quarter. During this special month effort should be made to increase our personal Ibadaat through fasting, extra Nawafal and reading of the Holy Qur’an. The program for two months is provided and it will be the choice of the local Majlis to select which 2 out of the 3 months to hold their meetings in. Memorization: Any prayer listed in the Workbook Special Activities: Special program before Ramadhan in June or July on the importance of this month and revision of prayers.

July/August 2013

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 11 to 15 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:11] Those who disbelieve — their possessions and their children shall not avail them at all against Allah; and it is they that are the fuel of the Fire.

[3:12] Their case is like the case of the people of Pharaoh and those before them; they rejected Our Signs; so Allah punished them for their sins, and Allah is severe in punishing.

[3:13] Say to those who disbelieve, ‘You shall be overcome and gathered unto Hell; and an evil place of rest it is.’

Lajna Imaillah-USA Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2013 2013 – 2015 Quarter 2

25

[3:14] Certainly there was for you a Sign in the two armies that encountered each other, one army fighting in the cause of Allah and the other disbelieving, whom they saw to be twice as many as themselves, actually with their eyes. Thus Allah strengthens with His aid whomsoever He pleases. In that surely is a lesson for those who have eyes.

[3:15] Beautified for men is the love of desired things — women and children, and stored-up heaps of gold and silver, and pastured horses and cattle and crops. That is the provision of the present life; but it is Allah with Whom is an excellent home.

Hadith Attributes of Allah: Al Wahab – The Bestower and Ash Shakoor – the Appreciator We can reflect these attributes of Allah through Salat and Prayer. Abu Huraira, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that he heard the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, say: “Tell me, if one of you had a stream running at his door and he take a bath in it five times every day would any dirt be left upon him?” He was answered: O Prophet of Allah! No dirt will be left on him. The Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, observed: “This is the case of the five prayers. Allah wipes out all faults in consequence of them.” (Bukhari) Urdu and Arabic Page 63 of Words of Wisdom

Read Malfoozat or writing of the Promised Messiah

as on the same subject as this Hadith.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 11 -15 These verses contain prophecies for Muslims and warnings for the non-believers. The example of previous historical incidents such as the efforts of Pharaoh and his people against Moses is mentioned. Disbelievers will not be successful even with their advancement and their material means at their disposal. Muslims should not have any doubt or misgiving that they will prevail


26

against the disbelievers because God had already granted them predominance over their powerful enemies. Although Muslims lack material means, they possess ample moral and spiritual means, and their efforts are not in pursuit of material goods of this life.

July/August 2013 Questions 5. Which battle is mentioned in verse 14 of Surah Al-Imran? Describe the significance of this

battle in the history of Islam.

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ 6. Does Islam prohibit the use or seeking of good things in life? What guidance is provided in

this regard?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________

Salat

Thana

-smuka wa tabaaraka- wa bihamdika Allaahum’ma Subhaa’naka

Is Thy name And blessed

and with all Praise Art Thou Holy

Ghairuka Ilaa’ha wa laa Jad’duka wata'alaa

Worthy of worship

Except Thee And There is none Is Thy State And Exalted

Important Note: Quotes and sayings of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IV

rh on the subject of Salat presented in this

commentary have been taken from:


27

“Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e-Namaz”: Collection of transcripts from Urdu classes in

which Huzurrh

had taught young children meanings of Salat and matters related to it.

“Zauq-e-Ibadat and Adaab-e-Du’a”: A collection of Huzur’srh

sermons about Salat.

Lajna Imaillah USA has translated some portions of these references for the Taleem Workbook. A complete list of references is given at the end of the book.

Commentary: Subhaa’na means holy or clean. When a garment is dirty or has stains, we clean it, we scrub it and wash it in order to get the stains out and make it clean. What is clean? Something that is stainless, free of dirt, free of any weakness. When a cloth is clean, it is easy to dye it in different colors or to decorate it. It cannot be beautified with other colors or decorations if the cloth is dirty, because the stains or dirt will remain underneath. So what is meant here is: “O Allah You are free from any weakness.” Wa bihamdika: You are also full of Praise that is complete. It is not sufficient to just be free of any weakness, but it is also important to have qualities, so that is what is meant by praise that is complete. Wa tabaaraka-smuka: We have already understood that in the name Allah, there is no weakness and that there are qualities. When there is no weakness and there are qualities, such a thing is blessed. We are being instructed here to seek blessings only from God alone and not anyone else. Allah’s name is blessed and anyone who would say His name with this understanding would derive blessings. Wata’alaa Jad’duka: Allah is exalted above all, and none can compete with Him in this regard. Wa Laailaa’ha Ghairuka: In this verse, we admit that there is no one like unto Him. There is only One Being, Allah, Who has all the qualities and that He alone is worthy of worship.

(Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e-Namaz, pages1-3)

Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 63 – 80) Topics: First Pledge of Aqaba, The Hijra, Suraqara Pursues the Prophetsaw, The Prophetsaw Arrives at Medina, Abu Ayyub Ansarira As Prophet’ssaw Host, Life Unsafe at Medina

Briefly describe the Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssaw

migration from Mecca to Medina and how the

revelation about the gold bangles was fulfilled. What important step did the Holy Prophet

Muhammadsaw

take in uniting the Meccan and Medinite Muslims?

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________


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September 2013

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 16 to 21 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:16] Say, ‘Shall I inform you of something better than that?’ For those who fear God, there are Gardens with their Lord, beneath which rivers flow; therein shall they abide; and pure spouses and Allah’s pleasure. And Allah is Mindful of His servants,

[3:17] Those who say, ‘Our Lord, we do believe; forgive us, therefore, our sins and save us from the punishment of the Fire;’

[3:18] The steadfast, and the truthful, and the humble, and those who spend in the way of God, and those who seek forgiveness in the latter part of the night.

[3:19] Allah bears witness that there is no God but He — and also do the angels and those possessed of knowledge — Maintainer of justice; there is no God but He, the Mighty, the Wise.

[3:20] Surely, the true religion with Allah is Islam (complete submission). And those who were given the Book did not disagree but after knowledge had come to them, out of mutual envy. And whoso denies the Signs of Allah, then surely, Allah is quick at reckoning.


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[3:21] But if they dispute with thee, say, ‘I have submitted myself to Allah, and also those who follow me.’ And say to those who have been given the Book and to the unlearned, ‘Have you submitted?’ If they submit, then they will surely be guided; but if they turn back, then thy duty is only to convey the message. And Allah is Watchful of His servants.

Hadith Attributes of Allah: Al Wahab – The Bestower and Ash Shakoor – the Appreciator We can reflect these attributes of Allah through Salat and Prayer. Jabir, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that he heard the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, say: “Giving up Prayer is tantamount to disbelief and associating partners with Allah.” (Muslim) Urdu and Arabic Text Page 73 of Words of Wisdom



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 16 - 21 Islam does not object to the acquisition of good things in life, but the Holy Qur’an mentions that the greatest of all these things in life is the pleasure of Allah. The qualities of a true believer are described. These qualities can be attained through complete submission to God, and complete submission requires complete manifestation of God’s attributes.

September 2013 Questions 7. What are the four stages of spiritual progress as described in verse 18 of Surah Al-Imran?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________


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8. What do all true religions inculcate in their beliefs? How does Islam provide a unique way to attain true submission to God?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


`

Al-islamu Al-mustaghfireena Al-qaniteena Zuyina Yuayyidu Waqudu

Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 80 – 101) Topics: Pact Between Various Tribes of Medina, Meccans Preparing to Attack Medina, Battle of Badr, A Great Prophecy Fulfilled Briefly describe what occurred during the Battle of Badr and describe the spirit of devotion and sacrifice Muslims displayed during the Battle.

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

Lajna Imaillah-USA 31 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2013 2013 – 2015 Quarter 3

Quarter 3

(October, November, & December 2013)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER: Memorization: Members are requested to make a special effort to memorize verses 27 & 28 of Surah Al-Imran. It has been reported that the Holy Prophetsaw and his companions used to recite these verses as prayers. Special Activities: 1) Hold Jalsa Seeratun-Nabi with invited guests. Address the topics of Peace and Liberation of Women.

2) Give a presentation or discuss the sacrifice of Hadhrat Ishmaelas

and blessings on the

progeny (due to Eid-ul-Adhia).

3) In December hold a workshop on the birth of Mary (Hadhrat Maryam) and Jesusas. Refer to

Appendix A for reference material.

October 2013

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 22 to 26 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:22] Surely, those who deny the Signs of Allah and seek to kill the Prophets unjustly, and seek to kill such men as enjoin equity — announce to them a painful punishment.

[3:23] Those are they whose deeds shall come to naught in this world and in the next, and they shall have no helpers.

Lajna Imaillah-USA Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2013 2013 – 2015 Quarter 3

32

[3:24] Dost thou not know of those who have been given their portion of the Book? They are called to the Book of Allah that it may judge between them, but a party of them turn away in aversion.

[3:25] That is because they say, ‘The Fire shall not touch us, except for a limited number of days.’ And what they used to forge has deceived them regarding their religion. [3:26] How will they fare when We will gather them together on the Day about which there is no doubt; and when every soul shall be paid in full what it has earned, and they shall not be wronged?

Hadith Attributes of Allah: Al Ghaffar - the Forgiver and As Sattar - the Concealer of Faults We can reflect these attributes of Allah through our marital relations. Abu Huraira, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “No one should send a proposal for marriage till a decision is made regarding the proposal for marriage sent earlier by someone else”. (Bukhari) Urdu and Arabic Page 127 of Words of Wisdom



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 22 - 26 Disbelievers are warned of the divine punishment for not accepting the Signs of God. They are told that their efforts in the present life to destroy Islam will be unsuccessful, and their work will be of no use to them in the life hereafter. If they had followed the “portion of the Book” given to them, they would have accepted the New Faith. On the Day of Judgment, the disbelievers will realize that being the descendants of God’s People or believing in the crucifixion of Jesus will not save them from the punishment of Hell.


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October 2013 Questions 9. Disbelievers are warned in verse 22 that Allah fails the plans of disbelievers who persist in

rejecting the signs of Allah and try to fight and destroy His messengers. Provide some

examples from the life of the Holy Prophetsaw

and the Promised Messiahas

in support of this

statement.

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ 10. Verses 23 and 24 refer to those who disbelieved and rejected the prophecies in the “portion

of the Book.” What is meant by the “portion of the Book?” Who are these people and why do they believe they will be safe from the punishment of the hereafter?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________

Salat

Ta'awwudh

Rajeem Minash shaitaanir Billaahi A'oodhu

The accursed From Satan With Allah I seek refuge

Surah Al-Fatihah

Raheem Rahmaanir Bismillaahir

The Merciful The Gracious In the name of Allah

Note: The remainder of Surah Al-Fatihah will be covered in the next quarter.

http://www.alislam.org/salaat/05qiyam.html#taawwudh


34

Commentary:

A'oodhu billaahi minash shaitaanir rajeem: Khalifatul Masih IVrh

used the following analogy

to explain the meanings of Ta’awwudh: “Imagine a child who is holding his parent’s hands and is walking along on the street. He suddenly lets go of the hand and decides to run ahead. Imagine that he is afraid of dogs and he sees a dog and runs immediately back to his/her parent and insist that he/she is picked up in the lap, so that he can be saved from the dog. That is exactly what is meant by “I seek Refuge.” One says O Allah, I am coming in your protection, from Satan. Children run to their parents for protection from dogs, but to seek protection from Satan, you cannot run to your parents; you have to seek Allah’s protection. Satan cannot do you any harm if you are in Allah’s protection, because Satan is afraid of Allah and he will not go near Him. So we pray that O, Allah, we seek your protection. Please protect us from Satan, as Satan will be everywhere, except with you.” (Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e Namaz p.3: Urdu Class Number 310, October 11th 1997)

Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Raheem: Khalifatul Masih IVrh

explained the significance and

meanings of Bismillaah in the following words: “In Thana, Allah introduces Himself by saying that He is Holy, and free from any weakness. Here Allah introduces two new attributes; Rahmaan and Raheem, which are the fundamental attributes of Allah”.

Hudhurrh

explained the meanings of Rahmaan as someone who provides without being asked,

these words are originated from the word “Rahm” which is the Arabic for a mother’s womb. “Like a mother, Allah provides without limits to all his beings regardless if they ask for it or not.”

Hudhurrh

continued his lesson by instructing the audience that “we should recite bismillaah

before doing everything like eating, drinking, shopping, traveling. In Ta'awwudh we sought Allah’s refuge from Satan, and when Allah grants us refuge, then we have to stay with Allah. There are a lot of benefits in staying with Allah; one of the benefits is that He will help you with everything; anything that you start by reciting Bismillaah will be a blessing for you. It will also keep you away from committing sinful things because you will never invoke His name if you intend to commit something that is not right. Once Ta'awwudh clears your way, by providing you refuge from Satan, Allah has now cleared your path and you will only do good things because you are in Allah’s refuge, He is with you.” (Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e Namaz, p .4-5)

Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 101 – 114) Topics: Battle of Uhud, Victory Converted Into Defeat

How was the battle of Uhud converted into defeat for the Muslims? How did the Holy Prophet

Muhammadsaw

treat the prisoners of war?

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________




35

November 2013

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 27 to 31 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:27] Say, ‘O Allah, Lord of sovereignty, Thou givest sovereignty to whomsoever Thou pleasest; and Thou takest away sovereignty from whomsoever Thou pleasest. Thou exaltest whomsoever Thou pleasest and Thou abasest whomsoever Thou pleasest. In Thy hand is all good. Thou surely hast power to do all things.

[3:28] ‘Thou makest the night pass into the day and makest the day pass into the night. And Thou bringest forth the living from the dead and bringest forth the dead from the living. And Thou givest to whomsoever Thou pleasest without measure.’

[3:29] Let not the believers take disbelievers for friends in preference to believers — and whoever does that has no connection with Allah — except that you cautiously guard against them. And Allah cautions you against His punishment; and to Allah is the returning.

[3:30] Say, ‘Whether you conceal what is in your breasts or reveal it, Allah knows it; and He knows whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. And Allah has power to do all things.’


36

[3:31] Beware of the Day when every soul shall find itself confronted with all the good it has done and all the evil it has done. It will wish there were a great distance between it and that evil. And Allah cautions you against His punishment. And Allah is Most Compassionate to His servants.

Hadith Attributes of Allah: Al Ghaffar - the Forgiver and As Sattar - the Concealer of Faults We can reflect these attributes of Allah through our marital relations. Ayesha, may Allah be pleased with her, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The best among you are those who are good to their families and I am the best of those who are good to their families”. (Abu Daud) Urdu and Arabic Page 133 of Words of Wisdom



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 27 - 31 These verses point to the absolute divine law that nations rise and fall as they conform to, or defy, the will of God, Who is source of all power and glory. They also refer to the fulfillment of the prophecy that the spiritual and worldy powers, previously granted to the Israelites, will

transfer to the Ishmaelites (other progeny of Abrahamas

) and Islam will succeed.

November 2013 Questions 11. Verses 27 and 28 refer to the divine law of the rise and fall of nations. Explain this law in

light of the simile of “Al-Nahaar (the day)” and “Al-Lail (the night)” in verse 28. What promise has been made to the Muslims in these verses?

_________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


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12. What guiding principle is given to Muslim states in verse 29 with regards to forming political alliances and treaties?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________

Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 114-133)

Topics: Rumour of Prophet'ssaw

Death Reaches Medina, Encounter With Banu Mustaliq

Describe what happened when the revelation of the prohibition of drinking alcohol was revealed.

What two events resulted in the loss of lives of 80 Muslims?

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________


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December 2013

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 32 to 37 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:32] Say, ‘If you love Allah, follow me: then will Allah love you and forgive you your faults. And Allah is Most Forgiving, Merciful.’

[3:33] Say, ‘Obey Allah and the Messenger;’ but if they turn away, then remember that Allah loves not the disbelievers.

[3:34] Allah did choose Adam and Noah and the family of Abraham and the family of ‘Imran above all peoples —

[3:35] A race, co-related with one another. And Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.

[3:36] Remember when the woman of ‘Imran said, ‘My Lord, I have vowed to Thee what is in my womb to be dedicated to Thy service. So do accept it of me; verily, Thou alone art All-Hearing, All-Knowing.’


39

[3:37] But when she was delivered of it, she said, ‘My Lord, I am delivered of a female’ — and Allah knew best what she had brought forth and the male she was thinking of was not like the female she had brought forth — ‘and I have named her Mary, and I commit her and her offspring to Thy protection from Satan, the rejected.’

Hadith Attributes of Allah: Al Ghaffar - the Forgiver and As Sattar - the Concealer of Faults We can reflect these attributes of Allah through our marital relations. Abu Hurrairah, may Allah be pleased with him, relates the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Allah will cover up the faults on the Day of Judgment of him who covers up the faults of another in this world.” (Muslim) Garden of the Righteous – Section 28 Page 29; Hadith 242



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 32 - 37 These verses reveal how to achieve the love of Allah, which is the most important purpose of human life, and mention those who are deprived of His love. The path to progress for Muslims does not lie in imitating other peoples’ ways and manners but in strictly following Islam and the

Holy Prophetsaw

. The main subject of Surah Al-Imran is introduced in these verses. The theme

of which is the refutation of Christian beliefs regarding the divinity of Jesusas

.

December 2013 Questions 13. How can one attain true love of Allah, the highest goal of human life as described in verse

32 of Surah Al-Imran? Note: This question can be addressed during the workshop referred to below.

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


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14. Create a presentation or conduct a workshop to describe the historical account of the birth of Mary (Hadhrat Maryam) and Jesusas as described in Surah Al-Imran.


`

Unthaa Dhurriyatan Maalikalmulki Ootoo Habitat Bilqisti

Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 133 – 151) Topics: Battle of the Ditch, Fight Against Heavy Odds, Treachery of Banu Quraiza

How many Muslims took part in the Battle of the Ditch? What was the plan of the Banu Quraiza

during the Battle of the Ditch?

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________

Lajna Imaillah-USA 41 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2014 2013 – 2015 Quarter 4

Quarter 4

(January, February, & March 2014)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER: Memorization: Surah Al-Imran Verses #27 & 28 Annual Taleem Test

January 2014

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 38 to 42 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:38] So her Lord accepted her with a gracious acceptance and caused her to grow an excellent growth and made Zachariah her guardian. Whenever Zachariah visited her in the chamber, he found with her provisions. He said, ‘O Mary, whence hast thou this?’ She replied, ‘It is from Allah.’ Surely, Allah gives to whomsoever He pleases without measure.

[3:39] There and then did Zachariah pray to his Lord, saying, ‘My Lord, grant me from Thyself pure offspring; surely, Thou art the Hearer of prayer.’

[3:40] And the angels called to him as he stood praying in the chamber: ‘Allah gives thee glad tidings of Yahya, who shall testify to the truth of a word from Allah — noble and chaste and a Prophet, from among the righteous.’

Lajna Imaillah-USA Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2014 2013 – 2015 Quarter 4

42

[3:41] He said, ‘My Lord, how shall I have a son, when age has overtaken me, and my wife is barren?’ He answered, ‘Such is the way of Allah: He does what He pleases.’ [3:42] He said, ‘My Lord, appoint a token for me.’ He replied, ‘Thy token shall be that thou shalt not speak to men for three days except by signs. And remember thy Lord much and glorify Him in the evening and in the early morning.’

Hadith Attribute of Allah: Al Hadi – The Guide We can reflect these attributes of Allah by being the best guide for our children. Ayyub Bin Mosa, may Allah be pleased with them, relates with references to his father and grandfather that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “There is no better and superior present that a father can give to his children than cultivation of good morals.” (Tirmidhi) Urdu and Arabic Page 145 of Words of Wisdom Read Malfoozat or writing of the Promised Messiahas on the same subject as this Hadith.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 38 - 42

The subject of Christianity was introduced in previous verses and continues in these verses. A pious lady from Ale-Imran named Hanaa, dedicated her child to the service of God before the birth of that child. When Mary (Hadhrat Maryam) was born, she was given to a temple, where

Zachariahas

was appointed as her guardian. Zachariahas

was so impressed by Mary’s piety that

he prayed to God for a child like her and was granted Yahyaas

. The description of the

exceptional birth of Yahyaas

before the birth of Jesusas

is also in support of the exceptional birth

of Jesusas

. The birth of Yahyaas

was a miracle that occurred before the much greater

miraculous birth of Jesusas

.

January 2014 Questions

15. What moved Zachariahas

to pray for a pious child? Describe the significance of the

acceptance of this prayer as mentioned in verses 39-42 of Surah Al-Imran.

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__________________________________________ __________________________________________ 16. Who was Yahya

as (John)? Discuss his status and his role as described in these verses.

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________

Salat

Surah Al-Fatihah (continued)

'aalameen Rab’bil

lillaahi Al hamdu

Of all the worlds Lord Belongs to Allah All Praise

Yaumi’d Maaliki -Ra heem Ar-rahmaanir

Day Master of The merciful The gracious

wa na 'budu Iy’yaka deen

and Do we worship You (alone) Of Judgement

Siraat Ih’dinaa’s Nasta'een Iy’yaaka

The path Guide us to Do we beseech for

help You (alone)


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an 'amta Alla’dheena Siraat al-mustaqeem

You have bestowed your blessings Of those The path Right (that is)

'alaihim il magh’doobi ghair 'alaihim

Upon whom Who have (you)

displeasured Not of (those) Upon whom

dhua’ alleen wa la

who have gone astray And nor ( of those)

Commentary:

The most integral part of Salat is Surah Al-Fatihah. The Holy Prophetsaw

is reported to have

said that Surah Al-Fatihah is the mother of the Holy Qur’an, which signifies its importance and status. It contains the essence of the Holy Qur’an and is like a blueprint of the Holy Qur’an.

Al hamdu lillaahi Rab’bil 'aalameen: “Al-hamd means perfect praise. We are taught here to say ‘All Praise belongs to Allah’ and not, ‘I praise Allah,’ or, ‘we praise Allah.’ It is because man can only praise God according to his knowledge, but the words ‘All praise’ comprises also the praise that man does not know. God is worthy of praise at all times, independently of man’s imperfect knowledge or realization.” (Five Volume Commentary, page 9)

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh

said: Al hamdu means true praise or perfect praise. Lillaahi means

belongs to Allah alone. Perfect praise is that of Allah, it can only be reserved for Allah alone. The more you examine the word Al hamd, the more you will enjoy Salat, because you will see that the gist of the Holy Qur’an is covered in the word of Al hamd. Anything that you find praiseworthy in this world is from Allah because He created it. If one likes a person, it is because that person reflects qualities of Allah. The one person in the world who reflected most

of Allah’s qualities was the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw

. In Al-hamd, we find the Holy

Prophet’ssaw

mention as well. The Holy Prophetsaw

praised Allah the most, and therefore he

was named Ahmad, and among all the prophets, the Holy Prophet’ssaw

praise of Allah was

perfect. Therefore, Allah praised him much in return. (Tadrees-e-Namaz, pages 15-16; Urdu Class Number 310, Oct 11, 1997) Rab’bil ‘aalameen means, “Lord of all the worlds.” God can only be entitled to “all praise” when He is believed to be Lord of all the worlds. His providence must then extend to both the


45

physical and spiritual world. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh

said: Allah has not only created the

Holy Prophetsaw

, but also created the whole universe. It is impossible to ponder over all the

different meanings of Al hamd in Salat at all times. The best way to truly understand its meaning is to reflect upon our daily lives and examine how we encounter Rab’bil ‘aalameen in our daily chores and routines. For instance when you go for a walk and you see a bird pecking seeds, you will instantly say, ‘Al hamdu lillaahi Rab’bil ‘aalameen’, thinking that not only does Allah provide for me, but also for the birds and for all of His other creations. You will realize that all of the universe is sustained by Allah, think about this in Salat while reciting ‘Al hamdu lillaahi Rab’bil ‘alameen’. (Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e-Namaz, page 17) Ar-rahmaanir-Ra heem: In the verse Bismillah, the attributes of Al-Rahmaan and Al- Raheem serve as a key to the meaning of the chapter at the head of which they have been placed. Their mention in Surah Al-Fatihah links the two attributes with the preceding attribute of Rab’bil Aalameen and the attribute that follows them; Maaliki Yaumi’ddeen. As mentioned earlier, Rab’bil ‘Aalameen (Lord of all the Worlds) also implies that after creating things, God also leads them progressively to higher stages of development. The word Ar-rahmaan means that God not only provides the necessary means, but also the faculties needed for the development of man. The word Al-Raheem signifies that when a man makes proper use of the means and faculties bestowed upon him, God not only rewards his labors, but also inspires him with a desire for further good actions, thus opening out to him unending avenues of progress and development.

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh questioned why is the attribute of Ar-rahmaan mentioned again in

the beginning of Surah Al-Fatihah when it has already been mentioned in Tasmeeh? In the Holy Qur’an, the attribute of Ar-Rahmaan is associated with two things:

1) Creation of man – God created humans 2) He taught us the Holy Qur’an, without our asking

Here in Surah Al-Fatihah, Allah is introducing the subject of the Holy Qur’an, and the mention of Ar-rahmaan here is referred to the spiritual world. God has created both the physical world and the spiritual world. Here Al-Rahmaan refers to God who has bestowed us with the knowledge of the Holy Qur’an without us asking for it. He has provided all the things that are of benefit for us in it.

The Promised Messiahas

explains this attribute by giving the example of a seed; there is a

specific season for every seed, and the seed will grow in the season that it is designed for. If we disperse a seed in the wrong season, it does not grow. The seed will lay in the soil protected and when the right season comes after a year, it sprouts and develops into a plant. The attribute of Al-Raheem indicates that if you have not been derived the benefit from the attribute of Ar-rahmaan, Allah will still help you and shower His mercy upon you. (Urdu Class Number 310, Oct 11, 1997 / Tadrees-e-Namaz, pages 18-19) Maaliki yaumi’ddeen: Generally this verse is understood to mean that God is the Master of the Day of Judgment. But it has a wider significance; for although the last and the perfect reckoning will take place on the Day of Judgment, the process of requital is going on even in this life. It also means that God is also Master of the period and process of reckoning in this life as well as in the next.” (Five Volume Commentary, page 12) The word deen means when someone gets reward for their work. For a laborer, ‘Yaumi’ddeen’ is the day when he receives his paycheck. Maaliki yaumi’ddeen, means that one cannot receive


46

his/her reward for labor, unless Allah wills it to happen. Imagine a farmer who plants seeds, works hard all year round to take care of his crops. When it is time to harvest, a storm destroys all of his precious crop, and he is left empty handed. The farmer believed that he was the owner of the crops. We humans often make a mistake by thinking that we own things, when in reality

everything belongs to Allah. The Holy Prophetsaw

who presented a true example of this verse,

gave everything to Allah that he owned in this world including his life. The Promised Messiahas

explained that the Holy Prophetsaw

was Maaliki yaumi’ddeen on this earth, who completely gave

everything to Allah and became totally under His control, he would do only what Allah would like him to do. (Urdu Class Number 313, Oct. 12, 1997/ Tadrees-e-Namaz, pages 11-12) Iy’yaka na 'budu wa iy’yaka nasta'een: Na ’budu is derived from the word abd, and signifies complete humility, submission, obedience and service. A person can only worship God in the real sense of this word, only when acts of worship are performed with utmost humility of heart. In this verse Na ’budu has been placed before the word nasta‘een to signify that after a man has become truly aware of God, his first impulse is to worship Him. The idea of invoking His help comes after the impulse of worship. Man wishes to worship God, but he finds out that in doing so, he needs God’s help. It also points out that it is only God who deserves worship, and He alone can help man in becoming a good and true servant of God. This verse also clears the controversy of whether man is free or predestined to follow a given course of action. The words ‘Thee alone do we worship’ which been put in the mouth of man by God, draws our attention to the fact that the action of man is not predetermined, but man is free to choose and carry out a course of action as he likes. On the other hand, the words, ‘Thee alone do we implore for help,’ implies that God keeps a watch over our actions, and takes steps to remove the constraints which keep us away from His path.” (Five Volume Commentary, page 14) Ih’dinaa’s-siraat al-mustaqeem: Guide us on the right path. The prayer taught in this verse is so perfect and comprehensive that it has no parallel in any religion. We learn that there are two types of paths:

1) Even and straight 2) Uneven and crooked

The attention of the believer is drawn to the fact that he should always be on the lookout for the straight path, and not the crooked one. Sometimes man is led to a straight path, but he fails to stick to it all the way till the end. This prayer requires from us not to be merely satisfied with being shown the right path, or being led to the right path, but to go on following it till we reach our destination. Unlike in other faiths, Muslims are taught this prayer which is very comprehensive. It is not confined to spiritual things or to things of this world, but also covers the entire field of human requirements, spiritual or temporal. (Five Volume Commentary, page 16) Siraatalla’dheena an 'amta 'alaihim: After teaching us the prayer for guidance on the right path, the idea of guidance is further advanced by adding the words, Guide us on the path of those on whom thou hast bestowed Thy blessings. According to the Holy Qur’an, these recipients are divided into four classes. They are the Prophets, the truthful, the martyrs, and the righteous.


said, when we learn about the four categories of those people, we

realize that it is not an easy task. So do not think that in this prayer you are asking Allah to simply fill your lap with all the world’s blessings. When we look at history, we see that the path


47

towards Allah is full of struggles for a prophet, or a truthful, or a martyr or the righteous. So why, are we asking God to guide us on their path? We are praying to be led on the path of those on whom Allah bestowed His blessings. We want Allah to bestow us with fruits, and in the same way as He granted fruits to His righteous people. They always met hardships in the cause of Allah and that is what brings them closer to God, but with prayers, they pulled through the hardships. So analyze this prayer when you recite it in Salat and understand what you are asking God.” (Five Volume Commentary, page 18) and (Zauq-e-Ibadat aur Adaab-e-Du’a, pages 294-297) It should be noted that a “favor” or “blessing” (an’amta) in this verse is not to be understood in a spiritual sense only, it covers the entire field of human activity. So knowledge, honor, wealth, power are all among the favors of God and a true believer may pray for the attainment of these along with the spiritual blessings. ghairil magh’doobi 'alaihim wa la dhua’ alleen: Not of those who have incurred thy displeasure, nor of those who have gone astray. ‘Magh’doobi’ means those who have incurred displeasure and ‘dhua’ alleen’ means those gone astray. In this verse God is giving us a warning. Man receives favors from God, but begins to abuse them, or he loses the right path, encounters a fall and becomes rejected by God. So here God enjoins us to pray that after becoming his favored ones, we should not incur His displeasure, nor stray away from the right path so that our progress, be it spiritual or temporal, may be continuous.

The Holy Prophetsaw

is reported to have said that magh’doobi ‘alaihim are the Jews, and dhua’

alleen are the Christians. The Muslims are warned here that, if they are not watchful, they may fall prey to the same mistakes as they did. They may either lose the spirit of faith just as the Jews did, who stuck to the letter of the Law, but lost it spirit; or they may lose the path itself just

as the Christians did who strayed away from the true teachings of Jesusas

and began to tread a

different path altogether. (Five Volume Commentary, pages 20-21)

The Holy Prophetsaw

said that when a Muslim comes to the end of prayer contained in Surah Al- Fatihah, he should say amen, i.e. “O Allah accept my prayer.”

Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 151 – 167) Topics: Confederates Disperse, Banu Quraiza Punished, Sa’d's ra Award In Harmony With the

Bible, Did the Prophetsaw

Seek to Continue Warfare?

During the Battle of the Ditch what caused the Arabs to become suspicious of the Banu

Quraiza? Why did the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw

decide to no longer remain passive

regarding the disbelievers?

__________________________________________

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48

February 2014

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 43 to 48 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:43] And remember when the angels said, ‘O Mary, Allah has chosen thee and purified thee and chosen thee above the women of all peoples.

[3:44] ‘O Mary, be obedient to thy Lord and prostrate thyself and worship God alone with those who worship.’

[3:45] This is of the tidings of things unseen which We reveal to thee. And thou wast not with them when they cast their arrows, as to which of them should be the guardian of Mary, nor wast thou with them when they disputed with one another.

[3:46] When the angels said, ‘O Mary, Allah gives thee glad tidings of a word from Him; his name shall be the Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, honoured in this world and in the next, and of those who are granted nearness to God;

[3:47] ‘And he shall speak to the people in the cradle and when of middle age, and he shall be of the righteous.’ [3:48] She said, ‘My Lord, how shall I have a son, when no man has touched me?’ He said, “Such is the way of Allah, He creates what He pleases. When He decrees a thing, He says to it, ‘Be!’ and it is.


49

Hadith Attribute of Allah: Al Hadi – The Guide We can reflect these attributes of Allah by being the best guide for our children. Anas ibn Malik, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him said: “Respect your children and give them good moral training.” (Ibni Majah) Urdu and Arabic Page 147 of Words of Wisdom Read Malfoozat or writing of the Promised Messiahas on the same subject as this Hadith.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 43 – 48 The Holy Qur’an describes many facts about Mary (Hadhrat Maryam), which are not found in previous scriptures. They describe Allah’s favors upon her, by giving her an exalted status and

choosing her above all women of that time. Some significant points related to Jesusas

’s birth

and childhood, which were prophesized, are described such as speaking words of wisdom in early childhood and achieving honor later in life. (Historical facts prove that he lived a long and honorable life and that he completed his mission.)

February 2014 Questions

17. Jesusas has been called “Kalimah” and “Al-Masih” in the above verses. What is the meaning

and significance of these names with reference to Jesusas

’s life and his status?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ 18. Describe the account of Jesus

as’s birth as given in verses 43-49. What is meant by “he shall

speak to the people in the cradle” in the verse 47?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


50

Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 168-182) Topics: Teachings of Judaism And Christianity About War, The Qur’an On War And Peace What are the teachings of the Holy Qur’an regarding going to war? What limits have to be observed by Muslims when they go to war?

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


51

March 2014

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 49 to 55 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:49] “And He will teach him the Book and the Wisdom and the Torah and the Gospel;

[3:50] “And will make him a Messenger to the children of Israel (to say): ‘I come to you with a Sign from your Lord, which is, that I will fashion out for you a creation out of clay after the manner of a bird, then I will breathe into it a new spirit and it will become a soaring being by the command of Allah; and I will heal the night-blind and the leprous, and I will quicken the dead, by the command of Allah; and I will announce to you what you will eat and what you will store up in your houses. Surely, therein is a Sign for you, if you be believers.

[3:51] ‘And I come fulfilling that which is before me, namely, the Torah; and to allow you some of that which was forbidden you; and I come to you with a Sign from your Lord; so fear Allah and obey me.

[3:52] ‘Surely, Allah is my Lord and your Lord; so worship Him: this is the right path.’ ”


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[3:53] And when Jesus perceived their disbelief, he said, ‘Who will be my helpers in the cause of Allah?’ The disciples answered, ‘We are the helpers of Allah. We have believed in Allah. And bear thou witness that we are obedient.

[3:54] ‘Our Lord, we believe in that which Thou hast sent down and we follow this Messenger. So write us down among those who bear witness.’ [3:55] And they planned, and Allah also planned; and Allah is the Best of planners.

Hadith Attribute of Allah: Al Hadi – The Guide We can reflect these attributes of Allah by being the best guide for our children. Amir ibn Shuaib relates from his grandfather through his father that the Holy Prophet directed: “Order your children to perform the Salat when they are seven years old, and chastise them in respect of any fault in this behalf when they are ten, and at that age put them in separate beds (Abu Daud) Garden of the Righteous, Hadith Number 303

Read Malfoozat or writing of the Promised Messiahas on the same subject as this Hadith.


These verses clearly describe the mission of Jesusas

as a prophet of God, and state clearly that

the mission was confined to the nation of Israel only. His tasks as a prophet of God, who are spiritual physicians/healers, are described in metaphorical terms.

March 2014 Questions 19. Describe the account of Jesus

as’s ministry as a Prophet of God as discussed in verse 50.

__________________________________________ __________________________________________


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__________________________________________ __________________________________________ 20. Explain the meaning of “they planned and Allah also planned” in verse 55 as a Quranic

proof that Jesusas

did not die on the cross.

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


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Al-Mahdi Wajeehan Al-Ibkaari Al-‘ashiyyi Al-mihraaba Kaffalahaa Zakariyyaa


Topics: The Prophet'ssaw

Precepts About War, Sporadic Attacks By Disbelievers, The

Prophetsaw

Leaves For Mecca With One Thousand Five Hundred Companions, Treaty of

Hudaibiya

What are some of the sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw

on the subject of war? What

agreement was reached in Hudaibiya?

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________

Lajna Imaillah-USA 54 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2014 2013 – 2015 Quarter 5

Quarter 5

(April, May, & June 2014)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER: Memorization: Any prayer listed in the Workbook. Special Activity: Special program before Ramadhan in June on the importance of this month including revision of prayers.

April 2014

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 56 to 59 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:56] When Allah said, ‘O Jesus, I will cause thee to die a natural death and will exalt thee to Myself, and will clear thee from the charges of those who disbelieve, and will place those who follow thee above those who disbelieve, until the Day of Resurrection; then to Me shall be your return, and I will judge between you concerning that wherein you differ.

[3:57] ‘Then as for those who disbelieve, I will punish them with a severe punishment in this world and in the next, and they shall have no helpers.

[3:58] ‘And as for those who believe and do good works, He will pay them their full rewards. And Allah loves not the wrongdoers.’

[3:59] That is what We recite unto thee of the Signs and the wise Reminder.


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Hadith Attributes of Allah: Al Muhaimin - the Protector and Al Razzaq - the Provider We can reflect these attributes of Allah through charity and modesty.

Abu Haraira, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Wealth does not diminish when given in charity, Allah augments honor of the one who forgives, and the more one serves others and shows humbleness towards others for the sake of Allah, the more Allah exalts him in rank.” Urdu and Arabic page 263 of Words of Wisdom (Note: humbleness here means humility)



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 56 - 59 These verses are related to the previous verses that “Allah is the best of planners.” The Jewish

rulers opposing Jesusas

planned an accursed death on the cross for him to prove he was not a

true prophet. Allah failed their plans and Jesusas

did not die on the cross, instead he died a

natural death later in Kashmir, India. Allah exalted Jesus’as

status, but history recorded the

woes and afflictions of the Jews in the hands of Titus about 70 years after the crucifixion of

Jesusas

. Allah punishes those severely who do not believe. Allah repeats these examples so

humans do not continue to commit these mistakes.

April 2014 Questions

21. Discuss some of the false beliefs associated with the death and status of Jesusas

.

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ 22. Explain the true meanings of “muttawaffika” and “rafi’oka” in verse 56 in support of the death

of Jesusas

as a natural human phenomenon.

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


56

Salat

Tilawat of the Holy Qur’an After Surah Al-Fatihah (Surah Al-Ikhlas)

Allaahu Ahad wallaahu Hu Qul

Allah The one Allah He is Say

Walam yoolad Lam yalid Us-Samad

Nor is He begotten He begets not The independent and besought of all

Kufuwan 'ahad. Walam Yakulla hu

Like unto Him And there is none

Commentary: After reciting Surah Al-Fatihah, one is required to recite parts from the Holy Qur’an in the first two Raka’ats. In the Holy Qur’an, Allah says whosoever has the opportunity should try to recite

as much of the Holy Qur’an as possible. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh advised us that in order

to fully enjoy Salat, we should decorate our Salat with different verses of the Holy Qur’an and recite those Surahs that have an impact on our heart; otherwise, Salat will become just a routine. We should try to recite other parts of the Holy Qur’an and not limit ourselves to just Surah Al-Ikhlas.

Hudhurrh

said, “you can memorize shorter Surahs that are easier to learn, and recite them in a

different order in every Salat. Prepare a list of Surahs for your Salat, and learn their meanings. You will see that once you know the translation of the Surahs, it will enhance the quality of your Salat.”

Once touring a hilly area, Hudhurrh

addressed his audience by saying, “you will experiences hills

like these in Salat, and you will have to climb these hills with all your efforts. You will have to conquer one hill after another and eventually you will find your Salat at a much higher standard. You will become role models for others, and others will learn and benefit from you. As a result our future generations will excel.” (Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e-Namaz, pages 29-31)


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Topics: Prophet’ssaw

Letters to Various Kings, Letter to the King of Iran, The Letter to the Negus,

Letter to the Ruler of Egypt, Letter to Chief of Bahrain

Provide two examples of how the recipients of the letters from the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw

met with a fate in accordance with their treatment of these letters.

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


58

May 2014

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 60 to 64 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:60] Surely, the case of Jesus with Allah is like the case of Adam. He created him out of dust, then He said to him, ‘Be!,’ and he was.

[3:61] This is the truth from thy Lord, so be thou not of those who doubt.

[3:62] Now whoso disputes with thee concerning him, after what has come to thee of knowledge, say to him, ‘Come, let us call our sons and your sons, and our women and your women, and our people and your people; then let us pray fervently and invoke the curse of Allah on those who lie.’

[3:63] This certainly is the true account. There is none worthy of worship save Allah; and surely, it is Allah Who is the Mighty, the Wise.

[3:64] But if they turn away, then remember that Allah knows the mischief-makers well.

Hadith Attributes of Allah: Al Muhaimin - the Protector and Al Razzaq - the Provider We can reflect these attributes of Allah through charity and modesty. Imran ibn Husain may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Modesty only results in good (Bokhari and Muslim), Muslim’s version is: Modesty is all good.” (Gardens of the Righteous, Chapter 84, page 138)




59

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 60 – 64 The Holy Qur’an strongly establishes the truth about Jesus

as as being a normal human and a

prophet of God. It is emphasized that both creation and death are in the hands of Allah.

Jesusas is compared to Adam, which in this verse primarily stands for ‘man’ or it could refer to

Adam the progenitor of the human race. It can be interpreted in two ways: a) Adam was a

human being and so was Jesusas

; and b) It points to the resemblance between Adam and

Jesusas

who were created without the agency of a father. Allah who controls life and death has

the powers to say, “Be”, and it starts happening. Having mentioned the strongest evidence in support of Jesusas’ mortality, this subject is brought to a close in these verses. As a final resort, to put an end to the false Christian doctrines a prayer-contest was offered.

May 2014 Questions

23. Verse 60 draws a comparison between Jesusas

and Adam. How does the similarity

between them refute the idea of the divinity of Jesusas

?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ 24. The discussion on the Christian doctrines, which this Surah deals with, is brought to a close

in verse 62 and a particular incident in the life of the Holy Prophetsaw

is referred to. Explain

the discussion points presented by the Holy Prophetsaw. Who did he address?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________

Book Reading

Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 215-233)

Topics: Fall of Khaibar, The Prophet'ssaw

Vision Fulfilled, Battle of Mauta

What three interesting incidents took place during the siege of Khaibar? Describe briefly what occurred during the battle of Mauta.

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________


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June 2014

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 65 to 68 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:65] Say, ‘O People of the Book! come to a word equal between us and you — that we worship none but Allah, and that we associate no partner with Him, and that some of us take not others for Lords beside Allah.’ But if they turn away, then say, ‘Bear witness that we have submitted to God.’

[3:66] O People of the Book! why do you dispute concerning Abraham, when the Torah and the Gospel were not revealed till after him? Will you not then understand?

[3:67] Behold! you are those who disputed about that whereof you had knowledge. Why then do you now dispute about that whereof you have no knowledge at all? Allah knows, and you know not.

[3:68] Abraham was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but he was ever inclined to God and obedient to Him, and he was not of those who associate gods with God.


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Hadith Attributes of Allah: Al Muhaimin - the Protector and Al Razzaq - the Provider We can reflect these attributes of Allah through charity and modesty.

Abu Haraira, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The world is a prison for a believer, and a Paradise for a disbeliever.” Urdu and Arabic text page 253 of Words of Wisdom




In this Surah after proving that Jesusas

was a human being, the Holy Qur’an encourages both

communities, Jewish and Christians, to come back to their original belief of the Oneness of God and give up their worship of false deities. In fact these verses invite them to Islam by reminding them of this fundamental belief. (This is exactly what the Promised Messiahas drew attention to in his book “A Message of Peace”). The same point is beautifully raised by reminding Jews and

Christians of the religion of their forefather Abrahamas

, who was neither a Jew nor a Christian.

June 2014 Questions 25. How does verse 65 of Surah Al-Imran reject the false notion that Islamic principles can be

sacrificed for a compromise between Islam and other faiths? Support your answer with

relevant examples from the Life of the Holy Prophetsaw

and the Promised Messiahas

.

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ 26. What was the religion of Abraham

as?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________


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`

Haneeffan Al-Haqqu Fayowafeehim Mutahhiruka Rafiuka Inni

mutawaffeeka


Topics: The Prophetsaw

Marches On Mecca With Ten Thousand Followers, Fall of Mecca,

The Prophetsaw

Enters Mecca

Describe the differences between the time the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw

left Mecca and the

time the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw

returned to Mecca in 629 AD (8 year of the Hijra).

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________

Lajna Imaillah-USA 63 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2014 2013 – 2015 Quarter 6

Quarter 6

(July, August, & September 2014)

NOTE: Due to Ramadhan activities, the Taleem program has been reduced for this quarter. During this special month effort should be made to increase our personal Ibadaat through fasting, extra Nawafal and reading of the Holy Qur’an. The program for two months is provided and it will be the choice of the local Majlis to select which 2 out of the 3 months to hold their meetings. ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER: Memorization: Any prayer listed in the Workbook. Special Activity: Special program or workshop on Hajj and Sacrifice.

July/August 2014

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 69 to 72 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:69] Surely, the nearest of men to Abraham are those who followed him, and this Prophet and those who believe; and Allah is the friend of believers.

[3:70] A section of the People of the Book would fain lead you astray; but they lead astray none except themselves, only they perceive not.

[3:71] O People of the Book! why do you deny the Signs of Allah, while you are witnesses thereof?


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[3:72] O People of the Book! why do you confound truth with falsehood and hide the truth knowingly?

Hadith Attributes of Allah: Al Wali - The Friend and As Shaafi - The Healer We can reflect these attributes of Allah through sisterhood, forgiveness, and repentance.

Ma’ adh ibn Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that they Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The best blessings are in that you keep kinship with those who break it, and you support the one who does not support you, and you forgive the person who curses you.” (Musnad Ahmad) Urdu and Arabic Page 261 of Words of Wisdom



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 69 - 72 The previous verses suggested that believers, from all faiths, should agree on the religion of

Abrahamas

. He was not Jewish, Christian or Muslim, as all these religions came into existence

after his time. His faith was complete submission and obedience to the will of One God. This is in accordance with the teachings of Islam and its Holy Founder. The People of the Book are directly addressed regarding the signs of a Promised Prophet. They are warned that hiding the

signs knowingly is a terrible crime. They could easily know that Muhammadsaw

is the Promised

Prophet, but their enmity and jealousy does not let them do so.

July/August 2014 Questions 27. What attracts the People of the Book to Islam? Why do they refuse to accept Islam despite

being drawn to it?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


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28. What ‘Signs of Allah’ as pointed out in verse 71 and ‘the truth’ in verse 72 had the People of the Book been denying and hiding?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________

Salat

Akbar Allaahu

Great Allah is

Commentary: After reciting Surah Al-Fatihah and the Holy Qur’an verses, we bow down to Allah saying Allaahu Akbar acknowledging His Greatness. By reciting Allaahu Akbar every time one changes position in Salat, one is constantly reminded that God is the Greatest. One cannot run away or escape from Him. The objective of every move that man makes in this world must be from a lower stage to a higher stage and should result in one getting closer to Allah, the One Who is the Greatest. Thus the message of Allaahu Akbar is not only limited to a person performing Salat, but it contains a message for all the things he/she does in life. (Zauq-e-Ibadat aur Adaab-e-Du’a, page 618)

Rukoo

Al 'Azheem Rabbiyal Subhaana

The most Great Is my Lord Holy

Commentary: Subhaana Rabbiyal 'Azheem: Holy is my Lord, the Most Great.

Khalifatul Masih IVrh

explained the Rukoo in the following words, “A worshipper can only

perform Rukoo in its true meaning if he/she pays attention to what has been recited in Surah Al-Fatihah and the parts of the Qur’an recited in the Qiyyam position. When we recite Subhaana Rabbiyal 'Azheem, we are acknowledging all of His qualities mentioned so far in Salat, and therefore we bow down in front of Him in complete submission.


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The word Azheem is derived from a’azham, which means something that has attained its highest status and that there is nothing else higher. Azheem is even bigger than a’azham, it means nothing can be greater than that. We can look around the world and see many big things such as mountains, or some say that the world itself is great, but nothing can be greater than Azheem because it is spread all over, encompassing everything in the universe. Another point worth mentioning here is that when we proclaim here that, ‘My Lord is the most Great,’ it also reminds the worshipper to try to be Azheem like the Creator.” (Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e-Namaz, page 32)

Tasmee

Hamidah Liman 'Allaahu Sami

Praises Him He who Allah Hears

Tayyiban Kathiran Hamdan Hamd walakal Rabbanaa

Pure (that is)

abundant The praise The praise Your is Our Lord

Fih Mubaarakan

Full of Blessings

Commentary: Sami 'allaahu liman hamidah: After Ruku, we stand upright and recite the glad tiding which Allah has given us, “Sami 'allaahu liman hamidah”, Allah hears him, who praises Him. In order for Allah to hear and accept our praise of Him, it is necessary that our spoken words are also backed up by physical actions in the form of obedience and good deeds. Allah does not listen to empty praise. He accepts praise that leads to His obedience when a person starts to make sacrifices and tries to improve himself/herself in order to get closer to Him. Thus in Ruku, Allah is also informing us that if you desire for your praise of Allah to be accepted by Him, then you should bow down in front of Him in complete obedience. It is then that you hear the glad tiding “Sami 'allaahu liman hamidah”, (Allah hears him, who praises Him).”


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Rabbanaa walakal Hamd Hamdan Kathiran Tayyiban Mubaarakan fih: We thank Him by further praising Him: “Rabbanaa walakal Hamd” O our Lord, and Thine is the Praise “Hamdan Kathiran Tayyiban Mubaarakan fih” the Praise which is plenty, pure and blessed. What is meant by praise that is blessed? Another attribute of true praise is that it continues to increase for example if you love someone, you will continue to find new qualities in him /her and will discover new reasons to love him/her even more. Thus as you express your love for God and praise Him, your love for Him will increase in intensity. As result of this, you will continue to discover new reasons for loving and praising Him. Your praise for Him will evolve continuously and results in great blessings. (Zauq-e-Ibadat aur Adaab-e-Du’a, pages 622-623)

Sajdah

yal 'a'laa Rabbi Subhaana

The Most High My Lord Holy is

Commentary: Subhaana Rabbiyal 'a'laa: When we go into Sajdah posture, we say, “Subhaana Rabbiyal 'a'laa” Holy is my Lord, the Most High. In Surah Al-Fatihah, Allah introduces Himself to us as Lord of all the worlds, when you remember Him and ask Him for help, He will become your Lord, and therefore we say Holy is My Lord, the most High. In Subhaana, we proclaim that He is free of faults. A person can have a high status, but not necessarily be free of faults. We say my Lord is free of all faults and weaknesses. This makes us ponder the meaning of ‘a’laa; how can He be our Lord, if we are not free of faults? If our character and morals are not high, then we have no right to call Him our Lord. Thus every time we recite Subhaana Rabbiyal 'a'laa, we are reminded to strive to be like Him. When you start to examine and compare yourself with the attributes of God in Sajdah, you will find many points to ponder upon that your Sajdahs will become long and productive. Every spoken word should make you reflect upon your own actions. How do we adopt the attribute of “the Most High?” Allah teaches us in Salat that if you want to adopt this attribute of His, you have to prostrate in front of him with complete humility, and there is no better way to show humility than to put your forehead and nose on the floor and thus making yourself completely insignificant in front of Him. (Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e-Namaz, page 35)


said that Pharaoh wanted to build the tallest structure so that He

could reach up and see God for himself, but God has taught us that in order to witness His attribute of “High” one does not need height. One needs to display humility and subordination of the utmost degree and for this reason we recite Subhaana Rabbiyal 'a'laa in the Sajdah position. (Zauq-e-Ibadat aur Adaab-e-Du’a, page 626)


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Book Reading

Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 249 – 261)

Topics: Ka’Ba Cleared of Idols, The Prophetsaw

Forgives His Enemies, Ikrimara

Becomes

Muslim, Battle of Hunain

Give examples of people, who having committed enormities against Islam and Muslims, were

forgiven by the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw

. What were the reactions of these people?

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________


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September 2014

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 73 to 76 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:73] And a section of the People of the Book say, ‘Believe in that which has been revealed unto the believers, in the early part of day, and disbelieve in the latter part thereof; perchance they may return;

[3:74] ‘And obey none but him who follows your religion;’ — Say, ‘Surely, the true guidance, the guidance of Allah, is that one may be given the like of that which has been given to you’ — ‘or they would dispute with you before your Lord.’ Say, ‘All bounty is in the hand of Allah. He gives it to whomsoever He pleases. And Allah is Bountiful, All-Knowing.

[3:75] ‘He chooses for His mercy whomsoever He pleases. And Allah is Lord of exceeding bounty.’

[3:76] Among the People of the Book there is he who, if thou trust him with a treasure, will return it to thee; and among them there is he who, if thou trust him with a dinar, will not return it to thee, unless thou keep standing over him. That is because they say, ‘We are not liable to blame in the matter of the unlearned;’ and they utter a lie against Allah knowingly.


70

Hadith Attributes of Allah: Al Wali - The Friend and As Shaafi - The Healer We can reflect these attributes of Allah through sisterhood, forgiveness, and repentance. Abu Haraira, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: Do you know what backbiting is? He was answered: Allah and His Messenger know best. He said: Anything you say of your brother that he would dislike. Someone said: But if my brother should be as I say? The Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be on him, said If he should be as you say than you have been guilty of backbiting and if he should not be as you say you are guilty of calumny. (Muslim) Urdu and Arabic Page 277 of Words of Wisdom



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 73 – 76 Enemies of Islam tried different tactics to dishearten Muslims and to stop the spread of Islam. It was difficult for the People of the Book to accept that the knowledge that had been bestowed upon them is now with someone else, whom they considered inferior. They believed that God provides guidance exclusively to the nation of Israel. Islam emphasizes that Allah’s universal guidance is open to all people. Allah’s gift of prophet-hood and knowledge are all His favors, and He bestows upon whom He wishes. A trust was given to the People of the Book but they (who did not accept Islam) became dishonest regarding the trust, and did not share the knowledge (prophecies in the Bible regarding the Prophet of Arabia) with others.

September 2014 Questions 29. What tactics were used by the Arab Jews in the time of the Holy Prophetsaw to deter and

discourage Muslims from Islam as mentioned in the verse 73?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


71

30. What notion or practice was prevalent among the Jews in the time of the Holy Prophetsaw

as

referred in the words “we are not liable to blame in the matter of the unlearned”? Do we find similar examples in the current day and age?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


`

Ummiyyeena Qaa’iman Wasi’un Wak’furoo Taktumoona Tash’ha Doona


Topics: "The Prophetsaw

of God Calls You," A Sworn Enemy Becomes A Devoted Follower,

The Prophetsaw

Distributes Booty, Machinations of Abu ‘Amir, The Expedition of Tabuk

Briefly describe what occurred during the battle of Hunain and how Shaibara

, a sworn enemy,

became a devoted follower.

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________

Lajna Imaillah-USA 72 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2014 2013 – 2015 Quarter 7

Quarter 7

(October, November, & December 2014)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER: Memorization: Any prayer listed in the Workbook. Special Activities: 1) Hold Jalsa Seeratun-Nabi. Arrange special activities during the month

of October to learn and understand the life and characteristics of the Holy Prophetsaw

.

2) In December hold a workshop on the prophets who are listed in the Holy Qur’an and give a brief description of their history. Refer to Appendix B for help.

October 2014

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 77 to 81 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:77] Nay, but whoso fulfils his pledge and fears God — verily, Allah loves the God-fearing.

[3:78] As for those who take a paltry price in exchange for their covenant with Allah and their oaths, they shall have no portion in the life to come, and Allah will neither speak to them nor look upon them on the Day of Resurrection, nor will He purify them; and for them shall be a grievous punishment.

[3:79] And, surely, among them is a section who twist their tongues while reciting the Book; that you may think it to be part of the Book, while it is not part of the Book. And they say, ‘It is from Allah;’ while it is not from Allah; and they utter a lie against Allah knowingly.


73

[3:80] It is not possible for a man that Allah should give him the Book and dominion and prophethood, and then he should say to men: ‘Be servants to me and not to Allah;’ but he would say: ‘Be solely devoted to the Lord because you teach the Book and because you study it.’ [3:81] Nor is it possible for him that he should bid you take the angels and the Prophets for Lords. Would he enjoin you to disbelieve after you have submitted to God?

Hadith Attributes of Allah: AsSaboor - the Patient and Al Wadood - the Loving We can reflect these attributes of Allah through Taqwa in our daily life and through self improvement.

Sa’ad ibn Abi Waqqas, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that he heard the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, say: “God loves the one who is righteous, self- sufficient, and retiring.” (Muslim) Urdu and Arabic Page 27 of Words of Wisdom Read Malfoozat or writing of the Promised Messiahas on the same subject as this Hadith.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 77 - 81 Muslims are warned not to follow the bad examples of the People of the Book. Islam emphasizes the golden rule that all human beings are equal and only personal qualities make the difference. People who break their oaths/promises with Allah for worldly gains are actually losers, since they lose Allah’s grace and favors. They lie about Allah by associating and saying things that are not from Allah. It is unthinkable for a prophet of God to teach people to take him as God and worship him instead of the real God. This is also a serious blame on God who selected such a person as a prophet. It is made clear that enmity leads to foolish beliefs and dulls the brain and impairs righteousness.


74

October 2014 Questions 31. Describe some of the practices and notions prevalent among the Jews in the time of Holy

Prophetsaw

as alluded to in verses 77 and 79. How do these verses refute such notions and

practices?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ 32. What is the message of true Prophets of Allah as given in verses 80 and 81? How do these

verses challenge the false beliefs of the People of the Books?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________

Salat

Prayers between Sajdah

wahdinee Warhamnee ghfir-lee Allaahumma-

And guide me And have mercy on me Forgive me Oh Allah

warfa’nee Warzuqnee wajburnee wa 'aafinee

And raise me up (in status) And provide for me

And make good for me my

shorcomings And grant me

security


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Commentary:

Allaahummaghfir-lee warhamnee wahdinee wa 'afinee wajburnee warzuqnee warfa’nee:

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh directed a research to establish the correct order of words in this

short but very meaningful prayer. In the initial Salat texts, this dua ended with “warzuqnee” instead of “warfa 'nee.” The research revealed that the order of words may have shuffled over the time as the narrators and researchers may have overlooked the order as various narrations and references were consolidated over centuries. From spiritual development point of view, one’s physical needs cannot take priority over raising one’s spiritual status. Thus the original

dua must have closed with the words “warfa 'nee” and not “warzuqnee”. Hudhurrh instructed

that this correction be made in all Salat publications and Jamaat books. In this short prayer between Sajdahs, we ask for forgiveness, mercy, guidance, and then fulfillment of physical and spiritual needs, and in the end ask for raising us up, which is the ultimate status of spirituality followed by the gesture of Sajdah.

Hudhurrh explained the the order of spiritual progression and growth (as given in this prayer) in

the following words, “Oh my Lord, forgive me, have mercy on me, and guide me. Grant me good health so that I can stay on the right path, and rid me of my physical and spiritual weaknesses. The word “wajburnee” is derived from “jubbar” that means bones in Arabic. So it means Allah fix my broken and weak physical and spiritual bones and limbs. Then feed me and finally raise me up. The words “Raise me up” do not mean physical elevation and raising as some believe Jesus was physically raised but rather spiritual elevation and status. (Urdu class Main Tadrees-e-Namaz, pages 37-40)

At-Tashah-hud

wat-tayyibaat was-salawaatu Lillaahi Attahiyyaatu

And all the financial sacrifices

And all the physical worship Is due to Allah All verbal worship

Nabbeeyyu Ayyuhaan- 'alaika Assalaamu

Prophet Oh On you Peace be

Assalaamu wa barakaatuh Allaahi wa rahmatu-

Peace And His blessings Of Allah And mercy


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Is- saaliheen Ibaadillaahi- wa 'alaa 'alainaa

The righteous Servants of Allah And on Be on us

wa ash-hadu il'll allahu ilaaha Al’laa Ash-hadu

And I bear witness Except Allah Worthy of worship That there is no one I bear witness

wa Rasuluh 'abduhu Muham’madan An’naa

And His messenger His servant Muhammadsaw is That

Commentary: Attahiyyaatu lillaahi: All types of gifts are for Allah alone. Tahiyya means all types of gifts. When a person presents someone with a gift, in most cases the motive is not to expect something similar in return. The intention is to please or win the recipient’s love. Therefore, this means all gifts should be presented to Allah just to win His pleasure. Here we also need to remember that since God is Great, He does not need our gifts and that it is His sheer mercy that He accepts our humble gifts. (Zauq-e-Ibadat aur Adaab-e-Du’a, pages 631-632) Another important point that relates to attahiyyaat is that in human relations there are certain etiquettes in regards to gift-giving. We will never give a person the same gift over and over again. We pray to God 5 times a day and in every Salat we say that all verbal and physical acts of worship and financial sacrifices are for Allah alone. Therefore, when we recite attahiyyaat in Salat, we cannot offer the same salawaat and tayyibaat over and over again. We have to think of new gifts to present to Allah between every Salat. It can be in a form of a physical sacrifice, or righteous deeds. If we performed zikr-e-Ilahee (remembrance of Allah), it can also count as a gift. Thus reciting attahiyyaat reminds us to do good things continuously so that we can present new gifts to Allah every time we perform Salat. When we examine the words attahiyyaatu lillaahi wassalawaatu wattayyibaatu, we should be worried that we have brought empty dishes in front of God while we are proclaiming that we have brought gifts. We should therefore fill our empty dishes with gifts that are salawaat and tayyibaat. Allah also draws our attention towards the fact that He will only accept righteous deeds that are in form of gifts. (Zauq-e-Ibadat aur Adaab-e-Du’a, pages 633-634)

was-salawaatu: Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh

explained to the Urdu Class children that

salawaatu means all physical sacrifices. It includes performing Salat and all of the physical acts humans perform for the sake of God. For instance, when you perform different positions in


77

Salat or when you come to attend classes here in the Masjid, it is a physical sacrifice that you make for God. wat-tayyibaatu: Tayyibaat means all the pure things you own which include your valuable things such as your clothes, your wealth, etc., but they have to be acquired through pure means. They must be halal. Let me give you an example: If I serve you samosas, but the meat in the samosas has a bad smell. The samosas will be halal, but you will not eat it. If I serve you samosas that smell delicious and you will love to eat it, then it is also tayyab. Therefore, when you present Allah a gift, it has to be of the best quality. (Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e-Namaz, page 41)


further elaborates on this point by saying we should ponder upon

the words “wassalawaatu wattayyibaatu” and you will realize that in order to say those words, you will have to make sacrifices everyday. Every day you will have to present gifts to Allah. In doing so you will be able to say that indeed my sacrifices are small, but I find them worthy to offer them to God. In Salat we are constantly forced to stop and think and ponder upon what we are reciting. Thus every time we do Salat, a new meaning and angle will reveal itself. Salat can never be boring because you will never have the same thoughts every time. (Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e-Namaz, page 42) Assalaamu 'alaika ayyuhaan- Nabbeeyyu wa rahmatu-allaahi wa barakaatuh: We say, peace be on you, O’ Prophet of Allah and the Mercy of Allah and the Blessings of Allah. In the

previous verse, we were offering gifts to Allah. Here we are offering gifts to the Holy Prophetsaw

in the form of Salam, because the most beloved being after Allah is the Holy Prophetsaw

.

(Zauq-e-Ibadat aur Adab-e-Du’a, page 635) Assalaamu 'alainaa wa 'alaa ibaadillaahis-saaliheen: After offering Salam to Holy

Prophetsaw

, we also pray for ourselves and the righteous people. When we say “Peace be on

you, O’ Prophet,” we also become recipient of the same greeting. Therefore, we say it with great assurance and confidence that peace be on us and on the righteous servants of Allah. (Urdu Class Main Tadrees-e-Namaz, page 43)


Topics: The Last Pilgrimage, The Prophetsaw

Gives Hints of His Death, Last Days of the

Prophetsaw

, The Prophetsaw

Passes Away

Explain how the farewell address given by the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw

emphasizes the

concern he had for the welfare of men, the rights of women, and other weak creatures.

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________


78

November 2014

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 82 to 86 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:82] And remember the time when Allah

took a covenant from the people through the Prophets, saying: ‘Whatever I give you of the Book and Wisdom and then there comes to you a Messenger, fulfilling that which is with you, you shall believe in him and help him.’ And He said: ‘Do you agree, and do you accept the responsibility which I lay upon you in this matter?’ They said, ‘We agree;’ He said, ‘Then bear witness, and I am with you among the witnesses.’

[3:83] Now whoso turns away after this, then, surely, those are the transgressors.

[3:84] Do they seek a religion other than Allah’s, while to Him submits whosoever is in the heavens and the earth, willingly or unwillingly, and to Him shall they be returned?

[3:85] Say, ‘We believe in Allah and in that which has been revealed to us, and that which was revealed to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the Tribes, and that which was given to Moses and Jesus and other Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we submit.’


79

[3:86] And whoso seeks a religion other than Islam, it shall not be accepted from him, and in the life to come he shall be among the losers.

Hadith Attributes of Allah: AsSaboor - the Patient and Al Wadood - the Loving We can reflect these attributes of Allah through Taqwa in our daily life and through self improvement. Mu’adh ibn Jabal, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Fear Allah, wherever you are; and follow up evil with good, the latter will wipe out the former; and behave well towards people.” (Trimidhi) Urdu and Arabic Page 215 of Words of Wisdom



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 82 – 86 The Holy Qur’an highlights a general rule that the advent of every prophet is in ‘fulfillment’ of certain prophecies that are foretold. God took a covenant from the people through their Prophets to accept the next prophet of God when he makes his appearance. The verses lay down a general rule that the advent of every Prophet takes place in ‘fulfillment’ of certain prophesies made by previous Prophets.

In the case of the Holy Prophetsaw

it was fundamental for all nations to accept him as a Prophet

of God since his advent was foretold by all faiths. Allah established a guidance system for the spiritual benefit of mankind. Only the disobedient break their promise, but those who fulfill their promise win the pleasure of Allah. Islam’s universal teaching is not only to accept the prophets from the Israelites, but to accept all prophets from all parts and nations of the world.

November 2014 Questions 33. The advent of every Prophet takes place in fulfillment of certain prophecies. List/name

some of the prophecies made by other prophets and faiths regarding the appearance of the

Holy Prophetsaw

.

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


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__________________________________________ __________________________________________ 34. Verse 85 draws a unique contrast between Jewish beliefs and Islamic beliefs. What is this

distinction? What is the core belief of Muslims regarding other prophets?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


Topics: The Prophet'ssaw

Personality and Character, The Prophet'ssaw

Purity of Mind And

Cleanliness of Body, The Prophet'ssaw

Simple Life

Describe the Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssaw

character and the simple life that he lived.

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________


81

December 2014

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 87 to 92 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:87] How shall Allah guide a people who have disbelieved after believing and who had borne witness that the Messenger was true and to whom clear proofs had come? And Allah guides not the wrongdoing people.

[3:88] Of such the reward is that on them shall be the curse of Allah and of angels and of men, all together.

[3:89] They shall abide thereunder. Their punishment shall not be lightened nor shall they be reprieved;

[3:90] Except those who repent thereafter and amend. And surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Merciful. [3:91] Surely, those who disbelieve after they have believed and then increase in disbelief, their repentance shall not be accepted, and these are they who have gone astray.


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[3:92] As for those who have disbelieved, and die while they are disbelievers, there shall not be accepted from any one of them even an earthful of gold, though he offer it in ransom. It is these for whom shall be a grievous punishment, and they shall have no helpers.

Hadith Attributes of Allah: AsSaboor - the Patient and Al Wadood - the Loving We can reflect these attributes of Allah through Taqwa in our daily life and through self improvement.

Abu Hurraira, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, once said: “O Abu Huraira! Be righteous and pious, you will be the best of worshippers of Allah. Be content, you will be counted as the best of those who are grateful. What you like for yourself, like the same for the others and you will become a true believer. Treat your neighbor in the best manner, you will be a true Muslim. Do not laugh excessively as excessive laughter makes heart dead.” (Ibni Majah) Urdu and Arabic Page 29 of Words of Wisdom



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 87 - 92 These verses explain the rewards for human actions, good or bad, and repentance and its true significance. Allah does not care for those people who, for worldly gains, knowingly disbelieve, after having believed in the truth of a Prophet. These people lose friendship and favors of Allah. As a result, the angels and the holy men, who follow their Master, also sever their relations with the disbelievers. Punishment for the disbelievers comes slow, but when it comes then it is severe and persistent. Their repentance is not accepted if it is not genuine, or if they make a habit of repentance without a real and practical change. However if they repent and try to reform themself and their environment, then Allah forgives them.

December 2014 Questions 35. What are the basic conditions of true repentance?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


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36. Verses 88 and 89 warn the disbelievers of a great punishment and curse. What is meant by

this curse of Allah, and of angels and of men?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


`

Kar’han Tau’an Isree Yalwoona Yukallimu Khalaaqa

Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 309 – 327) Topics: Relationship With God, Disapproval of Penance, Attitude towards His Wives

Provide examples from the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw

which demonstrates the

immense love the Holy Prophetsaw

had for Allah.

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

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Lajna Imaillah-USA 84 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2015 2013 – 2015 Quarter 8

Quarter 8

(January, February, & March 2015)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER:

Memorization: Any prayer listed in the Workbook.

Annual Taleem Test

January 2015

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 93 to 97 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:93] Never shall you attain to righteousness unless you spend out of that which you love; and whatever you spend, Allah surely knows it well.

[3:94] All food was lawful to the children of Israel, except what Israel forbade himself before the Torah was sent down. Say, ‘Bring, then, the Torah and read it, if you are truthful.’

[3:95] Now whoso forges a lie against Allah after this, then it is these that are the wrongdoers.


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[3:96] Say, ‘Allah has spoken the truth: follow, therefore, the religion of Abraham, who was ever inclined to God; and he was not of those who associate gods with God.’ [3:97] Surely, the first House founded for mankind is that at Becca, abounding in blessings and a guidance for all peoples.

Hadith Attributes of Allah: AsSalam - The Source of Peace and Al-Haqq - The Truthful We can reflect these attributes of Allah through the learning of the Holy Qur’an and through truthfulness. Ibn ‘ Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “One who does not know any portion of the Holy Quran by heart is like a house in ruin.” (Trimidhi) Urdu and Arabic Page 53 of Words of Wisdom



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 93 - 97 After discussing the subject of repentance, the Holy Qur’an emphasizes the importance of complete submission to the will of God, and how to attain true faith and the highest form of good. It is further mentioned that matters regarding which the People of the Book dispute and quarrel with Muslims carry no weight because originally some of them were regarded as permissible by their own forefathers. If their forefathers succeeded in obtaining salvation in spite of these matters, why cannot Muslims? The Holy Qur’an draws the attention of the People of the Book to the Ka’bah, that the real and original center of God’s religion is the Ka’bah.

January 2015 Questions 37. How can one achieve the true merits of goodness and righteousness of the highest order?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


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38. What is meant by the reference “Abraham was ever obedient to God” in verse 96?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________

Salat

Durood

Waa 'alaa Muhammadin 'alaa Sal’li Allaahumma

And upon Muhammadsaw

Upon bless Oh Allah

'alaa Sal’laita Kamaa Muhammadin Aa’li

Upon You blessed As Muhammadsaw

People of

In’naka Ibraaheema Aa’li waa 'ala Ibraaheema

You are indeed Abrahamas

People of And upon Abrahamas

‘alaa Baarik Allaahum’ma Majeed Hameedum

Upon Prosper Oh Allah The exalted The praise

worthy

kamaa Muhammadin Aa’li wwa 'alaa Muhammadin

As Muhammadsaw People of And upon Muhammadsaw


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Aa’li wwa'alaa Ibraaheema 'alaa Baarak’ta

People of And upon Abrahamas upon You prospered

Majeed Hameedum In’naka Lbraaheema

The exalted The praise worthy You are indeed Abrahamas

Commentary: Allah has shown us that the way for our prayers to be accepted is by reciting Durood, and its recitation has been made a vessel to gain closeness to Allah. It must be clearly stated that the

Holy Prophetsaw

does not need our prayers and salutations. We must not think that the elevated

status he has achieved is because of our invocations and prayers. The Holy Prophetsaw

has

already been chosen as the dear Prophet of Allah and has gained the love of Allah. There is profound wisdom hidden in the injunction of reciting the Durood excessively. When a person invokes blessings of Allah on another person solely because of his sheer love and affection for that person with the purest of intentions, then that person becomes deserving of receiving the same blessings for himself. For example, in terms of worldly relationships, we can look at the bond that exists between a mother and her child. When a child begins to explore the world on his own for the first time in his infancy and finds any morsel of food, he tries to feed those morsels to the mother by placing them in her mouth. Although these morsels do not satiate the mother’s hunger, this act is a mere display of innocent and profound love that the child has for his mother, and in return, the mother loves her child even more passionately than ever before. Similar is the case of the person who selflessly prays for another due to his love for him and therefore becomes deserving of those blessings for himself. When two persons are united in this bond of love as a result of prayers, Allah sends His bountiful blessings on both, the one who prays, and the one who is being prayed for, the only condition being that the prayers are earnest and sincere and done with the purest of intentions.

Hadhrat 'Abdurrahman ibn 'Aufra

relates that the Messenger of Allah went out once and he

followed him until he entered a grove of palm trees and prostrated. His prostration was so long that 'Abdurrahman feared that Allah had taken his soul. 'Abdurrahman came to look at him and

hesaw

raised his head and said: "What is wrong, Abdurrahman'?" ‘Abdurrahman mentioned what

had happened, and hesaw

said: "Gabrielas

came to me and said: 'Shall I not give you glad

tidings'? Allah says to you, Whoever prays upon you, I pray upon him. Whoever salutes you, I salute him.' Therefore, I prostrated to Allah in thanks." (Taken from the Friday Sermon Summary September 5th, 2003) http://www.alislam.org/mta/summary/september5-2003.html

http://www.alislam.org/mta/summary/september5-2003.html


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Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 327– 343) Topics: High Moral Qualities, His Self-Control, Justice and Fair Dealing. Regard For the Poor, Safe-Guarding the Interests of the Poor

Describe incidents from the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw

, which highlight his moral

qualities, his self control, his fair dealings and his regard for the poor.

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________


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February 2015

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 98 to 102 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:98] In it are manifest Signs; it is the place of Abraham; and whoso enters it, enters peace. And pilgrimage to the House is a duty which men — those who can find a way thither — owe to Allah. And whoever disbelieves, let him remember that Allah is surely independent of all creatures. [3:99] Say, ‘O People of the Book! why deny ye the Signs of Allah, while Allah is Watchful of what you do?’

[3:100] Say, ‘O People of the Book! why hinder ye the believers from the path of Allah, seeking to make it crooked, while you are witnesses thereof ? And Allah is not unmindful of what you do.’

[3:101] O ye who believe! if you obey any party of those who have been given the Book, they will turn you again into disbelievers after you have believed.

[3:102] How would you disbelieve, while to you are rehearsed the Signs of Allah, and His Messenger is present among you? And he who holds fast to Allah is indeed guided to the right path.


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Hadith Attributes of Allah: AsSalam - The Source of Peace and Al-Haqq - The Truthful We can reflect these attributes of Allah through the learning of the Holy Qur’an and through truthfulness. Uthman ibn Affan, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet , peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach it to others.” (Bukhari) Urdu and Arabic Page 49 of Words of Wisdom



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 98 – 102 The subject of complete submission and attaining true faith is further developed in these verses.

God says that Muslims and Jews have a meeting-point in Abrahamas

. The person who laid the

foundation of the Ka’bah and prayed there was Abrahamas

. This entitles the Ka’bah to be

recognized as the Qiblah (the center of religion for all times). The People of the Book are asked

that despite the common belief in Abrahamas

, why do they deny the truth and quarrel with the

Muslims regarding common things such as the Ka’bah? Why do they desire and attempt for Islam to appear crooked to the Muslims when they know it is the beautiful truth? A note of warning is sounded to Muslims that the People of the Book have gone so far in opposition to them that, if they had their way, they would certainly lead them astray. Muslims cannot go astray because they are the recipients of God’s new revelation, but one has to protect him or her self from sin by acting on the commandments of Allah.

February 2015 Questions 39. Describe the significance of the “Ka’bah” as the “place of Abraham.” What is meant by “who

enters it enters peace” in the verse 98?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ 40. What warning have Muslims been given about People of the Book who have hostile

intentions towards Islam?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


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Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 343-359) Topics: Treatment of Slaves, Treatment of Women, Attitude towards the Dead, Treatment of Neighbours, Treatment of Relatives, Keeping Good Company

Discuss the Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssaw

treatment of slaves, women, neighbors and relatives.

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________


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March 2015

Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 103 to 106 of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below. [3:103] O ye who believe! fear Allah as He should be feared; and let not death overtake you except when you are in a state of submission.

[3:104] And hold fast, all together, by the rope of Allah and be not divided; and remember the favour of Allah which He bestowed upon you when you were enemies and He united your hearts in love, so that by His grace you became as brothers; and you were on the brink of a pit of fire and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah explain to you His commandments that you may be guided.

[3:105] And let there be among you a body of men who should invite to goodness, and enjoin equity and forbid evil. And it is they who shall prosper. [3:106] And be not like those who became divided and who disagreed among themselves after clear proofs had come to them. And it is they for whom there shall be a great punishment,


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Hadith Attributes of Allah: AsSalam - The Source of Peace and Al-Haqq - The Truthful We can reflect these attributes of Allah through the learning of the Holy Qur’an and through truthfulness.

Abdullah ibn Mas’ud relates that the Holy Prophet

saw said:

Truth guides to virtue and virtue guides to Paradise. A person persists in telling the truth till in the sight of Allah he is named Truthful. Lying leads to vice and vice leads to the Fire; and a person goes on lying till in the sight of Allah he is named a liar. (Bokhari and Muslim) Garden of the Righteous- Hadith Number 54



Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 103 - 106 In these verses, Muslims are warned how to protect themselves from spiritual degradation. They must remain obedient to God. They must remain strong in their faith, and keep their hearts pure from malice and hatred. They are admonished to put up patiently with all opposition and oppression, strengthen their connections with God and establish their mutual relations on a firmer basis because they will stand in sore need of a united front when confronted with a severe attack from Christians.

March 2015 Questions 41. What was the major cause of the spiritual degradation of the Israelites? How does the Holy

Qur’an exhort Muslims to safeguard themselves against such degradation?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ 42. What is meant by the words “and let there be among you a body of men who should invite to

goodness” in verse 105? How can Muslims strengthen their unity and spiritual standing in the world by following this commandment?

__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________


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`

Hudiya Iwajan Shaheedun Wudhwi’a Fat’loo Al-Birru

Book Reading Life of Muhammadsaw (pages 359 – 379) Topics: Safeguarding People's Faith, Overlooking Faults of Others, Patience In Adversity, Mutual Cooperation, Truthfulness, Inquisitiveness, Frank And Straightforward Dealing, Pessimism, Cruelty to Animals, Tolerance In Religious Matters, Bravery, Consideration towards the Uncultured, The Fulfilling of Covenants, Deference towards Servants of Humanity,

Life of the Prophetsaw

An Open Book

What was the Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssaw

viewpoint regarding overlooking faults of others,

truthfulness, inquisitiveness, straightforward dealing, pessimism, and tolerance in religious matters?

__________________________________________

__________________________________________ __________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

.

Lajna Imaillah-USA 95 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2013 – 2015

TALEEM APPENDICES

APPENDIX A Mary (Hadhrat Maryam)

An Account: With Reference to the Holy Qur’an

“And relate the story of Mary as mentioned in the Book, when she withdrew from

her people to an eastern place” (19:17).

Mary (Hadhrat Maryam) was the mother of Jesusas, the last prophet among the Israelites. The Holy Qur’an has described the story of Mary at great length, including her family and about her having conceived Jesusas and subsequent events before and after his birth. Since she gave birth to a child as a virgin, she was ridiculed by the people of the time as an un-chaste woman. However, Qur’an points to her elevated status among all the women: “And remember when the Angels said, ‘O Mary, Allah has chosen thee and purified thee and chosen thee above all women of the time” (3: 43). Qur’an also refers to her as Siddiqa, which is a very high status in Islam, next only to prophethood. “The Messiah, son of Mary, was only a Messenger; surely Messengers like unto him have passed away before him. And his mother was a truthful woman.” (5: 76)

Historical background Mary’s family lived in the small hilly town of Nazarath in Palestine, which had become part of the Roman Empire in 63 BC. Her father’s name was Imran and her mother’s name was Hannah and they both belonged to Moses’ (Hadhrat Moosa) family. In the Holy Qur’an, Hannah has been mentioned as the woman of Imran, which is not because of her husband’s name but her connection to Moses whose father’s name was also Imran (Short Commentary, page 133). The religious condition of Israelites had deteriorated, in general, before the time of Jesusas but there were some who would dedicate their children in the service of religion. Hannah was one such and she made a vow that she would dedicate her child’s life to the service of the Temple, hoping that she would be blessed with a son. Instead a daughter was born to her so she was naturally perplexed and expressed her worry and said “My Lord, I am delivered of a female,” (3:37). Allah told her that He knew better as to what she had given birth to, and the male she desired to have was not like (equal to) the female she was delivered of. The daughter was named Mary,which seems to be a popular name among Israelites. In fact, Aaron and Moses’ sister was also named Mary (Mariam) and, because of this connection, Jesus’sas mother has been referred to as ‘Sister of Haroon’ in the Qur’an even though the two are separated by about fourteen hundred years. There was a common practice among Israelites to refer to someone by providing connection to a well-known ancestor (Short Commentary, pages 132-134).

Lajna Imaillah-USA Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2013 – 2015

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Hannah was also praying for her daughter’s offspring saying, “I have named her Mary, and commit her and her offspring to Thy protection” (3:37). It was a custom among Israelites that those persons who were dedicated to the service of the church would remain unmarried (Gospel of Mary 5:6 Biyan under 3:36). Therefore, it is perplexing why Hannah was praying for her daughter’s offspring, as she must have known that her child would have remained unmarried. It is likely God told her in a vision that her daughter would grow up to womenhood, and would have a child and that is why she prayed for Mary and her child, or that this prayer just came out of her naturally by Allah’s design (Short Commentary, page 134-135). In any case, the Qur’an tells us that this was not an ordinary girl, rather God had bestowed on her those qualities, which made her a very special child, even better than the boy, Hannah was hoping for. Mary was admitted to the service of God in the Jewish Temple as an exceptional case, as only males were accepted for such service. The Temple was headed by Zachariah, the High Priest, who according to the Holy Qur’an was also a Prophet of God. Thus, Mary was brought up under Zachariah’s holy care. It is reported that right from her childhood she spent most of her time in her chamber in the remembrance of God. She dedicated her childhood to the service of the church. Whenever Zachariah visited her, he found her with provisions. The gifts were evidently brought by the visitors to the Temple. Moreover God had granted her not only material things but also had given her such wisdom that even at an early age she could interpret the Scriptures and answer complex questions in such a manner which were really beyond her age (Short Commentary, page 135). This surprised Zachariah and addressing her he said, O Mary! Whence have you got all this? “She replied, it is from Allah, Surely, Allah gives to whomsoever He pleases without measure” (3:38). This pious reply of Mary made a deep impression on the mind of Zachariah and he prayed to God Almighty that he may also be blessed with a child as pious as Mary. Though he was very old and his wife was barren meaning that he was unable to bear a child, yet having full trust in Allah’s Omnipotence, he prayed to God (3:39, 19:4-7, 21:90). My bones have become hollow and the hair of my head has turned white like flames, yet I have never been so doomed as to lose hope in Your Mercy. Grant me, therefore an heir who may also inherit the blessings of the House of Jacob and make him one who should be pleasing in your sight. God replied his name would be Yahya, a name which We have not given to anyone before (19:5-8). Thus Yahya was born according to Allah’s promise and God made him a Prophet to the Israelites. Yahya or John, the Baptist, as he is generally known in the Christian world, also happened to be a forerunner of Jesusas, in fulfillment of the prophecy mentioned in the old Testament which says: “Behold I will send you Elijah the Prophet before the great and terrible day of the Lord comes” (Mal v4-5). Thus, according to the Bible, it was necessary for Elijah to come before the advent of Jesusas. Since Zachariah was inspired by Mary, to pray for his son, she indirectly became the cause of the birth of Yahya (Elijah) who was to be harbinger of the coming of Jesusas (Five Volume Commentary, V4, page1557).


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The Jews believed that Prophet Elijah had ascended to heaven bodily and would descend before the advent of the Messiah. The fact was that Elijah was never taken up to heaven bodily and therefore could not have descended from heaven. The Biblical prophecy was fulfilled in the person of John, the Baptist, who came in the spirit of Elijah (Mal v3-1). Mary grew up in a religious surrounding, where she devoted her life in the service of God. She was a devoted, chaste and truthful woman. One day while she was praying to God Almighty in seclusion, an angel, in the form of a very handsome man, appeared to her and conveyed a Divine message that she would have a son. The vision was so lifelike that Mary, being a virtuous woman, was taken aback as she was under the impression that a young man was standing before her (Five Volume Commentary, V4, pages 1568-1569). Therefore she said, “I seek refuge with the Gracious God from thee If indeed thou dost fear Him.” “ The angel said, I am only a messenger of thy Lord, that I may give thee glad tidings of a righteous son.” (19:19, 20) This shocked Mary as she was a virgin. She said, “How can I have a son when no man has touched me, neither have I been unchaste?” “The angel said, ‘Thus it shall be.’ But says thy Lord, ‘It is easy for Me; and We shall do so that We may make him a Sign unto men, and mercy from Us, and it is a thing decreed.” (19:21-22) Mary had become pregnant, while leading a life of dedication in the Temple and without the agency of a male. The Priests grew more anxious when they came to know of the startling fact. They feared scandal and decided to arrange her marriage with a suitable person. They chose Joseph the carpenter to marry her and persuaded him to accept the awkward situation (Five Volume Commentary, V2, page 393). “Joseph was initially hesitant but an angel told him about Mary’s righteousness and that convinced him.” (Luke, 1:27) Joseph waited until after the birth of the child to marry her, but left the town with her and went to the hills around Bethlehem, in order to avoid the scandalous talk of the people (Five Volume Commentary, V2, page 393, 397). Jesusas was born in Bethlehem, which is about 70 miles from Nazareth and is situated at the height of about 2000 feet above sea level and is surrounded by fertile valley with springs of water and palm trees. It was the summer time and there were ripe dates on the palm trees. The exact day and year of Christ’s birth has never been satisfactorily settled; but when the father of the church in AD 340 decided upon a date to celebrate the event they wisely chose the day of the winter solstice which was firmly fixed in the mind of the people and which was their most important festival (Short Commentary, page 647). As the time of Jesus’ birth approached, Mary took rest under a palm tree, which was on the slope of the hill outside Bethlehem. In this sheltered place, she gave birth to Jesusas as she went through the pain of childbirth she exclaimed in agony, “Would that I had died before this and had become a thing quite forgotten” (19:24). At the moment she heard a voice from the side of the slope of the mountain, it was an angel


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who comforted her saying she should not grieve and was told that the Lord had provided a stream under her, wherein she may wash herself and the child. The angel said, “And shake towards thyself the trunk of the palm tree; it will drop upon thee fresh ripe dates;” “So, eat and drink and cool thine eye. And if thou seest any man, say, ‘ I have vowed a fast to the Gracious God; I will, therefore, not speak this day to any human being” (19:26-27). The birth of Jesusas was extraordinary but was not contrary to the law of nature. Science has proven that a fatherless birth is not usual, but is possible. Since this was an unusual form of birth and was a warning to Israelites that their spiritual progeny had come to an end because of their misdeeds and that there was none among them who was worthy to be the father of a Prophet of God. This in fact was a sign to illustrate that the time of the fulfillment of the great prophecy had come, and in accordance to God’s covenant with Abrahamas, the Prophethood was to be transferred from the progeny of Isaac to that of his brother Ishmael, Jesusas being the last prophet among the Israelites. Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam who came after Jesusas in 570 AD, was a descendent of Ishmael (Urdu Tafseere Kabeer, V5, pages 153,193). It is stated in the Bible that soon after the birth of Jesusas some men who had knowledge of the stars came from the east to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the baby born to be the “king of Jews?” (Mathew 2:2). This account, if it is true tells us that a special star, known as the “Star of Bethlehem” appeared in the sky, at that time, to mark the birth of a very special child who was to lead the Israelites. The people, who had the knowledge of stars, might have recognized the star and known that such a child had been born. We know that from the history of religion that sometimes such heavenly signs appear to mark the events of great religious importance (Urdu Tafseere Kabeer, V5, page. 162). Jesusas was an intelligent child; he was obedient and dutiful to his mother and was very kind to everyone. Due to his pious upbringing he spoke words of wisdom from his early childhood. Whenever he was confronted with difficult and complex questions his answers were enlightening and wonderful. Jesusas was merely a child when Mary decided to go back to her people. They were riding a donkey when they entered the town and when people learned of their return they came out of their houses and surrounded Mary. They began to ridicule and taunt her and behaved mischievously towards her. They censured her for her sin, which they believed she had committed (Five Volume Commentary, V4, page 1578), “Oh Mary, surely you have committed a monstrous thing.” “Your father was not a wicked man, nor was your mother an unchaste woman!” (19:28, 29). There were many such rude remarks from the people and Mary was deeply hurt. But she did not say anything in reply. Instead she pointed towards Jesusas that such a blessed child who was already showing signs of being in communion with God, could not have been the fruit of sin. In spite of the fact that the Jews were waiting for the Messiah to appear, they rejected Jesusas. They believed the `King of Israel` would come and lead them to victory against the Romans. They were expecting a mighty king who would come with power and glory.


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Therefore when Jesusas, who was of humble origin claimed to be the Messiah, he was rejected outright. The Jews were indeed mistaken. Jesusas did not claim to be a worldly king. He explained that his kingdom had nothing to do with this world. But, his people rejected him and crucified him because they thought his claim amounted to blasphemy. Allah saved Jesusas from the accursed death on the cross and he escaped and travelled east in search of the lost tribes of the house of Israel. “And we made the son of Mary and his mother a Sign; and gave them shelter on an elevated land of green valleys and springs of running water” (23:51). Research has shown that the place of this refuge was Kashmir, which is a true manifestation of the place described in the Quran (Short Commentary, pages 742 - 743). Notes:

Read more about Jesus’as death in Short Commentary, page 742.

Read more about the divine secret of Jesus’as fatherless birth in Short Commentary, page 646.

Read discussion about Christ’s birth and celebration of Christmas (Short Commentary, pages 647 and 648).

Read about ‘eastern place’ mentioned in Quran (Short Commentary, page 644).

Read about Jesus’as refuge in Kashmir (Short Commentary, pages 642 - 643).


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APPENDIX B PROPHETHOOD CHART

Prophethood

Prophets were divided into two categories: law bearing ones and non-law bearing ones. It is mentioned in the Holy Qur’an that “there is no people to whom a Warner (Nazir) has not been sent.” (35:25) The prophets whose names are mentioned are given in the Holy Qur’an are given below. . Most of the information given below has been derived from A Book of Religious Knowledge (by Waheed Ahmad, Fazle-Umar Press, Athens, Ohio, 1988).

The Early Prophets

The House of Abraham

Hadhrat Adam (4000 BC)

Hadhrat Adam was not the first man created, but was the first law bearing prophet of the current cycle of evolution. Among the early generations of Adam rose such notable prophets such as Idris, Noah, and Hud. Both the Bible and Quran give detailed accounts of the Flood that came during the time of Noah and took the lives of many disbelievers. Noah and his followers took refuge in an ark which he had built on divine command.

Hadhrat Hud

(Ebar)

Hadhrat Idris

(Enoch) Hadhrat Nuh

(Noah)

Hadhrat Ibrahim (Abraham) 2165-1900 BC

Prophet Abraham has the distinction of being the Patriarch of not only the Israelites but also the Quraysh of Mecca, among whom the Prophet of Islam was raised. He had two sons-Isma’il and Ishaq.

Hadhrat Salih

(Saleh)

Hadhrat Lut (Lot): nephew of

Ibrahim

Hadhrat Isma’il (Ishmael) 2065BC-1885BC Hadhrat Ibrahim left his wife Hajra and son Isma’il in Mecca. Later, Ismail helped his father build the Kaa’ba there.

Hadhrat Ishaq (Isaac) 2065BC-1885BC His son Jacob received the title “Israel” in the Old Testament. This is why his descendents are called Bani Israel or Israelites.

Yaqoob (Jacob) 2005-1858BC Son of Ishaq and grandson of Ibrahim 12 tribes of Israel named after 12 sons of Jacob.

Hadhrat Yusuf (Joseph) 1914-1804BC Son of Jacob

Hadhrat

Shu’aib


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The Mosaic Period According to the Qur’an, there continued to be several prophets during the Mosaic Period. “And verily We gave Moses the Book and caused Messengers to follow in his footsteps after him.” (Quran Ch:2 Verse 88)

Hadhrat Musa (Moses) 1525-1405BC Moses was born among the Israelites who were being persecuted by the Pharaoh, Ramses II. His mother, in fear of his execution at the hands of the Pharaoh's soldiers, placed him in a reed basket and set it afloat in the River Nile. The Pharaoh's wife spotted the floating basket and after discovering the infant inside, decided to adopt him. Moses thus grew up in the palace of the Pharaoh. When Moses was commissioned as a prophet, he told the ruling Pharaoh, Merneptah, to believe in One God. The Pharaoh not only disbelieved but decided to punish Moses and the rest of the Israelites. Moses, under Divine command, led the Israelites out of Egypt towards the Promised Land. Followers of Hadhrat Moosa are called Yahud (Jews), which is the religious identification of Israelites.

Hadhrat Haroon (Aaron) 1525-1405

BC: Brother of

Hadhrat Musa

Hadhrat Daud (David)

1011-971 BC

Hadhrat Ilyas (Elijah) 875-852 BC

Hadhrat Sulaiman (Solomon) 971-931 BC

Hadhrat Alyasa

(Elisha) 851-795 BC Hadhrat Yunus (Jonah) 788-772 BC

Hadhrat Dhul-kifl (Ezekiel) 593-560 BC Hadhrat Ayyub (Job)

~539BC

Hadhrat Zakariyya (Zachariah)

Mary, the mother of Jesus, grew up under his supervision in the Jewish temple.

Hadhrat Yahya (John the Baptist) 4BC to 100 AD He was the harbinger for Hadhrat Isa.


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The Christian Era At this point, prophethood transferred from Bani Israel (progeny of Ishaq (Isaac)) to Bani Isma’il (the progeny of Ismail (Ishmael)). The Holy Prophet of Islam belonged to Bani Isma’il.

Dawn of Islam

Revival of Islam

Revival of Islam Important Note: For the Holy Prophet of Islam and Hadhrat Ahmad, the dates shown are the years of their birth and death. For all other prophets, the dates shown represent estimated time periods during which those prophets appeared; these dates should not be used to compute their age.

Khilafat Allah has decreed: ‘Most surely I will prevail, I and my Messengers.’ (58:22) God Almighty promised Khilafat-e-Rashida (The Righteous Khilafat) to Muslims. “Allah has promised to those among you who believe and do good works that He will surely make them Successors in the earth...” (24:56) “There has been no Prophet who has not been followed by Khilafat.” (Al-Khasa’is al-Kubra, part II, p.115) Allah has established that the system of Khilafat will follow the prophethood. The Khalifah continues and carries on the task of the Prophet, as Khilaft-e-Rashida after the Holy Prophet and Khilaft-e-Ahmadiya after Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad.

Hadhrat Isa (Jesus) Although Jesus Christ's teachings were essentially the same as the Old Testament's, the Jews of his time rejected his claim to prophethood. This was because the Jews were still waiting for the second coming of Elijah, as promised by Malachi in the Old Testament. Jesus started his mission when he was about thirty years old. By the time he was about thirty three, the opposition to his mission by the Jews and the Romans reached such an extent that he was put on the cross.

Hadhrat Muhammad (SAW) 570 – 632 AD Prophet Muhammad came some six hundred years after Jesus Christ, with no other prophet appearing in this interval. Quran designates him as the Khatumulnabiyan, which means that he is and will forever remain the greatest prophet of all times—past, present, and future, and his Sharia will remain unaltered and the guiding code and law until doomsday.

Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad 1835-1908 AD In fulfillment of the prophecies of Hadhrat Muhammad (SAW), Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was sent as the Promised Messiah and Mahdi. He claimed to be a true follower of the Holy Prophet of Islam and declared that he was sent with the sole purpose of revival of Islam and to establish the teachings of the Holy Qur’an in the whole world. There are several similarities between Musaic and Islamic orders, one being that Hadhrat Isa (Jesus) came 1400 years after Hadhrat Moosa (Moses) and Hadhrat Ahmad came 1400 years after the Holy Prophet of Islam.


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APPENDIX C REFERENCES ON ISLAMIC CONCEPT OF CREATION

For information on the Islamic Concept of Creation of Man, please see the following links below:

“How did Allah create the first human?” explained by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh in simple words: http://www2.alislam.org/askislam/mp3/MEI_19910427_37.mp3

Life in the Perspective of Quranic Revelations from “Revelation, Rationality,

Knowledge & Truth” by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh: http://www.alislam.org/library/books/revelation/part_5_section_1.html

Evolution according to Holy Qur’an - Creation of Man - Islam Ahmadiyya: http://www.alislam.org/v/69.html

Faith matters Program # 77:

Q3 @ 17:13 Can you explain what is Evolution and what are the objections on Darwin Theory in the light of Islam? http://www.alislam.org/v/3879.html

Faith matters program # 87: Q8 @ 46:30 From Bible study we found that Adam was created and then from

the rib of Adam, Eve was created. What is the Islamic Ahmadiyya viewpoint? http://www.alislam.org/v/6071.html

Quranic Concept of evolution:

http://www.alislam.org/topics/quran/QURANIC%20CONCEPT%20OF%20EVOLUTION.pdf

Man Lived on Earth Even Before the Advent of Adam: http://www.alislam.org/library/links/00000179.html

http://www2.alislam.org/askislam/mp3/MEI_19910427_37.mp3

http://www.alislam.org/library/books/revelation/part_5_section_1.html

http://www.alislam.org/v/69.html



http://www.alislam.org/topics/quran/QURANIC%20CONCEPT%20OF%20EVOLUTION.pdf

http://www.alislam.org/library/links/00000179.html


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APPENDIX D REMAINDER OF SALAT

Concluding Prayers from the Holy Qur’an

wwa Hasanatan Fid’dunyaa Aa’tinaa Rab’banaa

and Good In this world Grant us Our Lord

Na’ ghfir lee Rab’banaa Du 'aa Wa taqab’bal Rab’banaa

Forgive me Our Lord Prayer Accept my Our Lord

Adhaban’naar Wwaqinaa Hasanatan Fil aakhirati

From the torment of Fire And protect us Good In the hereafter

Dhur-riy’yati Wamin Salaati Muqimas- J 'alnee Rab’bi

My children too

And Observing prayer

Constant in Make me My Lord

Yaqumu Yauma Lil-mu'mineena Wa Wali waliday’ya

Will Take place The day The believer And And my parents

Ul ‘hisaab

Reckoning


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Salaam

Allah wa rahmatu ‘alaikum As’salamu

Allah And mercy of

Be upon you

Peace

Du'a Qunut

wa Nu’minubika wa Nastaghfiruka

Nasta‘ eenuka In’naa Allahum’ma

And we believe in you

And we ask your

forgiveness

Beseech thy help

We O Allah

-Khaira ‘Alaikal- wa Nuthnee ‘Alaika wa Natawakkalu

In the best manner You And we praise You And we trust in

ma(n)y yafjuruka wa Natruku

wa Nakhla‘u wa laa Nakfuruka

wa Nashkuruka

Who disobeys you And forsake

him

And we cast off

And we are not ungrateful

And we thank you

Nusal’lee wa laka Na‘budu Iy’yaaka Allaahum’ma

Do we pray And to you alone

Do we serve

you alone O Allah


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wa Narjoo wa Nahfidu Nas‘aa wa Ilaika wa Nasjudu

And do we hop And present ourselves

We rush And towards you

And we prostrate ourselves

‘Adhabaka In’na ‘Adhabaka wa nakhshaa Rahmataka

Your chastisement

For surely Your chastisement

And we fear Your mercy

Mulhiq Bil-kuffari

Overtakes The disbelievers


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APPENDIX E RESPONSE PRAYERS

Surah Al-Fatihah

At the end of Surah Al-Fatihah (Chapter 1), in response to the prayer ending in,

One should say Ameen

Surah Al- Fat’h In response to the phrase in Surah Al-Fat’h,

Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; (48:30)

One should say

Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon him!

Surah Al-A`laa After the second verse of Surah Al-A`laa,

Glorify the name of thy Lord, the Most High (87:2)

we should dutifully say:

Holy is My Lord, the Most High!


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Surah Al-Ghashiah At the end of Surah Al-Ghashiah, after –

Unto Us surely is their return; Then, surely, it is for Us to call them to account. (88:26-27)

the following is recited:

O Allah, bring me to account with leniency!

Surah Al-Rahmaan In Surah Al-Rahmaan, after each repetition of the question:

Which, then, of the favors of your Lord will you twain deny? (55:14 - 78)

One should respond:

None of Your favors do we deny, O our Lord! (Tirmizi-Tafseer Surah Rahman)

Surah Al-Teen At the end of Surah Al-Teen, when Allah asks —

Is not Allah the Best of judges? (95:9)

We agree and say,

Yes! and I am among the witnesses to that! (Jawahirul Ihsan)


(INSERT 2-PAGE GRAY JALSA PRAYERS


(INSERT 2-PAGE GRAY JALSA PRAYERS)

Lajna Imaillah-USA 111 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2013 – 2015

TARBIYAT PROGRAM 2013 – 2015

O Lord! Accept this from us;

For you are All Hearing, All Knowing

REFLECT THE COLORS OF ALLAH

Lajna Imaillah-USA Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2013 – 2015

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TARBIYAT PROGRAM 2013-2015 “They believe in Allah and the Last Day, and enjoin what is good and forbid evil, and hasten, vying with one another, in good works. And these are among the righteous.” (Holy Qur'an 3:115)

Prayer for Tarbiyat - O Allah, I beg You for Your love and the one who loves You. I beg You for the ability to do such actions which make me achieve Your love. O Allah, pour such love into my heart, which is stronger than my love for myself, my wealth, my family and cool refreshing water. (Tirmidhi, Kitabud Da’awat)

Theme: REFLECT THE COLORS OF ALLAH When pure white light passes through a prism, it reveals itself to be composed of a brilliant array

of color. Thus it is with Allah Ta'ala; His pure light is composed of a wonderful array of attributes,

which have been revealed to us by the Holy Qur'an. It says: ``And to Allah alone belong all

perfect attributes. So call on Him by these attributes.'' (7:181) The Holy Prophetsaws is reported

to have said: ``Follow the attributes of Allah.''

The goal of this tarbiyat program is to inculcate Attributes of Allah into ourselves and our lives

so that we reflect the colors of Allah.

Tarbiyat Program Focus:

To ponder on Allah Ta'ala’s attributes; imprint them into our characters and incorporate them into our daily lives.

To actively follow the example of our beloved Holy Prophetsaw in our daily life.

To improve our worship of Allah with emphasis on establishing Salat.

To fulfill the role and responsibilities of an Ahmadi woman, especially in guarding our purdah.

To raise children with love for Allah Ta'ala by coloring them with His attributes.

To establish peace in our homes by protecting and strengthening the ties of marriage. Our Personal Tarbiyat Objectives:

Perform Salat five times daily on time, in congregation as much as possible.

Recite Holy Qur'an daily with translation.

Increase daily recitation of Darood on Holy Prophetsaw.

Listen to Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih’s sermons regularly.

Offer 2 nawafil daily for all Ahmadis facing persecution.

Observe purdah and maintain hayaa on all occasions.

Reflect on and comply with conditions of Bai’at in daily life and strive towards doing Wasiyat.

Increase attendance at Lajna meetings.


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TARBIYAT PROGRAM SYLLABUS

A. Listen to current Friday sermon every week and participate in Friday sermon activity every month.

B. Tarbiyat Workbook – i) Attributes of Allah Ta'ala

ii) Tarbiyat Subject

Instructions for using workbook:

Reflect on the attributes of Allah Ta'ala associated with each quarter and incorporate the

attribute into discussion of the tarbiyat subject matter.

Each quarter of the workbook contains assigned material on a tarbiyat subject. The

material should be read carefully and thoughtfully.

Workshops, panel discussions or other interactive means of members’ participation should be used to answer the related questions.

Question 1 is compulsory.

Answer at least one more question each quarter.

Include Lajna, ages 15-25, by assigning some part of the activity to them, e.g. do

research on topic.

Additional references are given for each quarter for further information.

Contact National Tarbiyat Secretary for further guidance if necessary.


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Reflect the Colors of Allah in Ourselves /in Our Lives

Quarter 1: Tarbiyat Subject: The Holy Prophetsaw and Obedience.

Attribute: Al Nur – The Light, the One Who Guides

Reflect the light of Allah by emulating the character and qualities of the Holy Prophetsaw.

Reflect on Ahadith and follow the Sunnah of the Holy Prophetsaw.

Quarter 2: Tarbiyat Subject: Salat and Prayer.

Attributes: Al Wahab - The Bestower, As Shakur –The Appreciator

Reflect that Allah Ta'ala bestows when asked and even when not asked. He appreciates

even our humblest efforts when we worship Him and pray to Him. Reflect on these attributes

and bestow your caring, compassion and time on all those around you. Show more

appreciation for what you have and for what Allah Ta'ala has bestowed on you and turn to

Him in appreciation with prayer.

Quarter 3: Tarbiyat Subject: Marital Harmony.

Attributes: Al Ghaffar – The Forgiver, As Sattar – The Concealer of Faults

Reflect that Allah Ta'ala not only forgives us again and again, but covers our weaknesses

also. Therefore, to improve marital harmony, be more forgiving and tolerant of each other’s

shortcomings. Act as garments of each other and do not display each other’s weaknesses.

Quarter 4: Tarbiyat Subject: Tarbiyat of Children

Attributes: Al Hadi – The Guide

Reflect that without Allah Ta'ala’s guidance, we would not be able to make spiritual

progress. Only if we grasp Allah Ta'ala’s guidance firmly will we be able to guide our

children on the right path. Therefore obey Allah’s commands and make the spiritual training

of your children a priority over any other aspect of their lives.

Quarter 5: Tarbiyat Subject: Modesty.

Attributes: Al Muhaimin – The Protector, Al Razzaq – The Provider

Reflect that Allah Ta'ala has provided us with all that we need, and with beautiful teachings

that provide protection for us. The command of modesty for men and women has been

given for own protection. Observing purdah will not only protect us from the ill-effects of

society, but is a most potent tool for safeguarding the next generation.


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Quarter 6: Tarbiyat Subject: Istighfar and Repentance.

Attributes: Al Wali – The Friend, As Shafi – The Healer

Reflect that Allah Ta'ala is the Friend of believers and the Healer of all ills and weaknesses.

When we turn to Him with sincere istighfar and repentance, He heals our spirit and allows us

to progress towards Him.

Quarter 7: Tarbiyat Subject: Taqwa, Righteousness.

Attributes: As Saboor – The Patient, Al Wadood – The Loving

Reflect that Allah Ta'ala is loving and patient with His creation, even when we slip from the

right path. Practicing kindness and patience with everyone around us will keep us on the

path of righteousness; keeping love and fear of Allah in our hearts leads us to nearness to

Him.

Quarter 8: Tarbiyat Subject: Peace and salvation through the Holy Qur'an.

Attributes: As Salam – The Source of Peace, Al Haq – The Truthful

Reflect that true peace only comes from recognizing Allah Ta'ala as the source of peace

and truth: He has bestowed it on us through the Holy Qur'an. We can attain peace by

immersing ourselves in devotion to the Holy Qur'an and by obeying its commands.

Lajna Imaillah-USA Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May & June 2013 2013 – 2015 Quarter 1

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QUARTER 1: APRIL- MAY-JUNE 2013

AL NUR - THE LIGHT

Tarbiyat Subject: The Holy Prophetsaw and obedience Goal: To improve our obedience to the commandments of Allah Ta'ala and the example of the Holy Prophetsaw, who reflected Allah’s Light in the East and the West. Extra Discussion Topic: Allah Ta’ala’s attribute of Al Nur

‘That light of high degree that was bestowed on perfect man was not in angels, was not in stars, was not in the moon, was not in the sun, was not in the oceans and the rivers, was not in rubies, emeralds, sapphires, or pearls; in short, it was not in any earthly or heavenly object. It was only in perfect man whose highest and loftiest and most perfect example was our lord and master, the Chief of the Prophetsaws, the Chief of all living ones, Muhammad, the chosen one [peace and blessings of Allah be on him]. That light was bestowed on this man and, according to their ranks, upon all those who bore the same color to some degree.... This dignity was found in its highest and most perfect form in our lord and master and our guide, the immaculate Prophetsaw, the righteous one, testified to by the righteous, Muhammad, the chosen one [peace and blessings of Allah be on him]’ (A’ina Kamalat e Islam, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 5, pp. 160-162 - Essence of Islam, Vol. I, p. 197)

FRIDAY SERMON: OBEDIENCE TO THE HOLY PROPHETSAW

Summary of Friday sermon delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba on August

17, 2012

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masihatba recited the following verses at the start of Friday sermon today:

‘Verily you have in the Prophetsaw of Allah an excellent model, for him who fears Allah and the

Last Day and who remembers Allah much.’ (33:22)

‘Say, ‘If you love Allah, follow me: then will Allah love you and forgive you your faults. And Allah

is Most Forgiving, Merciful.’(3:32)

In order to become the recipient of Divine grace, favours and blessings, God has taught to

become His Abd (servant), those who follow His commandments. Last Friday’s sermon

mentioned that by following God’s commandments one comes into the category of true Abd. For

this purpose God has sent numerous instructions so that we can become corroborators of ‘…So

they should hearken to Me and believe in Me…’ (2:187) and gain the pleasure of being a true

Abd and experience acceptance of prayers. Although there are numerous Qur’anic

commandments to attain this objective, but human nature is such that it is more influenced by

practical example. When one claims to love someone, one tries to adopt every practice of the

beloved. When faith is included in this love one wishes to please the beloved as well as secure

one’s faith.


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We are fortunate to be included in the Ummah of the Holy Prophetsaw who was an exemplar of

all the Qur’anic commandments, presenting a perfect and blessed model. The aforementioned

verses draw attention to this subject and command that a Muslim claiming to have faith will

accomplish faith and will gain nearness to God when he or she will follow the blessed model of

the Prophetsaw. Without following his blessed model it is pointless to hope for the Hereafter,

without it piety cannot be called piety, worship is not worship. Without following his blessed

model, Dikhr (remembrance of God) cannot reach that stage from which one gains nearness to

God, salvation from sin is not possible without it and one cannot partake of God’s Raheemiyyat

(Divine quality of being Merciful) and one cannot attain God’s love. He was the most beloved

person of God and if he is not followed, one cannot attain God’s love either.

Fortunately, we are Muslims but we will only derive the beneficence of being a part of the

Ummah when we will try to walk in the footsteps of the Holy Prophetsaw. He made it very clear

that God’s nearness and love cannot be attained by following steps, which he did not practice.

In the current age, it is the favour of his true and ardent devotee, the Promised Messiahas that

he has guided us to understand and indeed practice the true example of the Holy Prophetsaw.

He informed us that some new innovations of worship, which are not to be seen in the blessed

model of the Holy Prophetsaw cannot attain nearness to God because in order to attain nearness

to God it is essential to follow the Prophetsaw’s blessed model.

Before presenting examples of the blessed model of the Holy Prophetsaw, which is guidance in

becoming a true Abd, here is what the Promised Messiahas wrote about the status of the Holy

Prophetsaw. He wrote:

‘Say: O my servants who have committed excesses against your own selves despair not of the

mercy of Allah; surely Allah will forgive all sins. [39:54]. In this verse instead of: O servants of

Allah; the Holy Prophetsaw was commanded to say: O my servants. This verse was revealed in

this form so that God Almighty might convey the good news of limitless mercies and might

comfort those who are broken-hearted in consequence of their sins. Thus, Allah the Glorious

desired to exhibit a sample of His mercies and to make it manifest to what extent He honours

His faithful servant with special favours. By adopting the form: Say: O my servants; God in effect

said: Look at My beloved Messenger and see at what high rank he has arrived through his

perfect obedience to Me that now all that is Mine is his. He who desires salvation should

become his servant. That is to say, he should obey him so perfectly as if he was his slave. Then

whatever sins he might have committed will be forgiven him. The word ‘abd in Arabic idiom also

means slave as it is said: ‘…even a believing slave is better than an idolater…’[2:222]

In the verse to which we have drawn attention, it is indicated that he who desires salvation

should establish the relationship of a slave with this Prophetsaw. That is to say, he should not

step outside his commandment and should consider himself bound to his obedience as a slave

is bound and he would then obtain salvation. One pities those benighted souls who bear such

rancour towards the Holy Prophetsaw that they consider that names like Ghulam Nabi, Ghulam

Rasul, Ghulam Mustafa, Ghulam Ahmad and Ghulam Muhammad, amount to associating the

Holy Prophetsaw with God, whereas the verse indicates that these names are a means of


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salvation. As ‘abd implies that a person so named should refrain from every kind of freedom and

self-direction and should be completely obedient to his master, therefore, the seekers after truth

have been urged that if they wish to attain salvation they should adapt themselves to this

condition. This verse has the same connotation as the verse: ‘Say, ‘If you love Allah, follow me:

then will Allah love you and forgive you your faults…’ [3:32].

Perfect following demands that devotion and full obedience which is conveyed in the expression

‘abd. The verse: Say: O my servants; means in effect: Say: O my followers, who are involved in

sins, despair not of mercy of Allah; for Allah, through the blessing of your following me, will

forgive all your sins. If the word ‘servants’ in this verse is construed as meaning the servants of

Allah, the meaning of the verse is perverted for it cannot be true that God Almighty would

forgive all idol worshippers and disbelievers without their believing in and following the Holy

Prophetsaw. Such an interpretation would be contrary to the express directions of the Holy

Qur’an.’ [Essence of Islam, Vol. I, pp. 204 – 206]

This is glad tidings for that person who obeys the Prophetsaw and follows him because his

perfect following erases the worst of sins. If one truly wishes to become an Abd and beloved of

God it is most important to continue to follow the blessed model of the Holy Prophetsaw rather

than follow it at the odd opportunity. The practice of the Holy Prophetsaw was not limited to any

one aspect nor was it specific to Ramadan. According to Hadhrat Aishahra his life was a

personification of the Holy Qur’an in all aspects of life. The Promised Messiahas also wrote:

‘It should be remembered that the purport of the verse is that those who become the sincere

servants of the Holy Prophetsaw will be bestowed the light, the faith, the love and the passion

which will deliver them from all that is beside Allah, and they will be freed from sins and will be

bestowed a pure life in this world and they will be delivered from the narrow and dark graves of

human passions. This is indicated by the Hadith: That is, I am the resurrector at whose

footsteps the dead are raised. The Holy Qur’an is full of the idiom that the world had died and

that God Almighty revived it through sending the Holy Prophetsaw as is said: ‘Know that Allah

quickens the earth after its death.’ [57:18]

In the same way, it is said with reference to the companions of the Holy Prophetsaw ‘…He has

strengthened with inspiration from Himself…’ [58:23] This means that God helped them with the

Holy Spirit. The help of the Holy Spirit is that it revives the hearts, delivers from spiritual death,

bestows pure faculties, pure senses and pure knowledge, and carries a person to the station of

nearness to God through certain knowledge and conclusive arguments.’ [Essence of Islam, Vol.

I, pp, 206 – 207]

This is giving preference to pleasure of God and this is what the Companions of the Holy

Prophetsaw practiced. As a result they were granted spiritual life and pure powers with which

they fought Satan. They attained knowledge of the Qur’an and acquired certainty of belief in

God and gained His nearness. They achieved all this by following the Holy Prophetsaw and they

gained insight of the commandment of: ‘And as for those who strive in Our path — We will

surely guide them in Our ways…’ (29:70).


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The Promised Messiahas wrote:

‘This knowledge on which salvation depends cannot be obtained without that life which is

bestowed through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Qur’an affirms it emphatically that that spiritual life is

obtained only through following the Holy Prophetsaw and that all those who repudiate obedience

to him are dead and do not possess that life. Spiritual life means the intellectual and active

faculties, which are brought to life by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Qur’an shows that the

commandments of God to which He desires man to conform are six hundred. In consonance

with this the wings of Gabriel are also six hundred. Till the egg of humanness lies under the

wings of Gabriel bearing these six hundred commandments, it cannot hatch the baby of being

completely lost in Allah. The reality of man has the capacity of six hundred eggs. A person

whose six hundred eggs are covered by the six hundred wings of the capacity of Gabriel is the

perfect man whose spiritual birth is perfect and whose life is perfect. If one looks with care one

finds that the spiritual issue of the egg of humanness which by the blessing of the following of

the Holy Prophetsaw were born to the Holy Spirit, are more perfect and complete than the

spiritual children of all the other Prophets. This is indicated by the verse: ‘You are the best of

people who have been created for the good of mankind.’ [3:111] [Essence of Islam, Vol. I, pp.

207 – 208]

Having being declared as best of people, it is incumbent on us to try to bring about the spiritual

revolution which we have been given the teaching for. We will only be able to reform others if

we have reformed ourselves. We should continue to self-reflect and see where and how are we

making efforts. Indeed, a sinful person can go on to become an Abd, but only though following

the perfect and blessed model of the Holy Prophetsaw with all one’s capacities.

Next some examples from the life of the Holy Prophetsaw were presented. He was that great

Prophetsaw who would be busy during the day in matters of governance and in the spiritual

development of his followers. He would be thus busy in ordinary times but in times of

emergency and war his engagements used to be extreme. Yet, we do not find any impediment

in his worship of God during day or during the night. His worship at night time would be so

intense that his feet would swell due to standing up for long periods of time. As the Qur’an

states, ‘Verily, getting up at night is the most potent means of subduing the self and most

effective in respect of words of prayer.’ (73:7) It is related that Hadhrat Aishahra asked the Holy

Prophetsaw that he was already close to God so why did he put himself through so much pain.

He replied that being close to God did it not make his obligation that he was a grateful servant of

God.

It is God’s favour on us that not only did He make us Muslims, He also enabled us to take the

greetings of the Holy Prophetsaw to His true and ardent devotee, the Promised Messiahas. This

favour alone is so huge that we could never thank God for it. It should be the effort of every

Ahmadi to try and pay the dues of worship of God according to his or her capacity. The routine

to offer Nawafil (optional Salat) in Ramadan should not be temporary and should not be to attain

worldly objectives; rather it should be to express gratefulness. The Holy Prophetsaw was

extremely regular in observance of obligatory Salat. Even during severe illness he would go to


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the mosque walking with support. He put great significance on worship yet he did not like

pretence in this regard. Once he noticed a dangling rope at home and upon asking was told that

Hadhrat Zainabra would use it as support when she became tired during Salat. The Prophetsaw

said that one should stand in Salat for as long as one could manage worship with ease but

when tired, one should sit down and continue worship. Some people make it habitual to sit and

offer Salat some stay in bed to offer Fajr, this is incorrect. One should try to the best of one’s

ability when offering Salat and everyone should gauge their capacity in this regard.

In spite of his exemplary worship and gratefulness, the Holy Prophetsaw said that no one will be

admitted to Paradise owing to their practices. When asked, he replied that even he would not be

admitted to Paradise on this basis and said that only God’s grace and mercy would facilitate his

entry to Paradise. What a sublime example of humility and fear of God is this. It is great cause

for concern for those who show airs and graces at their every pious act. May God always keep

us wrapped in His grace and forgiveness and may He enable us to offer true worship and to

adopt humility.

The Holy Prophetsaw said to adopt piety in your tasks and find the way to Divine nearness. He

said no one should wish for death; if he is pious, he will develop in piety and if he is wicked, he

will be enabled to repent. Indeed the capacity to repent also comes from God. In Ramadan one

tries to remove one’s shortcomings, this practice should be continued after Ramadan. Here, the

Holy Prophetsaw addressed those who are drawn towards repentance in order to enhance in

piety and who pray that indeed death is inevitable but may one be overcome by it when God is

pleased with one.

The Holy Prophetsaw said that not utilising one’s capacities and God’s blessings, is insolence

and the correct use of one’s capacities is worship. To use one’s ears, eyes, tongue, hand and

feet to do pious tasks becomes worship. Listening to pious matters with ears makes one

recipient of God’s pleasure whereas it is a sin to listen to back-biting. It is also not correct use of

one’s ears to keep them permanently shut so that one may not hear something bad, in fact it is

a kind of insolence. It is the same with the use of other faculties. We are going through

Ramadan these days and it is God’s command to eat at Sehri and break the fast at Iftar. If

someone does not follow this, it is insolence and a sin, unless there is some constraint. If one

does not fast in spite of good health, it is also insolence and a sin.

The Holy Prophetsaw had remarkable forbearance and tolerance. Before the commandment of

prohibition of alcohol, once an inebriated Companion spoke inappropriately to the Prophetsaw

but he did not say anything to him. There are many incidents of his forbearance after he

migrated to Medina and he had great power at his disposal. Once a Jew started arguing with

him and kept addressing him as ‘O Muhammad.’ He was the ruler of Medina and his

Companions did not like this form of address. While Muslims addressed the Holy Prophetsaw as

‘O Prophetsaw of God, the non-Muslims addressed him with his family name as Abu Qasim. The

Companions told off the Jew for his form of address but he insisted that he would use the name,

which was given by the parents of the Prophetsaw. Hearing this, the Holy Prophetsaw smiled and


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said the Jew was right, indeed his parents had named him Muhammad. He told his Companions

not to be angry.

Once a well-off woman usurped someone’s property and was punished. The tribes became

restless that a woman of high rank had been punished and sent someone to the Holy Prophetsaw

to intercede. The Prophetsaw expressed displeasure. Indeed, he was an embodiment of affection

but he was displeased at the intercession against God’s commandment. He said: ‘Those who

have gone before you were destroyed, because if any one of high rank committed theft amongst

them, they spared him; and if anyone of low rank committed theft, they inflicted the prescribed

punishment upon him. Islam does not permit this. By Allah, if even my daughter Fatima were to

commit this crime, I would have punished her.’ These days sense of justice is missing among

the Muslims and that is the reason for their decline. We should be most careful in this regard.

Our office-holders should also fulfil the dues of justice and should try and maintain such

standards, for this is a perilous matter and becomes a source of decline.

The Prophetsaw’s sense of justice with the enemy was in light of the Qur’anic commandment.

Once he sent some Companions towards Makkah as messengers. The Companions met some

men within the boundary of the Ka’aba and they suspected that the men would inform the

people of Makkah. The Companions attacked and killed the men. Later, a delegation from

Makkah came with the complaint that their men were killed. Rather than remind the people from

Makkah of their own atrocities, the Holy Prophetsaw agreed to pay blood money. The

Prophet’ssaw respect for the sentiments of others is demonstrated in the tradition where a Jew

came to him with the complaint that Hadhrat Abu Bakrra had hurt his feelings by saying that

Muhammadsaw was superior to Mosesas. It is indeed a fact that the Holy Prophetsaw was most

excellent among all the Prophets. However, his judgment was in favour of the Jew and said that

Hadhrat Abu Bakrra should not have spoken to him in that manner.

The Holy Prophet’ssaw demeanour towards those who serve humanity is evident in the tradition

where during a skirmish with people of a tribe the Muslims took some prisoners. Among these

prisoners was the daughter of the renowned generous Arab called Hatem. When the Prophetsaw

came to know about this, he negotiated with her and on her recommendation pardoned the

people of her tribe.

As regards the Prophet’ssaw respect and honour for women, according to Arab customs men

used to beat their women. The Prophetsaw said: ‘women are God’s maids and are not your

maids.’ He once told a Companion who asked him about the rights of a wife, ‘feed her whatever

God has provided you with, clothe her with what God has given you to clothe, do not slap her,

do not verbally abuse her and do not turn her out of the house.’ These days such incidents

come up, people should think about this. On the one hand they engage in prayers and on the

other hand they are disobeying the commandment.

The Holy Prophetsaw said: ‘The best of you is he who is best to his family, and I am the best

among you to my family.’ In spite of his other demanding engagements, the Holy Prophetsaw

used to do household chores in a fine manner. Hadhrat Aishahra relates that whatever time he


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spent at home he would be busy helping and serving the family. He would patch up his clothes

himself, would milk the goat and if he came home late he did not awaken anyone and would

have his food by himself. Therein is a lesson for those men who think it is a sin for them to do

house work and who think it is the duty of the wife to always serve food. Such people are not

satisfied unless they have ranted and raved at their wives. Some of them do Jama’at work but

such is their attitude at home. In some families the mother and sisters are scornful if their

brother serves tea to guests and they say that their brother is slave to his wife, that their ‘poor

brother/son’ has to do house work. At times such men are misled and they become harsh in

their attitude with their wives. Such men are not ‘poor this or the other’ when they practice the

blessed model, in fact they will be poor this or the other when they are harsh to their wives and

will be held accountable. They should have cause for concern.

The Holy Prophetsaw used to pray for his own children and other children who lived with him: ‘O

Allah, I love them, You love them too.’ He never punished children and always trained them with

love and prayer. When the first fruit of the season came he would pray for the fruit to be blessed

and then first give the fruit to the youngest child in the assembly. It is also related that he used

to play with children. Most parents love their children but some do reprimand them needlessly.

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masihatba met with a young man recently who told him that he was scared all

the time and was suffering from depression. The cause for his psychological illness is that his

father would beat him up all the time. When the father was asked what was the reason for doing

this he said it was important to keep an influence on the children. Such is the state of some

parents. Here, one gets to hear that some parents kill their children for their personal pleasures.

These days such news is rife. Then there are those who love their own children but cannot

tolerate other people’s children. The Holy Prophet’ssaw blessed model was to love all children.

He repeatedly enjoined good treatment of neighbours. It is related that once he said: ‘By God he

is certainly not a believer, he is certainly not a believer, he is certainly not a believer.’ When the

Companions asked who he referred to, the Prophetsaw said, ‘one from whose harm and ill

treatment his neighbour is not safe.’

Thus a few aspects have been mentioned today. Be it good treatment of relatives, or the matter

of mutual cooperation, or the matter of overlooking something indulgently or the matter of

shunning suspicion or the matter of keeping positive thoughts about someone or any other high

moral, the blessed model and advice of the Holy Prophetsaw can be found everywhere. Thus the

perfect Abd created a revolutionary change in the ignorant of that age. Today if any model is to

be availed it is this blessed model so that we can be the recipients of God’s blessings and adorn

our world and our ending. Prayers should be made today and in the last remaining two days of

Ramadan, because Ramadan is a month of acceptance of prayers and prayers should be made

for the rest of your life that may God make us true believers and may we follow the blessed

model.

The Promised Messiahas said that salvation does not come from one’s efforts, rather is brought

about by God’s grace and He never negates the law that He has fixed to attain that blessing.

And the law is: ‘Say, ‘If you love Allah, follow me: then will Allah love you…’ and ‘And whoso

seeks a religion other than Islam, it shall not be accepted from him...’ (3:86)


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May God enable us to understand this reality and may this Ramadan depart having shown us its

real insight and may we follow the blessed model till the next Ramadan, traversing new

objectives.

FRIDAY SERMON: THE EXALTED STATUS OF THE PROPHETSAW

Excerpt from summary of sermon delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vabta on

February 1st, 2013

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masihatba said it is incumbent upon every Muslim to invoke salutations and

blessings (Durud) on the Holy Prophetsaw because without it one cannot fulfill the requisite of

love for him. In addition prayer that is without Durud does not gain acceptance. The real motive

of invoking Durud should be love of the Prophetsaw.

The Promised Messiahas explained:

‘Just as I also advised in person, it [Durud] should be said with the purpose that God Almighty

may send His perfect blessings on His noble Prophetsaw and makes him fountainhead of

blessings for all the world and manifests his eminence and splendor in this world and the

Hereafter. This prayer should be said with complete devotion, just as when a person prays with

complete devotion in time of personal trouble. In fact, this prayer should be made with greater

humility and imploring. It should have no personal motive to gain reward or status. Rather, the

pure objective should be to send perfect Divine blessings on the Holy Prophetsaw and his

majesty to shine in this world and the Hereafter. This should be the strength of purpose.

Constant attention should be given to this night and day until such time that there is no wish left

in heart except it.’ (Maktoobat e Ahmad, Vol. I, p. 523)

He also wrote:

‘Remain extremely focused in saying Durud Sharif. You should want blessings for the Holy

Prophetsaw with the same sincerity and delight as someone wants blessings for his dear one in

real life. Want it with utter humility and the humility and supplication should have no pretense.

On the contrary it should be borne of true love and bond with the Holy Prophetsaw. The blessings

that are inherent in Durud Sharif should be sought for the Holy Prophetsaw with one’s heart and

soul…And the sign of personal love is that one never tires and does not get weary and is free of

any selfish motives and says it merely for the purpose of sending blessings of God Almighty on

the Holy Prophetsaw (Maktoobat e Ahmad, Vol. I, pp. 534 – 535)

The Promised Messiahas also wrote:

‘It is my personal experience that through invoking blessings upon the Holy Prophetsaw, Divine

grace in the shape of wonderful light proceeds in the direction of the Holy Prophetsaw and is

absorbed into his breast and then issuing therefrom numberless streams of it reach everyone


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deserving them according to his capacity. Certainly, no grace can reach anyone without the

agency of the Holy Prophetsaw. Invoking blessings on the Holy Prophetsaw brings into movement

his throne from which these streams of light issue. He who desires to obtain the grace of God

Almighty should invoke blessings on him persistently, so that divine grace might be moved.’ [Al-

Hakam, 28 Feb. 1903, p. 7, Essence of Islam, Vol I, pp. 210 - 211]

The Promised Messiahas enjoined to say the version of Durud, which the Holy Prophetsaw said

with his blessed mouth. Its English translation reads:

‘Bless, O Allah, Muhammad and the people of Muhammad, as You did bless Ibrahim and the

people of Ibrahim. You are indeed the Praiseworthy, the Glorious.

Prosper, O Allah, Muhammad and the people of Muhammad, as You did prosper Ibrahim and

the people of Ibrahim. You are indeed the Praiseworthy, the Glorious.’

Explaining the wisdom behind saying Durud, the Promised Messiahas wrote:

‘The Holy Prophetsaw is not in need of anyone’s prayers, but therein is a profound mystery. A

person who wishes grace and blessings for someone out of personal love, borne of this

personal love he becomes an element of that person’s being. And as the One God has

bestowed boundless beneficence on the Holy Prophetsaw, those who invoke Durud on the Holy

Prophetsaw and send blessings on him out of personal love, partake of his boundless blessings

in accordance with their own fervor. However, without spiritual fervor and personal love, this

beneficence manifests itself very little. (Maktoobat e Ahmad, Vol. I, pp. 534 – 535)

O Allah, improve this faith of mine which is a means of strength and steadfastness in my

affairs. Reform my worldly affairs of earning a living. Make my life to which I have to

return after death, better. Make my life prosper in all good aspects and save my death

from every evil and make it a source of peace. (Muslim)


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QUARTER 1: WORKSHOPS/DISCUSSIONS April-May-June 2013

AL NUR - THE LIGHT

All majalis should answer Question 1 and attempt at least one other question each

quarter. The personal tarbiyat exercises are provided for Lajna members to practice at

home during the quarter.

1. The Promised Messiahas said, “…he who desires salvation should establish the

relationship of a slave with this Prophetsaw.”

How can this statement be implemented in our lives today? What actions should we take

and what limits and boundaries should we impose on ourselves in order to become a

slave of the Holy Prophetsaw?

2. How does the Promised Messiahas describe the connection between salvation and the

Holy Prophetsaw? Explain what is meant by the “egg of humanness” and how this relates

to the Holy Prophetsaw?

3. Discuss the importance of invoking Durud on the Holy Prophetsaw. How should Durud be

offered and what are its benefits?

Personal Tarbiyat Exercises:

Reflect over the following Ahadith and attempt to practice them during the quarter:

When you are inclined to relate someone’s faults, remind yourself of your own.

When a person eats sparingly, he fills his insides with light.

A slip of the tongue is far worse than slipping of the foot. Set aside a time to recite Durud every day with love in your heart for the Holy Prophetsaw

while pondering over the beauty of his character.

Additional References:

Life of Muhammad by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIra

Wisdom of the Holy Prophetsaw by Chaudry Zafrulla Khan

The Nur (Light) Of The Holy Prophetsaw (Friday Sermon 01/22/2010)

http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2010-01-22.html#summary-tab

Divine Attribute of Al Nur (Friday sermon 12/04/2009) http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2009-12-04.html



Lajna Imaillah-USA Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August & September 2013 2013 – 2015 Quarter 2

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QUARTER 2: JULY-AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2013

AL WAHAB – THE BESTOWER, AS SHAKOOR – THE APPRECIATOR

Tarbiyat Subject: Salat and Prayer Goal: To increase awareness of the importance of Salat; improve establishment of Salat and offering congregational Salat. Extra Discussion Topic: Allah Ta’ala’s attributes of Al Wahab and As Shakoor

FRIDAY SERMON: POTENT POWER OF SALAT, DUA AND CONNECTION WITH

GOD

Summary of Sermon Delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba, on May 20, 2011 [Full sermon available at http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2011-05-20.html]

In his Friday sermon today, Hudhur gave a discourse on the Promised Messiahas’s

pronouncements on dua, Salat and connection with God.

We could not thank God adequately for His blessing in sending the true and ardent

devotee of the Holy Prophetsaw and the Imam of the age, as foretold, after a long and dark

period. The best way to try and thank God would be to read the pronouncements and the

writings of the one commissioned by God, reflect over them and make them a part of our lives.

God states in the Holy Qur’an: ‘...and be with the truthful.’ (9:119). The most beautiful

manifestation of keeping the company of ‘the truthful’ was when the Companions of the Holy

Prophetsaw attained beneficence of the noble company of the Prophetsaw and thus conveyed his

advice and counsel to us.

Then came the era of his ardent devotee, who wrote numerous books, extoling the

beauty of the teachings of Islam and through them proved Islam’s superiority over other

religions. He held many assemblies with his companions. Some were small, others large. In

addition, there were speeches made at Jalsa. This material is not available in his books, but his

companions received its beneficence and the Jama’at newspapers of the time secured these

pronouncements. We are also grateful to those who sat in those assembles, asked questions,

and saved those sagacious discourses, which we can now read and in our imagination be part

of the assembly of the Promised Messiahas .

Today, Hudhur expounded some of those counsels and advice from the assemblies of

the Promised Messiahas regarding Salat, dua (prayer) and connection with God.

Explaining dua in his Jalsa address of 1907, the Promised Messiahas said that God began the

Qur’an with dua and ended it on dua. This signifies that mankind is weak and cannot be purified

without the grace of God. Until God’s help and succor is forthcoming, one cannot develop in

piety.

As a hadith relates, All are lifeless except one whom God grants life. All are astray

except one whom God guides. And all are blind except one whom God gives sight.


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Until there is blessing of God, the yoke of this world’s adoration remains around one’s neck.

Only those are saved from this on whom there is God’s grace but it should be remembered that

God’s beneficence also starts with dua.

Regarding ridding oneself of evil temptations during Salat, the Promised Messiahas said

that what sort of dua would it be if one utters the words: ‘Guide us in the right path’ (1:6) while

imagining and thinking about making business deals. Unless God is given precedence over

everything else, Salat is merely a waste of time.

In an address in 1906, the Promised Messiahas said: ‘Salat is a prayer which is submitted

to God in travail and burning with a heart aflame, so that vicious thoughts and evil designs may

be got rid of and a holy love and a pure relationship may be established and one may be

enabled to keep God’s commandments. The word Salat indicates that true Prayer is not offered

only with the tongue but must be accompanied by burning and sizzling and being consumed by

fire. God Almighty does not accept Prayer until the worshipper at the time of prayer arrives at a

kind of death... [Essence of Islam, Vol. II, p. 296].

Explaining the requisites of prayers, the Promised Messiahas said prayer should be such

that it makes: ‘The heart melt and the soul flow at the Divine threshold with pain and anxiety

instilled in it... and one is not hasty and impatient, rather continues to pray with patience and

steadfastness. It can then be expected that the dua will gain acceptance.

The Promised Messiahas also said: ‘Salat is prayer at a very high level, but people do not

appreciate it duly. In this age many Muslims are devoted to frequent repetition of pious

formulas... For a seeker none of these innovations is of any benefit compared with the Salat.

The way of the Holy Prophetsaw was that at a time of difficulty... he stood up in Salat and made

his supplications in the Salat... My experience is that nothing takes one so near to God as Salat.

The various postures of the Salat demonstrate respect, humility and meekness.

In Qiyam (standing posture) the worshipper stands with his arms folded as a slave stands

respectfully before his master and king. In Ruku (bowing) the worshipper bends down in

humility. The climax of humility is reached in Sajdah (prostration), which indicates extreme

helplessness.’ [Essence of Islam, Vol. II, pp. 296-297].

The Promised Messiahas said: ‘Prayer should be made to God with extreme tenderness

and passion that just as He has bestowed fruits and various other pleasures, He lets us savor

the pleasure of worship and Salat once. One remembers what one has tasted.’ The Promised

Messiahas further explained that people are indifferent about Salat because they do not know

about the pleasure and joy of Salat.

The Promised Messiahas said that steadfastness is the condition for acceptance

of dua. He also said that it is not wise to offer Salat as a mere ritual because God has

condemned such worshippers: ‘So woe to those who pray’ (107:5) let alone their dua gaining

acceptance. This is about those worshippers who are unaware about the significance of Salat.

The Companions of the Holy Prophetsaw knew Arabic very well and appreciated the reality of it

superbly but it is important for us to understand the meanings of the prayers made in Salat.

There is no advantage to God in this, rather it is beneficial to man that he is given the

opportunity and the honor to supplicate to God. And this can get him out of many of his

problems. The Promised Messiahas said he was astonished that there were people who lived

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through their days and their nights without realizing that they had a God. He said it was an

important advice from him, which he wished people listened to; he said: ‘Life is passing by,

abandon negligence and adopt humility. Pray to God in solitude that He may keep faith alive

and that He is pleased with you.’

Disagreement between two people was mentioned in an assembly in 1907. Among other

words of advice, the Promised Messiahas said: ‘Until the heart is clean, prayer does not gain

acceptance. Even if you have malice about a worldly matter with one person your prayer cannot

be accepted. It should be remembered very well not to have enmity with anyone over worldly

matters. What worth does this world and its matters have that one should keep enmity regarding

them?’

In 1908, during an early morning stroll, the Promised Messiahas said while advising his

companions: ‘With some people it is in one ear and out of the other. They do not take these

matters to heart no matter how much advice is given there is no effect on them. Remember that

God is Independent and Besought of all. Unless prayer is made repeatedly and with profusion

and tenderness of heart, He does not care...unless there is genuine angst in dua, it is ineffective

and futile. Angst is conditional for acceptance of prayer. As it is stated: ‘Or, Who answers the

distressed person when he calls upon Him, and removes the evil...’ (27:63)

In an assembly in Lahore where non-Ahmadis were also present, the Promised

Messiahas delivered a long address on dua, during which he said: ‘The true significance of

Islam is that man makes his own preference secondary to the preference of God. However, the

truth is that this station cannot be attained by one’s own power. Although there is no doubt that

it is man’s obligation to make endeavors for this. The true and real source to attain this station is

dua. Man is weak, unless he attains strength and help from dua, he cannot traverse this difficult

passage. God Himself has stated regarding man’s weakness and infirmity: ‘... for man has been

created weak.’(4:29). Thus, in spite of such weakness, it is vain imagination to claim attaining

such an elevated station through one’s own strength. For this, there is a great need of dua;

dua has tremendous power, which solves great difficulties and man traverses challenging

passages with extreme ease. Dua is a channel, which absorbs that power and beneficence,

which comes from God. One who engages in prayers with profusion, ultimately attracts this

beneficence...Indeed, prayer on its own is not God’s will. Rather, first all efforts and endeavors

should be brought in action and then prayer made. Not to avail of planning and only avail of

prayer is ignorance of the etiquette of dua and is challenging God. And to only rely on planning

and to consider dua nothing is atheism/non-belief...Dua is a great treasure. No calamity will

befall the one who does not abandon dua.’

During an assembly in Lahore, the Promised Messiahas said that after correcting one’s

morals, one should try and attain God’s love through dua, shunning every kind of sin and evil.

Cleansing all inner filth, one should become like a drop of pure liquid. Alongside dua, planning

should also be done to achieve one’s objective. God likes planning and effort, He states in the

Qur’an: ‘And by those who plan and execute their task well.’ (79:6).

The Promised Messiahas said: ‘An example of good works is like a bird. If kept in a cage of

truth and sincerity, they will stay, otherwise they will ‘fly away. And this cannot be attained

without God’s grace. He states: ‘...So let him who hopes to meet his Lord do good deeds, and





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let him join no one in the worship of his Lord.’ (18:111). Good works here signify that there is no

adulteration of any wickedness in them and they only constitute goodness. There is no pride,

haughtiness, arrogance or a measure of selfish motives, or hopes associated with people. So

much so, that there is not even a desire for heaven or hell and the deed stems from love of God

alone.’

In August 1904, the Promised Messiahas said in Lahore: ‘There are many who pay lip

service to God’s existence but if they are probed it is discovered that they are atheistic. Because

when they are occupied in worldly matters they completely forget God’s wrath and His

greatness. This is why it is very important that you should seek spiritual knowledge from God

through dua. Without this one’s faith can never be complete. It will be attained with the

knowledge that there is death in separation from God. While praying to avoid sin do not let go of

planning [in this regard]. Abandon all those gatherings and assemblies that instigate sin and

pray alongside.’

Hudhuratba said it was very important especially for the young people to abide by this and avoid

all such places that incite sin.

In an assembly in 1904 in which people who had newly taken their Bai’at were included,

the Promised Messiahas said that for dua, one should probe one’s heart whether one is inclined

towards this world or towards faith. Are one’s prayers mostly for worldly comforts or to serve

faith? If it is discovered that during the course of a day one is only concerned with this world,

then it is a regrettable situation. He said it is often seen that people make great effort to pray for

worldly matters and fall ill during the course of this process and some even get mental illness.

However, if all is for faith, God would never let them go to waste.

In January 1908, the Promised Messiahas said that dua is of two kinds. One is that which is

made in an ordinary way and the other is that which is taken to its extreme. The latter is the

real dua. One should pray even if no troubles are faced because one does not know what God’s

will is and what the future holds. Thus prayer should be made in advance so that one is saved in

time. Sometimes adversity falls in a way that one does not even find any time for dua. At such

difficult junctures, prayer that is made beforehand is of avail.

In another assembly, the Promised Messiahas said that the human physical form and its

limbs help each other. As such, it is astonishing that mankind does not understand the concept

as stated in the Qur’an: ‘...And help one another in righteousness and piety...’ (5:3). If God so

willed, He would have not left His Prophetsaw in need of helpers, but a times comes when they

have no choice but to call out: ‘...Who will be my helpers in the cause of Allah?’ (3:53) It is not

because they are needy, rather there is glory in proclaiming so. They wish to teach the world.

Otherwise, they have perfect faith in God and complete belief in His promises. They are

cognizant of: ‘Most surely We help Our Messengers and those who believe, both in the present

life...’ (40:52). They know that God alone is the True Helper. Worldly support is insignificant for

them, but in order to teach the world a broad method they adopt this way.

The Promised Messiahas said dua is like a spring of delicious water and a believer can

satiate himself on it whenever he wishes. Just as fish cannot survive without water,

similarly dua is like water for a believer without which he cannot live. The most appropriate

occasion of such dua is Salat in which a believer finds rapture and delight. The main outcome


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of dua is Divine nearness. When a believer’s dua attains perfect sincerity and deep

devotedness, then God has mercy and becomes his or her Friend.

Explaining the eminent belief of Prophetsaw of God in dua, the Promised Messiahas said

that troubles that befall Prophetsaw of God are immense but they do not sadden them because

they receive God’s help through dua. If ordinary people had even an iota of the troubles and

persecution that Prophetsaw of God face, they could be annihilated. Hundreds of thousands of

people become bloodthirsty enemies of Prophetsaw of God, yet they cannot disturb them in their

mission. Their steadfastness and resolve is miraculous. The resolute determination and

steadfastness of the Holy Prophetsaw was the greatest miracle from among his thousands of

miracles.

In one of his assemblies, the Promised Messiahas said that the enemy only objects to

us because of his enmity. They foolishly assert that he [the Promised Messiah] sits in one place

and does not perform his work. They do not realize that it is not stated about the Messiah that

he will raise a sword or will fight. Rather, it is stated that through his ‘blowing’ the disbelievers

will die, that is, he will do all his work through dua. He said if he knew that his going out and

about would help, he would not stay in one place even for one moment. He said he knew all his

objectives were to be realized through dua and dua has great potency.

The Promised Messiahas said that God repeatedly informed him through revelations that

whatever will be accomplished will be through dua. He said dua was the only weapon he had.

He said whatever he asked privately, God made it evident. He said if fighting was destined for

him, God would have provided all the arrangements. Pious is one who understands how God

now wills faith to progress.

Hudhuratba prayed that may God enable us to understand the subject of dua and make it

part of our lives. May we always, in prosperity and difficulty alike, have God’s pleasure in our

view. May we understand the spirit of the responsibilities of coming into Bai’at. Indeed, it is a

great responsibility that our each word and deed should be for the pleasure of God. May God

enable us to give precedence to faith over worldly matters.

Hudhuratba said special prayers should be made for the security of the Community; our

detractors are increasing in their enmity, may God rebound all their wickedness on them and

protect us each moment.

Hudhuratba read the following prayers:

‘O Allah! We make You a shield against the enemy and we seek Your protection against their

evil designs.’

‘O my Lord, I have been wronged; You avenge me.

‘O my Lord, everything serves You. Then, protect me and help me and have mercy on me.’

‘O my God, cause me to die a Muslim and join me to the pious.’

Hudhuratba prayed that may God enable us to adopt the ways which the Promised Messiahas

wished us to tread.


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FRIDAY SERMON: IMPORTANCE OF SALAT

Extracts from sermon delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba on June 22, 2012

[Full sermon available at http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2012-06-22.html]

…….With Allah’s Grace, in the USA great attention is being paid to the construction of

mosques. But benefits can only be gained from mosques when we fulfill the rights of the

mosques, by populating them. The standard assigned by Allah for their population is to offer the

five daily prayers in the mosque. It may be difficult for many people to come to a mosque five

times a day due to the hours of their employment. But this excuse is not valid for Fajr, Maghrib

and Isha prayers and they can attend these. I know many Ahmadis living in the Western

countries that live 15‐20 miles from the mosque, but still come to the mosque for prayers. If they

cannot offer congregational Zuhr and Asr prayers, then as I said, they make every effort to join

in Fajr, Maghrib and Isha prayers. Here, almost everyone has a vehicle for travel, which is used

for worldly matters. If you use your vehicle for gaining the pleasure of Allah and His worship,

then the purpose of these vehicles will become the service of Islam and you will gain both

worldly and religious rewards. If there exist very compelling circumstances, a few Ahmadis living

close by can organize to get together in one home to offer prayers in congregation. Ahmadis

living in isolated areas should make arrangements within the household to offer prayers in

congregation with family members. In this way children will learn the importance of Salat in

congregation.

When parents wake up children for Fajr they will learn importance of Salat on the one

hand, and on the other hand they will be saved from useless and timewasting activities. Those

who are in the habit of staying up late to watch TV or browse the internet, especially on the

weekends, will get in the habit of going to bed early so they may wake up early. Hence, they will

not pointlessly waste their time.

Especially those children who are reaching adulthood will develop a moderate approach

to worldly activities by waking up for Fajr in the morning. I do not stop you from activities that are

necessary, from watching good things or becoming involved in educational matters; however

there should be moderation in everything you do. It is extremely foolish to acquire these things

at the expense of not offering Salat. Sometimes there are other commitments on the weekend

or days off work. It is another matter if sometimes families have a program to go out

somewhere. However, unless a family is going on an outing, the family should come to the

mosque for prayers and bring children with them. Some people whose children are not in the

habit of going to the mosque say that our children are going astray. This situation can only be

prevented if children are taught from childhood to fulfill rights of Allah and Allah’s right is fulfilled

through Salat. If from childhood, children are made to realize that without Salat a Muslim cannot

be identified as a Muslim; then Salat becomes a strong habit and there will be no complaints of

children going astray. If you are out on a family recreation, while enjoying worldly interests,

wherever you may be, the entire family should offer congregational prayer to seek Allah’s

pleasure. This is my experience and many others have told me of their experiences that if

husband, wife and children offer congregational Salat during recreational trips, then this draws

attention of people around them, which can open doors for tabligh and introduction.



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A general misconception amongst worldly people about Muslims is that only extremists

offer Salat. People become interested when they see that adults and children, who dress like

them and who during their recreational activity or outing attentively offer Salat. As I have said

before, many have related their experiences how non‐Muslims were attracted to them due to

Salat, which opened channels of tabligh. Thus, no adult or child should become engulfed in an

inferiority complex.

We claim that we will bring about a religious and spiritual revolution in the world. These

revolutions can only be created by those who are free of inferiority complexes and create these

religious and spiritual revolutions in themselves first of all. These religious and spiritual

revolutions cannot be created without fulfilling rights of worship and Salat is most essential for

fulfilling rights of worship. Thus, safeguard your Salat. Allah says in the Holy Qur’an,

Watch over Prayers {Holy Qur’an 2:239}

‘Hafaza’ means to adopt regularity and then to safeguard it. Allah says, especially watch over

and guard the prayer, which is called ‘Salatul wusta’, that is the Salat during busy hours or

Salat, which cannot be offered on time or cannot be offered with the requisites essential for

Salat due to any worldly or other reason. Certainly and especially this Salat needs to be

safeguarded. For laziness in Salat will expel one from the list of obedient ones. That is why

Allah draws attention to the safeguarding of Salat. And He especially draws attention to watch

over the Salat, which are not being offered with their requisites, or due to slackness or

involvement in worldly affairs. Some offer Salat in a hurried manner, which is not fulfilling the

rights of Salat. Later in the verse Allah says:

…and stand before Allah submissively. {Holy Qur’an 2:239}

This means that you should offer Salat with full concentration and not let worldly thoughts or

desires overcome you. One should remember that I am standing in front of Allah and I have to

offer complete obedience to His commandments. When such a state is reached then Allah says

regarding such people that their Salat will become their protector and their guardian and will

protect them from wrongdoing and fill their homes with blessings. The Promised Messiahas said:

“I have advised my Community to refrain from offering Salat that are void of interest and

attention, instead offer prayer that lead to contentment of the heart which should grant them

pleasure and delight” {Malfoozat vol 2 page 345346 edition 2003 published Rabwah}

Allah says:

Surely, Prayer restrains one from indecency and manifest evil, {Holy Qur’an 29:46}

Thus we should always remember that Salat restrains us from vain and false things; but

this does not apply to every Salat or to everyone offering Salat. Everyone offering Salat will not

be refrained from evil; only that person offering Salat can reform himself or his Salat can reform

him, which is offered with complete submission. Such a Salat is offered with understanding that

Allah watches over every action and I am standing in front of Allah who is watching every action.

It is the Salat offered with complete submission that guards and watches over a person and

grants a new quality and ambience to the homes where such Salat is offered. Thus we should

try to find such Salat. Only then can we truly fulfill our Pledge of Allegiance. It should not be that


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one stands for Salat but the attention is focused on worldly affairs and desires, or that only at

times you offer the Salat whilst at other times you do not.

Again I say that every single one amongst us must analyze ourselves. People living in

these countries do not pay attention to Salat due to worldly affairs. In fact now people living in

cities in the third world are also in a similar state. But nonetheless there are still some who still

go the mosques. Like the Khulafa before me, I have repeatedly drawn attention to this important

Islamic obligation. In this age Allah has bestowed us with MTA. Prior to this the voice of the

Khalifa of the time could not reach every corner of the world instantaneously. However, now his

voice and the message of Allah and His Prophetsaw immediately reach everywhere. Those

among us who do not listen to sermons or speeches, or those that listen to them halfheartedly

and do not pay attention to them are not fulfilling the pledge of initiation, which is ‘I will give

precedence to my faith over all worldly objects. I will completely obey you [Khalifatul Masih] in

everything good that you may require of me’. Listening to and ignoring this leads to

disobedience. These are actions that will take you away from obedience. Regarding such

people Allah has warned severely and said:

So woe to those who pray, but are unmindful of their Prayer.{Holy Qur’an107: 5,6}

Being ‘unmindful’ encompasses not paying attention to congregational prayer, not being regular

in offering Salat or not trying to maintain full concentration during Salat. No doubt sometimes

concentration is not maintained during Salat, but it is essential to constantly bring back one’s

focus. This is also another meaning of ‘establishing Salat’ that is to maintain concentration

during Salat. Thus, this should be a matter of great concern.

Drawing our attention to this, the Promised Messiahas said that “if a person who has not

accepted me commits wrongdoings, then indeed he is a sinner, but those who have accepted

me and have taken Bai’at, yet do not fulfill the conditions of Bai’at will be even more

accountable for their actions.” {Malfoozat vol. 4 page 182 edition 2003 published Rabwah}

Therefore, this is a huge responsibility on every Ahmadi, and this obligation cannot be fulfilled

unless one remembers that he or she will be accountable to Allah if they do not fulfill the pledge

of initiation, which they undertook with Allah as a witness. Only with this awareness can this

responsibility be fulfilled. This responsibility should be understood by elders, men, women, and

children. Many homes here have discontentment and the reason for it is that, attention is not

being paid to the worship of Allah in the required manner. Some people, when they come to see

me, ask me to pray for them. I generally say: pray for yourself also and pay attention to Salat.

When I ask them if they offer their Salat regularly, some of them answer in the negative. I

generally say to such people, do not make a mockery of religion. You yourself are not in the

habit of offering Salat or praying, there is no attention towards this, but you are asking me to

pray for your problems and worldly affairs. First, you should turn your attention to Allah yourself

and then ask me. Until one changes his own condition or makes extreme efforts to change his

own condition, the prayers of others will have no effect.

We have to create such a revolutionary transformation in ourselves that will transform

our conditions and that of our children and future generation and will bring spiritual revolutions in

the society. Remember our faith alone will not save us; neither will it create a revolution by itself.

It is our actions that can create a revolution. Inshallah. And above all it is our prayers which,


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after gaining acceptance from Allah, will bring about a revolution in the world. Salat is the best

way to offer prayer. It is, therefore, an obligation on each Ahmadi to safeguard our prayers.

When the focus of all Ahmadis together around the world will be in one direction then this force

of the prayers will bring about that spiritual revolution.

It is the responsibility of every Ahmadi to strengthen the system of Khilafat by paying

attention to Salat, so that the revolution that is associated with the advent of the Promised

Messiahas can occur, which will gather a majority of people of the world under the flag of the

Holy Prophetsaw. Hence, every Ahmadi should remember this and safeguard his prayers and

that of his children so that we may rapidly see the flag of Holy Prophetsaw Muhammadsaw being

raised over the entire world. May we and our future generations be the recipients of Allah’s

mercy. Allah’s Mercy is on those people who fulfill all the dues of Salat and upon whom the

promise of Allah descends.

The Promised Messiahas said that only through Allah’s Grace can one achieve pleasure,

enthusiasm and concentration in Salat. Therefore first you should pray to Allah,

“O Allah! Create in me a state that brings me close to you”.

He taught us the following prayer for this. He said you should pray:

“O Allah the Almighty! Thou knowest how blind and sightless I am, and at the moment I

am in a state of death. I know that in a little while I shall be called and shall present myself

before Thee and no one will be able to stop me. But my heart is blind and unenlightened. Do

Thou cause to descend upon it such a flame of light that thereby it may be inspired with Thy

love and devotion. Do Thou bestow upon me such grace that I shall not be raised up sightless

and blind.” When he supplicates in this manner and persists in the supplication with regularity,

he will see that a time will arrive when something will descend upon him from the heavens

during his heartless and unenthusiastic prayer that will melt his heart.” {Malfoozat, new edition,

vol. 2, p. 616}

ACHIEVING CONCENTRATION IN SALAT

The following points are based on advice given by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIra, as presented in

his book “Remembrance of Allah:”

Ablution breaks the string of extraneous thoughts and creates tranquility and comfort.

This, in turn, helps in concentrating. When you make ablution, resolve firmly that with it

you are going to banish all stray thoughts.

Offer congregational Prayers at the mosque.

The instruction to face towards Ka’aba (the first house of God built in Mecca) also helps

in achieving concentration.

Calling of Adhan (call to Prayer) and iqamat also help concentration. The Holy

Prophetsaw says that Iqamat puts Satan to flight, meaning that Iqamat removes evil

inclinations and promotes concentration in worship.

Stand in straight rows for Salat. When the rows are physically formed for Prayer, deeper

thoughts are also lined up.


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Say Niyyat (intention) because when you command your mind to do something it attends

to it.

Offer Salat in congregation. In congregational Prayers the Imam repeats words which

create the fear of Allah. Anybody who becomes distracted is thus nudged and reminded.

Different positions in Salat help in concentration. If someone gets absorbed in other

thoughts, his going in Ruku (bowing), Sajdah (prostration) reminds him. Even if someone

moves to these postures as a habit, the simple act of making the movements keeps the

mind alert.

Performance of Sunnah before and after obligatory Prayers also helps achieve

concentration, especially during the obligatory Prayers.

If you are unable to concentrate, recite the words slowly. The human brain instantly

recalls things which it has observed often, but it has difficulty in recalling things which it

has rarely observed.

The Holy Prophetsaw has instructed that the eyes should be open and be focused on the

place of prostration during Salat.

Concentrate on one posture at a time.

If you confront your thoughts and resolve not to let them disturb you, they will stop.

When you offer Nawafil at home, recite the words loud enough to hear them.

The Holy Prophetsaw has instructed that no unnecessary movement should be made

during Prayer.

The Holy Prophetsaw said, “Pray to Allah as if you are seeing Him; but as a minimum be

aware that He is seeing you.”

IMPORTANCE OF TAHAJJUD PRAYERS

The following points are based on advice given by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIra, as presented in

his book “Remembrance of Allah.”

Verily getting up at night is the most potent means of subduing the self and most effective in

respect of words of Prayer. (Holy Qur'an 73:7)

The self can be reformed and great spiritual heights scaled with Tahajjud. Anyone who

performs it will discover its importance. The Companions of the Holy Prophetsaw were very

regular in saying Tahajjud. Even though it is voluntary, the Holy Prophetsaw used to walk

around to see who observed it. Once, good qualities of Hadhrat Abdullah bin Umarra were being

mentioned. The Holy Prophetsaw said, “Yes, he is very good, but he should also offer Tahajjud.”

The Holy Prophetsaw thus reminded him of his slackness in observing the Tahajjud Prayers.

The Holy Prophetsaw has said, “May Allah have mercy on the husband and the wife who awake

each other up for Prayer at night. If the husband wakes, let him offer Tahajjud and awaken his

wife. If she does not get up, let him sprinkle some water at her face. Similarly, if the wife

awakes, let her do the same, that is, offer Tahajjud and awaken her husband by sprinkling some

water at his face.”


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How to get up for Tahajjud prayers:

Perform Zikr for a while after Isha Prayers. The more Zikr you perform, the earlier you

will get up for Zikr before the morning.

Do not talk to anybody after Isha Prayers. Although sometimes the Holy Prophetsaw

continued his conversation after Isha, as a general rule he had forbidden it. There are

two reasons: (a) if you start talking, you will sleep late and will not be able to get up early

in the morning; and (b) if the conversation concerns things other than faith, your

attention will be diverted.

Perform Wudhu (ablution) before going to bed, even if you are already in a state of

ablution. With ablution you will be fresh at the time of sleep and fresh when you wake

up. It will also help you in getting up

Recite some Zikr before falling asleep; this will cause you to wake up again for Zikr

during the night.

Decide firmly that you will get up for Tahajjud. While your body sleeps, your mind will be

alert. It will wake you up exactly at the desired time.

Offer Nawafil after Isha Prayer and continue until you begin to doze off in Prayers and

are overpowered by sleep.

If you get into the habit of oversleeping, then change the soft bed to a hard one.

Take dinner several hours before going to bed. The stomach should not be full at

bedtime. It has an adverse effect upon the heart and makes a person lazy.

Do not go to bed unclean or sleep in an unclean bed.

Before retiring for sleep, ponder if you have any malice or harbor any rancor or

prejudices against anybody. If so, remove it. The purification achieved by this exercise

will enable you to get up for Tahajjud.

My Lord, make me observe prayer and my children too. Our Lord, accept my prayer. Our Lord, grant forgiveness to me and my parents and to the believers on the day when the

reckoning will take place. (Holy Qur'an 14: 41-42)


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QUARTER 2: WORKSHOPS/DISCUSSIONS July-August-September 2013

AL WAHAB – THE BESTOWER, AS SHAKOOR – THE APPRECIATOR




1. What is the role of Salat and Prayer (dua) in making spiritual progress? Under what

conditions are prayers accepted?

Use Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba’s sermon of May 20, 2011 to discuss this question.

2. The Promised Messiahas said: “I have advised my Community to refrain from offering

Salat that are void of interest and attention, instead offer prayer that lead to contentment

of the heart which should grant them pleasure and delight” {Malfoozat v.2 page 345346

edition 2003 published Rabwah}

What are the requirements for offering prayer that leads to contentment of the heart and how can we achieve this state?

3. What advice does Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba give for establishing Salat in our

children? How can parents teach children the importance of Salat from birth to

adulthood? Discuss the practical steps necessary at each stage of children’s

development.


Offer at least one Salat in congregation in the home every day, even if it is only with

children.

Before going to sleep each night, reflect on the condition of the Salats you offered that

day and resolve to improve the next day.

Recite the following prayer of the Promised Messiahas before every Salat: “O Allah!

Create in me a state that brings me close to you”.


Divine Attribute of Al Wahab (Friday sermons 11/14/2008 and 11/21/2008)

http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2008-11-14.html#summary-tab http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2008-11-21.html



Lajna Imaillah-USA 138 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2013 2013 – 2015 Quarter 3

QUARTER 3: OCTOBER- NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013

AL GHAFFAR – THE FORGIVER, AS SATTAR – THE CONCEALER OF FAULTS

Tarbiyat Subject: Marital harmony Goal: To understand the true purpose and importance of marriage and improve harmony in our homes. Extra Discussion Topic: Allah Ta’ala’s attributes of Al Ghaffar and Al Sattar

…………Therefore, matrimonial matters and fulfilment of relationships outwardly appears to be a worldly matter but for a Momin the world is also his or her faith. An Ahmadi Momin man or woman indeed has to and should live his or her life in the manner that would fulfil his or her pledges. Then alone will they become recipients of blessings and will be fulfilling the pledge that an Ahmadi makes with the Imam of the Age, the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) after entering the Jama’at in the form of the pledge of allegiance of Bai’at. Our girls and women should also be mindful that their foremost obligation is to abide by Taqwa and the pleasure of Allah the Exalted. Marriage too is to seek the pleasure of God and for the continuation of pious progeny. [Taqwa And Marriage - Jalsa Salana Address To Lajna Imaillah By Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih V

aba, UK

2011.Http://Www.Lajnausa.Net/Web/Jalsa-Salana-Addresses]

FRIDAY SERMON: MARITAL DISHARMONY AND FRICTION.

Summary of sermon delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba on November 10, 2006


O ye people! fear your Lord, Who created you from a single soul and created therefrom its

mate, and from them twain spread many men and women; and fear Allah, in Whose name you

appeal to one another, and fear Him particularly respecting ties of relationship. Verily, Allah

watches over you. [4:2]

Citing the second verse of Surah Al Nisa (4:2), Hudhuratba gave a discourse on marital

disharmony and friction in his Friday Sermon.

Hudhuratba said unfortunately complaints regarding this subject are on the increase. At times

extremely coarse allegations are made about women or they are severely mistreated by the in-

laws and if it were not for the grace of Allah that in light of His commandment ‘keep on

admonishing’ (87:10) and in subservience and representation of the Holy Prophetsaw and the

Promised Messiahas attention is drawn to counsel and to advise, there would be great

despondence and hopelessness.

Hudhuratba said that today he would counsel and advise in the hope that his counseling will be

blessed; he prayed that may Allah bless the words that he counsels with. Hudhuratba said it is

distressing to hear incidents concerning marital friction in the sense that our aims and objections

are so lofty and here we are, entangled in egotistical webs borne out of trivial matters.

The advent of the Promised Messiahas took place to remove all animosities and to replace

them with love and to attract those who were ‘lost’ towards God with gentleness and

forbearance. This is a great objective for each Ahmadi and none can fulfill it until they rid

http://www.lajnausa.net/web/jalsa-salana-addresses

Lajna Imaillah-USA Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2013 2013 – 2015 Quarter 3

139

themselves of their egocentric tendencies. If we do not have gentleness and courtesy in our

homes, how could we show the way to others for we would be lost ourselves! Each Ahmadi

should reflect over themselves and their homes and contemplate if they have unconsciously

drifted away from the teachings of the Promised Messiahas.

Both men and women should self-reflect; in addition both sides of in-laws should self-reflect for

it could be the fault of either side although usually it is the male side that commits the excesses.

Hudhuratba said that on his instruction Ameer Sahib has carried out a survey, which informs us

that the rate of incidents of culpability amongst men are three times that of women whereas in

30% to 40% of the matters it is the in-laws who create the friction.

The verbal aggression of the in-laws sometimes drives the girl to go back to her parents in

estrangement. Although it is wrong of her of her to do so, but it is the man’s responsibility that

while he respects his parents he also looks after his wife.

Putting it in perspective, Hudhuratba said it is not as if there is no virtue or sincerity in the

Community; certainly the majority of the Community is firm on what is good, there are those who

trust their daughters-in-laws more than their own offspring. However regarding this issue, if

similar surveys were carried out in USA or Canada as the one in the UK, a similar picture would

emerge there. The department of tarbiyat (moral education) and all the auxiliaries need to be

very pro-active in this matter.

Hudhuratba explained that the foremost point at the announcement of the Islamic Nikah, which is

comprised of Qur’anic prayers, is of adopting Taqwa (fear of God). Therefore when one is giving

the consent for one’s Nikah, one should be most heedful to abide by the Divine commandments

that are recited at the time.

Hudhuratba said if husband and wife care for one another and are respectful towards each

other’s relatives, then those who seek to create splits in relationships will never be successful. If

they follow Taqwa, then the inciters will not succeed no matter how close they are to them. Both

husband and wife should stay firm on Taqwa, pray for the mutual relationship to grow stronger

and to have regard for the respective relatives. If there is an issue, the husband and wife should

clear it up by talking to each other with love and affection rather than letting it fester, which

creates nothing but hatred.

Hudhuratba said at times men make dreadful allegations against their wives in pursuit of a

second marriage. If the need for a second marriage is warrantable then they may go ahead, but

if the sole aim is to get rid of the wife and hope that she may seek khula (divorce initiated by

wife) so that if they have not yet paid the haq mehr they may avoid it, then it is a petty and mean

ploy. Hudhuratba said in such instances the Qadha board should ensure that the haq mehr is

paid to the woman.

Hudhuratba said some men use the excuse that the wife is disobedient; that she does not respect

his parents; rather she disrespects them, that she incites the children and brings disrepute to

the family by gossiping in the neighborhood. Referring to verse 35 of Surah Al Nisa, Hudhuratba

said there are clear commandments in such instances, the first of which is to counsel, and

chastisement is allowed only when dishonor is caused. However, this should never be used as

an excuse to commit excess chastisement in other matters, such as why is the bread cooked in


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such a way, why have you spoken to my parents in this manner etc. Hudhuratba added that the

said verse reminds men that if they consider themselves physically stronger than women, let

them also be mindful that Allah is far greater than them and that they have no significance in His

Presence.

Hudhuratba said unfortunately there is an increase in the trend that feelings of dislike begin as

soon as the marriage takes place. It seems that Ahmadis are being influenced by others in this.

If the marriage is not of one’s liking, then in accordance to the pledge of the Nikah one ought to

abide by taqwa. However if feelings of dislike continue to develop, then ponder over it all, reflect

over it and seek mediation. It is regrettable that some demand from the first day that they do not

wish to live with their spouse and it transpires that the marriage only took place due to parental

pressure and that their intent was to marry elsewhere. Hudhuratba said parents should not

destroy lives in this manner.

Citing part of verse 20 from Surah Al Nisa as a guide Hudhuratba said there is tendency among

some men from Indo-Pakistan, who marry girls living in the Western world, that as soon as their

immigration status is confirmed they tend to turn nasty. Then there are those who marry girls

from Pakistan etc. but later maintain that they do not quite like them. It has become common to

maintain that they feel there is no compatibility. These people should reflect and ponder over

this; their actions are far removed from taqwa.

Hudhuratba said yet another problem that is destroying homes is that after marriage, despite the

capacity to live independently, young men stay at their parent’s home. If the parents are elderly

and disabled, then it is the son’s duty to stay with them. However, if there are other siblings to

share this duty then there is no harm in living separately.

Hudhuratba cited part of verse 62 from Surah Al Nur (24:62) and with reference to the writings of

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Ira explained a most excellent point that a joint family system is only

beneficial if it promotes love and affection, otherwise there is no commandment for it. This is

obvious as the verse clearly mentions separate abodes for parents and siblings etc. If this

system were followed, then the traditional hostility between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law

would cease. The Qur’anic verse is indicative that living in a joint family system is not obligatory.

Hudhuratba said sometimes parents emotionally blackmail their sons in staying together. He

added that the Promised Messiahas came to spread love and that we should desist from

spreading hatred in this way. Having said all this, Hudhuratba added that indeed the

commandment to take care of close relations on both sides of the in-laws is fundamental.

Men who take advantage of ‘resources’ that are available to them and are perhaps not

available to their wives are, in fact, preparing a fire for themselves. These include men who flee

with the children to other countries, separating them from their mothers. Immediate action

should be taken [by the Community] against such men and whoever aids them. Then there are

those who prejudice the children against their mothers and these children go on to give

evidence against their mothers in courts. Hudhuratba said it is unfortunate that some office-

holders help such men. All this destroys the children’s sense of morality. Hudhuratba added that

in a situation where parents are expelled from the Community, their children, including Waqf e

Nau, are also expelled; later in case of a pardon, each individual case is presented to the

Khalifa of the time whether the waqf is to be reinstated or not.


141

The crux of the matter is to remove oppression and create justice and justice ranks very high

among the duties of Khilafat. The office holders of the Community should be mindful that they

represent the Khalifa in their tasks and ought to carry out their obligations fully mindful that God

is ever watching them. If they are angry with someone over something, they should wait a

couple of days before handling the specific matter.

Hudhuratba reiterated that the aspects mentioned in the Nikah prayer should always be kept in

mind; abiding by Taqwa and to say the right word (qawle sadid). Hudhuratba advised to say

istighfar, to seek forgiveness and mercy from Allah. Men should always be mindful that just as

their parents have rights over them, the mothers of their children have rights over their children.

Hudhuratba said he is addressing the men, as it is mostly the men who are the cause of such

situations. Hudhuratba said they should look after their wives and that this would result in their

homes becoming happy homes.

Hudhuratba concluded on the prayer that may Allah make us follow the paths of His pleasure

and enable us to do the most excellent deeds that His Prophetsaw and the Messiahas imparted to

us.

FRIDAY SERMON: ALLAH THE EXALTED FORGIVES THE MISTAKES OF HIS

SERVANTS

Excerpt from summary of sermon delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba on April 3,

2009


It is cited in several places in the Holy Qur’an that Allah the Exalted forgives the mistakes of His

servants and in disregarding the mistakes He covers the person’s faults by virtue of Him being

Sattar (Coverer of faults). The word Sattar connotes to cover and protect something. Our Loving

God forgives our countless mistakes and does not punish us for our shortcomings instantly.

True believers are those who benefit from this kindness by becoming aware of their failings and

try to reform rather than get more audacious. When God covers the failings of man then man

should also pay attention to his lapses and come in the sphere of God’s refuge and experience

wondrous manifestations of the Divine quality of being Sattar.

Hudhuratba said last Friday he briefly cited matters pertaining to disputes between husband and

wife and that neither desists from unkind remarks. Hudhuratba said God dislikes this enormously

for He has drawn attention to both husband and wife of their respective obligations. Hudhuratba

cited part of verse 188 of Surah Al Baqara,

‘…They are a garment for you, and you are a garment for them…’ (2:188).

Explaining Hudhuratba said garment is a source of cover, a source of embellishment and

protects one from extreme weather conditions. Similarly, when a man and a woman commit

themselves to the pact of marriage then their utmost efforts should be to make a success of it.

This would entail covering of mutual shortcomings. Ahmadi married couples should complement

each other and be exemplary. At times, young married couples say that they have not found

any mutual compatibility. On investigation it comes to light that neither had tried to understand


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each other or understood the purpose of marriage. At times, it seems as if the marriage was

looked upon as a pastime. There is a tremendous lack of tolerance and mountains are made out

of mole-hills. Hudhuratba said if husband and wife pledge that they will continue to be a source of

peace and comfort for each other to seek God’s pleasure there would be no problems.

Hudhuratba said most conflicts result from anger and suppressing of anger is liked by God and

He has indeed commanded it. Each Ahmadi who has come in the bai’at (pledge of allegiance)

of the Promised Messiahas and thus promised to bring a pure change in him or herself should try

and fulfill the promise made in the bai’at. Hudhuratba said when he hears of marital conflicts he is

reminded of the young girl who gave an excellent lesson to a couple. The young girl saw a

married couple fighting and she was so astonished to see the spectacle that she kept staring at

them. The couple noticed this and asked the girl what was the matter, had she never seen her

mother and father quarrel, did they never get angry? The girl replied that yes they did get angry

but when her father got angry her mother kept quiet and when her mother got angry her father

kept quiet. Hudhuratba said this is a way to inculcate tolerance.

Hudhuratba said there are instances where only a few days after the wedding couples maintain

that they are not compatible although the betrothal had taken place a long time ago. They are

not discreet about private matters concerning each other and divulge information - some

‘confidants’ simply to enjoy tittle-tattle and some due to their inclination to give wrong advice

give erroneous suggestions. Hudhuratba said the giving of counsel or advice is a trust – one

should always give advice that makes a home and not advice that breaks a home.

This is the reason God has drawn attention in the Holy Qur’an towards the term

‘garment/raiment of righteousness (taqwa)’ in Surah Al A’raf it is stated,

‘O children of Adam! We have indeed sent down to you raiment to cover your shame, and to be

an elegant dress; but the raiment of righteousness — that is the best. That is one of the Signs of

Allah that they may remember.’ (7:27)

Hudhuratba said there should be a difference in the standard of the attire/garment of a believer

and that of a non-believer; indeed decent people have a distinctive standard. However, in the

West and in the East the materialistic section of society gives preference to that attire which is

revealing – in the West that seems to be the preference across the board. While for men the

measure of being well-dressed means being fully clothed but it is men who wish the clothing of

women to be revealing and mostly women also want this; women who have no fear of God, who

have no covering/garment of righteousness. Men wish their wives to wear revealing clothes so

that they may be considered admirable and trendy whether their clothes cover-up or not.

However, believers, both men and women, always wish to wear clothes that are a source of

seeking the pleasure of God and that is possible when they also seek the garment of taqwa.

Life has its ups and downs and relationships go through various stages. However, a true

believer does not disclose his friend’s confidentiality at times of mutual differences; neither do

married couples who have taqwa divulge private information about each other. Rather for the

sake of attaining Allah’s pleasure they are always discreet and this cannot be achieved unless

one turns to God.


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FRIDAY SERMON: BENEVOLENCE TOWARDS PARENTS AND RELATIVES

Excerpt from sermon delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba on January 23rd, 2004


If your behavior does not match up to high standards of moral conduct, then you may be

wasting your acts of worship. And what are the standards that Allah the Exalted wants us to

uphold? He says that that standard requires that you show kind treatment to your close

relatives. Married men and women have close relatives through their wives and husbands.

Close relatives of married men are the relatives of their wives, and close relatives of married

women are the relatives of their husbands. Both women and men are commanded to show

good treatment toward these relatives; both have been given the same commandment. When

husbands and wives are treating each other's blood relatives kindly, when they are being good

to the near and dear ones of each other, when they are trying to fulfill their responsibilities

toward them; obviously this in itself will increase love and affection between husband and wife.

When they make their best efforts to fulfill each other's rights, Allah says that 'then you will

become those who safeguard the ties of kinship, that is the bond of rehmi (blood) relations, and

thus you would become My favored ones.'

At times a husband and his and wife will argue over minor issues in their home, and there is

friction between them. Allah has made the man stronger and more powerful. If a man adopts

silence, probably more than eighty percent of disputes would end right there. One only has to

keep in mind that one has to show kind treatment and exercise patience.

What kind of an example has our Holy Prophetsaw set for us in this regard? It has been narrated

that once Hadhrat Aishara was speaking somewhat loudly and rapidly to the Holy Prophetsaw in

their home; her father, Hadhrat Abu Bakrra, who happened to drop in, saw this and could not

contain himself. He stepped forward to hit his daughter for talking to Allah’s Prophetsaw in such

a manner. Upon seeing this, the Holy Prophetsaw inserted himself between the father and the

daughter and saved Hadhrat Aishara from Hadhrat Abu Bakr’s expected punishment. When

Hadhrat Abu Bakrra left, the Holy Prophetsaw lightheartedly said to Hadhrat Aishara, “See, how I

saved you from your father today?” So we see what an exemplary conduct this is; not only did

he try to end the conflict by staying quiet, but he also told Hadhrat Abu Bakrra, not to say

anything to Aishara. And then he immediately diffused the momentary tension by making a

lighthearted comment. Then, it is related that a few days later Hadhrat Abu Bakrra visited again,

and this time Hadhrat Aishara was speaking cheerfully to Holy Prophetsawpbuh. Hadhrat Abu

Bakrra said, “Since you made me a part of your quarrel, now let me participate in your happiness

too.” (Abul Daud Kitabul Adab, chapter Maaja’ fil Mazah)

The Holy Prophetsaw was very mindful of Hadhrat Aishara’s needs. Once he said to her, “Aisha, I

can recognize your displeasure and happiness very well.” Hadhrat Aishara asked, “How?” The

Holy Prophetsaw said, “When you are happy with me, you utter your oaths in the name of the

God of Muhammad in your conversation. And when you are displeased with me, you speak of

the God of Ibrahim.” Hadhrat Aishara said, “Yes, O Prophetsaw of Allah, this is correct but I desist


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from mentioning your name with my tongue only.” (Your love cannot leave my heart). (Bukhari

Kitabun Nikah, Chapter Ghairatun Nisa’ wa Wajdahan)

The Promised Messiahas said, “Except for indecency, one should tolerate all instances of

women’s rudeness and harshness.” And then he said, “I consider it to be exceptionally shameful

that being a man one should fight against a woman. God has made us men and this is actually

a supreme blessing upon us. Our gratitude for this blessing lies in dealing pleasantly and gently

with women.”

Once a friend’s inconsiderate attitude and abusive language was being discussed; it was

apparent that he treated his wife harshly. Hudhuratba was deeply grieved, distressed and

angered. He said, “Our friends should not be like that.” After that Hudhuratba discussed women’s

societal treatment for a long time and said in the end, “My condition is such that once that I

happened to call out to my wife loudly and I felt that the loud call filled my heart with grief, even

though no hurtful or harsh word was uttered from my tongue at that time. After that, I kept

reciting Istighfar (seeking forgiveness from Allah) for a long time, offered nafl (voluntary

prostrations) with great humility and concentration, and also offered some sadqa (charity) as

this harsh attitude toward my wife was the result of my hidden shortcoming regarding the

commands of Allah. (Malfoozat, volume 1, page 1307, Al Hakam, January 17, 1900)

So, these are the examples of kind treatment of wives, which can be seen in the actions of the

Promised Messiahas as a result of following the Prophet Muhammadsaw and by following their

example, we can create peace in our homes.

Then the Promised Messiahas says, “If you want God to be pleased with you in the Heavens,

then your mutual relations should be such as those of two brothers from the same womb; show

mercy to your subordinates, and your wives, and your poor brothers, so that you may be shown

mercy in the Heavens. You should sincerely become His so that He becomes yours too.”

(Kishti-e-Nooh, page 13)

EXCERPT FROM FRIDAY SERMON delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vatba on

August 22nd, 2008


Tolerance and overlooking flaws in each other

Nowadays, cases from here and from all over the world are reported to me regarding disputes

between husbands and wives in which both men and women are at fault. Neither men possess

the tolerance that a true believer should have, nor do women show any tolerance at all. I have

drawn your attention towards this previously also; I have said several times that although most

of the time men are at fault, there are some situations when only the girl or woman is wrong.

Both sides are responsible for creating grievances and destroying their homes. If people on both

sides control their emotions and become righteous at heart, such problems would never arise.

The Holy Prophetsaw admonished such people that if both of you see flaws in one another, there

must be some qualities that you like in each other as well. It is not possible that there are only

flaws in the other person. If you focus on the good things and adopt the habit of sacrifice, then



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an atmosphere of love, affection and reconciliation can develop between you. The wives of the

Holy Prophetsaw have testified that he was the best of all in kind treatment towards his wives.

Thus when the Holy Prophetsaw admonishes us, it is not just a piece of advice; the Holy

Prophetsaw has also proven it by his personal example.

FRIDAY SERMON: DISTINCTIVE QUALITIES OF SERVANTS OF THE GRACIOUS

GOD

Excerpt from Friday sermon delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba on September

25th, 2009


Honesty in marital relationships

The tenth distinct quality of the servants of the Gracious God is that neither do they tell lies nor

do they give false testimony. Hudhuratba said falsehood plays a huge part in the decline of

nations. Divine communities aspire to attain heights, if falsehood penetrates among them, then

they do not remain God’s special people. Ahmadis should employ one hundred percent honesty

in all their affairs and their testimonies. Hudhuratba said, for example, in marital matters, during

Nikah, it is asserted that Qawle Sadid (the right word) should be employed. Unambiguous truth

should be spoken, from which no alternative meaning can be derived. However, after the

wedding ceremony is over, lies are told; friction sets in and eventually marriages break up for

egotistical reasons and where children are involved, they suffer greatly. Hudhuratba said he has

drawn attention to this matter many times before. In order to honor the dues of God and the

dues of mankind it is essential to shun falsehood.

And those who say, “Our Lord, grant us of our spouses and children the delight of our

eyes and make each of us a leader for the righteous.” (Holy Qur'an 25:75)




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QUARTER 3: WORKSHOPS/DISCUSSIONS October-November-December 2013

AL GHAFFAR- THE FORGIVER, AS SATTAR-THE CONCEALER OF FAULTS All majalis should answer Question 1 and attempt at least one other question each quarter. The personal tarbiyat exercises are provided for Lajna members to practice at home during the quarter. 1. Discuss the causes of marital disharmony and friction and the reasons why are they on the

increase, especially among those recently married. How can these problems be solved and

what pre-emptive steps should be taken to avoid them?

2. Why does the Holy Qur'an say “and fear Him particularly respecting ties of relationship”?

How does the relationship of mother in-law and daughter in-law affect marital harmony?

Prepare some guidelines for a successful mother in-law/daughter in-law relationship.

3. Your son and daughter are at a marriageable age. What are the factors that you will

consider when looking for a suitable spouse? Once a rishta is settled, a) what advice will

you give your son to ensure a good marriage, b) what advice will you give your daughter?


Appreciate the good qualities of your spouse and show your appreciation more often.

Be quick to listen and slow to speak, in other words try to be more patient.

Discuss marriage with your teenage children. Listen to their views and guide them

according to Islamic teaching.


Presentations on Marriage on MTA www.alislam.org/v/k-Marriage.html

Hadhrat Amman Janra by Munavara Ghauri

Islam on Marital Rights by Sheikh Mubarak Ahmad

Friday Sermon: Divine Attribute As Sattar


http://www.alislam.org/v/k-Marriage.html


Lajna Imaillah-USA 147 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2014 2013 – 2015 Quarter 4

QUARTER 4: JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH 2014

AL HADI – THE ONE WHO GUIDES

Tarbiyat Subject: Tarbiyat of children Goal: To raise children who love Allah Ta'ala and who will follow His guidance throughout their lives. Extra Discussion Topic: Allah Ta’ala’s attribute of Al Hadi

HADITH ON RAISING CHILDREN From Forty Gems of Beauty by Hadhrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra Narrated by Hadhrat Anas bin Malik - may Allah be pleased with him: "Said the Holy Prophetsaw

of Allah: Respect your children and cultivate in them the best of manners." (Ibn Maja)

Explanatory note: Islam has defined the rights of parents over children and vice versa. On the

one hand, it emphasizes service and respectful behavior to parents, and on the other,

commands parents to treat their children with due understanding and regard and to handle them

in such a way as engenders in them feelings of dignity and self-respect and to attend to their

education and training in particular. So that when they grow up, they may observe, with due

propriety, their duties to God and to His servants and become pioneers of national progress.

HADHRAT AMMAN JANRA’S MORAL TRAINING OF CHILDREN

Extract from “Hadhrat Amman Jan, an Inspiration For Us All” by Munavara Ghauri

Addressing ladies, Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIra often gave some very pertinent and fundamental

guidance concerning the moral training of children. This advice was a reflection of his own

upbringing, and his mother, Hadhrat Amman Janra's attitude towards this highly important task.

His comments illustrate the profound impact Hadhrat Amman Janra had upon his character, faith

and moral values. It is also apparent that Hadhrat Amman Janra deeply influenced the views of

both Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh and Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh regarding the moral training

of children. This influence can be discerned but only highlighted in the forthcoming pages.

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIra advised the ladies of the Ahmadi Jama‘at that if they wished to

permanently instill great faith in their children, a task even greater than the conquests of famous

generals and kings, then they and they alone were capable of doing so. This indeed was a

great tribute to mothers and an acknowledgement of the magnitude of their work in the moral

training of children. Elaborating on this huge responsibility, Hadhrat Musleh Maudra stated;

“If a woman decides that she is going to make the future generation righteous rather than

barbaric, then how can Satan capture them?”

Lajna Imaillah-USA Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2014 2013 – 2015 Quarter 4

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Hudhurra made an interesting point illustrating the remarkable impact women can have upon

children. He said that men are usually unsuccessful in their resistance to Satan. At best men

can reform one generation and make them righteous, however it is women who have the

capacity to revolutionize a whole future generation;

“…it is only women who can challenge Satan permanently. If women decide that they are

going to make the future generations servants of religion, then who will Satan corrupt? The

future generation is not influenced by Satan but by their mothers; but mothers can make the

mistake of letting them go so that they become the bait hunted by Satan….......You must

understand your responsibilities.” (Extract taken from “Al Azhar le Zawatil Khimar” compiled by

Hadhrat Syedah Maryam Siddiqa, in the “Al Nusrat” Khilafat Centenary Edition, pg 29.126)

He continued that we should aspire to make our near ones and relatives exceed those before

them, in the extent of their righteousness and capacity for sacrifice. This would indeed establish

Allah Almighty’s teaching in this world, until the advent of the Hereafter. Hudhurra pointed out

that even the eminent Muslim leaders of the past did not have this intrinsic skill which is within

women, to instill faith in their offspring. Because a woman teaches a child to speak and is his

first contact with human nature and all human experiences, he initially learns everything from

her. Thus, she can become the means for establishing the “Kingdom” of Allah Almighty on

earth as it is in the heavens. This appreciation and acknowledgement by Hudhur of the

fundamental role a woman plays in the upbringing of a child suggests that his mother, Hadhrat

Amman Janra, did indeed greatly influence Hudhurra. (He was also exceptionally blessed to

have the auspicious guidance of his father, a Prophet, the Promised Messiahas.) This is

corroborated by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh in his book "Sawaneh Fazl-e-Umar", that Hadhrat

Amman Janra fulfilled a fundamental role in the moral training of Hadhrat Musleh Maudra, in

addition to the profound influence of the Promised Messiahas.

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh pointed out that Hadhrat Musleh Maudra was one of those few

fortunate people in the world who were blessed with two parents that were both able to provide

good moral training. Both parents had the same outlook regarding this and had similar

temperaments. This was a principal reason for his successful training. As Hadhrat Khalifatul

Masih IVrh observed; the mere fact of clashing natures in two parents can cause "deep cracks"

in the upbringing of a child. Indeed, he continued that it was an extraordinary Divine favor from

Allah Almighty that Hadhrat Musleh Maudra was blessed with a noble mother who was skilled in

moral training to the highest degree. Furthermore, Hadhrat Amman Janra was also deeply

influenced by her husband’s godliness and purity, and she was in complete compliance with the

views of the Promised Messiahas. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh reminisces that he had the

blessing of knowing Hadhrat Amman Janra for 24 years. He recalls that her guidance was in

“simple and yet impressive words” that affected people. The ways of pretense and “showing off”

were unknown to her..."her speech was filled with love and fragranced with truth". Because she

was so soft hearted, she would have to affect anger in order to admonish children if they

misbehaved. After her scolding, the children including himself would laugh and comment how

Hadhrat Amman Janra had displayed apparent anger in order to reproach them. Thus, the

children never felt hurt by their grandmother. The softness of her heart was so great that even if

she was compelled to utter some harsh words, Hadhrat Amman Janra then always tried to


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compensate the children by pleasing them in some other way. (“Sirato Sawaneh Hadhrat

Amman Jan” Prof. S. N. Saeed, pg 584.128)

In the Indonesian Jalsa of July 2002, Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh addressed the Lajna and

said that a good method for the successful moral training of our children would be to follow the

excellent example of Hadhrat Amman Janra. He stated;

"If you wish to save your children from evil influences then follow the pure example of Hadhrat

Amman Janra. This prescription is without fail; and whoever follows it will be successful."

In this speech Hudhurrh mentioned the following salient points: he emphasized that Hadhrat

Amman Janra firstly insisted that her children must never lie despite fearing the worst

consequences. She taught that falsehood is indeed a form of "shirk" (idolatry), because the

perpetrator does it out of fear of an individual’s punishment, which they perceive as greater than

Allah Almighty’s. Hudhurrh said that Hadhrat Amman Janra did not stress anything more in her

children than “developing repulsion for deceit”.

Secondly, like Hadhrat Amman Janra and the Promised Messiahas, parents should ensure that

their children feel that they have belief and confidence in them. This instills self-confidence and

high self-esteem in them. Children believe that if their parents respect them, so too will others.

Thirdly, Hadhrat Amman Janra emphasized the importance of prayer. She prayed continuously,

day and night. Almost every utterance and action became a prayer on Hadhrat Amman Janra’s

lips. For example, whilst eating with any of her grandchildren she would put a morsel of food in

their mouth uttering; "O Allah Almighty! Make his/her fortune good”. Also, if one of the children

was leaving the house Hadhrat Amman Janra would bid farewell with a prayer; "Go, and may

Allah Almighty be your Protector and Helper". She also instructed them to offer the greeting of

"Salam", as they entered and left the house.

As mentioned earlier, Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh directed that it is vital that both parents have

similar views concerning the training of their children, for its successful implementation. Indeed,

Hadhrat Amman Janra was completely in alliance with the views of the Promised Messiahas and

she trained their children in accordance with his direction and in full support of his wishes.

EXCERPT FROM LAJNA IMAILLAH GERMANY IJTEMA 2011 ADDRESS BY

HADHRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH VATBA

[Full address available at http://www.lajnausa.net/web/ijtimaat-addresses]

………..Then, Allah has specially directed women, as you have heard in the recitation just now,

not to slaughter their offspring. Who kills his own offspring? As I have mentioned earlier,

slaughtering of offspring means not providing them with moral training; siding with them by way

of wrongful support; being partial to them and giving them importance; denouncing the truth

whether coming from office holders or from the society or from elsewhere; not paying full

attention to their education. There are some women who send their children to school and after

the husband goes to work, they leave the house, donning a chaadar (shawl) or a scarf or coat if


150

they have any regard for purdah, otherwise covering their heads with a dupatta (long scarf) and

visit neighbors. When they come back in the evening, having spent the whole day outside, the

poor children go to bed having drunk only milk or juice or having eaten an apple or some other

fruit. Therefore, [women] should understand their responsibilities. This is slaughtering of

offspring. Such children get spoiled and are of no value either for the parents or for the Jama’at.

Your children are a trust of the Jama’at with you – you should pay particular attention to them. If

you are not being attentive towards their religious education and training that too is killing of

children. Parents should always be watchful of whether their children are saying their Salat or

not. They should be in the habit of saying their prayers by the age of ten. After ten years of age

it may be enforced with a little amount of firmness. They should be in the habit by this age and

both boys and girls should realize that they are Ahmadi children; they have to adopt Allah’s

commandment regarding Salat. We have to keep it in focus. Parents should keep an eye on

whether their daughters are saying their prayers or not. Since it is the mothers who know after a

certain age whether the girls are in the state of offering prayers or not and since they are the

ones who stay at home, they should supervise their daughters.

There is the need to keep a watch over recitation of the Holy Qur’an. If you create a religious

environment in your homes, only then will you be included among the best Ummah.

There is a need to keep an eye on the type of friends your children have – whether they are

boys’ friends or girls’ friends. Girls should not make friends with boys; girls should make friends

with girls alone. But the girl-friends should be those who have good morals and good

educational standards. Similarly, it is their responsibility to be aware of their boys’ friends. If

mothers are not doing this, then this too is killing of offspring.

Some households are in the habit of talking against the Nizam-e-Jama’at or against Jama’at

office holders. This creates a negative effect on children’s minds and they slowly drift away from

the Jama’at. This is also killing of offspring being carried out by a woman. Hence any such

weakness or fault that you know about should be limited to yourself or discussed in secrecy.

Such matters should never be discussed in front of children. This is a great responsibility

entrusted to a believing woman since she is responsible for the moral training of her home and

of the environment; and as the Qur’anic verse suggests, also for the moral training of society.

MORAL TRAINING OF CHILDREN – from ‘Way of the Seekers’ by Hadhrat

Khalifatul Masih IIra

In short, childhood training is very important. What he becomes as a child, he will become as an

adult. No wonder the Holy Prophetsaw, on whom be peace and blessings, has said:

Every child is born true to nature. It is his parents who make of him a Jew or a Christian or a

Magian.

It is true also that it is his parents who turn him into a Muslim or a Hindu. The Hadith does not

mean that when the child has grown up, his parents take him to a church to have him baptized

as a Christian. The meaning of the Hadith is that a child as a child is at the mercy of his parents.

He absorbs what he hears them say and does what he sees them do. The child is a great

imitator. If the parents do not set before him a proper model to copy, he will go elsewhere to find


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a model which he can copy. Some liberals think that it is best to leave the children alone. Even

Ahmadis say it and say that when they grow up, they will discover Ahmadiyyat themselves. But

what I say is that this may be true if no other sound reaches the ears of the child nor any sight

his eyes. But this is not true. All sorts of sounds are impinging on the ears of the child. All the

time the child is learning. If angels do not communicate with the child, then it is certain that

Satan will become his friend and given him his company. If good things do not reach the child's

ears, bad things certainly will.

Let Ahmadi parents take note. If you want your children to grow into good adults, then use your

home as a kind of segregation camp. Keep children away from everything except good

influences. This is the only way to safeguard the future generations.

The following points are based on advice given by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIra in his

book “Way of the Seekers:”

As soon as a child is born, the first step towards its education is to proclaim Azaan into

its ears.

A child should be kept neat and tidy and, should be properly cleaned after stools. As a

consequence, the child will come to have a clean mind and will become immune to sins

which are caused by uncleanliness.

A child should be fed at fixed hours. This will breed the habit of self-control and save it

from a number of evils. Lack of self-control occasions evils like stealing, etc. Such a child

does not learn to resist temptation. The fault lies with the mother who is ever ready to

feed the child anytime it cries. Regular food habits will further lead to the following good

habits: punctuality; self-control; good health; cooperation; such children will not be

egocentric and selfish for they will have learnt to eat with others; frugality, such child will

not suffer from the bad habit of wastefulness and extravagance; it will develop the inner

strength to resist temptation.

A child should be helped to form the habit of relieving nature at regular hours. The child

who learns to perform its natural functions regularly, readily forms the habits of praying

and fasting.

A child should be given a variety of foods. It should have meat, vegetables and fruit, for

dietary habits affect morals and a variety of food is necessary for a variety of morals.

As the child grows, it should be asked to do small tasks under the guise of play-acting.

A child should be allowed to acquire self-confidence as a matter of habit. For instance, if

it wants to have an object which it has just seen, it should be told that it would get it at a

certain time.

A child should not be over-indulged. Too much petting or caressing leads to many vices.

Parents should choose well behaved children as associates for their children.

A child should be assigned responsible jobs suited to its age. This will help create a

sense of responsibility in the child.


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Tell the child that it is nice and good. The Holy Prophetsaw said: Do not curse a child for

when you curse, angels add: Let it be like that; and like that he becomes. Incidentally,

this also means that angels are responsible for the consequences of actions. When you

tell a child it is bad, it draws an imaginary picture in which it figures itself out as bad and

does in fact become bad. Therefore, do not abuse a child. Praise it and teach it to be

good. A child should not be allowed to become obstinate. If it persists in being stubborn,

its attention should be diverted to something else.

Address a child politely and courteously, for a child is a great mimic. If you address it

rudely, it will return the compliment in kind.

Do not lie to a child nor be peevish or arrogant with it. It will certainly imitate you. It is the

parents who teach a child lying.

Safeguard the child against all intoxicants. Intoxicants damage the nerves of the child.

Consequently it becomes a liar. An addict becomes a blind imitator also and ceases to

have a will of his own.

Teach them to admit their mistakes, as a matter of habit. For this the following methods

would be found helpful: Do not try to hide your own mistakes before a child; Be

sympathetic when it commits a mistake; Let it feel that the mistake is a kind of loss it has

suffered; To guard against the repetition of a mistake, talk to the child in a manner that

brings home to it the trouble its mistake has occasioned to the parents.

If you want to reprimand a child, do not do it before others; do it in privacy.

A child should be given a little money. This will teach it three virtues: charitableness,

frugality, helping relatives.

Children should also be given common ownership of some property. For instance, they

should be given a toy and they should be told that it belongs to all of them; that all

should play with it and that no one should try to damage it. This would teach them to

safeguard common property.

A child should be given constant guidance in matters of etiquette.

Due heed should be paid to physical exercise and stamina of a child. This would be

helpful towards its moral education and progress in the world.

EXCERPTS FROM JALSA SALANA CANADA 1991 ADDRESS TO LAJNA

IMAILLAH - BY HADHRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH IVRH

[Full address available at

www.ahmadiyya.us/lajna/DaughtersofEveandaSocietyReminiscentofParadise.pdf]

Raise your Boys into Men who treat their Wives Decently:

It is essential for us to present a pristine society to the world. I am asking women that they ought

to raise their children, especially boys, in a manner that when they grow up they treat their wives

in a decent manner. Today’s mothers are giving birth to tomorrow’s men. Just like I have drawn


153

your attention to the moral training of girls, similarly I want to convey this last message to you.

Once before also I delivered a sermon on this topic that the final outcome we see is that a man

is unjust to a woman but when we look into their childhood we find that it is the mother who has

raised the boys like this. She makes them feel like God and they become arrogant. These

mothers pamper them more and give them preference over girls until slowly they turn them into

preposterous individuals. Women in the future have to face the incorrect upbringing by these

mothers. As if in reality it is a woman who is being unjust to another woman. These are homes

where boys are treated like God, are given preference over girls, all of their indulgences are

accommodated, and they are given all kinds of freedoms. They are raised into men who always

become a source of misery for a woman.

Hadhrat Musleh Maudra’s mode of Moral Training:

Hadhrat Musleh Maudra had an attitude that was completely opposed to this. He was more

affectionate towards girls as compared to boys and gave more protection to the rights of girls. At

that time we did not understand it. We thought that he was being unfair to us. I used to have a

fight with my own sister Amtul Basit. She could even scratch my face off and still I would get

spanked later. If ever I raised my hand on her and Hadhrat Musleh Maudra found out about it, it

was impossible to escape his punishment. Sometimes he would be so offended that one would

start to hate life itself. He was very mild of heart. In the revelation given to the Promised

Messiahas it was said, “He would be mild of the heart”. It was not said that he would be mild. I

remember that once Hadhrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra asked me if I knew the reason why it was

said. It was because when he was enraged he would roar like a lion and shake a person’s heart.

So Allah tells us not to be dejected, he is mild on the inside. And actually that is what he would

do.

Sometimes he would be extremely upset and afterwards he would start consoling. Few days

ago I was discussing with my older sister Amtul Qayyum how our father used to train her during

her childhood. She said, ‘Once I was playing with other girls and some of them made some

mischief, though I was not at fault. He got upset with them and punished me as well without

even listening to me. He was so angry that he said, “Absolutely not! The trip is cancelled for all

of you, and such and such will happen.” I got offended and sat down with my door closed.

Afterwards, when he came to realization, he was actually singing around outside that my

daughter is angry with me. She does not realize that her father has come to her to apologize.

His manner was so sorrowful that both Hadhrat Musleh Maudra and I wept. Father and daughter

embraced in such a way that both of them were crying. That crying was neither due to sorrow

nor due to joy. It was a strange crying. It felt like a reunion of two hearts that were unhappy due

to a misunderstanding.”

When I heard of this incident I remembered a number of other things from my childhood. He

was indeed mild of heart but there is no doubt that his rebuke was frightful and I remember his

reprimands. Usually this is why he would get upset with me. My sisters would hit me and if I

defended myself or said something hard, I would in return get spanked again. I understood

afterwards that women’s respect was being instilled in our hearts, that it is the delicate gender.

And that I can never forget that when Allah entrusts you with the responsibility of the weak and

those having tender emotions then you should make sacrifices and care for their sentiments.


154

This was the message that we could not understand at that time and afterwards it seeped into

our hearts. It entered our blood and then we realized what was happening.

I want mothers to raise their children in this manner but I see that reality is completely contrary

to this. In most homes not only is there a strong wish to have a boy but also mothers desire it

more than men. When they give birth to boys and even if they have quite a few of them still they

are spoiled and there is no respect for girls. The result is that these men become unjust and

they mistreat women when they grow up. See how one generation leaves an adverse effect on

the second and then the second leaves an adverse effect on the third. Thus if you want to be

merciful to yourself then give your sons good moral training and tell them about the rights of

women from early childhood. Teach them to respect their sisters and be watchful that they don’t

even talk harshly to them. If you give birth to sons like these and raise such boys then I can

assure you that it would be an enormous favor to the next generation. And generation after

generation Ahmadi girls will be conferred good husbands who will be virtuous and loving, caring

and sacrificing. Husbands like we found in Prophet Muhammadsaw will continue to be bestowed.

My lord, grant me power that I may be grateful for Your favor which You have bestowed

upon me and upon my parents, and that I may do such works as may please You. And

make my seed righteous for me. I do turn to You; and truly, I am of those who submit to

You. (Holy Qur'an 46:16)


155

QUARTER 4: WORKSHOPS/DISCUSSIONS January-February- March 2014

AL HADI – THE GUIDE

All majalis should answer Question 1 and attempt at least one other question each quarter. The personal tarbiyat exercises are provided for Lajna members to practice at home during the quarter.

1. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIra paid tribute to mothers by saying “At best men can reform

one generation and make them righteous; however it is women who have the capacity to

revolutionize a whole future generation.”

Discuss this statement. What qualities are required in a mother to fulfill this mission and what fundamental training must she implement to safeguard the future generation?

2. Why is moral training in early childhood so essential? Keeping the guidance from “Way

of the Seekers” in mind, discuss the benefits of early training and the consequences of

neglecting it. Explore the ways that mothers of young children can help each other to

implement this guidance; then put them into practice.

3. What are the ways in which Ahmadi Muslim parents may show inequality in the

upbringing and moral training of their sons versus of their daughters? What are the

Islamic teachings on this?


Pray for your children in at least one sajdah in every Salat

Be mindful of everything you say and do in front of your children; they will do as you do,

not as you say.

Have a special family dinner at least once a week during in which every family member

has a chance to share his or her news, plans and problems.

Encourage your children to keep a gratitude journal; write down the good moments of

the day and thank Allah for them.


Daughters of Eve by Lajna Imaillah USA

Way of the Seekers by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIra

http://www.alislam.org/library/articles/Television-Advertising-Children.pdf

http://www.alislam.org/library/articles/Television-Advertising-Children.pdf

Lajna Imaillah-USA 156 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2014 2013 – 2015 Quarter 5

QUARTER 5: APRIL- MAY-JUNE 2014

AL MUHAIMIN –THE PROTECTOR, AL RAZZAQ – THE PROVIDER

Tarbiyat Subject: Modesty Goal: To understand the concept of modesty and become more mindful of our hayaa and purdah. Extra Discussion Topic: Allah Ta’ala’s attributes of Al Muhaimin and Al Razzaq

JALSA SALANA ADDRESS: JIHAD AGAINST IMMODESTY Excerpts from Address to Lajna Imaillah by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh on December 27, 1982 in Rabwah [Full address available at http://www.lajnausa.net/web/] After reciting Tashahhud, Ta’awwuz and Surah Al Fatihah, Hudhurrh recited the following

verses:

Say to the believing men that they restrain their eyes and guard their private parts. This is

purer for them. Surely, Allah is well aware of what they do. And say to the believing women that

they restrain their eyes and guard their private parts, and that they disclose not their natural and

artificial beauty except that which is apparent thereof, and that they draw their head‐coverings

over their bosoms, and that they disclose not their beauty save to their husbands, or to their

fathers, or the fathers of their husbands or their sons or the sons of their husbands or their

brothers, or the sons of their brothers, or the sons of their sisters, or their women, or what their

right hands possess, or such of male attendants as have no sexual appetite, or young children

who have no knowledge of the hidden parts of women. And they strike not their feet so that

what they hide of their ornaments may become known. And turn ye to Allah all together, O

believers, that you may succeed. (Holy Qur’an 24:31‐32)

“These verses contain detailed instructions for Islamic purdah. I have recited these verses

because I have felt for some time that immodesty is one of the greatest evils to attack Islam.

This evil is attacking Muslim women in many ways, shapes and forms. In most countries Muslim

women have forsaken purdah. In some Muslim countries purdah has been declared haram

(unlawful) through fatwa (religious edict). Very recently, an edict was issued in Libya that purdah

is not only unnecessary but is haram in Islam; so no woman should observe purdah and if she

does she will be committing an unlawful act. This is so widely prevalent in countries that were

traditionally known as custodians of Islam that these countries are not only disobeying the

Qur’anic injunction, but are also taking steps against these injunctions. It was expected that the

Muslim Ahmadi woman would be a model of jihad (striving in the cause of Allah) in this

battleground; she will stop others from running away and lead them to victory. But with great

sorrow and deep regret, I have to say that Ahmadi women have also succumbed to this

weakness. This epidemic of immodesty started from major cities and is reaching small towns

and it appears as if we are losing this jihad.

http://www.lajnausa.net/web/


I realized this and Allah put in me a great passion for this new scheme that Ahmadi women

should declare a jihad against this immodesty. If you leave this battleground, then which other

women in this world will come forth to defend Islamic values? ……

….I will tell you why and how strict discipline needs to be enforced. I can see this fact that the

next generations are entering an extremely dangerous time. Immodesty is prevalent

everywhere. Such conditions are prevalent in all directions that if you do not offer special

protection to your purdah, then your future generations will face such perilous situations that you

will watch them with remorse, but will not be able to bring them back. You are going away from

the ‘fashion of life’ mentioned in the revelation of Promised Messiahas.

[“Fashion of life” refers to revelation of Promised Messiahas: ‘I was praying for the members of

the Movement and for Qadian when the revelation came to me: They have drawn far away from

the fashion of life; then grind them down a fine grinding. I wondered why the grinding has been

attributed to me. Then I looked at the prayer which is written on the wall of the Chamber of

Prayer (Bait ud dua) which is as follows: Lord, hear my prayer and crush Thy enemies and mine

and fulfill Thy promise and help Thy servant and show us Thy days and sharpen for us Thy

sword… Taking this revelation and this prayer together, the indication is that the time for the

acceptance of this prayer has arrived. [Tadhkirah p. 620]

When you are admonished for your own benefit then you want to transfer your pain to others by

injuring and hurting them. Why did I say this? Because the Holy Qur’an says:

Those who love that immorality should spread among the believers, will have a painful

punishment in this world and the Hereafter. And Allah knows, and you know not. [24:20]

Allah knows what bad results will be created by the current situations. Then Allah says:

And but for the grace of Allah and His mercy upon you, not one of you would ever be pure, but

Allah purifies whom He pleases. And Allah is All‐Hearing, All‐ Knowing. [29:22}

That is to say, all the efforts for purdah, protection of human values and Islamic society are

done to purify you. But remember if Allah’s blessing and Grace and Mercy are not with you then

no one among you can be pure. Allah purifies whomever he wishes. Allah is All‐Hearing and

All‐knowing. These are the Qur’anic verses that compel me (to strictly enforce purdah). For I

know and have seen examples (where a society had to face serious consequences of

immodesty) clearly. Pakistani women living abroad gave up on purdah under the influence of

the society. Since they had abandoned the burqa, a situation was created where their daughters

thought that commandment of purdah had been lifted. They were punished for their

carelessness. There are many among them who have started wearing burqa again. In American

society, women have not only started wearing chador but burqa. They say that if we do not wear

burqa we will not be able to defend our values. But when they came back to burqa the

circumstances had already become very painful. There were some girls who left their parents

and went away with Sikh boys. There is an extremely frightening incident; girls who ignored their

parents and ran away with Christian boys. There may be two incidents like this that hurt like a

wound.


These are the reasons why my heart is restless and anxious that I should repeatedly remind you

to return to defending Islamic values. This is a time when one may even be stopped from what

is normally permissible. There are lawful things that one may have to give up for the sake of

Allah, or one may need to perform actions that are not Fardh (obligatory). You have seen the

situation during the first period of Tehrike Jadid. The Holy Qur’an does not say that you cannot

have two dishes [at one meal] or three or four dishes are prohibited. Where does it say that

women may not use lace on their clothes? But it was the need of the time and the Khalifa of the

time ordered this, and women even took bracelets off their hands. Many affluent people who

were used to a life of luxury started eating one dish and people avoided lace [on clothing] even

at times of weddings.

An Ahmadi woman had character and she was loyal to her pledge. She had taken Bai’at to

Khilafat with full devotion of her heart. After this she did not question why certain orders were

being given or why she was being treated unjustly. Ahmadiyyat has produced great mothers

and their greatness amazes ordinary people. Hadhrat Musleh Maudra had presented these

different incidents at various occasions. Lajna has compiled this material [refers to book, Al-

Azhāro Li Zawātil Khamār (Orhnī Wāliyoń Kei Liye Phūl) meaning: Flowers for the Women

Wearing the Veil]; but with great regret I must say that there are many women who do not have

time to read such things. Society demands a lot from them; they have to socialize and visit each

other. With such busy schedules who can find time for reading religious material even though a

time is fast approaching where you will need to prepare for great sacrifices.

Anyway, some injunctions from Hadhrat Musleh Maudra issued at various times were apparently

not directly related to religion in any way. However Ahmadi women made amazing sacrifices

that leaves one bewildered in this respect. During the era of the Muslim League, there was a

risk that if they lost the election the creation of Pakistan would have been threatened. Hadhrat

Musleh Maudra issued a general order that whoever could, should most certainly go to vote (for

the Muslim League). It is clear that voting is not an obligation that is required by Islamic law.

And whoever is not able to, or is sick is exempt anyhow. But one woman, who had given birth a

few days prior, insisted on voting. Her parents and other relatives advised her not to vote, as

she may get sick. She said, ‘the risk [of illness] is there, but I have heard the voice of the Imam

of the time that I need to vote for Muslim League and help it succeed, so I have to vote.’ Her

relatives said the only solution is to leave her alone in the house and put a lock outside. They

locked her in and left. After they were gone this woman started screaming. On hearing her

screams a neighbor came and broke the lock. The woman told him that there was no problem;

she just needed to go outside for a while. Saying this she left. As her family was coming back

after casting their vote, they saw blood flowing near a bush. They found their own daughter,

whom they had locked in the house because she was too weak to walk. She had bled on the

way so she hid herself in the bush and had fainted. They carried her back home. This is how

these people fulfilled their Bai’at. This is how they fulfilled their obligation of obedience. They

were pure in their faith. They did not have a plethora of lies.

There were mothers who made amazing sacrifices for the sake of Islam and fulfilled the

obligations of their pledge. Once Hadhrat Musleh Maudra sent a message to the Jama’at that

after the creation of Pakistan, when battles took place in the early days in Kashmir, the


Pakistani Army greatly needed soldiers. Hadhrat Musleh Maudra sent messages to the Jama’ats

in the villages that whoever could should enlist in the army because our country and nation

needs us. His representatives went to one place and made the announcement for enlistment.

This was a large Ahmadi village. No one came forth. They made a second announcement but

still no one came forth. An elderly widow with only one child was peeking at this from her house.

She was so motivated that she called her son by name and said, ‘My son, why do you not

respond. Have you not heard the voice of the Khalifa of the time?’ He stood up and said, ‘I am

ready’. Just as a first drop of rain falls down before the drenching rain can begin, all the young

men stood up and said, ‘we are also ready’. Regarding this incident Hadhrat Musleh Maudra

said, ‘when I heard this incident I prayed to my God saying, “My Allah! This widow has offered

her only son at my call. She is beyond the age of getting married and has no hope of having any

more children. I appeal in the name of your Grandeur and your Glory; if you need a sacrifice,

take my sons, but her son should be saved.”

So these are the Ahmadi women who were fulfilling their obligations. Thus, if due to the strict

discipline, some of our daughters get upset and leave us, I will undoubtedly be saddened by

their departures, but the honor of faith tells me that the religion of God does not need them. If

one daughter of Promised Messiahas leaves, then God will grant us millions of such daughters

who will be more faithful, more modest, ready to make sacrifices for religion; submissive

guardians and those who will uphold the pledge of allegiance until their last breath. The religion

does not need such women who leave. The grief in my heart will surely persist. I cannot accept

that even one girl may go astray. Do you think that the Khalifa of the time is not hurt when the

time comes to make the decision of excommunicating a member of the Jama’at? The Holy

Prophetsaw said that all believers together are like one body. If one believer hurts, all believers

feel the pain. Do you consider a Khalifa of the time to be below this lowest standard of faith?

The fact of the matter is that when he makes this decision his heart pains and he prays. He

fervently and humbly requests God to save this person and save me from seeing any Ahmadi

man or girl go astray due to their action. If despite this someone goes astray then the honor of

faith demands that we should not care for this. I will openly state that we will not care for such

people. I have described before you the life that they have chosen for them, it will lead to

nothing but a great punishment for them even in this world.

I may not have any personal status, but I have been appointed to an office for which God has

always shown honor and will always show honor. There will not be one day of Khilafat where

God will not show honor for his Khalifa. Therefore, understand your status. I am a humble and

lowly man, but the office of Khilafat is not lowly. If you remain true and adherent to the pledge of

allegiance then angels of Allah will shower his blessings and Mercy on you and will always show

you the happiness of your progeny.

Thus, you should recognize your obligation and understand whose descendants you are. You

are guardians of a great religion and its values. If you give up on these values then who will

guard these values?

During the earlier days of Islam there were women who observed strict purdah. Even though

later on, as the society purified, they were allowed to reveal the front of the face. When the

society was corrupt the purdah was very strict. Currently in the developing world there is a lot of


moral corruption. The bad habit of illicit and lustful glances have reached such a level of

corruption that it feels that these stares will tear past the niqab (face covering). Here you will

have to observe the purdah of earlier days of Islam. Other societies where such conditions do

not exist, other orders of purdah will apply. In the earlier days of Islam, the wives of the Holy

Prophetsaw and other women participated in wars while observing purdah. They participated and

offered great services in the Battle of Uhad and other battles.

You have heard the story of Hadhrat Khaulara. Once Hadhrat Khalid bin Walidra fought a battle

with the Romans. The Romans were in great numbers such that it was feared that the Muslims

may retreat. Muslims narrate that during the battle a fighter was seen wearing armor that had

‘his’ face covered. This fighter was attacking enemies from all sides and killed many wherever

‘he’ went. ‘He’ was tearing through rows of enemies from different angles. Seeing ‘him’ the

Muslim army conversed amongst each other that this could be none other than their leader

Hadhrat Khalid bin Walidra. Who other than “Saif ullah,” meaning Sword of Allah—could have

the might to attack with such force and glory! In the mean time they saw Hadhrat Khalid bin

Walidra approaching from his tent. They were surprised and said O Commander! Who was the

rider if not you? He replied that he did not know and this was the first time he had seen such a

brave warrior and rider. Meanwhile this rider, who they thought was a man, returned soaking in

blood. His horse was drenched in sweat and near death. He dismounted his horse.

Hadhrat Khalidra approached him and said, “O Mujahid (warrior) of Islam, tell me who you are!

We are anxious to lay our eyes on you. Take off your niqab (face cover). But the warrior ignored

him, and neither took off his armor nor his face cover. Hadhrat Khalid bin Walidra was amazed

and said, ‘you are such a great mujahid, but such is your standard of obedience?’ He said

again, ‘Young man, we are anxious to see you, take off the cover from your face’. At this the

rider said. ‘My Master, I am not disobedient. But God has commanded me not to take off my

purdah. I am a woman and my name is Khaula’. She did not take off her purdah. (Foouzul

Islam, Tarjuma Futooh ul Shaam, page: 98101)

Some women say it is very hot and we cannot go out in a burqa. Men do not have to deal with

this; they may go out as they please. This is not true. I also have experienced this. During

summer I have to go out in extreme heat and sometimes no electricity, especially in villages

where walls are low and mosques have low ceiling. I have to close the buttons of my Uchkan

(coat) to the top. It feels as if I am being cooked in steam. I was not used to this, but I have to do

it. It is my duty. It is not that men do not have to ever face such challenges. They also face such

challenges.

Now I will tell you about a Muslim woman from the earlier period of Islam. You feel hot in a

burqa, but listen to her story. It is narrated about Hadhrat Samiyyara that when she believed in

the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw; due to her ‘crime’ and ‘apostasy’, she was forced to wear a full

armor and made to lie in the boiling hot sand under the sun. (Here the temperature only reaches

up to 120 degrees. In Arabia it may reach up to 140 degrees.) This would make her lose her

senses. It is narrated that during this situation, if someone would ask her of her condition, she

would not understand. That means that due to extreme heat and sun she would lose her

senses. Then her tormentors would raise a finger upwards. She would understand that they


were saying reject the One God. She could not talk, so she would just shake her head that I

cannot do so. Such purdah observing women have existed in Islam.

Similarly it is said about Hadhrat Umme Ammaarra (her name was Samiyyara and the previous

incident narrated is about her as well) that Holy Prophetsaw passed by her while her enemies

were torturing her. Her son and her husband were also witnessing this, but they were all

helpless. Hadhrat Muhammadsaw said, “O Ammaar, be patient. O Umme Ammaar be patient, O

husband of Umme Ammaar also be patient; Allah will never waste the reward of those who are

patient.”

What I am asking of you is nothing in comparison to the great sacrifices you will be asked to

make for Islam and Ahmadiyyat. I can see that the speed of the caravan of Islam Ahmadiyyat is

about to become faster and faster. You are about to bear the weight of great tasks of this world.

If you panic at these small issues how will you be a part of this great service?

Thus pray and ask for forgiveness. May Allah enable us to make every sacrifice for Islam and

never forget that no matter what, we have to win this battle which we may be losing. As for the

girl who said, ‘this will not work’. I tell her: This will work. This is from God and it will definitely

work. If you cannot walk with us then separate yourself. People like you have no right to be part

of the caravan of Islam. However the caravan of Islam will march forward. What is from the Holy

Qur’an and His Prophetsaw will always work and will continue to work, even if we have to

sacrifice our last drop of blood. Let us now pray.” (Alfazl, 28 Feb 1982)

EXCERPT FROM JALSA SALANA ADDRESS TO LAJNA IMAILLAH BY HADHRAT

KHALIFATUL MASIH VATBA, GERMANY 2012

[Full address available at http://www.lajnausa.net/web/jalsa-salana-addresses]

I also would like to say this to the girls who have just entered adulthood that

some children wonder why they are not free in some matters. Always keep in mind that

you are free; your freedom lies within the boundaries that God has set for you. If

shamelessness of this society is considered ‘freedom’, then indeed an Ahmadi girl is not

free, nor should she seek such freedom. It is apparent from the Book of God, that any

action done while living within the boundaries set by Allah the Exalted is acceptable to

Him. It is stated in a Hadith [saying of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw] that, “modesty is

part of faith”. God Almighty has said that every good deed done by you is rewarded,

provided you are a believer and have faith. Thus, each Ahmadi girl must also protect

her sense of modesty if she claims to love Allah the Exalted and wants to be rewarded

for her good actions. Clothes of Ahmadi girls should be modest and not such that would

bring people's attention toward you. Don't follow fashion trends that would attract the

gaze of strange men. I have come to know that some women have started to wear

burqas [long coat and head covering] that are embellished with very beautiful

embroidery and then some have words inscribed on the back. Now tell me, what kind of

purdah is that? The purpose of purdah is to divert the attention of others from oneself; to



let them realize that one has a sense of modesty. But if burqas are embellished with

trims and laces and words are inscribed to get people's attention, then this is not

purdah, nor is there any use of such burqas.

Regarding the question of makeup, if you want to apply makeup, you have to fully cover

your face when you go out. In that case it is not just a matter of covering your forehead and

chin; you should wear a full niqab [face veil]. Coats should extend below the knees. This is also

part of modesty. If you want to wear pants or jeans, your shirt should be long. Some girls think

that there's nothing wrong with wearing a T-shirt or small blouse over jeans in their homes if

they wear a long coat when they go outside. Even in one's home one should wear modest and

appropriate clothing in front of one's father and brothers. Even though Allah the Exalted has not

commanded to do purdah before one's father and brothers, He has declared the sense of

modesty as a part of faith. Additionally, relatives or acquaintances might also come to visit your

home at any time. Someone might come in the presence of one's father or brothers and one

may need to go before them and such clothing might not be appropriate to wear before them.

So, in homes, one should dress in modest clothing. Although there's no need for a hijab [head

covering] or dupatta [long scarf] and you don't need to cover your head, but even then, your

clothes should be modest.

Therefore, always keep in mind that you have to protect your sense of modesty, in order

to protect your faith and to prove the truth of your claim that, "we love Allah the Exalted,"

because the sign Allah Almighty has told of a believer is that such a person loves Allah the

most. One's love for Allah the Exalted demands that one follows His commandments. It is Allah

the Almighty's commandment to wear modest clothing inside the home as well as outside.

Having fulfilled the requirements of modesty, no one would stop you from becoming a doctor, or

an engineer, or a teacher, or to enter any profession that is beneficial to humanity. You are

completely free to do so.

The honor of every Ahmadi girl needs to be safeguarded. It is this mindfulness of your

honor and expression of modesty that will enable you to call others toward goodness and forbid

them from vices. The example you set will become the source of attracting others, [such as]

your friends, which will open up doors of tabligh [propagation of faith] for you. Speaking of

tabligh, I want to mention that women and girls should do tabligh only to women and girls.

Tabligh should be to one’s own gender. Girls should do tabligh to girls and boys to other boys.

Look for new avenues for this work of propagation. You are free here. Khuddam ul Ahmadiyya

sends reports of distribution of hundreds of thousands of leaflets, but no such reports of

distributing hundreds of thousands of leaflets have been received from the Lajna, even though

women can spread the message of faith within women. This is where you should use your

freedom. While some do this; it does not happen to the extent that tabligh is required in women

through the women. Thus, this is where your priorities should change. Instead of following

fashion trends, immerse yourselves in the desire to serve the faith. This way you won't even

have the time to think of worldly things. And this act will also become a way to achieve God

Almighty's acceptance. You will also become a source of guidance for the world.


EXCERPT FROM JALSA SALANA ADDRESS TO LAJNA IMAILLAH BY HADHRAT

KHALIFATUL MASIH VATBA, USA 2012

[Full address available at http://www.lajnausa.net/web/jalsa-salana-addresses]

Today, you should prove that you are not observing purdah just because you are in the Jalsa

environment, but simply because you desire to seek Allah’s pleasure. You must prove that you

do not observe hijab and wear suitable, respectable clothing only for Lajna or Jama’at events.

Thus, today you must make a renewed pledge that from now on no matter what worldly

engagement you have, no matter what taunt or mockery you face, and no matter how harshly

people treat you, you will never remove your hijab and religious attire.

In fact, you should pledge, that for the sake of following Allah’s commands and for His pleasure,

you are going to eliminate all forms of materialism and completely discard the glamour and

allure of the world from your lives. Always remember that your hijab and religious attire are part

of your modesty and dignity and this is why Allah has instructed a believing woman to observe

it.

I sometimes receive complaints or reports that though some Ahmadi girls or women do cover

their heads, yet when they go to the mall they wear tight fitting jeans and T-shirts or blouses that

barely reach their waist. Remember that such clothing and such immodesty is a mockery of your

religion. On many occasions, I have reminded Ahmadis that Allah has not only commanded

purdah of the face, but has commanded purdah of the entire body. This is also clearly evident

from the verse of the Holy Qur’an that I have quoted.

Thus, when you go outside of your home, it is necessary that you wear a loose overcoat or a

long shawl. Even under the burqa coat, you should not wear a T-shirt or a mini‐skirt— [rather] a

long shawl or chador that covers your entire body. If you fail to follow this, not only is it a

violation of purdah, but it is also a display of immodesty and the Holy Prophetsaw taught that

modesty is a part of faith. Indeed on another occasion, he taught that every faith has a special

and unique characteristic, and Islam’s is modesty. Those who do not observe modesty have

been cursed. Therefore, to protect your faith and to become a true model of Islam, you must

correct any weakness that exists in what you wear and you must always protect your chastity,

because by doing so your faith is protected. It may be that the very minimum acceptable level of

purdah requires you to only cover your hair and chin. However, if you adopt this form of purdah,

then you should not wear make‐up. Islam does not stop women from working, but such work—

that requires a Muslim woman to compromise her sanctity by wearing inappropriate clothing or

uniform—is not permitted.

Certainly, there are Ahmadi women throughout the world, who are working as doctors, teachers,

engineers, scientists and in many other professions, and they conduct these careers whilst

maintaining the proper standards of modesty and upholding their hijab.



EXCERPT FROM IJTEMA ADDRESS TO LAJNA IMAILLAH BY HADHRAT

KHALIFATUL MASIH VATBA: UK, NOVEMBER 2006

[Full address available at http://www.lajnausa.net/web/ijtimaat-addresses]

………… Hudhuratba said, “Allah has commanded both men and women to avoid sin. Man has

been instructed, before the woman, to cast his eyes down. Then the woman has been instructed

to do the same. The man is relatively more daring as compared to woman therefore, while the

instruction to cast down the eyes and guard the private parts is for both man and woman,

woman has been instructed that, due to the nature of man, it is in her interest to cover her

beauty so that she may be saved from the evil glances of the man.

Some people object that the previous Caliphs were not so strict about ‘Purdah’ so I am going to

present some excerpts of theirs for your satisfaction.” Hudhuratba said, “Hadhrat Masih Maudas

says that people are insisting on relaxation of ‘Purdah’ and follow Europe but this is not at all

appropriate. This freedom of women is the root cause of evil and disobedience. Just ponder

over the moral condition of those countries where this kind of freedom is tolerated. If you see a

rise in the level of their purity and chastity as a result of this freedom, then we will accept that

we are wrong. However, it is clear that when man and woman have reached their full strength

and there is freedom of association, how dangerous their relationships will be. Casting evil

glances and being overcome by carnal desires is in man’s nature. Then if despite ‘Purdah’ some

succumb to evil deeds and become disobedient, one can imagine what can happen where

freedom prevails.

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIra has stated in this regard that the ‘Purdah’ according to the Sharia,

which is proven from the Holy Quran, is that a woman’s hair, neck, and face up to the front of

her ears should be covered. This instruction can be adopted in different countries according to

the local dress and circumstances. He stated that all parts of the body except the hands are

included in the ‘Purdah’.

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh has stated, during an address to the Norway Lajna, “I ask those

women who feel that it is not necessary to observe ‘Purdah’ that what favor have they done to

Islam by abandoning the ‘Purdah’? Today some seek permission to do away with ‘Purdah’.

Tomorrow they will seek permission to skinny dip in the sea and to lay bare on the beaches.

Later they will seek permission to bear children out of wedlock. I will tell them that they should

be prepared to feel the fire of Hell. They should mend their ways before God’s wrath overtakes

them.”

Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh said, “I felt that ‘Purdah’ is disappearing from many places in the

world as if it never existed and people do not realize what horrible consequences they are

facing as a result of this. Parents are driving their generation towards hell fire due to their

carelessness and there is no one who cares for them. This situation is rapidly deteriorating

throughout the world. It occurred to me that if Ahmadis do not immediately stand up in defense

of Islam then the situation will reach a point from which there is no return.” Again he said, “There

are those women who have to venture outside to work but they go out with full makeup. What

has makeup to do with the performance of your duties?” Again he said, “Women think that in

this society, where ‘Purdah’ is being discarded, if they meet their friends with their veils or

http://www.lajnausa.net/web/ijtimaat-addresses


scarves, their friends will call them backwards, foolish, or mad and say that this age is beyond

‘Purdah’. And this also troubles the men. They forget that dignity and respect for others come

from one’s own character and the dress has no value in the worldly honor. A person with moral

character is given respect. We should learn to respect ourselves first. Again he said, “The girls

being brought up in this country (England) are confused about the hair on their head. They think

that covering your head is a backward thing to do. Therefore, they take a step towards Allah

half-heartedly and not happily. They are, in fact, saying that, O’ God accept us as we are. We

are wearing a scarf but in a manner that is similar to a Jew who is covering a very small portion

of his head with a small flat cap. So please accept this incomplete step that we have taken

towards you. If you do everything for the sake of Allah then this is entirely inappropriate.

Remember that the most beautiful part of a woman’s features is her hair, specially, when they

are hanging in front of her face. I have noticed some girls that when they put their scarves on

they do so in a manner that causes their hair to dangle in front of their faces. You should ask

yourself, do I care more for my Lord, or for other people?”

Our Lord, pour upon us steadfastness and cause us to die resigned unto You. (Holy

Qur'an 7:127)


QUARTER 5: WORKSHOPS/DISCUSSIONS April-May-June 2014

AL MUHAIMIN – THE PROTECTOR, AL RAZZAQ – THE PROVIDER




1. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh says: “You are going away from the ‘fashion of life’

mentioned in the revelation of Promised Messiahas.”

Discuss the meaning of “fashion of life”, especially in connection with the Qur'anic injunction of purdah. What are the consequences of going away from it?

2. As Ahmadi Muslim women, mothers have a very important role to play in the jihad

against immodesty. Discuss the measures that mothers should be taking to protect the

hayaa and modesty of their sons and daughters.

3. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vatba has clearly defined acceptable modes of observing

minimum purdah for women. Make a list of Hudhuratba’s directions and discuss how they

should be followed. Examine the prevailing fashions/styles of the day and whether or not

they fit the standard of modesty for an Ahmadi Muslim woman.


Keep a dupatta or other head covering on your head for a couple of hours daily in your

home. It will make you more comfortable with wearing a head covering when going out.

Encourage your teenage daughters to do likewise once a week.

Resolve not to let your head covering slip down when out of the home. Find ways to

make it secure.

Foster hayaa in your sons and daughters by dressing them modestly from an early age,

e.g. covering arms and legs after age four.


The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, pp 23-25 by Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas

Friday Sermon: Divine attribute of Al Razzaq (The Provider)

http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2008-06-13.html#summary-tab Friday Sermon: Divine attribute Al Muhaimin (the Protector)




Lajna Imaillah-USA 167 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2014 2013 – 2015 Quarter 6

QUARTER 6: JULY-AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2014

AL WALI – THE FRIEND, AS SHAFI- THE HEALER

Tarbiyat Subject: Seeking forgiveness (istighfar) and repentance. Goal: To achieve spiritual healing through repentance. Extra Discussion Topic: Allah Ta'ala’s attributes of Al Wali and As Shafi

FRIDAY SERMON: SEEK ALLAH'S FORGIVENESS, REPENT AND SEEK HIS PROTECTION

Summary of Friday sermon delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vatba on January 13, 2012 [Full sermon available at http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2012-01-13.html]

Hudhuratba recited the following verses at the start of his Friday sermon:

‘It teaches that you should worship none but Allah. I am to you a Warner, and a bearer of glad

tidings from Him; And that you seek forgiveness of your Lord, and then turn to Him. He will

provide for you a goodly provision until an appointed term. And He will grant His grace to every

one possessed of merit. And if you turn away, then surely, I fear for you the punishment of a

colossal day.’ (11: 3, 4)

Hudhuratba said today there is turmoil everywhere in the world in one shape or the other. This is

a result of man forgetting his objective of creation, that is, inclination towards worship of God

and endeavor to gain Divine nearness. Indeed, Divine nearness cannot be attained without

worship of God. Explaining, Hudhuratba said worship of God does not only entail offering the five

daily Prayers. It includes offering them with due care and devoutness. It also necessitates

keeping God in view in every matter and making an effort to imbue oneself in Divine hue. It

necessitates following the blessed model of the Holy Prophetsaw in every matter and it also

includes keeping the Divine attributes in view and trying and adopting them on a human level.

One’s best effort to pay the dues of God and the dues of mankind are also necessary for this.

Practicing these aspects make a Momin (believer) one who pays the dues of worship of God.

Explaining the essence of the Qur’anic teachings, the Promised Messiahas said: ‘…you should

worship none but Allah…’. The truth of the matter is that the real reason for the creation of

mankind is worship. Just as it is stated elsewhere: ‘And I have not created the Jinn and the men

but that they may worship Me.’ (51:57). True worship is when man removes all hardness and

crookedness and makes the terrain of his heart as clear as a farmer clears his field…as

collyrium/ kohl is ground extremely finely so that it can be put in eyes. Similarly, this state of

worship is when the terrain of heart is free of grit, pebbles and unevenness and is so clean as if

it embodies pure soul. If a mirror is cleaned in this manner one can see in it and if soil is thus

treated, all kinds of fruits grow in it. Therefore, if man, who has been created to worship God,

cleans his heart and does not let any grit, pebbles or unevenness remain in it, God will be seen

in it.’ The Promised Messiahas further said: ‘This is the reason you should not rest until such

time that, apart from God, you free your heart of grit and pebbles and make it clear like a mirror

and fine like collyrium.’


Lajna Imaillah-USA Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2014 2013 – 2015 Quarter 6

168

Explaining, Hudhuratba said one has to continually try to reach such a state. In order to protect

ourselves from the disorder around us and to seek God’s grace, there is need to connect to God

with sincerity. Most people are not directly involved in evil or disorder but the environment

influences them one way or the other and one becomes a part of transgression subconsciously.

A broad example of this is in the persecution of Ahmadis around the world, in particular in

Pakistan. People who do not even have any knowledge about Ahmadiyyat attest documents

that use vulgar language against the Promised Messiahas. Rather than God, the worship of

such people subconsciously is aimed at gaining nearness of worldly people. Corruption in

religion destroys discharging of the dues of God and dues of mankind. This is what happens in

history of religion. Once corruption appears in religion, God sends His Prophetsaw to reform

people who directly alert people towards worship of God. Thus God sent the Holy Prophetsaw

and taught the ways of worship of God through him. He was the perfect man who imbibed

Divine attributes to the highest degree, as much as it is humanly possible to imbibe them. God

commanded that the example of the Holy Prophetsaw was a blessed model for us to follow and it

was the way to reach God. This did not simply signify that his Salat was worship, rather his

every word and every practice was worship of God. And thus religion was perfected with the

Sharia that was revealed to him. However, God also declared that, as in earlier times when with

the passage of time people turned away from the basis of religion, this would also happen in

Islam. Although the Holy Prophetsaw was the last law-bearing prophet and there was to be no

more religious law after him, yet such a condition would come to pass and when it would reach

its worst point, in his subservience his true and ardent devotee would come to once again

establish religion in the world. He would explain the reality of worship and he would do this

owing to his subservience to the Holy Prophetsaw. Unfortunately a large majority of Muslims have

not understood this.

Hudhuratba said as the aforementioned verse cites ‘…I am to you a Warner, and a bearer of glad

tidings…’, the Holy Prophetsaw was a Warner then and remains to this day. His era will last till

the Day of Judgment and he still warns and alerts people. Hudhuratba explained that a ‘Warner’

is not someone who only warns people, rather he also alerts people to avoid what is bad. For

example, in spite of verbally professing the Kalima (pronouncement of Muslim faith) if one does

not practice all aspects of religion; one is in a state of loss. On the other hand, the glad tiding is

in the advent of one who was promised to come in the latter days to facilitate nearness to God

and teach ways of worship of God.

The Promised Messiahas says: ‘It is true that man cannot attain this objective without the help of

a pure-natured person. Therefore, for this arrangement and accomplishment, Allah the Exalted

sent the perfect model of the Holy Prophetsaw and then started a lasting succession of his true

successors so that the Braham priests who have no awareness of their ending could be refuted.

It is a proven fact that a young person who is not from a farming family will cut off plants as he

weeds. Similarly, spiritual farming cannot be done in a perfect manner unless one is under a

perfect person, who has accomplished all the stages of sowing, irrigation and weeding. This

illustrates that man is in need of a perfect spiritual teacher. Without a perfect spiritual teacher,

worship by man is like a foolish and unaware child sitting in a field cutting off plants, while in his

assumption he is weeding. Do not ever assume that you will learn ways of worship on your own.

Certainly not; not until the Prophetsaw teaches, the paths of complete and devout absorption in


169

God cannot be found. The natural question thus arises, how can this difficult task be fulfilled?

God Himself gave its solution. Explaining, Hudhuratba added, the solution given by God is

Istighfar. Hudhuratba also said that in this age and for always, the successor of the Holy

Prophetsaw is the Promised Messiahas whom God has also called Khatamul Khulafa (seal of

all Khulafa). God certainly guides those who engage in sincere Istighfar and try to fulfill the dues

of worship of God if they follow the true successor. The second verse recited at the beginning of

the sermon teaches ways of Istighfar: ‘And that you seek forgiveness of your Lord, and then turn

to Him. He will provide for you a goodly provision until an appointed term. And He will grant His

grace to every one possessed of merit. And if you turn away, then surely, I fear for you the

punishment of a colossal day. (11:4)’

Hudhuratba explained that Istighfar washes away spiritual corrosion but it requires constancy.

Real Istighfar is in repenting those sentiments which displease God. This leads to a state of

‘turning to Him’ and thus man gains nearness to God. True Istighfar does not constitute mere

words. One has to try and change one’s inner self and this is what attains nearness to God and

brings about spiritual and worldly benefits and one is a recipient of God’s blessings.

In light of this verse, the Promised Messiahas says: ‘Remember, the Muslims have been

bestowed two things; one for obtaining strength and the other for the practical demonstration of

the strength that has been obtained. Istighfar is for obtaining strength. It is also called seeking

help. The Sufis have said that as physical strength and power is fostered through exercise, in

the same way, Istighfar is spiritual exercise. Through it, the soul obtains strength and the heart

achieves steadfastness. He who desires strength should do Istighfar.’ (Essence of Islam Vol. II,

p. 246)

The Promised Messiahas also said that through Istighfar man tries to suppress and cover those

sentiments and thoughts, which keep one away from God. Thus Istighfar means that one

overcomes those toxic matters, which attack and try to destroy man and having avoided

impediments of the way which leads to implementation of the commandments of God, one

actually practices these commandments.

The Promised Messiahas said that God has placed two kinds of matters in man; one that is

delegated by Satan and the other, which is antidotal/curative. When man is arrogant and

conceited and does not take the help of the curative matter, the negative matter becomes

dominant in him. However, when man has a very humble and meek view of himself and feels he

is in need of God’s help, God generates a spring in him through which his soul is softened and

flows out and this is what is meant by Istighfar. That is, having found the strength, man

overcomes the toxic matters. Explaining, Hudhuratba said the softening and flowing of soul is not

attained by mere verbal professing of Istighfar. Rather, it should be borne out of heartfelt

emotions, which flow in tears of the eyes in the Presence of God; this is Istighfar. The Promised

Messiahas said, ‘In short it means that stay firm on worship. Firstly obey the Prophetsaw;

secondly always seek help from God. Yes, first seek help from your Lord. When the strength is

granted, turn to God.’

Further elucidating, the Promised Messiahas said: ‘Istighfar and Taubah (repentance) are two

separate matters. From one point of view, Istighfar has priority over repentance, inasmuch as

Istighfar is the help and strength, which are obtained from God and repentance means standing


170

on one’s own feet. It is the way of God that when a person seeks help from Him, He bestows

strength and with that strength the supplicant stands on his own feet and thus possesses the

faculty to do good, which is called ‘turning to God’. This is the natural sequence of it. It is

appointed for seekers that they should seek help from God in every condition. Till a seeker

obtains strength from God, he can do nothing. The strength for repentance is acquired

after Istighfar. If there is no Istighfar, the faculty of repentance dies. If you will thus follow

up Istighfar with repentance, the result will be as set out in the verse:

‘He will provide for you a goodly provision until an appointed term.’(11:4)

This is the way of God, that those who follow up Istighfar with repentance will achieve their

cherished grades. Every sense has its limits within which it achieves its high grades; not

everyone can be a Prophet or a Messenger or a Truthful (Siddiq) or a Testifier (Shahid).

(Essence of Islam Vol. II, p. 245)

The Promised Messiahas further said that each seeker attains grades in accordance with his

capacity and this is what the verse ‘And He will grant His grace to every one possessed of

merit’ signifies. However if a person possesses extra capacity, God would grant him extra in his

spiritual endeavors/exercise. He said God does not deprive anyone his due.

Next Hudhuratba related some accounts of the spiritual assemblies graced by the Promised

Messiahas. Once, a person asked the Promised Messiahas for a Wazifah (formulaic prayer).

The Promised Messiahas replied: ‘Say Istighfar profusely. Man has only two conditions; either he

does not commit any sin or Allah the Exalted saves him from the bad ending of sin. Therefore,

both these meanings should be kept in mind when saying Istighfar. Firstly covering of past sins

is sought from Allah the Exalted and secondly capacity to be protected from future sins is

sought from God. However, Istighfar is not fulfilled by mere verbal utterance; it should be from

the heart. It is important to also supplicate in one’s own tongue during Salat.’

Once a man appeared in the Promised Messiahas’s company and said that had certain flaws,

he had been to many Pirs (ascetics) but could not remain convinced of any of them for long. He

said he had the flaw of backbiting, he was not inclined to worship and had many other

deficiencies. The Promised Messiahas responded:

‘I understand, your real problem is impatience. The rest are its conditions. When man is not

impatient in his worldly matters and waits for results patiently and with constancy, why then

does he demonstrate impatience in the Presence of God? Does a farmer sow his seeds and

starts thinking of harvest in one day? Or as soon as a baby is born wants him to grow up and

help him? There are no precepts and examples of such rush and haste. One who wishes to be

so hasty is very silly. A person who can see his flaws as flaws should consider himself very

fortunate, otherwise Satan shows bad deeds and immoral acts in good and beautiful light. Thus,

you should give up your impatience and seek capacity from Allah the Exalted with patience and

constancy and ask forgiveness for your sins. There is nothing apart from this. A person who

comes to people of God wishing that they may blow on him and reform him, wants to govern

God, whereas this should be approached submissively. Unless one leaves all worldly powers,

nothing can be attained. When an ailing person goes to a physician he relates many problems,

but the physician recognizes and diagnoses the real problem and starts its treatment. Similarly,

your problem is impatience. If you cure that, if God wills the other problems will also go away.


171

Our creed is that man should never lose hope in Allah the Exalted and should continue to seek

until he is in the throes of death. Unless man takes his patience and seeking to this limit, he

cannot be successful. Allah the Exalted is Powerful and if He wills He can make one successful

in an instant…there are two kinds of diseases, one Mastavi (straight, direct) and the other

Mukhtalif (diverse). Mustavi disease is that which has apparent pain and man is concerned

about its cure but does not have any care for Mukhtalif disease. Similarly, some sins are

perceptible while others are imperceptible to man. This is why it is needed that man should

always engage in Istighfar. What is the benefit in going to graves? Allah the Exalted has sent

the Holy Qur’an for reformation. If it was God’s law to reform by blowing, why would have the

Holy Prophetsaw endured so much persecution for thirteen years in Makkah? He could have had

influence over Abu Jahl. Let alone Abu Jahl, Abu Talib even had love for the Prophetsaw. In short

impatience is not good. It can lead to destruction.’

Once, a person requested for prayers regarding his debt and the Promised Messiahas said: ‘Say

Istighfar profusely. This is the method for man to avoid grief. Istighfar is the key to progress.’

Hudhur added that only that Istighfar will unlock the doors of progress which is sincere.

Once a person asked for prayers that he may have children and the Promised Messiahas said:

‘Say Istighfar a lot. It effaces sin and Allah the Exalted also grants offspring. Remember, belief

is very important. God Himself helps that person who is perfect in belief.’ At another instance

the Promised Messiahas said, ‘Man should say Istighfar for protection against weaknesses.

Istighfar works to avoid chastisement of sin like a prisoner pays a penalty to secure his release.’

At another instance the Promised Messiahas said: ‘It is necessary that man always engages in

Istighfar and Taubah lest bad deeds exceed limits and incur the wrath of Allah the Exalted.

When Allah the Exalted looks on someone with His grace, He usually instills that person’s love

in hearts. However, when man’s evil exceeds limits, his disapproval is willed in the heavens and

in accordance to the will of Allah the Exalted, people’s hearts are hardened for him. Yet, as

soon as that person turns to the Divine threshold with Istighfar and Taubah and seeks refuge,

tenderness is generated clandestinely and without anyone realizing, the seed of love for that

person is sown in the hearts of people. In short, the formula of Istighfar and Taubah is tried and

tested and does not fail.’

Today the bad deeds of people of this world have created turmoil. Those leaders who presumed

to be the beloved of the masses are the worst in the eyes of the masses and there are signs

that the turn of those who are still considered favorites is imminent. The changes in

governments resulting from the turmoil around the world have generated further disorder. We

should pray a lot that God may save the world from disorder. Istighfar helps in fulfilling the

objectives of worship of God, and enables one to pay the dues of God and the dues of mankind,

it strengthens the bond with one sent by God and thus saves man from the turmoil of this world

and from God’s displeasure, it keeps one on the paths that lead to Divine nearness and it also

fulfills one’s personal needs and takes one out of problems. Man becomes the recipient of

numberless blessings of God through Istighfar. God has blessed us that we have recognized

the Imam of the age, who has guided us about worship, seeking God’s nearness and how to

garner His blessings. In order to truly benefit from this we should constantly engage in Istighfar.

May God enable us all to do so.


172

THREE CONDITIONS FOR REPENTANCE The Promised Messiahas (Malfoozat, Vol.

I, pp.132-134)

It should be borne in mind that there are three conditions for repentance, without fulfillment of

which true repentance is not achieved. The first condition is to get rid of wicked fancies which

arouse evil propensities.

Fancies have great influence. Every action is preceded by a fancy. Thus the first condition for

repentance is that evil thoughts and fancies should be discarded. For instance, if a person has

an illicit relationship with a woman and desires to repent, it is necessary that he should conceive

of her as ugly and should call to mind all her low qualities. As I have just said fancies exercise a

powerful influence. I have read that some Sufis carried their fancies to such a length that they

saw a person in the form of an ape or pig. Thus the first condition of repentance is that all

thoughts, which give rise to evil pleasures should be discarded altogether.

The second condition is remorse. Everyone's conscience admonishes him over every evil, but

an unfortunate person leaves his conscience suspended. So a sinner should express remorse

over his sin and evil action and should reflect that the pleasure to be derived from them is

temporary. He should also consider that every time there is a decline in that pleasure and that in

the end, in old age when his faculties are weakened, he will perforce have to give up all these

pleasures. Then why indulge in that which in the end has to be given up anyhow? Most

fortunate is the person who turns in repentance and becomes determined to discard all corrupt

thoughts and vile fancies. When he gets rid of this impurity, he should be remorseful.

The third condition is a firm resolve that he will not revert to those vices. If he adheres to this

resolve, God will bestow upon him the strength for true repentance and he will be rid altogether

of his vices, which will be replaced by good morals and praiseworthy actions. This is a moral

victory. It is for God Almighty to bestow the power and strength for it for He is the Master of all

power and all strength, as He has said: All power belongs to Allah (2:166) (Malfoozat, Vol. I,

p.132-134).

Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves, and if you forgive us not and

have not mercy on us,

we shall surely be of the lost. (Holy Qur'an 7:24)


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QUARTER 6: WORKSHOPS/DISCUSSIONS July-August-September 2014

AL WALI – THE FRIEND, AS SHAFI – THE HEALER




1. What is true istighfar and why has it been said by the Promised Messiahas that istighfar

is for obtaining strength?

2. For what ills did the Promised Messiahas prescribe the “formula of istighfar”? What is the

difference between a Mastavi disease and a Mukhtalif disease? Highlight some Mastavi

and Mukhtalif spiritual diseases of our times for which istighfar can be prescribed.

3. What is the connection between istighfar and taubah (repentance)? Discuss the three

conditions required for repentance as related by the Promised Messiahas.

Personal tarbiyat exercises:

Plan to say istighfar 70 times during the day, following the sunnah of the Holy Prophetsaw

Reflect on any angry or resentful thoughts you may have in your heart and seek

forgiveness for them every night before you sleep.


The Essence of Islam, vol.2 pp.235-249 by Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas

Friday Sermon: Manifestation of God being Wali (Friend) of the pious and devout

followers of Prophetsaws of God


Friday Sermon: Divine attribute of Al Wali (the Friend)

http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/index2.php?d=2009-10-30


http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/index2.php?d=2009-10-30

Lajna Imaillah-USA 174 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2014 2013 – 2015 Quarter 7

QUARTER 7: OCTOBER-NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2014

AS SABOOR – THE PATIENT, AL WADOOD – THE LOVING

Tarbiyat Subject: Taqwa – the path to self-improvement. Goal: To inculcate taqwa into all aspects of daily life. Extra Discussion Topic: Allah Ta’ala’s attributes of As Saboor and Al Wadood

TREAD ON THE PATH OF TAQWA BY THE PROMISED MESSIAHAS

Whoever enters into sincere Bai’at with me and becomes my follower from the bottom of his

heart as to be engrossed in his obedience to me, as to forsake all his own personal aims and

intentions he alone is the one for whom in these days of great distress my soul shall desire to

intercede.

So all ye people counted as members of my community! In heaven you shall be counted

members of my following only when in all truth you actually begin to advance on the paths of

righteousness. Offer your five daily obligatory prayers with such concentration and awe of mind

as though you were seeing God in front of you, with your physical eyes. Observe the days of

fasting for the sake of God in full sincerity. All among you who are liable for Zakat should never

fail to discharge this important obligation. And those, on whom the pilgrimage to Mecca has

become obligatory, without any obstacles standing in the way, should duly undertake that

blessed journey. Do all good deeds with the proper care they deserve, forsaking evil from a real

repulsion rising in the heart.

Be very sure that no action whatsoever, can take you to God if it is devoid of righteousness of

the heart. The root of everything good is Taqwa (fear of God), in whatever action this root is not

lost, that action will never be devoid or futile. It is necessary too that you will be tried by being

thrown into diverse griefs and distresses, even as those before you were tried. Be therefore

forewarned lest you stumble when the time came. The earth with everything in it can inflict no

injury on you, provided your contact with heaven is firm. Whenever injury comes to you it will be

from your own hands. If your entire honor on this earth is lost to you, God will give you an honor

in heaven that shall never wane. Therefore do not leave Him, whatever you may have to go

through. You are bound to be persecuted in diverse ways, and many of your hopes will be

denied to you, but in such cases you should not grieve, for the Lords your God shall put you

through trials, to test whether or not you remain firm. (Our Teaching, pages 6 & 7)

The members of my Jama‘at, wherever they might be, should listen with attention. The purpose

of their joining this Movement and establishing the mutual relationship of spiritual preceptor and

disciple with me is that they should achieve a high degree of good conduct, good behavior and

righteousness.

No wrongdoing, mischief, or misconduct should even approach them. They should perform the

five daily Prayers regularly, should not utter falsehood and should not hurt anyone by their

tongues. They should be guilty of no vices and should not let even a thought of any mischief,

wrong, disorderliness, or turmoil pass through their minds. They should shun every type of sin,


175

offence, undesirable action, passion, and unmannerly behavior. They should become pure

hearted and meek servants of God Almighty, and no poisonous germ should flourish in their

beings…. Sympathy with mankind should be their principle and, they should fear God Almighty.

They should safeguard their tongues and their hands and their thoughts against every kind of

impurity, disorderliness and dishonesty. They should join the five daily Prayer services without

fail.

They should refrain from every kind of wrong, transgression, dishonesty, bribery, trespass, and

partiality. They should not participate in any evil company. If it should be proved that one who

frequents their company does not obey God’s commandments… or is not mindful of the rights of

people, or is cruel or mischievous, or is ill-behaved, or is seeking to deceive the servants of God

Almighty by speaking ill or abusively of him, or is guilty of imposture towards the persons with

whom they have entered into a covenant of bai‘at, it should be their duty to repel him and to

keep away from such a dangerous one. They should not design harm against the followers of

any religion or the members of any tribe or group.

Be true well-wishers of every one, and take care that no mischievous or vicious person, or

disorderly one or ill-behaved one, should ever be of your company, or should dwell among you;

for such a person could at any time be the cause of your stumbling. These are matters and

conditions that I have been urging from the beginning, and it is the duty of every member of my

Jama‘at to act upon them.

You should indulge in no impurity, mockery or derision. Walk upon the earth with good hearts,

pure tempers, and pure thoughts. Not every evil is worth fighting, so cultivate the habit of

forgiveness and overlooking defaults, and behave with steadfastness and meekness. Do not

attack anyone improperly, and keep your passions under complete control.

If you take part in a discussion, or in an exchange of views on a religious subject, express

yourself gently and be courteous. If anyone misbehaves towards you, withdraw from such

company with a greeting of peace. If you are persecuted or reviled, be mindful that you should

not meet stupidity with stupidity, for otherwise you will be counted in the same category as your

opponents. God Almighty desires that you should become a Jama’at that should set an example

of goodness and truthfulness for the whole world.

Hasten to exclude everyone from your company who sets an example of evil, mischief,

provocation and ill-behavior. He who cannot dwell among us in meekness, goodness and piety,

using gentle words and comporting himself in ways of good conduct, should depart from us

quickly, for God does not desire that such a one should dwell among us. He will die miserably,

for he did not adopt the way of goodness.

Therefore, be alert, and be truly good-hearted, gentle and righteous. You will be known by your

regular attendance at Prayer services and your high moral qualities. He who has the seed of evil

embedded in him will not be able to conform to this admonition.

(Tablighe-Risalat, vol. 7, pp. 42–44. Ishtihar (The Announcement), May 29, 1898, p. 2)

Of all the natural conditions of man, one that is an essential part of his nature is truthfulness.

Normally, unless a person is moved by some selfish motive, he does not wish to tell a lie. He is


176

naturally averse to falsehood and is reluctant to have recourse to it. That is why he dislikes a

person whom he knows to be a liar and looks upon him with disdain. But this natural condition

by itself cannot be considered moral. Even children and the insane exhibit this quality. The fact

is that so long as a person does not renounce the selfish motives which prevent him from telling

the truth, he cannot be considered truthful. If a person tells the truth only when he stands to lose

nothing, but tells a lie when his honor, property or life are threatened, how can he be considered

better than children and the insane? Do minors and the insane not speak this kind of truth?

There is hardly anyone in the world who would tell a lie without any motive. Therefore, the truth

that is forsaken when faced with possible loss can never form part of true morals. The real

occasion of telling the truth is when one apprehends loss of life or property or honor. (Islami

Usul ki Philosophy, Ruhani Khaza’in, vol. 10, pp. 360–36)

EXTRACT FROM “AL WASSIYAT” (THE WILL) BY THE PROMISED MESSIAHAS

It is God’s wish that all people of pious nature living in various parts of the world – regardless of

whether they belong to Europe or Asia – be brought together under the banner of Tawheed

(Unity of God). It is His intention that all his servants be gathered into one religion and it is for

the fulfillment of that goal that I have been sent into this world. So strive for that goal, but always

with gentleness, high morals and with prayers. And until such time when one should stand up

among you with the Holy Spirit from the Lord, you should work together and co-operate with one

another. And through solicitude for others and by purifying you souls, you too should partake of

the Holy Spirit. Without the Holy Spirit true righteousness cannot be attained. Selfish desires

should be forsaken. And to win the pleasure of Allah you should elect to tread the narrowest of

all paths. Do not be seduced by worldly pleasures as these take man away form God. And

adopt the life of austerity that you may win the pleasure of Allah. The pain that pleases Allah is

far better than the pleasure that angers Him. And the defeat that pleases Allah is far better than

the victory, which incurs His wrath. Forsake the love, which brings you close to the wrath of

God. If you come to Him having purified your heart, then He will help you along all paths and no

enemy will be able to hurt you.

You cannot win the pleasure of Allah until you forsake all your own joys and pleasures, your

honor, your wealth and your very life. And you must adopt a life of such hardship as to be akin

to death. But if you can bear this hardship you will be gathered into the lap of God like a

precious child and you will become heir to the righteous ones who have gone before you, and

the doors for every blessing will be opened for you. Alas! There are but a few men of such

stature.

Allah has informed me that righteousness is a tree, which should be planted in the heart. The

water, which nourishes righteousness, does indeed feed the entire garden of life.

Righteousness is a root; if it is dead then all else is worthless, but while it lives all else lives.

What good can a man incur if, on the one hand he professes to seek God, but on the other, he

displays no resolve.

I say to you in truth that he whose faith is tainted with worldliness is ruined. And hell is very is

close to the one who does not devote himself entirely to God – some of intentions are for God

while some of them are worldly. So if your intentions have the slightest hint of worldliness all


177

your worship will be in vain. If such is the case you are following not God but Satan. And so not

even think that God will come to your help if such be your state. In fact, if that is your condition,

you are no better than the worms of the earth and like them you too will soon perish. And God

will no be in you; in fact He would be pleased to bring about your ruin. But if your ego truly dies

then you will appear in God and God will be in you. The home where you reside will be a

blessed one. And God’s mercy will descend upon the walls of your dwelling. And the town

where such a person resides will be a blessed one.

If your life and your death, your every movement, your gentleness and your anger are solely for

God, and if during periods of hardship and distress you do not test God and you do not break off

your relationship with Him – then I say in truth, you will become a most distinct people of His.

You are human just like myself. And my God and your God is the same. So do not waste you

holy powers. And if you turn completely to God then in accordance with Divine Will, I say unto

you that you will become His elected people.

Let the greatness and the glory of God sink deeply into your hearts. Declare His Unity not only

with your tongues buts also with your actions, so that He, through His actions, may show you

His mercy and blessings. Guard against malice and show true compassion to all creation. Tread

every path of virtue, as you know not from which one you will be accepted.

FRIDAY SERMON: ACHIEVING GOD CONSCIOUSNESS, PURPOSE OF JALSA.

Summary of sermon delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vatba on June 29, 2012

[Full Summary available at http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2012-06-29.html]

After the recitation of Surah Al Fatihah, Hudhuratba began the sermon by expressing praise to

Allah Almighty at the inauguration of Jalsa Salana USA and expressed his participation for the

second time at the Jalsa Salana in USA. Hudhuratba said that the annual conventions held in

different countries around the world were initially inaugurated by the Promised Messiahas. The

purpose of these conventions is that the participants gain the blessings that will lead them to a

better life in this world and in the Hereafter. These blessings can only be reaped by attaining a

truly high standard of Taqwa in our lives.

The Promised Messiahas expected that each and every participant of Jalsa shall attain this high

standard of Taqwa in his or her life and expressed his intense dislike towards those participants

who did not take any measures to attain this standard of Taqwa. Thus, these conventions are a

source of great blessings, and for a true Ahmadi, these should also instill a sense of fear, such

that Allah Almighty has provided him yet again with an opportunity to gain nearness to Him, to

revive his faith, to amass the blessings associated with this auspicious occasion. However,

these blessings can only be attained by continuous efforts in progress in Taqwa lest he should

slip downwards. If an Ahmadi truly understands the blessings of Jalsa and then makes every

effort to receive these blessings, and accumulates the transformations that each annual

convention bring about in him, then he will progress towards a new standard in Taqwa each

year, which will eventually lead him to the point where the Promised Messiahas wished to see

us. Thus, we must focus towards that desire of the Promised Messiahas that he held in his heart,

which he expressed in these words: Pay attention towards your afterlife, rather than focusing on



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this world. He emphasized that one must inculcate Taqwa in his heart. What is Taqwa? Taqwa

means that one must fulfill the obligations and duties towards Allah Almighty and towards his

fellow human beings with a fear of His displeasure in one’s heart.

Among the duties and obligations towards Allah Almighty, the first and foremost is His worship,

and among the acts of worship, the first and foremost is the performance of Salat. The Holy

Prophetsaw says that Salat is the essence of worship. Hudhuratba said that he had elaborated on

the importance of Salat in his previous Friday sermon. Thus, those who did not listen to that

sermon, should listen to it and set their minimal standards of worship accordingly. Hudhuratba

said that participants in this Jalsa should pay special attention to the offering of Salat, more

specifically to offering Salat in congregation. During these days of Jalsa, pray to Allah Almighty

that He may enable everyone to implement regular offering of Salat in their lives in the most

excellent manner. Hudhuratba wished to elaborate that for the convenience of those who travel a

fair distance to arrive at Jalsa, the namaz are combined and this is allowed by Sharia. However,

in your homes, there is no excuse to offer combined Salat. In some households, it appears that

namaz is being combined on a regular basis because when the children are asked how many

namaz they offer at home, their response is three as opposed to five. The Holy Quran has made

five namaz compulsory. The Holy Prophetsaw explained the timings of the five Salat and taught

us how to offer these five Salat as well. The Promised Messiahas has diverted our attention

towards this important commandment repeatedly and Hudhuratba elaborated on this in his

previous sermon. Hudhuratba said that the five Salat are the fundamental requirement.

We should also inculcate a habit of offering nawafil. Many of us will offer tahajjud prayers during

the days of Jalsa, however we should make every effort to continue these efforts even after

Jalsa is over. The weaknesses in our obligatory acts of worship are strengthened with the

performance of nawafil prayers, and Tahajjud constitutes a major part of nawafil prayers. The

Promised Messiahas has drawn our attention towards the offering of Tahajjud frequently. He

says that members of this Jamaat should revive the tradition of offering Tahajjud in their lives. If

not more, offer only two rakats, so that one may obtain the opportunity to supplicate. The

supplications offered at the time of Tahajjud have a special significance, because they are

offered with a true zeal and passion of the heart. He said that unless and until an intense

emotion and fervor is inculcated in the supplication, one will not be able to leave the warmth of

his bed. This intensity in supplication will demonstrate that an individual is willing to sacrifice his

sleep to seek the pleasure of Allah Almighty. Thus, waking up at this time itself arouses an

emotion in the heart which in turn gives rise to an intensity and zeal in supplication. And this

energy becomes the reason for acceptance of that supplication. Thus the act of waking up to

offer these nawafil prayers will in itself bring about a revolutionary change in the individual’s life.

In today’s world, people have different priorities, due to which they go to bed late at night.

Tahajjud is in reality a great way to re-evaluate one’s spiritual condition and bring about a

positive change in the spiritual condition of an individual.

After the primary obligations towards Allah Almighty, a Momin must perform his duties towards

his fellow brethren. Without making any mention of a person’s caste, creed, nationality, God

Almighty and His Messengersaw have repeatedly reminded man of his duties towards fellow

human beings. A Momin has even more rights over another Momin, therefore these must be

performed. In this context, the Promised Messiahas has drawn the attention of the participants


179

of Jalsa Salana towards the performance of duties and obligations towards fellow human beings

as part of the objectives of this auspicious occasion. He says that one should inculcate

tenderness and sympathy for others in one’s heart, and this should not be limited to Jalsa

Salana but should be carried forward into our daily lives.

Hudhuratba said that it has come into his observation that brothers stop talking to each other over

trivial matters, and sometimes, remain in this state for years, and these conflicts continue to

create fissures in other relationships as well, sometimes resulting in breaking up of family units

and ultimately leading to divorces. There was a time when we used to say that the family units

are experiencing unrest in the Western countries due to their liberal attitudes and the

percentage of divorces is very high in these countries. Husbands and wives do not look after the

sensitivities of emotions in their relationships and the small conflicts escalate to major

animosities, reason being that trust is lost slowly and steadily and the result is divorce.

Hudhuratba said that this is a moment of great reflection for Ahmadi households as well, as the

unrest within these households is on the rise, resulting in divorces. Hudhuratba said that he

receives the reports from different areas about divorces, and in some cases, the percentages of

divorce are very high. An Ahmadi must be in control of his or her emotions in every aspect of his

or her life. Thus, during this Jalsa, pay special attention to this issue; try to make amends, and

then stick to these amendments beyond the days of Jalsa.

We must remember that we have taken the baiat of obedience at the hands of the Promised

Messiahas and taken the oath of treading the path of Taqwa. If we forget, then we will neither be

loyal to our pledge of bai’at nor will we derive any benefit from the blessings of Jalsa. During

Jalsa, many chants and slogans are raised about the auspiciousness of this occasion, but the

blessings can only be reaped by gaining in Taqwa, by obeying the commandments of God and

His Messenger, by fulfilling the pledge of bai’at to the Promised Messiahas. Otherwise we will not

reap the benefits of this blessed occasion at all.

The Promised Messiahas says that this Jalsa is not a worldly fun fair; therefore we must try to

reap the actual benefits of this occasion. Hudhuratba shed light on the objectives of Jalsa Salana

as described in the writings of the Promised Messiahas. By following his instructions, every

Ahmadi can become a Godly person, and this is the objective of the advent of the Promised

Messiahas.

The Promised Messiah (as) says: You have taken the pledge of bai’at and affirmed your faith in

me as Hakam and Adal. After this affirmation, if you have any doubts in my actions, then you

must re-evaluate your faith in me. The faith that is full of doubts has no significance whatsoever.

But if you have declared your faith that this is indeed the Promised Reformer, and is Hakam and

Adal, then you must surrender your actions before him and esteem his decisions as final, so

that you are counted among those who hold in high regard the words of the Holy Prophet (saw).

The attestation of the Holy Prophetsaw, who is Hakam and Adal, will suffice in your favor.

We are indeed privileged to believe in this Reformer who has clearly explained everything that

the Holy Prophetsaw has instructed before us so that there is no excuse for anyone to say that he

did not understand a certain issue/instruction, etc. An Ahmadi, who performs bai’at, must

understand his responsibilities. Worldly desires and priorities distance him from his pledge and


180

his pledge becomes insignificant. During the days of Jalsa, every Ahmadi should evaluate his

condition in this context.

The Promised Messiahas has instructed the members of his Jamaat in the following words: God

Almighty has established this community, and has shown millions of signs to prove its

truthfulness. The true purpose is that this community is akin to that of the Companions of the

Holy Prophetsaw. Those who enter this community must remember that they are entering the

Community of the likes of the Companions of the Holy Prophetsaw; therefore I advise them to

shun their attire of worldly luster so that they can divert their complete attention towards God

Almighty.

Khilafat is another promise that has been given to this community; therefore, we should strive to

maintain the standards set forth by the Companions of the Holy Prophetsaw. One generation

should instill the desire of submitting one’s will to that of Allah in the next generation. If this does

not happen, then we will not be able to witness that community of righteous people as

mentioned by the Promised Messiahas. Nay, on the contrary, we shall spiral down the abyss of

darkness instead. Therefore, we must strive hard in this regard.

The Promised Messiahas further elucidates: Where there is a special demeanor during the

remembrance of Allah by my followers, there should be a special loving bond amongst

members well.

The Promised Messiahas has elaborated upon the fulfillment of our obligations towards our

fellow brethren. If we implement his instructions in our lives, then we can bring about a spiritual

revolution within a matter of a few years. He states that my belief is that sympathy towards

humanity is incomplete till one prays fervently for his enemy and vacates his heart of all rancour

towards him. Hudhuratba said that how many amongst us widen thus the circle of our

supplications. Jamaat can eradicate all issues if we implement in actuality this teaching. God

Almighty will also cast a glance of special Mercy when we begin to supplicate for all of humanity

with a big heart. This Divine glance will become a source of betterment for us in this world and

in the next.

The Promised Messiahas says that you are indeed fortunate that Allah Almighty gave you that

judgment to accept the Reformer of the age. If He did not bestow this special favor on you, then

just as others engage in foul abuse with their language, you would have been among them as

well. Do not think that we are Muslims. Islam is a blessing. Value it, and be grateful. Thus, being

a Muslim or Ahmadi just by name is of no value. How can we value this favor? Islam means that

one must obey the commandments of Allah Almighty in their entirety and the sum of all this is

the true and complete obedience of Allah Almighty. A Muslim is one who submits his entire

existence before God Almighty. God promises that whoever gives precedence to the

commandments of God above all else, then God removes his fears and anxieties. The

Promised Messiahas says that we must not become content that we have become Ahmadi, but

continue to strive and progress in our moral condition.

Hudhuratba read an extensive extract from the writings of the Promised Messiahas emphasizing

the importance of fulfilling the obligations towards Allah and towards His creation. We must

implement these practices in our lives. It is a favor bestowed on us by the Promised Messiahas


181

that he inaugurated this event of Jalsa, where we are exposed to a unique environment which is

conducive to our moral uplift and strengthening of faith.

Another important aspect to remember is that we must raise our standards of educating

ourselves and gaining knowledge. In the world today, the greater focus is on gaining worldly

education as opposed to religious knowledge. The Promised Messiahas states that in order to

bring about a true transformation and increase in your Taqwa and purity, one must increase in

religious knowledge and this knowledge can only be gained through the Promised Messiahas

who has left a treasure trove of gems for us to read. Most of the books have been translated

into English and therefore you should try to read those books or abstracts. Those who can read

Urdu should read the books in Urdu. Whatever the Promised Messiahas has written is in fact the

commentary of the Holy Quran. In this day and age, the greatest knowledge of the Holy Quran

was bestowed on the Promised Messiahas. The Promised Messiahas says that the Quran is a

living and lustrous book. I advise all those who are affiliated to me that without acting on the

commandments recorded in the Holy Quran, there is no spirituality in one’s life. I desire that

through practical demonstration, the distinction of Islam should be revealed to the world.

Therefore recite the Quran and try to understand the philosophies explained in it.

According to the statements of the Promised Messiahas, it is our duty to recite and understand

the beautiful teachings of the Quran and implement them in practice, and then convey them to

the world. At this time, the biggest tool available to us for Tabligh is the Holy Quran. Hudhuratba

emphasized that none amongst us should feel any kind of inferiority complex in using the Quran

as a tabligh tool in face of all the propaganda by the media. By studying this Divine Book, we

can answer the allegations of the critics, which is the responsibility of every Ahmadi, so that we

can convey the true message of Islam.

The Promised Messiahas says that pledge of bai’at should instill a new life in an individual such

that it transforms him/her completely. He should remain steadfast in face of any opposition. He

must not feel that trials are difficult, but in fact he should consider them an opportunity to gain

the pleasure of God.

Hudhuratba said that we must make every effort to practice these instructions so that we can

bring about a transformation within ourselves such that God is pleased with us. Therefore,

during the Jalsa days, we must derive maximum benefit, and assess our conditions in context of

what the Promised Messiahas wished to see us in. This is how we can gain the blessings of

Jalsa, otherwise, this will also become a worldly celebration for us.

Guide us in the right path — (1:6)


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QUARTER 7: WORKSHOPS/DISCUSSIONS October- November-December 2014

AS SABOOR – THE PATIENT, AL WADOOD – THE LOVING




1. The Promised Messiahas has said that the purpose of joining his movement is that

members should achieve a high degree of good conduct, good behavior and

righteousness. Discuss the guidance that he gives to attain this high degree and how

we can inculcate it into daily life.

2. In his book, Al Wassiyat – the Will, the Promised Messiahas says “the pain which pleases

God is better than the pleasure which makes Him angry. And the defeat which pleases

God is better than the victory which invites the wrath of Allah.”

Discuss what is meant by these statements. What role does the scheme of “Wassiyat” play in increasing taqwa?

3. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba says that ‘the Promised Messiahas further elucidates:

Where there is a special demeanor during the remembrance of Allah by my followers,

there should be a special loving bond amongst members well.’

What is meant by ‘special demeanor’ and how can Lajna members achieve a special loving bond amongst themselves?


Resolve to avoid any kind of falsehood, even as ‘white lies’ and in jest.

Perform an act of kindness every day: “walk upon the earth with good hearts, pure

tempers and pure thoughts”

Improve your offering of tahajjud prayers


The Will (Al Wassiyat) by Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas

The Essence of Islam, vol.2, (p.347-363) by Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas

Friday Sermon: Guide us in the right path

http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2011-06-17.html Friday Sermon: Allah is with those who are righteous and do good




Lajna Imaillah-USA 183 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2015 2013 – 2015 Quarter 8

QUARTER 8: JANUARY – FEBRUARY – MARCH 2015

AS SALAM – THE SOURCE OF PEACE, AL HAQ – THE TRUTHFUL

Tarbiyat Subject: Peace and salvation through the Holy Qur'an Goal: To increase in knowledge and understanding of the Holy Qur'an and apply its teachings in daily life. Extra Discussion Topic: Allah Ta'ala’s attributes of As Salam and Al Haq

THE PROMISED MESSIAHAS

Hundreds of thousands of the holy ones testify that by following the Holy Qur’an, Divine

blessings descend upon the heart and a wonderful relationship is established The Holy Qur’an

with the Divine. Divine lights and revelation descend upon the hearts, and insights and fine

points issue from mouths. They are bestowed a strong trust and a firm certainty and the

delicious love of God, which is nurtured by the delight of meeting, is generated in their hearts. If

their beings are ground down in the mortar of calamities and are squeezed in powerful presses,

their essence would be found only to be the love of God. The world is unaware of them and they

are far above and higher than the world. The treatment accorded to them by God is miraculous.

It has been disclosed to them that God does exist; and that He is one. When they pray to Him,

He hears them; and when they call on Him, He responds to them. When they seek refuge with

Him, He runs to them. He loves them more than a father. He rains down blessings on their

homes. They are recognized by His overt and covert and spiritual and material support. He

helps them in every field for they are His and He is theirs. These things are not without proof.

[Surmah Chashm Arya, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 2, pp. 72-79, footnote]

FRIDAY SERMON: HOLY QUR'AN, THE SOURCE OF GUIDANCE AND SALVATION

Summary of sermon delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba on December 16,

2011


Hudhuratba said mash’ Allah our children generally finish their first reading of the Holy Qur’an at a

very young age. Mothers who are more concerned for their children to finish their Qur’an early

work very hard at it. Here as well as in other countries during Hudhuratba’s trips children and

parents are most eager to have Ameen ceremony conducted in Hudhuratba’s presence.

However, it is noticed that not so much concern and effort is put in repeat and constant reading

of the Qur’an once its first reading is completed. When Hudhuratba asks about regular recitation

of the Qur’an, Hudhuratba usually gets the response that reading is not done on a regular basis.

Mothers and fathers should inculcate children to read the Qur’an regularly with due care and

supervision. The parents’ concerns should not be limited to finishing the first reading of the

Qur’an; rather children should be continually supervised to read it regularly. Certainly it is very

important to conclude the first reading of the Qur’an and some mothers achieve this with four or



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five year olds. No doubt, it is a very demanding task, but its continuous reading is even more

important.

Recently a lady wrote to Hudhuratba and mentioning Hudhuratba’s mother, she said that that one

thing she was most grateful to Hudhuratba’s mother was that once she took her child to

Hudhuratba’s mother and very proudly told her that she had managed to make the child finish the

first reading of the Qur’an at the age of six. Hudhuratba’s mother replied that finishing first reading

of the Qur’an at the age of six was not such an achievement and asked how much love of the

Qur’an had the mother inculcated in her child? Hudhuratba said fact is that it is very important to

instill love of the Qur’an in children’s hearts, especially in the times that we live in where there

are many other interests for children, like the television, internet and other books. Early morning

recitation of Qur’an would make children aware of its significance. The Promised Messiahas

had drawn our attention that in a world with diverse interests, where new sciences are

introduced, the significance of the Qur’an increases.

Hudhuratba said love of Qur’an will be instilled in the hearts of children when parents will

inculcate its recitation and pondering over its meanings in them, when the Qur’an will be recited

in the morning in every home. These days the time of [Fajr] Salat is late and those who go out to

work can recite the Qur’an before Salat. This will fill a home with blessings and will have a very

virtuous influence on children. Each one of us can observe that regular recitation of the Qur’an

while reflecting on it will generate love for the sake of God between husband and wife and this

in turn will make their children useful members of the Community. Hudhuratba said Ahmadis

should make their full efforts in this regard. The Promised Messiahas made great efforts to

promote this. It was indeed the purpose of his advent to give the Qur’an the highest status.

Honor of Qur’an should not be limited to, as it is by non-Ahmadis, being wrapped in beautiful

cloth, placed on a beautiful shelf or in a box. Real love of the Qur’an is to make one’s full effort

to obey its commandments, to avoid what the Qur’an forbids and to employ one’s full capacity

and capability to fulfill what it commands. Its recitation should be done with fear of God.

Hudhuratba said the Promised Messiahas has extensively written about the significance of the

Qur’an in his books, spoken about it in assemblies, and explained the expectations he had from

those who entered his Bai’at. Hudhuratba said we should try and read the Qur’an with translation.

Translation of the Qur’an should be mentioned to children and brief descriptions from it

explained to them to instill eagerness in them.

The Promised Messiahas said that it is important to read and understand the translation of the

Qur’an and Salat, however he said: ‘We certainly do not allow that only the translation of the

Qur’an is read. This negates the miracle of the Qur’an. One, who suggests this, wishes the

Qur’an not to remain in the world.’ Hudhuratba said it is indeed a great miracle of the Qur’an that

it’s text remains intact to this day as it is God’s promise: ‘Verily, We Ourself have sent down this

Exhortation, and most surely We will be its Guardian.’ (15:10).

Even the worst opponents of Islam agree that it is preserved in its original form. If reliance on

translations was started these are so diverse! When our translation is presented to the world

they remark that it is different from others who have not translated the Qur’an correctly. A priest

from USA who is a prominent detractor of Islam obtained various translations of the Qur’an as

well as the Arabic text, and raised objections about what the Qur’an states. When we sent him



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our Qur’anic commentary he did not respond and after much chasing said that the translations

he referred to were also done by Muslims. It is by virtue of the Promised Messiahas that we are

closer still to the Arabic text of the Qur’an in our translations.

Hudhuratba added incidentally that recently one of our detractors said that if the Promised

Messiahas was a Prophet why did he ask his Community to follow Imam Abu Hanifah. Hudhuratba

said the Promised Messiahas certainly did not say anywhere that Imam Hanifah should be

followed but with reference to the Holy Qur’an once it was mentioned in an assembly of the

Promised Messiahas that according to Hanafi creed only reading the translation of the Qur’an

was essential. The Promised Messiahas replied, ‘if this was the creed of the great Imam, it was

his mistake.’ Hudhuratba said God sent the Promised Messiahas as a source of real safeguard of

the Qur’an in this age and he advised his Community to understand the Qur’an and to love it in

numerous places. He said: ‘The Holy Qur’an is law of the heavens and is a source of salvation.’

Hudhuratba said we also observe in terms of worldly laws that unless they are enforced they are

of no use. Thus salvation cannot be attained merely by reading the Qur’an and not practicing it

and one cannot be the recipient of its blessing and grace. Therefore it is extremely important to

understand and practice the teachings of the Qur’an.

The Promised Messiahas wrote: ‘Remember the Holy Qur’an is a fountainhead of real blessings

and a source of salvation. Those who do not practice on the Qur’an, it is their own fault. One

group among those who do not practice upon it are those which does not have faith in it; they do

not consider it to be the Word of God. These people remain very remote. However, how

regrettable and astonishing it is if those who believe that it is the Word of God and is a healing

formula of salvation do not practice on it. Many among them have not even read it in their entire

lives. Thus, the example of people who are negligent and careless about the Word of God is like

a person who knows that such and such spring is extremely pure and sweet and fresh and its

water is an elixir and heals many ailments, he has certain knowledge of this yet, in spite of this

knowledge and in spite of being thirsty and embroiled in many ailments he does not go near it.

How unfortunate and ignorant of him. He should have drunk from this spring and having satiated

from its delicious and healing water cherished it. Yet, in spite of being aware of this he is as

distant from it as an unaware person.’

Hudhuratba said may God through these moving words of the Promised Messiahas enable us to

practice the teachings of the Qur’an and to understand it. Then alone would we be fulfilling the

dues of our Bai’at. The teaching of course is to avoid every vice that the Qur’an mentions and

make a complete effort to adopt every virtue that it cites.

The Promised Messiahas also said: ‘The Holy Qur’an does not simply require that having given

up evil, man should assume he has attained excellence. Rather, it wants to define man with

supreme excellences and high morals and that his actions and deeds involve sympathy and

welfare of mankind. The consequence of which should be that Allah the Exalted is pleased with

him.’

Hudhuratba said if a believer truly loves the Qur’an, he tries to attain such a standard himself and

would also try and take his children to it. There is no distinction in avoiding evil and such should

not be our aim. We should keep our targets high. The effort to adopt every virtue mentioned in

the Qur’an would create a pure society, which Islam wants to establish and would also silence


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those who raise objections at Islam day in and day out. Here, two women are renowned to raise

excessive objections against Islamic laws in their lectures. Through the efforts of Khuddamul

Ahmadiyya UK a debate was held with them at UCL (University College London). The debate

was organized by the university. The two ladies, as is their way, presented excessive objections

against Islam at the debate. Two of our Khuddam, a student of Jamia who is of Pakistani origin

and the other a new convert of English origin responded to them in a positive and reasoned way

in the light of the teachings of the Holy Qur’an, which is the true teaching of Islam. It is

understood that this left them indignant and even their supporters expressed regret at their

excessive objections. Thus the teachings of Islam were triumphant through young Ahmadi men.

We should try and understand the teachings of the Qur’an and Islam. This would make our

homes paradisiacal and will enable us to fulfill our dues of Tabligh in society.

The Promised Messiahas said: ‘Holy Qur’an should be read with care, concentration and interest.

Hadith relates that there are many reciters of the Holy Qur’an who are cursed by the Qur’an.

The Holy Qur’an curses the person who reads the Qur’an but does not practice on it. When one

comes across a verse denoting blessing while reciting the Qur’an, blessing should be sought

from Allah the Exalted at that juncture. Where torment on people is mentioned, entreaty should

be made to God for His refuge from His torment and it should be read with care and

concentration and it should be acted on.’

Hudhuratba also read out an extract of the Promised Messiahas’s writing mentioning those who

say that the Holy Qur’an is difficult to understand. The Promised Messiahas explained that the

manner in which the Qur’an has elucidated matters of faith is matchless in its eloquence and its

reasoning influences hearts. So powerful is its eloquence that it was understood by the nomads

of Arabia who were completely illiterate. How could people of the current age then not

understand it? Hudhuratba said it is a favor of God on us to send the Promised Messiahas who not

only explained the apparent commandments to us but also unraveled the deeper truths and

insights of the Qur’an for us and thus gave us the beneficence of: ‘And among others from

among them who have not yet joined them…’ (62:4). We should try and accumulate the

treasures that the Promised Messiahas gave us.

Hudhuratba said there are many very good reciters of the Holy Qur’an outside our Community

who are renowned, but there are also those among them who do not even know the meanings

of the Qur’an as is the case with some of the religious leaders. This is the reason why the

abrogation theory has existed among them for so long. Even now they do not understand

certain verses, including those about death of Jesusas. A Hadith relates that the Holy Prophetsaw

said that a time will come when there will be reciters of the Qur’an who will boast that there is no

bigger reciter than them and there is no bigger scholar than them. He asked his Companions if

they found anything good in this. They replied that they did not. The Prophetsaw said: ‘These

people will be from you and from this Ummah, but they will be the fuel of the fire of Hell.’

Hudhuratba said attaining God’s nearness and avoiding His wrath as the cautionary Hadith

depicts, is in understanding the teaching of the Qur’an with humility and to love it rather than

make a profession out of it.

The Promised Messiahas wrote in his book Kashti Nuh: ‘Be alert all the time and do not take a

single step contrary to Divine teaching and the guidance of the Qur’an. I tell you truly that



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anyone who evades the least one of the 700 commandments of the Qur’an shuts upon himself

the door of salvation. The ways of true and perfect salvation have been opened by the Qur’an

and all the rest is its reflection. Therefore, study the Qur’an with care and hold it very dear with a

love that you have not for anything else. As God has said to me, ‘All good is contained in the

Qur’an.’ This is wholly true. Those people are to be pitied who prefer anything else to it. The

fountainhead of all your prosperity and salvation is the Holy Qur’an. There is no religious need

of yours which is not filled by the Qur’an. On the Day of Judgment, the Qur’an will confirm or

deny your faith. There is no other book under heaven beside the Qur’an which can furnish you

with salvation. God has been very Beneficent towards you that He has bestowed a Book like the

Qur’an upon you. I tell you truly that if the Book that is recited to you had been recited to the

Christians, they would not have perished. If this bounty of guidance which has been bestowed

upon you had been bestowed upon the Jews in place of the Torah, some of their sects would

not have denied the Day of Judgment. Then value this favor that has been bestowed upon you.

It is a very dear favor; it is great wealth. If the Qur’an had not been revealed the whole world

would have been left like a dirty lump of flesh. The Qur’an is the Book in contrast with which all

other guidance amounts to nothing.’ [Essence of Islam, Vol. I, pp. 400 – 401 Kashti Nuh, Ruhani

Khaza’in, Vol. 19, pp. 26-27]

The Promised Messiahas wrote that it was important not to disregard the Holy Qur’an and to

uphold its distinction over Ahadith and other works. He said now there was no other Prophet or

intercessor on the earth save the Holy Prophetsaw and no Book save the Holy Qur’an. Thus, he

enjoined to love the Holy Prophetsaw so that salvation is attained. He also said that it should be

remembered that salvation is not something, which will manifest after death; rather, true

salvation is that which shows its light in this very life. Salvation is given to one who believes that

God is Truth and the Holy Prophetsaw is an intercessor between God and the rest of the creation.

God willed for this esteemed Prophetsaw to have eternal life and in order to facilitate this God

made his beneficence continue till the Day of Judgment and ultimately through his spiritual

beneficence the Promised Messiahas was sent to this world. His coming was essential for the

completion of the structure of Islam. It was certain for the Muhammadan Dispensation to have a

Messiahas in the spiritual style of the Mosaic Dispensation and the verses ‘Guide us in the right

path– the path of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy blessings…’(1:6,7) indicate towards

this.

Hudhuratba prayed that may we, our offspring and our future generations till the Day of

Judgment, who will accept the Muhammadan Messiahas have true love for the Holy Qur’an and

practice its teachings and each moment attain the blessings of its beneficence.

FRIDAY SERMON: PRACTICE TRUTH IN ALL ASPECTS OF YOUR LIFE

Excerpt from summary of sermon delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba on

September 9, 2011 [http://www.alislam.org/friday-sermon/2011-09-09.html]

The Holy Prophetsaw was known as al Sadiq (the truthful) and al Amin (the trustworthy). Once,

the Prophetsaw gathered his clan at the foot of a mount and said, ‘If I tell you that a big army is in

wait for you behind this hill, would you believe me?’ They all said, ‘Yes, because you have


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always spoken the truth.’ The Prophetsaw went on to do Tabligh to those assembled. These were

worldly people. His words had no impact on the hard-hearted among them and their ending was

terrible. Others accepted Islam after a while. Thus, Prophetsaw’s of God convince people of their

message through their truthfulness. The Holy Qur’an states: ‘…I have indeed lived among you

a whole lifetime before this. Will you not then understand?’(10:17) and thus was the response of

the Holy Prophetsaw. Truthfulness is indeed a great weapon of Prophetsaw’s of God, all aspects of

their life has luminosity of truth. The Promised Messiahas received a revelation from God: ‘I have

lived a whole life among you before this, then do you not understand? [Tadhkirah, p. 303] He

later wrote that God informed him through this revelation that no opponent will ever be able to

lay any blame on his life-history. He said he had almost reached the age of 65 at the time and

outsiders had only ever verified the purity of his life and his truthfulness. Hudhuratba explained

that even his opponents could not lay a finger on his character. Honesty is the highest quality of

character and since they could not and did not lay a finger on his character in general, how

could they say he did not speak the truth. The mullah today does utter nonsense but cannot

prove anything.

Hudhuratba said recently he gave a discourse on incidents relating to new converts where the

truthfulness of the Promised Messiahas was verified by people who sincerely and earnestly

prayed to God for guidance. Prophets of God bring truth with them and it is truth that we have to

make evident to the world. It is the task of followers of Prophets of God to inform the world

about this and bring it to the path of guidance. Islam is the only religion, which today presents its

original teaching in the form of the Holy Qur’an, which is the fountainhead of truth and guidance.

Other revealed books have been interpolated. However, the majority of Muslims are themselves

embroiled in wrongdoing, what way could they show to others?

Hudhuratba recounted a gathering where the message of the Promised Messiahas was being

discussed in that it was for the entire world, for Muslims and Christians etc. when a Christian

remarked, ‘you should reform the Muslims first and reform us later’. Hudhuratba said he

responded to him accordingly at the time; however, it is a fact that Muslims require reformation

and the advent of the Promised Messiahas took place for the purpose of their reformation as well

and that is why the Holy Prophetsaw instructed to greet the Messiahas even if one had to cross

over glaciers to reach him.

Hudhuratba said we Ahmadis claim to be in the Community of the true and ardent devotee of the

Prophetsaw and we have to take the message of truth to the world. How can we go about it? First

of all, we have to prove ourselves to be truthful as the Prophets of God proved their truthfulness.

We too have to demonstrate our truthfulness as it is the task of the followers of Prophets of God

to do so. We are commanded to practice the blessed model of the Holy Prophetsaw and we try

to do this. For this we have to adopt the quality of truthfulness, and then alone will we be able to

fulfill the mission of the Promised Messiahas and successfully take the message of the Holy

Prophetsaw to the world.

Our efforts, our words will only be blessed on each and every level when we will adopt truth in

every aspect of life and every moment of life. From our family life to our social circle, our

truthfulness should be exemplary, then alone will our efforts be blessed and will impress others

and bring them closer to Ahmadiyyat and Islam. We have to endeavor for this. If we use

falsehood for trivial financial gains, our words will be ineffectual. As Hudhuratba has mentioned



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many a time before, if we give misinformation to receive benefits from the council or do not pay

our rightful tax defrauding the government, when caught we disgrace the Community. How can

we then prove it to the world that the Community we belong to is law-abiding and is different

from the rest of the Muslims because we have taken the Bai’at of one who came for the

guidance of people? We need to correct our practices otherwise, how can we prove that we are

those who practice the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah? There is a great need for personal

reformation. When falsehood is caught, not only does it put one in personal difficulty it also

brings Islam into disrepute. Other immoral activities, youngsters keeping bad company, marital

discord where police is involved, all this leaves a very bad impression. Conversely, if one lies

habitually, it is also used in Jama’at matters and thus the lack of blessing spirals. It has a very

detrimental effect on children. Some children write to Hudhuratba that their father is apparently a

very honest person who also serves the Jama’at but commits wrong practices within family life

and is far-removed from truth. When the matter is probed, further falsehood is used. Such

people can have no effect in their Tabligh efforts. When they give such wrong impression to

their own children, how can they reform the outside world?

There is a great need for each Ahmadi to think about this. We raise the slogans that Ahmadiyyat

is true Islam as well as ‘love for all hatred for none’. But the first port of call for our love is our

family, we have to promote truthfulness and inculcate it in our dealings with the Jama’at, then

alone will it widen in scope. Otherwise our slogans will be hollow. If our family life is fraught with

anxiety but we invite others to come and find the truth and rid of their disquiet. We talk of love to

others but ourselves do not have good relations with our neighbors, about whom the Qur’an

strongly commands goodwill. The Promised Messiahas said: ‘your co-religionist brother is your

neighbor.’ Thus, if we are truthful, our mutual connections should be strong, otherwise our

Tabligh will be without blessing. The Qur’an states: ‘O ye who believe! Why do you say what

you do not do?’ (61:3) Hudhuratba said this leads to lack of blessing, he said faith should not be

discredited with disparity between word and deed. We have connected ourselves to the

Promised Messiahas but our connection will only be genuine when no one can point a finger of

falsehood at us. Otherwise we will also be putting the truthfulness of one whom we are

declaring to be truthful in doubt.

There is no doubt that the Qur’an is the truth, the teaching of Islam is truth and this teaching will

last till the end and the Holy Prophetsaw was the last law-bearing Prophet in whom all

excellences of Prophet-hood were fulfilled. The claim of his true and ardent devotee is also

truthful and now the progress of Islam is associated with him. However, this places a great

responsibility on Ahmadis for which they have to make their practices honest. If we wish to be

part of the triumph of Islam which was promised to the Promised Messiahas then we need to

self-reflect and self-analyze by the minute and see how truthful we are in our family life and in

our business dealings. If pondering over this makes us anxious then we need to be concerned.

Triumph is in the destiny of Islam but those who do not abide by truth will not be part of this

triumph. This should give us cause for concern. We should rid our practices of falsehood,

because falsehood is tantamount to shirk. Ahmadis who are making sacrifices for the truth are

in fact making sacrifices against shirk. In light of these sacrifices, it is the responsibility of those

of us living in the West to raise the standard of our truth to such an extent that falsehood

becomes extinct.



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At the time of victory of Makkah, Abu Sufyan had said that had he and others been truthful, they

would have been in place of the Prophetsaw and his Companions, whom they had forced to

leave Makkah in addition to all the efforts they had made to diminish them. He said just as the

Prophetsaw had always spoken the truth, his declaration that there is only One God was also the

truth and remained the truth and thus Abu Sufyan accepted Islam. Such were the models of

truthfulness that the world witnessed when the most hardened enemies admitted the

truthfulness of the Prophetsaw. Just as the Holy Prophetsaw made a world, which was in disorder

a Godly place and his truth crushed the arrogance and falsehood of the pagans of Makkah,

there are similar promises associated with the Promised Messiahas. He has been promised

triumph of Islam but for this we are required to become Godly and truthful people. We have

taken the pledge of Bai’at that we will establish truth and will eradicate falsehood and shirk.

Today, it is our task to put this in practice. If we do not present a model of truthfulness, we will

not be able to establish Unity/Oneness of God.

It is an immense favor of God that the Promised Messiahas formed a Jama’at to facilitate

removal of corruption from ‘land and sea’. God has given us hope to establish truth by

establishing Khilafat on the precepts of Prophet-hood. It is now the task of each Ahmadi who

considers him or herself associated/connected to the Jama’at to eradicate disorder and

falsehood from families, from neighborhoods, from cities and from the world. With the grace of

God, we are the followers of that Prophetsaw who came to remove all disorder and evil from the

world and who was declared ‘mercy for all mankind’ by God. We should abide by his Sunnah

and influence each other and vanquish the outsiders with the weapon of truth. Traditional

weaponry eliminates life whereas the weapon of truth, which we need to operate with our

practices infuses life. Today each Ahmadi should use this weapon. May we be able to use this

spiritual means to gather the pious-natured in the world who are seekers of the truth and raise

high walls of truth which no satanic force can bring down. May the light of the truth of the Holy

Prophetsaw which is a reflection of the light of God continue to spread in the world and may the

world gather under the banner of the Holy Prophetsaw.

All praise belongs to Allah, and peace be upon those servants of His whom He has chosen. (Holy Qur'an 27:60)


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QUARTER 8: WORKSHOPS/DISCUSSIONS January-February-March 2015

AS SALAM – THE SOURCE OF PEACE, AL HAQ – THE TRUTHFUL

All majalis should answer Question 1 and attempt at least one other question each quarter. The personal tarbiyat exercises are provided for Lajna members to practice at home during the quarter.

1. The Promised Messiahas said, ‘The Holy Qur’an is the law of the heavens and is a

source of salvation.’

Explain this statement and discuss the actions we have to take to attain salvation through it. What are the outcomes of not taking these actions?

2. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba tells us that ‘we too have to demonstrate our truthfulness

as it is the task of the followers of prophets of God to do so.’

Discuss all the ways in which we can demonstrate truthfulness and follow the example of the Holy Prophetsaw and the Promised Messiahas.

3. The Promised Messiahas has said: …..”study the Qur’an with care and hold it very dear

with a love that you have not for anything else”

How can love for the Holy Qur'an be fostered in our children? Personal Tarbiyat Exercises:

Encourage the habit in yourself and in your children of saying ‘As-Salamu ‘Alaikum’. Say

‘salam’ each time you enter a room where your family members are; teach children the

correct response: ‘Wa’Alaikum As-Salam’

Hold Darsul Qur'an sessions with your children regularly and / or encourage

memorization of as much of the Holy Qur’an as possible

Make recitation of the Holy Qur'an with translation a priority in your day.


Introduction to the study of the Holy Qur'an by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IIra

The Words of Wisdom and Purification by Rashid Ahmad Chaudhry

The Belief and the Life in the Holy Qur'an by Abdur Rahman Puthiyavalapp

Divine attribute of As Salam (The Source of Peace)

http://www.alislam.org/archives/2007/summary/FSS20070511-EN.html

http://www.alislam.org/archives/2007/summary/FSS20070511-EN.html

Lajna Imaillah-USA 192 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2013 – 2015

ETIQUETTES AND GUIDELINES

ETIQUETTES OF SALAT Before Salat:

Perform wudhu (ablution) carefully in accordance with the instructions of the Holy Qur'an

(5:7) and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophetsaw. It is important not only for cleanliness, but

also helps to make us more aware that we are about to present ourselves to Allah.

As soon as you hear the azan, stop what you are doing and go into the prayer area and

form lines for Salat.

Do not wait until iqamat is said to join in the prayer.

In the time between azan and iqamat, sisters should be occupied in Zikre-Illahi and

istighfar. The Holy Prophetsaw said that a supplication made between azan and iqamat is

not rejected.

Proper Attire for Salat: Make sure that you are dressed properly for Salat.

Head and hair must be fully covered with a scarf or dupatta which should not be see-

through.

Arms must be covered to the elbow; if you are wearing short sleeves then keep your

coat on during Salat.

Shirts worn over pants must be long enough so that when you perform sajdah, the back

of the shirt comes down far enough to cover your whole posterior. T-shirts or hip-length

shirts are not long enough and should not be worn.

Salat Rows: Rows for Salat should be started from the middle, and a new row should not be started

until the previous row is filled.

Stand close together so that you are “shoulder to shoulder”. Purses and bags should not

be placed in- between sisters, as that creates gaps.

Rows should be kept straight. Many prayer halls have carpeting with marked Salat lines

and in order to keep “shoulder to shoulder”, stand with your heels on the line.

Chair Etiquettes: Sisters on chairs must remain seated during the entire Fardh Salat to maintain the

integrity of the row. You may stand for qiyam in sunnah or nawafil, if you wish.

Chairs should be placed in rows in a separate section from the worshippers on the floor,

either at the side or in the back. Single chairs should not be placed among worshippers

on the floor as this disrupts the unity of the row.

There should be no gaps on the chairs; sisters should sit “shoulder to shoulder” on the

chairs.

If you wish to sit on a chair during the sermon, but pray on the floor, sit at the end so a

gap is not left when you get up.


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Mothers with Small Children: If you have small children, please stand in the last rows and make sure your children are

with you throughout the Salat.

Children must not be allowed to run in the rows, or in any part of the prayer area.

If your child is noisy during Salat, whether he/she is laughing or crying, please take your

child out of the prayer area immediately. You may complete your prayer later but you

should not allow the prayers of others to be disturbed

After Salat: When you have completed your Salat, please remain occupied in Zikre-Illahi until

everyone has finished.

If you must talk to someone, leave the prayer area so not to disturb those who are still

praying.

GUIDELINES FOR TRAINING TODDLERS TO SIT QUIETLY AND BEHAVE IN A MOSQUE

Training a toddler to sit still and behave in public begins at home.

Remember that you are in charge of your child, you make the rules; not the other way

round!

Practice the following at home when your child is a year old:

Sit with your child in your lap. When he starts to wiggle and wants to get down, restrain him gently and keep holding him while talking to him gently. After a few minutes, allow him to get down. Do this regularly, increasing the time before you allow him to get down. Praise him for listening to you and baby will soon understand the concept that he can get down only when you want, not when he wants.

It is harder to control children when other children are not behaving, but do not give up.

Advise other mothers to join you in efforts to maintain discipline.

If your child begins to scream or cry, take him outside. Calm him down and return to the

meeting. If you allow him to remain outside and play, he will repeat the behavior again.

Hold infants and toddlers in your arms during Salat. If necessary, leave the prayer area

with the child and offer your Salat afterwards.

When child is two to three years old, teach them what a mosque is and why quiet

behavior is important. Make sure you are setting a good example yourself.

Keep your children next to you at all times. It is your duty to watch them.

When on the way to the mosque or meeting, remind your child of how you expect him to

behave and what the consequences for good or bad behavior will be. Follow through

and always reward good behavior when you get home from a meeting.

A ‘quiet’ bag can be helpful. Have a bag with coloring book, crayons or small books to

keep a preschooler busy, but no musical or noisy toys.

Pray for your child and for all the children of the Jama'at.


194

GUIDELINES FOR MODESTY

Guidelines from Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Vatba:

The women who are office bearers must observe purdah in line with the teachings of the

Holy Qur'an. The office bearer‘s forehead and hair from the back should be completely

covered as is the commandment of the Holy Qur'an. Her body should not be on display.

If the office bearer is acting on this then fine; if not, then no matter how efficient she is, if

her purdah is not up to standard, she cannot be appointed an office bearer.

Right from birth, Islam has given tarbiyat guidance. From the age of 3 to 4 years,

children should be dressed so that the whole body is covered. This is the duty of the

mothers.

Girls who are attending universities should take care that they do not sit with boys and

socialize; in this way friendships and meetings begin. However, in the classroom,

conversation with boys is permitted to seek educational help.

Guidelines for Minimum Purdah and Modesty:

Outer garment must be worn - loose coat which should be knee-length or longer. Any

side slits should not be higher than knee height.

Head covering must be worn – it should cover forehead, chin and hair, front and back.

If make-up is worn, then face must be covered also.

Avoid coats and head coverings that are decorative or transparent.

Avoid tight or form fitting clothes.

Avoid following immodest fashions, e.g. tight pants or leggings worn under dresses with

high side slits; dresses with see-through sleeves or deep necklines.

T-shirts, blouses or short tops with pants should not be worn even in the home.

.

Lajna Imaillah-USA Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2013 – 2015

195

References & Sources to Complete Workbook: THE HOLY QUR’AN (Arabic Text with English Translation & Short Commentary) edited by Malik Ghulam Farid, published under the auspices of Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad (RA), Islamabad, Surrey, UK, 2002.

The Holy Qur’an with English Translation (Five-Volume Commentary), Published under the auspices of Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad (RA), Islamabad, Surrey, UK, 1988. QA’EDAH YASSARNAL QUR’AN, Published by Islam International Publications Ltd., Islamabad, Surrey, UK, 1991. Ta’limul Qur’an, A Self-Study Book for Learning the Correct Recitation and Translation of the Holy Qur’an, by Dr. Karimullah Zirvi, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA, June 2007. Basics of Religious Education, Third Edition (Revised), Compiled by Sheikh Abdul Hadi, Published by Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, Canada, Islam International Publications Ltd., Islamabad, Surrey, UK, 1997. Meanings of the Difficult Words of The Holy Quran (Urdu & English), Compiled by Bashir Ahmad Qamar, English Translation: Tahir Mahmood Ahmad, Islam International Publications Ltd. Bath Press, UK, 2006. www.alislam.org

Urdu Class Mayn Tadrees-e-Namaz - A compilation of Urdu classes in which Hadhrat Khaliaftul Masih IVrh taught young children about Salat. Published by Majlis Khuddam Ul Ahmadiyya Qadian - online: http://www.alislam.org/salaat/tadrees-e-namaz.pdf.

Zauq-e-Ibadat Aur Adaab-e-Du'a - A collection of sermons delivered by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh on the topic of etiquettes of Worship and Salat - online: http://www.alislam.org/salaat/tadrees-e-namaz.pdf.

Treasure House of Prayers, First Edition, Compiled by Hafiz Muzaffer Ahmad, Translated by Bushra Ishrat Sheikh, Published by Zafar & Sons, Qadian, Printwell, Amritsar, India, 2006.

http://www.alislam.org/salaat/tadrees-e-namaz.pdf

http://www.alislam.org/salaat/tadrees-e-namaz.pdf

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