L-OMM – International Women’s Day

Posted on March 8, 2011 by
L-Orizzont: It-Tlieta 8 ta’ Marzu 2011:
LAIQ AHMED ATIF President Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta

Kull sena fit-8 ta’ Marzu niċċelebraw “Jum Internazzjonali tan-nisa” u f’Mejju niċċelebraw “Jum l-omm”. Dawn ijiem huma importanti ħafna għax jfakkruna dwar l-importanza u d-dinjità tal-mara fis-soċjetà.

Nemmen li n-nisa jistħoqilhom rispett kbir, għax il-mara hija l-omm, il-mara hija l-bint, il-mara hija l-oħt kif ukoll mart ir-raġel. Kull relazzjoni hija tant sabiħa u ta’ rispett kbir. Illum irrid nikteb xi ħaġa dwar mara bħala l-omm.

L-omm hija l-iktar persuna importanti fil-familja. L-omm hija barka kbira minn Alla, li jista’ kollox. L-omm hija bniedma tajba, sabiħa, sinċiera u l-aħjar fost in-nisa. Meta ngħinu lil ommijietna nistgħu nġibu l-imħabba ta’ Alla tagħna. Kulħadd jista’ jikseb il-ferħ ta’ Alla u l-Ġenna Tiegħu billi jirrispetta lil ommu.

Meta nħarsu dwar ir-reliġjonijiet u s-soċjetajiet ċivili, nindunaw li kull wieħed minnhom ta importanza kbira għar-rispett lejn l-omm. Alla jgħid fil-Koran Imqaddes:

“L-amar tagħna lill-bniedem huwa li juri tjubija mal-ġenituri tiegħu, ommu ġarritu bi tbatija, u wellditu bi tbatija; jinġarr (fi ħdan ommu) u jinfatam fi żmien tletin xahar.” (46:16)

Il-Bibbja Mqaddsa tgħallem: “Weġġaħ ‘il missierek u ‘l ommok, bħalma l-Mulej, Alla tiegħek, ordnalek; sabiex tgħix ħajja twila, u jkollok ir-riżq fl-art li l-Mulej, Alla tiegħek, se jagħtik.” (Id-Dewteronomju: 5:16)

“Weġġaħ ‘il missierek u ‘l ommok, u ħobb lil għajrek bħalek innifsek.” (San Mattew: 19:19)

Wara dan it-tagħlim ċar tar-reliġjonijiet hija importanti li nuru rispett kbir lill-ommijietna. Darba waħda f’kull sena jiġi jum l-omm biex ifakkarna li dan hu d-dmir tagħna li nħobbu u nuru unur kbir lejn ommijietna.

Darba waħda qrajt l-istorja ta’ xi ħadd li kien raġel tajjeb, famuż u ta’ għerf kbir, taż-żmien tiegħu. L-istorja tiegħu kienet impressjonabbli ħafna. Kien dejjem iħobb u jgħin ħafna lil ommu, li kienet xiħa.

Lejla waħda ommu qaltlu għal ftit ilma. Meta ra li ma sabx ilma fid-dar, lanqas ftit, ħa l-bomblu u mar barra biex ifittex l-ilma. Wara nofs siegħa, meta wasal lura d-dar bl-ilma sab li ommu kienet rieqda. Qal bejnu u bejn ruħu, “X’nagħmel issa? Jekk norqod u ommi titlobni l-ilma u jien nibqa’ rieqed u ma nqumx biex nagħtiha l-ilma, dak ma jkunx tajjeb għax għandha ħafna għatx”. Ħaseb u ddeċieda li ma jorqodx u joqgħod bil-wieqfa ħdejn is-sodda tagħha. Hekk għamel u qagħad wieqaf tul il-lejl kollu bl-ilma ħdejha.

Meta sebaħ u qamet qaltlu: “Għaliex inti bil-wieqfa ħdejn is-sodda tiegħi?”

Hu qal l-istorja kollha lil ommu li meta riedet l-ilma ma sabx fid-dar. Qalilha: “Għalhekk mort barra biex inġiblek l-ilma u meta wasalt lura d-dar sibtek rieqda. Imlejt tazza bl-ilma u qgħadt nistenniek tqum biex nagħtik x’tixrob. U għalhekk bqajt bil-wieqfa l-lejl kollu.” Meta semgħet l-istorja kollha kienet ferħana ħafna bl-għemil tiegħi u bdiet titlob lil Alla, għall-barka Tiegħu, fuqi.

Dan hu eżempju tajjeb u impressjonabbli għalina. U jekk aħna rridu li l-ommijiet tagħna jkunu ferħanin magħna, kif ukoll Alla tagħna, li jista’ kollox, allura huwa importanti li nħobbu, ngħinu u nirrispettaw ommijietna mill-qalb tul il-ħajja tagħna. Nitlob lil Alla għall-barka Tiegħu fuq l-ommijiet kollha tagħna. Ja Alla berkilna ommijietna. Amen

Omm!… xi ħlewwa, xi tjieba ta’ isem!
Omm, il-kelma tal-faraġ fil-hemm,
Omm, il-kelma tal-ħniena fil-ħtija,
Omm, il-kelma li trażżan id-demm.  (Minn “Waħdi” ta’ Dun Karm Psaila)
http://www.l-orizzont.com/ It-Tlieta 8 ta’ Marzu 2011
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Ahmadiyya Serving Elderly at St. Vincent De Paul

Posted on May 12, 2012 by

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Il-Kunċett veru tal-Ġiħad Iżlamiku

Posted on May 12, 2012 by

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Ahmadiyya Malta Organised Peace Symposium 2012

Posted on May 12, 2012 by

For more info log on, page 2: http://issuu.com/malta.now/docs/malta-now-issue-009?mode=window&backgroundColor=%23222222

Malta Now Page 2:    In-Nazzjon: (Page 4):  Jesuits in Malta:  MaltaRightNow:  Alfazl Rabwah

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Letter to President of the United States of America

Posted on May 8, 2012 by

President Barack Obama
President of the United States of America
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington D.C.

8 March 2012

Dear Mr President,

In light of the perturbing state of affairs developing in the world, I felt that it was necessary for me to write to you, as you are the President of the United States of America, a country which is a world superpower, and thus you hold the authority to make decisions which will affect the future of your nation and the world at large.

There is currently great agitation and restlessness in the world. Small-scale wars have broken out in certain areas. Unfortunately, the superpowers have not been as successful as was anticipated in their efforts to establish peace in these conflict-hit regions. Globally, we find that almost every country is engaged in activities to either support, or oppose other countries; however, the requirements of justice are not being fulfilled.  It is with regret that if we now observe the current circumstances of the world, we find that the foundation for another world war has already been laid. As so many countries, both large and small, have nuclear weapons, grudges and hostilities are increasing between nations. In such a predicament, the Third World War looms almost certainly before us. Such a war would surely involve atomic warfare; and therefore, we are witnessing the world head towards a terrifying destruction. If a path of equity and justice had been followed after the Second World War, we would not be witnessing the current state of the world today whereby it has become engulfed in the flames of war once again.

As we are all aware, the main causes that led to the Second World War were the failure of League of Nations and the economic crisis, which began in 1932. Today, leading economists state that there are numerous parallels between the current economic crisis and that of 1932. We observe that political and economic problems have once again led to wars between smaller nations, and to internal discord and discontentment becoming rife within these countries. This will ultimately result in certain powers emerging to the helm of government, who will lead us to a world war. If in the smaller countries conflicts cannot be resolved through politics or diplomacy, it will lead to new blocs and groupings to form in the world. This will be the precursor for the outbreak of a Third World War. Hence, I believe that now, rather than focusing on the progress of the world, it is more important and indeed essential, that we urgently increase our efforts to save the world from this destruction. There is an urgent need for mankind to recognise its One God, Who is our Creator, as this is the only guarantor for the survival of humanity; otherwise, the world will continue to rapidly head towards self-destruction.

My request to you, and indeed to all world leaders, is that instead of using force to suppress other nations, use diplomacy, dialogue and wisdom. The major powers of the world, such as the United States, should play their role towards establishing peace. They should not use the acts of smaller countries as a pretext to disturb world harmony. Currently, nuclear arms are not only possessed by the United States and other major powers; rather, even relatively smaller countries now possess such weapons of mass destruction, where those who are in power are often trigger-happy leaders who act without thought or consideration. Thus, it is my humble request to you to strive to your utmost to prevent the major and minor powers from erupting into a Third World War. There should be no doubt in our minds that if we fail in this task then the effects and aftermath of such a war will not be limited to only the poor countries of Asia, Europe and the Americas; rather, our future generations will have to bear the horrific consequences of our actions and children everywhere in the world will be born disabled or deformed. They will never forgive their elders who led the world to a global catastrophe. Instead of being concerned for only our vested interests, we should consider our coming generations and strive to create a brighter future for them. May God the Exalted enable you, and all world leaders, to comprehend this message.

Yours Sincerely,

MIRZA MASROOR AHMAD
Khalifatul Masih V
Head of the Worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community

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Letter to President of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Posted on May 8, 2012 by

His Excellency
President of the Islamic Republic of Iran
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
Tehran

7 March 2012

Dear Mr President,

Assalamo Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahe Wa Barakatohu,

In light of the perilous state of affairs emerging in the world, I felt that it was essential for me to write to you, as you are the President of Iran, and thus you hold the authority to make decisions which will affect the future of your nation and the world at large. There is currently great agitation and restlessness in the world. In some areas small-scale wars have broken out, while in other places the superpowers act on the pretext of trying to bring about peace. Each country is engaged in activities to either help or oppose other countries, but the requirements of justice are not being fulfilled.  It is with regret that if we now observe the current circumstances of the world, we find that the foundation for another world war has already been laid. As so many countries, both large and small, have nuclear weapons, grudges and hostilities are increasing. In such a predicament, the Third World War looms almost certainly before us. As you are aware, the availability of nuclear weapons will mean that a Third World War will be an atomic war. Its ultimate result will be catastrophic, and the long term effects of such warfare could lead to future generations being born disabled or deformed.

It is my belief that as followers of the Holy Prophet Muhammad(pbuh), who was sent to establish peace in the world, and who was the Rahmatullil  Aalameen – the Mercy to all of Mankind –we do not and cannot desire for the world to suffer such a fate. This is why my request to you is that as Iran is also a significant power in the world, it should play its role to prevent a Third World War. It is undeniably true that the major powers act with double standards. Their injustices have caused restlessness and disorder to spread all across the world. However, we cannot ignore the fact that some Muslim groups act inappropriately, and contrary to the teachings of Islam. Major world powers have used this as a pretext to fulfil their vested interests by taking advantage of the poor Muslim countries. Thus, I request you once again, that you should focus all of your efforts and energies towards saving the world from a Third World War. The Holy Qur’an teaches Muslims that enmity against any nation should not hinder them from acting in a just manner. In Surah Al Mai’dah, Allah the Exalted instructs us:

“And let not the enmity of a people, that they hindered you from the Sacred Mosque, incite you to transgress. And help one another in righteousness and piety; but help not one another in sin and transgression. And fear Allah; surely, Allah is severe in punishment.” (Ch.5:V.3)

Similarly, in the same chapter of the Holy Qur’an we find the following commandment to Muslims:

“O ye who believe! Be steadfast in the cause of Allah, bearing witness in equity; and let not a people’s enmity incite you to act otherwise than with justice. Be always just, that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah. Surely, Allah is aware of what you do.”(Ch.5:V.9)

Hence, you should not oppose another nation merely out of enmity and hatred. I admit that Israel exceeds beyond its limits, and has its eyes cast glance upon Iran. Indeed, if any country transgresses against your country, naturally you have the right to defend yourself. However, as far as possible disputes should be resolved through diplomacy and negotiations. This is my humble request to you, that rather than using force, use dialogue to try and resolve conflicts. The reason why I make this request is because I am the follower of that Chosen Person of God who came in this era as the True Servant of the Holy Prophet Muhammad(pbuh), and who claimed to be the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi. His mission was to bring mankind closer to God and to establish the rights of people in the manner our Master and Guide, the Rahmatullil Aalameen –the Mercy to all of Mankind – the Holy Prophet(pbuh)demonstrated to us. May Allah the Exalted enable the Muslim Ummah to understand this beautiful teaching.

Wassalam,

Yours Sincerely,

MIRZA MASROOR AHMAD
Khalifatul Masih V
Head of the Worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community

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Bridging Cultures – Laiq Ahmed Atif

Posted on April 22, 2012 by

Laiq Ahmed Atif practises what he preaches – Love for All, Hatred for None.

“On my flight to Malta from Germany, I prayed a lot – because Malta was a completely new country for me, I prayed that God gives me courage and wisdom to get to know the Maltese people,” says Laiq Ahmed Atif, 30, from Pakistan.

“As soon as I was out of Malta International Airport, I felt comfortable – I knew that Malta would be my second home.”

Atif has been in Malta for four years and is the president of an organisation called Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta. He is married to Bushra and they have two children – a boy and a girl.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, with headquarters in the UK, offers solidarity to all peoples from all cultures and religions. The organisation is present in almost 200 countries and has over 160 million members worldwide.

“There are a lot of branches in Islam. In Ahmadiyya, we believe that the Messiah and Mahdi (guide), who according to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would come to reform Islam, has already come.”

The motto of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta is ‘Love for all, hatred for none’.

“When we help people, we help human beings – we don’t look at race, religion or culture,” says Atif. Atif has worked hard to integrate.

“The Maltese people have a kind heart and that helped me integrate fast,” he says. Atif has also learned Maltese. “I wanted to learn the language so that I can act as a bridge for cultural diversity and religious harmony in Malta,” he says.

“I remember how, when Atif first came to Malta, he would read all the papers and watch the news so that he could understand the Maltese culture,” says Justin Schembri, who teaches Atif Maltese. “He wanted to learn about the Maltese culture before he actually started participating.

“When I met Atif, there was a connection between us – we were not just teacher and student, but we also became friends.

“Atif managed to integrate so well in Malta because he is a very friendly and respectful man – he seeks friendship with everyone,” Justin says.

“Integration is very important, especially in our globalised world” says Atif. “We cannot be isolated from others, and we must respect diversity – diversity is what makes the world beautiful.

“As a Muslim, it is my responsibility to love Malta as the country where I live. I do not want to be a burden on this country – rather, I want to be part of it.” 

This interview was included in the publication InterAct – A Portrait of Third-Country Nationals in Malta, published as part of the Media InterAct project (IF 2010 02) and distributed with The Times. They are based on the TV programme Minn Lenti Interkulturali, broadcast on Education22/TVM2 and TVM between January and March, 2012 and on TVM between April and June, 2012. The project is co-financed through the European Fund for the Integration of Third-Country Nationals. The project is led by SOS Malta, in partnership with the Public Broadcasting Services and the Institute of Maltese Journalists.
 

Find More on The Times Of Malta:

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Integration

Posted on April 19, 2012 by

Laiq Ahmed Atif, president Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta was also among the panel who addressed the Press Conference called by SOS Malta, to launch a project to mainstream the integration and diversity of third-country nationals through the media. Laiq Ahmed Atif said that the true integration is not only possible but highly essential for the progress and betterment of Malta, he also highlighted some points about the rights and obligations for the effective integration.

By: Laiq Ahmed Atif, President Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta

As we all know, that the world has emerged as a glabal viallage, an undeniable realty. Today people frequently travell to different places, and are settling in different countries. Migration is also a phenomenon, not only human beings, but also the other creatures such as birds, migrate from one place to other, due to certain circumstances.

Some migrate for having good future, some migrate to settle or improve their businesses, some migrate to escape hardships of their countries, and some migrate to save their lives from religious persecutions, just to name a few. And in today’s world it looks very difficult to deny or eliminate every sort of migration; however, to make a positive use, it is possible and highly essential. In September 2006, the 132 Member States that participated in General Assembly reaffirmed that:

  1. Migration could make a positive contribution in development, in countries of origin and countries of destination
  2. They emphasised on the respect and fundamental rights of the migrants
  3. They recognized the importance of strengthening international cooperation

I believe that integration is not only possible but it is highly essential for the betterment and progress of a society.

Integration is a two way process: Two Categories – Rights and Obligations 

  1. Responsibilities of a country or society in which migration takes place:
  • Establishment of Human dignity,
  • Fundamental human rights and acceptance of the migrants.
  • Host nation should honour the culture and religion of its immigrants.
  • RIGHTS: Their rights are that their traditions, cultural, religion and laws of the land must be respected and honoured 
  1. Duties and responsibilities of the immigrants:
  • They must reciprocate respect and love; and become grateful to their hosts
  • They must abide by the law,
  • They should respect the customs, traditions and culture of the host country,
  • They make their contribution in the progress and betterment of the country
  • They must become willing to integrate, and to adopt all of the good things that this country has to offer. 

Migration to Medina as an Example: 

Here I quote a wonderful example of migration, which to me is really exemplary and that is the migration of Muslims from Mecca to Medina, because of hardships and persecution in their homeland. When they migrated to Medina their hosts welcomed them with open arms and offered them full support and help, and showed them great respect and dignity. The Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him, established “Brotherhood” between hosts and migrants which is known as “Brotherhood of Medina”. 

The immigrants did not take whatever was offered to them as their right, but they fully shouldered their responsibilities. They worked id f’id with the local communities, they respected their hosts, other religions and communities and the law of the land; and rather than becoming burden they in a very short period of time they started contributing in the society and economy of the state. 

I think if both the host and migrants work with this spirit they can be useful and can contribute a lot to Malta. Here to make it clear that I am not promoting it, but just highlighting the points and aspects that can be useful for the progress of the country. 

Media’s Role in integration: 

As far as the role of media is concern, I think media can play a great role in integration:

1.  By covering the immigrants in positive light and showing their useful contributions to the society; because every human being has abilities and has something to offer.

2.  By showing the lives of well integrated immigrants with their local friends.

3.  By organising Interfaith dialogues; cultural events; and media can give coverage to their activities, and can encourage them to be part of the society

4.Programs to teach immigrants about Malta’s history, culture, heritage and language

5.  Covering the countries from which immigrants are coming in some positive light from the perspectives of tourism 

6. Media can highlight positive aspects of their culture, traditions, customs and values; because every people have some good cultures, e.g. in Pakistan, in the Sindh province to which I belong to, has a very good culture that in a bus male always offer and vacate their seats to women, and there rarely one finds a woman standing in a bus. These sort of positive aspect will also give chance to find and learn something positive from each other.
7.  Highlighting the common humanity of all of us.

Our Community, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, always integrates very well in every country, and in Malta we are also very well integrated. 

Here I would like to conclude with a quote of Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the Current Supreme Head of the Worldwide Ahmadiyya Community; he says: 

“There should be no compulsion in religion. Jews should be able to practice their religion freely; Christians should be able to practice their religion freely and Muslims likewise. However where the interests of the country are at stake then all citizens should work together for the betterment of the nation…”

 “To be integrated it is necessary to believe the country you live in is your own and you must desire for it to succeed. Your relationship should be with the country not just with individuals within it. This is true integration.”  

Thanks.

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