Id-Dawl Numru 1

Posted on January 1, 2018 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Id-Dawl (the Light) January 2018

(i) A NEW BEGINNING  (ii) The Purpose of Life

(iii) Freedom of Religion (iv) Tolerance & Harmony

(v) World Crisis & the Pathway to Peace

(vi) The First Jalsa Salana Malta

ID-DAWL JANUARY 2018

Id-Dawl_Numru_001

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Id-Dawl Magazine

Posted on January 1, 2018 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, Ever Merciful

ID-DAWL (meaning the Light)

The invention of the printing press and publication houses and consequently spread of books everywhere is one of the marvellous prophecies of the Holy Quran made in the dark ages of ignorance and illiteracy. Allah says in the Holy Quran “And when books are printed and spread abroad.” (81:11)

The reference clearly seems to be the means of spreading knowledge in the Later Days – in the time of the Promised Messiah and Mahdias. This verse at the same time highlights the importance of knowledge and understanding.

Accordingly, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta is starting a new beginning by publishing a magazine titled “ID-DAWL” in Maltese language. ID-DAWL will provide a fresh and a peaceful perspective of the philosophy of the teachings of Islam, through providing true and profound wisdom and understanding of the Quranic teachings. It will be a means against irrational interpretations of Quranic pronouncements and misapplications of Islamic law; and a means to correct misinterpretations, misunderstandings and misconceptions about Islam.

It will play a vital role in providing light in finding the valuable and feasible road that leads to peaceful, stronger and prosperous world. It will provide light to knowledge and understanding. Furthermore, it will provide a platform to build bridges between people; to promote tolerance, harmony and brotherhood; and to spread the message of hope and peace.

Read the First Edition of ID-DAWL. 

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Ahmadiyya participated in L-Istrina 2017

Posted on December 29, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Malta participated in an event organised under the auspices of Her Excellency the President of Malta . @Laiqatif

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A vision of peace and unity!

Posted on December 27, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Credit: The Malta Independent, Wednesday 27 December 2017, by Laiq Ahmed Atif

By the sheer grace and blessings of God, in a few days, another year will dawn upon us. At the beginning of every year, millions of people wish one another a happy and a prosperous new year. I think mutual new year greetings would only be beneficial when we all reflect to see how much of our obligations we fulfilled last year and how much we will try to do in the new year.

Moreover, millions will make resolutions to give up certain habits and others may have made an oath of adopting better habits. Some will have done both. Nonetheless both these choices we make mean that we pledge to be better human beings, morally and spiritually.

At the wider spectrum people hope and pray for a better world than it is today. People, societies, nations and countries pledge to remain united for the common good of the entire mankind.

However, the question is how to achieve this goal?

The Holy Prophet Muhammad gave a golden principle for all times for building cohesive, harmonious and peaceful societies and said ‘like for others that which you like for yourself’. In other words ‘don’t like for others what you don’t like for yourself’.

I firmly believe that by adopting this principle the world can put an end to all the injustices, inequalities, killings and acts of extremism. This doctrine alone can lead us towards unity and peace.

In today’s multi-religious and multi-cultural world, showing respect and caring for the sentiments of each other is very crucial and vital. Expressing respect and showing sensitivity to others’ feelings is a remedy for the shattered world and growing disorder in the land. Love is the antidote for hatred.

Moreover, during this festive season, sharing the moments of happiness with each other, with people of different faiths, creeds and cultures, will also build bridges between people.

To create an atmosphere of love and peace in international relations, and creating a tolerant and harmonious world – a world void of religious or political conflicts and full of peace, prosperity and brotherhood, the Holy Quran exhorts us:

“O ye who believe, let not one people deride another people, who may be better than they nor let women deride other women who may be better than they.” (Ch. 49:V.12)

The false sense of superiority creates divisions and conflicts. By removing the basic causes of disharmony and disagreement among people, this verse has laid the foundation of a firm and solid brotherhood.

That is the basic principle in promoting a relationship between different people and faiths: do not utter anything that is hurtful to others even in a lighter vein; not to speak of using the entire medium to erect walls of hatred.

I present one example to illustrate how important and invaluable it is to respect religious sentiments of each other. Once, during his lifetime of Prophet Muhammad, a Muslim and a Jew were involved in an argument. Both claimed and counter-claimed the relative superiority of their respective prophets. It appears the Muslim contender may have made his claim in a manner which wounded the susceptibilities of the Jew as he approached the Prophet Muhammad and lodged a complaint against the Muslim. Upon hearing the complaint, the Prophet Muhammad admonished against being unmindful of the sentiments of others and said: ‘Do not exalt me above Moses’.

Furthermore, once a Christian delegation from the city of Najran came to Medina to have dialogue with the Prophet Muhammad. At the time of their prayer the Prophet Muhammad, permitted them to offer their worship according to their own manners inside his mosque.

I believe with such wonderful gestures we can build very solid and long lasting bridges in our societies.

The cooperation between people and nations on the common grounds is another significant principle for the establishment of peace and unity. The Holy Quran highlights this point and says: “And help one another in righteousness and piety; but help not one another in sin and transgression.”

Today we are living in a global village where countries and nations are inter-linked and mutual cooperation is crucial. The truth is that in the modern world we all depend upon one another. So, this cooperation should base on justice, equality and fairness. There should be cooperation to make advancements in science, to excel in other fields of expertise, in education, in health etc. So, by learning from each other’s experiences and mutual cooperation for the common good we create a world of peace and unity.

In the contemporary times the world needs peace, unity and brotherhood. It is time to truly practice the message of the Jesus Christ that ”blessed are the peacemakers.” It is time to become like, as the Holy Prophet Muhammad said that “true Muslim is the one from whose hands and tongue all other people are safe.”

It is my heartfelt and fervent desire and prayer for all people to live peacefully and happily. May the Almighty God make the new year very peaceful, healthy and prosperous for the entire mankind. Amen. [Read original article]

Laiq Ahmed Atif, President Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta    

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Ahmadiyya donates gift hampers

Posted on December 18, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta presented hampers for the needy people at the Millennium Chapel, St. Julians and the Peace Lab, Hal-Far.

Laiq Ahmed Atif, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta explained that, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community pays a great importance to serving mankind and looking after those in need. This activity of the Ahmadiyya Community is a clear manifestation of its love and care for the needy people of the society. Newsbook.com.mt

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First Jalsa Salana Malta 2017

Posted on December 12, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

First Jalsa Salana Malta – Annual Convention – 2017

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta held its First Jalsa Salana – Annual Convention – on Sunday 10th December 2017, in Gzira, Malta. Local members of the Community, guests and dignitaries attended this convention.

A special message from the current Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aba) was read out at this convention. He advised the Jamaat members to achieve highest standards in piety and righteousness by practicing the true teachings of peaceful Islam.

Imam Laiq Ahmed Atif, President Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, drew the attention of the community members towards their responsibilities and living a life of good deeds, services to mankind and filled with the love of Almighty God, according to the divine teachings of the Holy Quran and Practices of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him. In his second speech, he highlighted the importance of tolerance and harmony in the multi-religious societies. He spoke about ‘What Islam is!’ and presented Islamic teachings regarding the treatment of non-Muslims and mentioned some incidents from the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him.

The Hon. Ivan Bartolo, Member of Parliament; Mrs. Graziella Attard Schembri, Councillor at the Gzira Local Council; and Mr. Bryan Corlett, Director UPF, also delivered their speeches.

This event was very well attended. The Annual Convention was concluded with a silent prayer. In the end attendees were offered lunch.

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First Jalsa Salana Malta

Posted on December 5, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The First Jalsa Salana Malta (the Annual Convention) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, will be held on Sunday 10 December 2017. Time: 11am to 2pm. The Jalsa Salana (Annual Convention) was started by the Promised Messiah (as) and the first Jalsa was held in December 1891, which was attended by 75 people. Now the Jalsa Salanas are held in various countries around the world. The Jalsa Salana is a manifestation of integration, tolerance, harmony, peace and brotherhood. www.ahmadiyya.org.mt – amjmalta@gmail.com https://ahmadiyyamalta.org/    #JalsaSalanaMalta

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Life and Character of the Holy Prophet Muhammad

Posted on December 1, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The Life & Character of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him, “the Blessing & the benefactor for the entire mankind.”

To read more about the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him, click on the following links:

Holy Prophet Muhammad

The Life of Muhammad

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Question and Answer session about Islam

Posted on November 26, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

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Questions & Answers about Islam

Posted on November 24, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Questions & Answers Session about Islam, with Laiq Ahmed Atif, President Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Malta, was held on Thursday 23rd November 2017, at Millennium Chapel, St. Julian’s.

Fr Hilary Tagliaferro in his opening remarks highlighted the need for the dialogue and understanding between different faiths. Mr. Anthony Curmi the coordinator of the Millennium Chapel presided over the event.

Laiq Ahmed Atif, President Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, answered the questions according to the teachings of Holy Quran and Practices of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him. 

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What is Ramadan?

Posted on November 21, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

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Q & A session about Islam

Posted on November 8, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Invitation to a public event: Thursday 23.11.2017 at 7:30pm.

Friends of Augustine – Thursday. 23rd November at 19.30 at the WOW auditorium, the Millennium Chapel, St. Julian’s

Q & A session with Laiq Ahmed Atif, President, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta.

It will be recalled that Mr Atif had given us an interesting talk on Islam in Jan. 2016. In this month’s activity he will answering questions on extracts from the Quran.

We look forward to a learned interpretation of some topical aspects of the Islamic religion.

Time will be allotted also to questions from the audience. The public is cordially invited. Click for more info

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Promotion of Interfaith Dialogue

Posted on November 6, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

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High status of the Holy Prophet Muhammad

Posted on October 12, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The revolution occurred in Arabia through supplications

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi and the Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, writes about the high status of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and says:

“I look always with wonder at this Arab Prophet whose name is Muhammad, thousands of blessings and peace be upon him. How exalted his status was! One cannot perceive the ultimate limit of his station, and it is not within the scope of man to fully comprehend the depth and penetration of his ennobling qualities. Alas! Due recognition has not been paid to his lofty rank. That unity which had disappeared from the world was restored by this same courageous champion. He loved God most intensely, so also his soul was consumed in deep sympathy for mankind. That is why God, Who was fully aware of the hidden excellences of his heart, exalted him above all the Prophets and all the people of the past and the future, and fulfilled his heart’s desires in the span of his lifetime. (1)“

“A strange phenomenal event took place in the deserts of Arabia when hundreds of thousands of the dead were revived within a few days, and those who had been misguided through generations exhibited Divine complexion, and those who were blind began to see, and those who had been dumb began to utter words of Divine wisdom, and the world underwent a revolution which no eye had seen before and no ear had heard of. Do you know how all this came about? It was the supplications during dark nights of one who had lost himself in God which caused a revolution in the world, and showed such wonders as could never have been expected from that Unlettered and Helpless one [the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa]. O Allah! Send down Thy blessings and peace on him and his people according to the amount of pain and anguish he felt for his umma, and pour down upon him the light of Thy mercy forever. (2)“

“The sublime light which was bestowed on man, i.e., the most perfect among them, was not shared by angels nor by stars; nor was it in the moon, nor in the sun, or in the oceans and the rivers. It was not to be found in rubies or emeralds, nor in sapphires, nor in pearls: It was not in any earthly or heavenly object. It was possessed only by the perfect man, manifested in the most consummate way in the person of our lord and master, Muhammad, the chosen one, the chief of all the prophets, leader of those who live (in the sight of Allah). So, that light was bestowed on that man and likewise, to a degree, on all who in their several ways were similar to him… Sublime grace was possessed in its most perfect and consummate manifestation by our lord and master, the unlettered Prophet, the truthful one, the one whose truth is testified to, Muhammad, the chosen one, peace be on him. (3)“

  1. Haqiqatul Wahi: Roohani Khaza’in, Vol.22, pp. 118- 119
  2. Barakatud Dua pp.10-11
  3. Ayena Kamalat e Islam: Roohani Khaza’in, Vol. 5, pp. 160-162
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Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim condemns persecution of Rohingya Muslims

Posted on September 6, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community condemns in the strongest possible terms the persecution of the Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar (Burma).

It is being reported that scores of Muslims are being killed and tortured, whilst many thousands have been driven out of their homes and forced to flee. Such treatment can only be described as an affront to humanity.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community urges the international community to help the Muslims in Myanmar attain their basic human rights and freedoms.

The World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Fifth Khalifa (Caliph), His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad has said:

“All Ahmadi Muslims are extremely grief-stricken to hear of the cruel treatment inflicted upon the Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar and we pray that all of these cruelties and injustices come to an immediate end. 

The fact that these Muslims are being targeted seemingly with impunity is a result of the division and sectarianism within the Muslim world itself. If there was unity amongst Muslim nations and communities, such tragedies would never unfold.

On behalf of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, I hope and pray that the international community comes together to help the Muslims in Myanmar and in this effort the Muslim nations should be at the forefront.  

I pray that the persecution of the Muslims in Myanmar, and indeed of all people who are denied their religious rights in the world, comes to an end. We believe that all people should be free to practice their faith or beliefs without any fear and that all people should be equal under the law of their land.”

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Ahmadiyya Malta wishes you a happy & blessed Eid

Posted on September 1, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The Muslims celebrate Eid twice a year, Eid-ul-Fitr and the other, which comes about 10 weeks later, is called Eid-ul-Adha.

Eid-ul-Azha (Festival of Sacrifice) is a festival comes about ten weeks after Eid-ul-Fitr, and marks the completion of Hajj (Holy pilgrimage to Mecca). It is the festival of Sacrifice that commemorate the obedience of Hadhrat Ibrahim and his son Hadhrat Ismail to the commandment of Allah. Hadhrat Ibrahim had a series of dreams in which he saw himself sacrificing his eldest son Ismail. He inferred that it was perhaps the will of God that he should sacrifice the life of his son.

Hadhrat Ibrahim, being most obedient to God, was about to sacrifice the life of his son Ismail, when God commanded him to stop and gave him the good news that he had indeed fulfilled His command. God was so pleased with Ibrahim because of his obedience that He multiplied his progeny into billions. He was also given the great honor of being the forefather of the Holy Prophet of Islam . On the day of Eid those Muslims who can afford to sacrifice an animal are enjoined to do so after Eid Prayer.

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Islam proclaims that all people are born equal

Posted on August 27, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

“Islam proclaims that all people are born equal, no matter where they hail from or the colour of their skin” – Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad

AUGUST 27, 2017  PRESS RELEASES

Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community calls for equality of all races and peace based upon justice during address at Jalsa Salana Germany

On Saturday 26 August 2017, the World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Fifth Khalifa (Caliph), His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad addressed an audience of around 800 dignitaries and guests on the second day of the 42nd Annual Convention (Jalsa Salana) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Germany, beside 30,000 Ahmadi Muslims.

At a time when racial tensions and prejudices are escalating in certain countries, His Holiness said that there was an urgent need to recognise that all people were born equal and no race or nation was superior to any other.

His Holiness also used his address to categorically condemn all forms of extremism and those so-called Muslim clerics who were radicalising Muslims in different countries. Further, His Holiness called into question Western policies of selling weapons to Muslim countries, which he said were fuelling wars and conflicts.

Condemning in the strongest possible terms the role of extremist clerics and Muslim governments in destabilising the world, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Extremist Muslim groups or clerics have preyed upon vulnerable Muslims and rather than guiding and helping these frustrated and misguided people, they have poisoned their minds with extremism and radicalised them… In a similar vein, we have long seen that some Muslim governments are mistreating their people and have inflicted untold cruelties and injustices upon them which has bred division and led to uprisings and bloody civil wars.”

Contrasting the acts of extremists with Islam’s true teachings, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Without a shadow of doubt, Islam’s teachings are a guarantor for peace and security for all mankind. Its teachings are rooted in compassion, mercy and humanity and it is these true Islamic values that the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has endlessly emphasised and endeavoured to spread across the world for more than 125 years.”

His Holiness said that in the very first chapter of the Holy Quran, it is written that Allah the Almighty is the ‘Lord of all the worlds’ and that this meant that Allah the Almighty was the Provider and Sustainer of all people, of all races and all beliefs.

Hence, a true Muslim could never discriminate or oppose non-Muslims, as has been increasingly alleged in modern times. On the contrary, His Holiness said that amongst those who condemned Islam were people who themselves were guilty of racism and prejudice.

Condemning all those who claimed racial superiority, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Such extremist views can only fuel resentment and despair amongst the people of other races and ethnicities. In complete contrast, Islam proclaims that all people are born equal, no matter where they hail from or the colour of their skin.”        

His Holiness also quoted from the Farewell Sermon of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) which he termed as a “momentous speech that laid the foundations for world peace”.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“In words that were as timeless as they were enlightened, The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) proclaimed that all people were born equal and that a white person was not superior to a black and nor was a black person superior to a white… Brandishing an eternal torch illuminating the path towards universal human rights, the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) pronounced that all human beings were born equal and had the same rights.”

His Holiness said Islam teaches that God had sent prophets to all nations and Muslims were commanded to respect and honour them all, even whilst others cursed the Prophet of Islam (peace be upon him).

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“No doubt, when we hear others unjustly malign our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) it causes us intense distress and grievously wounds our hearts, yet we will never react by disrespecting the prophets or saintly figures of other religions and beliefs. In the face of hate and adversity, it is our faith which compels us to respond with love and to manifest peace at all times.”

Answering the common allegation that Islam permitted aggression in order to force people into accepting Islam, His Holiness quoted chapter 10, verse 100 of the Holy Quran which explains that whilst Allah the Almighty had the power to compel mankind to accept Islam, He permitted free will.

His Holiness said that this did not mean that Muslims should not preach their religion, rather the Holy Quran commanded Muslims to inform people about Islam, but it was essential they preached their message with a “spirit of tolerance and mutual respect.”

His Holiness presented the unparalleled example of benevolence and tolerance of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) when he re-entered Mecca victoriously with ten thousand of his companions, after being forced to migrate from the city due to relentless persecution by the city’s non-Muslims.

Speaking of that moment when the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) returned to Mecca, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“At that moment of glorious triumph, the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) exhibited supreme humility and forbearance by declaring that, in accordance with Islam’s peaceful teachings, all those who had tormented the Muslims were to be instantly forgiven.”

Later, His Holiness elaborated on his view that Muslims alone were not responsible for the various conflicts plaguing today’s world.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Of the nine countries that have acquired nuclear weapons only one – Pakistan – is a Muslim nation. Hence it cannot be said that the Muslim world is the centre of these deadly weapons that constitute the greatest threat to the well-being of mankind.”

His Holiness said that where, on the one hand, non-Muslim nations were calling for peace in the Muslim world, they were also fuelling those very conflicts by producing the weapons used in those countries.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Western countries and arms producers have a vested business interest in maintaining a degree of conflict in Muslim countries. Such one-eyed policies and selfish motivations are entirely regretful and can only prove a means of destroying the peace of the world.”

His Holiness said that since the Second World War, the world’s major powers had increasingly sought to maintain peace by building ever more deadly weapons, which had the capability of destroying the world many times over. His Holiness said that long term peace could not be sustained through such means.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“The defining characteristic of the world’s efforts to ensure peace over the past seventy or more years has been intimidation and scare tactics, whereby nations have sought peace through the development of ever more deadly weapons. No matter what is claimed, the truth is that such measures cannot bring about long-lasting peace and there is every chance that one day someone will press the button unleashing carnage and misery like the world has never seen before.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Rather than peace-building through the so-called ‘deterrent model’, we Ahmadi Muslims, believe that there is only one path leading towards lasting peace and that is the path of God Almighty… As long as the world continues to prioritise material wealth and power we will not see true peace in the world.”

Concluding, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“The time has come for mankind to recognise its Creator and to accept that God Almighty is indeed the Lord of all the Worlds, who sustains us, provides for us and is our ultimate Creator.”

Earlier in the day, His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad directly addressed the members of the Lajna Imaillah (Ladies Auxiliary Organisation) regarding the teachings of Islam in relation to the rights of women.

His Holiness said that from the very outset Islam had granted women the right to inheritance, marriage, divorce, freedom of expression, education and many other rights which the Western world has only afforded to women in recent times.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Before the advent of Islam, Arabs were grieved to see the birth of a girl and some would go so far as to bury their new-born daughters. At a time of such supreme ignorance and cruelty, the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) brought about a revolution in which he established the true status and honour of girls and proclaimed that the birth of a girl was cause for pride and joy.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad continued:

“Islam teaches that if you have faith in God, then rejoice upon the birth of a girl. Worldly people can only promise rewards of this life, whereas Islam promises the rewards of the afterlife for fulfilling the rights of women. How unfortunate it is that despite such beautiful teachings, it is alleged that Islam does not give rights to women.” 

Later in the day, His Holiness held interviews with representatives of the German media and met delegations of guests attending the Jalsa Salana from various countries.

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The Hajj – Pilgrimage to Mecca

Posted on August 23, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

THE HAJJ – AN INTRODUCTION

Sacrifice – the central theme of Eid al-Azha – Islam Ahmadiyya

Hajj – Pilgrimage to Mecca (the Holy Place of Muslims) fifth pillar of Islam; here it is presented a brief documentary on this blessed event, Hajj, prepared by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat.

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Islam’s Teachings of Loyalty and Love for One’s Country

Posted on August 12, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Islam’s Teachings of Loyalty and Love for One’s Country

“It is very easy to simply speak of, or hear the words, ‘loyalty and love for one’s nation.’ However, in reality these few words encompass meanings that are wide-ranging, beautiful and of tremendous depth. Indeed, to fully comprehend and understand what these words truly mean and what they require is actually very difficult. In any case, in the short time available, I will try to explain Islam’s concept of loyalty and love for one’s nation.

First and foremost, a fundamental principle of Islam is that a person’s words and deeds should never manifest any form of double standards or hypocrisy. True loyalty requires a relationship built on sincerity and integrity. It requires what a person displays on the surface to be the same as what lies beneath. In terms of nationality, these principles are of the utmost importance. Therefore, it is essential for a citizen of any country to establish a relationship of genuine loyalty and faithfulness to his nation. It does not matter whether he is a born citizen, or whether he gains citizenship later in life, either through immigration or by any other means.

Loyalty is a great quality, and the people who have displayed this attribute to the highest degree and best standards, are the Prophets of God. Their love and bond with God was so strong that in all matters they kept in view His commands and strived to fully implement them, no matter what. This illustrated their commitment to Him and their perfect standards of loyalty. Hence, it is their standards of loyalty that we should use as an example and model. However, before proceeding any further, it is necessary to understand what is actually meant by ‘loyalty’.

According to the teachings of Islam, the definition and true meaning of ‘loyalty’ is the unequivocal fulfilment of one’s pledges and covenants at every level and under all circumstances, regardless of difficulty. This is the true standard of faithfulness required by Islam. At various places in the Holy Qur’an, Allah has instructed Muslims that they must fulfil their pledges and covenants, because they will be held to account by Him over all undertakings that they have made. The Muslims have been instructed to fulfil all covenants, including those made with God Almighty, and also all other pledges they have made, according to their respective degrees of importance.”

Read full text on the following links:  Islamic Teachings of Loyalty & Love for Country

It-Tagħlim Iżlamiku Dwar il-Lealtà u l-Imħabba Lejn in-Nazzjon (Read in Maltese)

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Ahmadiyya Donates Books to Malta Libraries

Posted on August 4, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta donated books for all the Libraries in Malta. The donation was presented by the president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Laiq Ahmed Atif, to the Deputy Librarian, Ms. Margaret Zammit, at the Central Public Library – Malta.

Ms. Margaret Zammit, the Deputy Librarian for public libraries, thanked the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for such a generous donation. She said “that such contributions help in supporting the mission of the public libraries to foster and strengthen the reading habits of people of different age groups and diverse backgrounds”.

Mr. Atif said: “The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community promotes the education and the reading of books and believes in helping local libraries. Education is the key to success and without education the strong and prosperous future of the nation cannot be guaranteed.”

He said that the community will continue contributing to libraries with more books in future. Read Original Post:

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Ahmadiyya donates books to Msida School

Posted on July 9, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta donated a selection of children’s books to the Msida Primary School.

The president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Laiq Ahmed Atif met with the Head of School and presented her books on behalf of the community. He said: “The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community promotes the education and the reading of books and believes in helping local communities and schools. Education is the key to success and books are one of the most valuable contributions one can make to the school’.

The Head of School Ms. Ungaro thanked the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for such a valuable contribution. She said that “this is not the first time the school is getting help from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and has always extended its support to the school and has contributed in many schools projects.” NewsBook  –  Independent

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Ahmadiyya wishes you all a Very Blessed and Happy Eid Mubark!

Posted on June 24, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The Muslims celebrate Eid twice a year, Eid-ul-Fitr and the other, which comes about 10 weeks later, is called Eid-ul-Adha.

Eid-ul-Fitr is a festival that marks the end of the Holy month of Ramadan. This joyous day is celebrated to give thanks for the blessings of Ramadhan. Muslims attend the Congregational Eid prayer service which is held in the morning. They wear new clothing, cook delicious food and invite friends and neighbors to celebrate with them. Fasting during Ramadhan inspires sympathy for the hungry and needy, and encourages Muslims to donate generously to the poor.

Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta wishes all Muslim brothers and sisters living in Malta and worldwide, a very Peaceful, Blessed and Happy EID MUBARAK!

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Traditional Ramadan Iftar Reception

Posted on June 23, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta organised a Traditional Ramadan Iftar Reception on Monday 19th June at the Kennedy Nova Hotel, Gzira, which was attended by many respectable guests.

Imam Laiq Ahmed Atif, President Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta explained the concept of fasting in Islam and quoted verses from the Holy Quran and Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him.

He explained that the true purpose of Ramadan, as of all forms of Islamic worship is to draw people closer to God.

Ramadan is a clear manifestation of two basic tenants and fundamental principles and basics of Islamic teachings, they are – the Rights of God, and the Rights of fellow human beings.

It is a physical, moral and spiritual discipline, and the object is the promotion of righteousness and security against evil.

The Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: ‘He who abstains from food and drink during the period of the fast but does not restrain himself from uttering a falsehood, starves himself to no purpose.’

The Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community says:

“These forms of worship are essential for the purification of the spirit… To be moderate in eating and drinking and to bear hunger and thirst are necessary for the purification of the spirit and promote the capacity for visions. Man does not live by bread alone. To discard all thought of eternal life is to invite Divine wrath.

It should be remembered that the fast does not mean merely that a person should abstain from food and drink over a certain period. During the fast one should be occupied greatly with the remembrance of God. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) occupied himself greatly with worship during the month of Ramadan. During that month one should discard one’s preoccupation with eating and drinking; and cutting asunder from these needs should address oneself wholly towards God.

Unfortunate is the person who is bestowed material bread and pays no attention to spiritual bread. Material bread strengthens the body, and spiritual bread sustains the soul and sharpens the spiritual faculties. Seek the grace of God, as all doors are opened by His grace.”

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Ahmadiyya Malta celebrates Ramadan Iftar at Peace Lab

Posted on June 22, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta holds “Traditional Iftar Dinner” at the Peace Lab, Hal-Far, Malta, to celebrate the blessed month with its residents. Fr. Dionysius Mintoff OFM welcomed the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community to Peace Lab and said that this occasion is a real reflection how Ahmadiyya Muslim Community cares for the fellow human beings, and translates its motto Love for All, Hatred for None into actions. Together we can build a cohesive and peaceful society.

Laiq Ahmed Atif, the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Malta highlighted the importance of Ramadan and presented the verses of the Holy Quran and the Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him. He explained that the important lesson Ramadan teaches us is that to serve the mankind. And the Ahmadiyya community is always committed to serve the fellow human beings and extend its unconditional love and brotherhood and a hand of friendship to all. 

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Death for blasphemy?

Posted on June 2, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Source/Credit: The Times of Malta, Friday June 2, 2017, by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The contemporary time we live in is full of horrendous and heartrending news. Not a single day passes without such horrific news of killing and bloodshed in the name of God, and in the name of his prophets who were the messengers of peace, brotherhood and love for mankind.

Recently, a university journalism student Mashal Khan was murdered on baseless accusations of blasphemy in Pakistan.

After the investigation, the police confirmed that they did not find any proof of blasphemy against him.

This incident is not the first of its kind; there have been many other cases where people accused of blasphemy have been killed by an angry mob. Pakistan’s blasphemy law prescribes a death penalty for those guilty of blasphemy.

This law has been used to persecute and unfairly target the minorities and those who do not toe the line with the majority Sunni Muslims. Many a times, it is used for personal grudges and vested interests. In brief, this law has been extensively misused.

The religious imams and clerics openly claim in public gatherings and on print and electronic media, that the moment blasphemy is committed, the person is liable to the death penalty.

Such views are not limited to Pakistan alone, but there are many Muslim clerics and imams who believe the same in many other countries. These clerics exploit the ignorance of the people and mould it for showing their strength and power, and to keep a hold on people.

Such are the leaders about whom the Holy Prophet Muhammad warned the Muslims more than 1,400 years ago to be watchful and be careful. He said:

“There will come a time upon the people when nothing will remain of Islam except its name and nothing will remain of the Quran except its words. Their mosques will be splendidly furnished but destitute of guidance. Their leaders and clerics will be the worst people under the Heaven; strife will issue from them and avert to them.”

There is not a minor punishment prescribed in the Holy Quran for blasphemy, let alone the death penalty
 

This saying speaks volumes about the academic dishonesty of such so-called clerics who openly claim but do not substantiate their claims with proofs from the Holy Quran and the life of the founder of Islam.

Keeping different sayings of the Prophet Muhammad in view, one can categorize Islamic scholars and imams into two categories; Ulema-e-Haq (truthful and good scholars) and Ulema-e-Soo (untrustworthy and dishonest scholars).

The true and honest scholars are those who always promote love, tolerance, harmony, brotherhood, peace, human welfare, unity and build bridges between people. Their every word and action is motivated by the extreme and merciful love for mankind. They enlighten people about spirituality and strive to instil the love of Creator and the creation in the hearts and minds of people.

The disloyal scholars and imams are those who misguide people, who commit academic dishonesty, who spread hatred and promote hate speech for their personal and vested interests, who discourage dialogue, who build walls and barriers, who exploit the ignorance of their people for violence, bloodshed, extremism and terrorism; and those who make their people narrow-minded through inflicting fear in their hearts and minds to broaden their thoughts and knowledge, and those who issue baseless fatwas (edicts) against others, etc.

The question is why Mashal Khan was killed cold-bloodedly? Does Islam permit anyone taking the law into his hands; and what is Islam’s position on blasphemy?

There is no doubt that blasphemy is the most repugnant, detestable and loathsome act, which touches on the sensitivities of all decent-minded and believing people. No matter which faith one belongs to, any violation by words or deeds of the sanctity of God or his chosen messengers, is considered deeply offensive.  In fact, Islam condemns every form of blasphemy. The use of abusive and filthy language cannot be permitted against any human being, so how could it be acceptable against religion, divine messengers and God? However, there is no physical worldly punishment prescribed for blasphemy in Islam, whatsoever.

I personally, as a student of the Quran for many years, have read the Quran numerous times and failed to find a single verse, or a part of a verse, which declares blasphemy to be crime punishable by human beings.

The Islamic punishments are divided into two, the crimes committed against God and against man. The crimes committed against God are only punishable by God and man has no authority to go into that domain, and blasphemy is part of that. The Holy Quran elaborates this point and states:

“Verily those who annoy Allah and His Messenger – Allah has cursed them in this world and in the hereafter, and has prepared for them an abasing punishment (Ch.33:V.59).”

There is no worldly punishment prescribed in this verse.

According to the Holy Quran all the messengers were mocked and ridiculed by their opponents. Similarly, the Prophet Muhammad, was also blasphemed throughout his life. Despite all the ill-treatment and disrespect shown to him and the Quran, God instructed him not to retaliate, God says: “We will, surely, suffice thee against those who mock (Ch.15:V.96).”

There is not a minor punishment prescribed in the Holy Quran for blasphemy, let alone the death penalty, not even a permanent social boycott is permitted against the blasphemers.

The Holy Quran gives clear guidance on how Muslims should behave when they are faced with those committing blasphemy. Instead of punishing the blasphemers, believers are advised to leave the company of such people until they change the topic of their conversation. God says:

“When you hear the Signs of Allah being denied and mocked at, sit not with them until they engage in a talk other than that; for in that case you would be like them (Ch.4:V.141).”

How beautifully God has summarised this entire subject; after this clear guidance how can anyone justify the punishment of death for blasphemy in Islam?

For me as a Muslim, the Holy Prophet Muhammad is dearer to me than my own life; and I am ready to sacrifice even if I have 1,000 lives for his sake. HE IS MY ROMANCE OF LIFE. 

However, rationality requires from me to deliberate, what the true love means? Does it mean to kill others or loose myself in fighting with others, to substantiate my love with him, or the true love demands to follow his noble teachings as taught by him (ignoring the misinterpretations of today’s clerics) and become the well-wisher of humanity, and follow his footsteps and character and become blessing for humanity as he was titled by God as a “Blessing for the entire mankind”?

Laiq Ahmed Atif is president of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta. amjmalta@gmail.com

Read original post Times of Malta. Death for blasphemy?

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Ramadan – a Muslim month of fasting, sacrifice, prayers and self-purification

Posted on June 1, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Who can understand the importance of food and water more than those who have ever passed through hunger, thirst or any kind of famine during their life time? The month of Ramadan is also an exercise for having such hard and difficult experiences. And these experiences, at one side provide opportunity to reform the spirituality and to increase in the love of God, on the other, they are also a time to understand the sufferings and problems of those who do not have sufficient food or water for their life; and to develop great feelings for the vulnerable and destitute people of this planet. Indeed, the Ramadan is a clear understanding of the two basic principles of Islam – rights of God and rights of people. 

It is obligatory for Muslims to fast one month every year in the month of Ramadan. The Holy Quran states: “O ye who believe, fasting is prescribed for you during a fixed number of days as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may safeguard yourselves against every kind of ill and become righteous.”

The true purpose of Ramadan, as of all forms of Islamic worship, is to draw people closer to Allah and closer to mankind. Though normal pursuits and occupations are carried on as usual, the emphasis on moral and spiritual values and concentration on them are intensified, and everything is subordinated to the main purpose. The hearing, the sight, the tongue, the mind are all under stricter control. For instance, not only vain talk, but much talk is also eschewed, so that there should be greater concentration on remembrance of Allah and reflection upon His attributes.

The Holy Quran elaborates more and says:

“The prescribed fasting is for a fixed number of days, but whoso among you is sick or is on a journey shall fast the same number of other days; and for those who are able to fast only with great difficulty is an expiation — the feeding of a poor man. It is better if one performs a good deed with heart-felt pleasure and in obedience. If you possess knowledge, you would appreciate that fasting is better for you.”

According to one Hadith, the Holy Prophet saw said that in addition to one’s spiritual development, fasting is necessary for our physical health as well which is confirmed by today’s science and the physicians.

Therefore every Muslim should first keep this in mind that fasting has been prescribed for the sake of Taqwa and rigor is necessary to attain Taqwa. Sacrifice in the path of God is necessary for attaining His pleasure. We should take advantage of the exemptions that Allah the Exalted has granted us as a favor looking at our condition and inabilities but should not exceed the limits.

The Promised Messiah as, the Founder of Ahmadiyya Community said:

“The one, whose heart looks forward to Ramadan so he could fast, will not be deprived of the (blessings of) fast in the heaven if an ailment prevents him from fasting in Ramadan. There are many people in this world who are used to making excuses and think that they would be able to deceive God the way they deceive other people in the world. The ones who are accustomed to making excuses look for issues and add other tangential details to justify themselves, but they are not justified before God the Exalted. As far as the ancillary discussions are considered, they could go on forever. If one desires, one could offer salat in sitting position for his entire life and never keep fast, but God is aware of everyone’s intentions. God the Exalted knows the one who has a pure heart, and He rewards him more as He appreciates the heartfelt pain. The people who make excuses depend on self-concocted justifications but these explanations have no value before God the Exalted.”

“The Promised Messiah as further said, “When I fasted for six months, once a group of prophets met me (in a vision). They asked me why I had put myself through such hardship, and advised me to abandon it.” Promised Messiah as said, “So when man puts himself through hardship for the sake of God, He, very compassionately says like parents that why he has put himself through hardship.”  (Malfoozat, Volume 2, p.564, New Edition)

Fasting in Islam begins everywhere at the first appearance of dawn, and ends with sunset. During this period one is expected to abstain from all food and drink completely.

It is not just physical hunger and thirst that constitute the Muslim fast, but the nights prior to the beginning of the fast acquire a far more important character and play a central role in the institution of fasting. The Muslims wake up many hours before dawn for individual prayer and the remembrance of God.

Also the Holy Quran is recited in every Muslim house much more than in ordinary days. A greater part of the night is thus spent in spiritual exercises which make up the very essence of fasting. During the day, apart from restraining oneself from food and water, all Muslims are particularly exhorted to avoid vain talk, quarrels and fights, or any such occupation as is below the dignity of a true believer.

In Islam, alms-giving and care for the destitute is so highly emphasised that it becomes part of a Muslim’s daily life. However when it comes to Ramadan, the month of fasting, Muslims are required to redouble their efforts in this field. It is reported of the Holy Prophet that spending in the cause of the poor was a routine daily practice with him which has been likened unto a breeze, never ceasing to bring comfort and solace to the needy. However during Ramadan, the reporters of the Ahadith – the sayings of the Holy Prophet (Peace be on him) – remind us that the breeze seemed to pick up speed and began to blow like strong winds. Alms-giving and care for the destitute are so highly emphasised, that in no period during the year do Muslims engage in such philanthropic purposes as they do during the month of Ramadan.

The institution of fasting is extremely important because it cultivates the believer in almost every area of his spiritual life. Among other things, he learns through personal experience about what hunger, poverty, loneliness and discomfort mean to the less fortunate sections of society. Abstention from even such practices during the month of Ramadan as are permissible in everyday life plays a constructive role in refining the human character.

May Allah the Exalted help us to benefit the most from the blessings, bounties and favours of Ramadan, and may He forgive us all our sins and may He accept all our prayers. Ameen

 By: Laiq Ahmed Atif, President Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta:  amjmalta@gmail.com ; Photo: Google Images

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Fasting (is-Sawm)

Posted on May 28, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Please click on the image or the link below.

Fasting during the month of Ramadan

The FastingFasting during the month of Ramadan

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Ramadan plan 2017

Posted on May 28, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

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‘Our Teaching’ so said the Promised Messiah

Posted on May 12, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Belief in God is the foremost essential condition of Ahmadiyya Movement

The Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi, the Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, says:

“Relevant to a proper observance of my teaching, it is essential that one should firmly believe that there is an all-Powerful, all-Sustaining Supreme Being, the Creator of everything, Changeless, Everlasting and Eternal. He does not beget, nor was He begotten. He is Holy, so that there is no need or occasion for Him to go on the Cross, or suffer in any way, or be subject to death. He is such that being far removed, He is still very near; and being very near, He is still very far. Although He is One, and absolutely unique, His manifestations are diverse and multifarious. Whenever there occurs in man a new change, for the changed man He becomes a new God, dealing with him on the basis of a fresh manifestation, the man witnessing a change in God in proportion to the change in himself-not that there occurs any change in God, He being Eternal, Changeless and most Perfect in Himself; but with every change in man for the better, – God also reveals Himself to him in a fresh and clearer manifestation.

With every progressive effort on the part of man God also shows Himself with higher and more powerful manifestation. He displays an extraordinary manifestation of His power and glory only when man shows an extraordinary change in himself-this being the root and the bedrock basis of the marvels and miracles witnessed at the hands of all servants of God.

Belief in this God with these powers, is the foremost essential condition of our Movement. Inculcate this belief in your hearts, giving to its implications and requirements the first and top most priority over all considerations of self, over its comforts and relationships. By means of actions in the field of your daily life, with unflinching courage, show a steadfast loyalty in His way. Others in this world do not give Him preference over material means and the support they hope to get from their friends and relations. But do you give Him the first place, so that in heaven you should come to be reckoned His people.

To show signs of grace is the eternal way of God. But you can partake of this blessing only when there remains no difference and no distance between Him and you; only when all your wishes, hopes and desires merge into His will; only when, at all times, in success or failure, in hope or disappointment, you remain in humble prostration at His door, so that He should do with you what He will. If you act like this, in you would appear that God, Who for a long time has kept His face – concealed from the world.

Is there any among you, then, who would act upon this teaching, seeking only His pleasure, without the slightest sense of dissatisfaction against the way His will works? Even in distress you should put your best foot forward, for this is the secret of your success; and you should strive to the utmost of your power to spread the idea of His singleness and unity all over the earth.” (Kashti-e-Nooh, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 19, pp. 10-11)

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Jihad and Terrorism

Posted on April 16, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

1. Living in Multicultural societies
2. Islamic Jihad and the treatment of non-Muslims
3. Jihad: A misunderstood concept and Islamic perspective on Terrorism

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Humanitarian calamity

Posted on April 15, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Source/Credit: The Times of Malta, Saturday April 15, 2017.

There is nothing more desirable than peace, prosperity and happiness. War wreaks destruction and devastation and is the foundation of acrimony and animosity. Justice, dialogue and reconciliation is the antidote for wars and conflicts.

The Holy Quran repeatedly condemns war, declaring it a catastrophic fire: “Whenever they kindle a fire of war God extinguishes it. And they strive to create disorder in the earth and God loves not those who create disorder.”

The Syrian conflict now is in its seventh year. Every day was painful, difficult and miserable. However, the latest chemical attacks leave one stunned and speechless.

The horrific videos and gruesome pictures of children gasping for air in the last moments of their life have shocked every sane and sensible person.

To me, such attacks are against humanity and should be sufficient to shake our consciousness and make us stand up against such brutalities and barbarism.

How many more deaths does the world need to witness before robust efforts are made to secure peace and find a political solution for the Syrian people?

The international community and, particularly, the neighbouring Muslim countries should play a vital role in extinguishing this fire of hatred and stop vested interests and thirst for power, which have caused mass destruction and shattered and ruined the entire country.

Moreover, the world powers should not stand by any of the parties involved in this war but act as mediators to bring both parties around a table and engage them in dialogue to find a political and permanent solution.

In the Holy Quran, God says: “And if two parties of believers fight against each other, make peace between them; then, if after that one of them transgresses against the other, fight the party that transgresses until it returns to the command of Allah. Then, if it returns, make peace between them with equity, and act justly. Verily, Allah loves the just.”

This verse provides a most effective remedy to quarrels and to settling disputes between two parties.

The United Nations can play a crucial role because the country in question is included in its charter. The UN should insist on settling any differences and resolve the dispute through dialogue. It should act as a facilitator so both parties would set the terms for peace and reconciliation.

In case the government refutes any political solution, collective measures should be taken against it and collective efforts made to force it to end the war.

To start the process of ending this massacre of innocent people, including children, I believe that, first and foremost, the provision of weapons to both parties involved in the conflict must be halted.

The Holy Quran also calls for Taqwa (righteousness) in the hearts of both rulers and masses, so an agreement can be reached.

It says: “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.”

Prophet Muhammad also drew the attention of rulers to their responsibilities. He said that the day when there is no shade other than the shade of God, He will grant shade to seven people and first among them will be a just and fair Imam. He also said that, on Judgement Day, the most beloved and the closest to God would be a just and fair ruler and the most disliked and most distant from God would be an unjust ruler.

He also said that Paradise would be forbidden to a person who is given charge over and responsibility for the people but is negligent. These commandments are matters for rulers to ponder over. If they wish to be God’s beloved they have to stop injustice. If they wish to make it to Paradise, then they have to work for the well-being of everyone without any discrimination.

When highlighting the democratic system of selecting leaders and running the business of State justly, the Holy Quran states: “Allah commands you to make over the trusts to those entitled to them and that, when you judge between people, you judge with justice.”

In this verse, the right of authority has been called as trust. Hence, anyone who receives an opportunity to govern should understand that this is a trust, which has been endowed upon him by the people.

The concept of trust is further highlighted by the Prophet Muhammad; it is mentioned that, on appointing a companion as the Amir (leader) of a region he said: “You are a weak individual and rulership is a trust. On the day of judgement, rulership shall be the cause of humiliation and disgrace, except for such a person who completely fulfils its rights.”

May we absorb God’s mercy and do our utmost to establish peace and spread love and compassion.

May God protect the world from the horrors and destruction of war. 

May God bring peace in Syria.

amjmalta@gmail.com  Laiq Ahmed Atif is president of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta. Find original article in Times of Malta

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Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta organised annual Peace Symposium 2017

Posted on April 11, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Malta, in collaboration with KSU (university student council), held an exhibition about the Holy Quran and the annual Peace Symposium titled “Jihad & Terrorism” in the KSU Common Room, at the University of Malta, on 28th March 2017. Around 50 Roll-Up Banners with the teachings of the Holy Quran, on different subjects, were also exhibited.

In her welcoming speech Ms. Steph Dalli, President KSU, spoke about multiculturalism and diversity and said, “Diversity enriches our societies and communities, and provides ample opportunities of sharing and learning from each other. The motto of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, ‘Love for all, Hatred for none’ is very inspiring and indeed is the essence for achieving the milestone and shared objective which is peace.”

First Irish Imam Ibrahim Noonan – who was invited for the peace symposium – said that, “When I look at the Quranic teachings, I see no room for terrorism in Islam. The Holy Quran states, ‘This [Quran] is a perfect Book; there is no doubt in it; it is guidance for the righteous (2:3).’ The word Taqwa which is used in this verse means righteousness, God fearing, God-consciousness, piety, virtues and abstaining from evil. This word has been used through the Quran repeatedly advising Muslims to always act upon righteousness and abstain from evil. So, a true Muslim cannot be extremist or terrorist. My own teacher had told that just as fire and water cannot live together, so is it impossible for a true Muslim to be a terrorist.”

Laiq Ahmed Atif, President of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Malta, explained the true meaning of Jihad and said, “The root of the Arabic word Jihad is Jahada meaning to struggle and to strive. Thus Jihad means to strive to the utmost for the achievement of a purpose and to leave nothing undone in acquirement of it. According to the Holy Prophet Muhammad – the founder of Islam, peace be on him, there are three main categories of Jihad.

First: The Jihad that is waged against oneself; to fight against egoism, false sense of pride, arrogance and mischief; and for the self-purification. In Islamic terminology it is called the Jihad-e-Akbar – meaning the greatest Jihad.

Second: The Jihad to preach the word of God through the Holy Quran and is called the Jihad-e-Kabeer, meaning the great Jihad.

Third: The Jihad that is waged against the enemy of freedom of conscious, and in self-defence. This is called the Jihad-e-Asghar – meaning the lesser Jihad.”

He concluded his speech with a quotation from a speech of His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, 5th Successor to the Promised Messiah, and Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, who said, “Our Jihad is not a Jihad of swords, guns or bombs. Our Jihad is not a Jihad of cruelty, brutality and injustice. Rather, our Jihad is of love, mercy and compassion. Our Jihad is of tolerance, justice and human sympathy. Our Jihad is to fulfil the rights of God Almighty and of His Creation.”

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Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat condemns church bombings

Posted on April 11, 2017 by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Komunità Musulmana f’Malta tesprimi KUNDANNA u tikkwota l-Quran

Il-Komunità Musulmana Ahmadiyya f’Malta ikkundannat bil-qawwi żewġ attakki separati li seħħew fi knejjes kattoliċi fl-Eġittu. Fi splużjoni fi Knisja fin-Nile Delta, 25 indarbu u 60 oħra sfaw midruba, filwaqt li f’attakk suwiċida f’Lixandra, tnejn inqatlu u 21 oħra sfaw midruba.

Dawn huma atti mhux umani u krudili, qalet il-Komunità f’Malta, u fi stqarrija ikkundannat dak li ġara bil-qawwa kolla. Talbet ukoll li l-istat jipprovdi protezzjoni sħiħa lil kull ċittadini li jgħix fil-pajjiż, irrispettivament mil-kulur tal-ġilda, twemmin jew politika. Appellat b’mod partikolari biex id-drittijiet tal-minuri jkunu protetti bi sħiħ mill-istat.

Ikkwotaw it-tagħlim mill-Quran u kkundannaw l-użu tal-forza fejn jidħol it-twemmin, jew f’isem ir-reliġjon.

“Aħna, membri tal-Ahmadiyya Muslin Jamaat, nesprimu l-kondoljanzi lill-familji tal-vittmi f’dan il-mument diffiċli u nitolbu biex dawk midruba jkollhom is-saħħa” temmet tgħid il-Komunità fi stqarrija ffirmata mill-president Laiq Ahmed Atif.

one.com.mt –  MaltaToday – newsbook.com.mt – TimesofMalta – 

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