The gifts of Islam

 

Reproduced below is a section from the writings of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (as) of Qadian [1835-1908], the Muslim saintly figure who claimed under Divine inspiration that he is the promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi of the Later Days. Hazrat Ahmad (as) explains here the transformative potential of Islamic beliefs and practices upon the spiritual fortunes of a human soul striving steadfastly and sincerely in the pure path of the Prophets, seeking the Face of God: attain true humility and Taqwah; gain Holy Communion- be blessed with Divine converse and dialogue, and thereby partake of lofty discourse and deep guidance; indeed, become a true heir to the cognition of God in their times.

A Prayer in the Mihrab

 

In the quiet mihrab, silver crowned with age,

Zakariya stood, though his frame was frail.

'My bones have weakened, my hair is ablaze,'

Yet his hope in his Lord did not pale.

Childless years weighed heavy on his chest,

He feared for his people when he was laid to rest.

Who would guard the way if heirs went astray? 

So he turned to his Lord, and began to pray.

Imam Mahdi's Prayer

 

O my Lord, 

by Your grace,

be my strength

and illumine my sight 

and what is in my heart

and be the purpose of 

my life and my death.

 

Fill me with Your love

and grant me such love

that it is surpassed 

by none after me.  

 

O my Lord,

accept my prayers,

grant me my wishes,

cleanse me, protect me,

draw me close to Yourself;

guide me,

help me and enable me to do good,

purify me,

illumine my soul,

make me entirely Yours

and become entirely mine.

 

A 'Bai'at' with the Khalifatullah

Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem 

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu, 

To all my dear Spiritual children and the Muslim ummah around the world, 

All praise belongs to Allah (swt), the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate, who has never left mankind without guidance. From the beginning of time, He has raised among people His chosen servants—prophets, messengers, and reformers—to illuminate the path of truth and righteousness.

As Muslims who hold firmly to the timeless teachings of the Holy Qur’an and the noble Sunnah of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), we recognize that the raising of an Elect of God in every era is part of Sunnatullah—an enduring Divine practice. Especially in times of spiritual darkness, confusion, and moral decline, Allah, in His infinite mercy, sends guidance to revive faith and restore the connection between man and his Creator.

Advices for the Muslims

   

Strive hard—O valiant ones!—

so that the Faith may gain strength,

And freshness and elegance may flourish

in the garden of Islam.

 

Friends!

Should you have compassion for the plight of Islam,

You will be—in the eyes of God—akin to

the Companions of the Prophet.

 

Hypocrisy and discord will be removed from the ignorant;

Perfect harmony, brotherhood, and friendship will be cultivated.

So rise up to strive, for surely from God’s court,

Assistance will appear for the helpers of Islam.

 

Should any sympathy for the honour of the Faith

burn in you this day—

I swear by Allah—

ye shall likewise attain dignity and honour.

 

Should ye extend forth the hand of generosity

for the victory of Islam,

Likewise shall ye behold

the sudden manifestation of the Hand of Power.

On 'Lailatul Qadr'

The Night of Decree

 

Lailatul Qadr, the Night of Decree, is a spiritual treasure that Allah has given to humanity. In the Qur’an, Allah says: “We have sent down the Qur’an in the Night of Decree” (Al-Qadr 97: 2). This revelation is the beginning of a light; that is, the light of divine guidance, the light of a Messenger of Allah, who comes to shine in the darkness, and thus it is a constant reminder that as long as man exists on earth, divine guidance will never cease. This guidance is not limited only to past centuries; it is an enlightening principle that touches every generation, and especially our generation that is living amidst chaos, wars, calamities, and confusion. Lailatul Qadr is a reminder that Allah always sends His guidance when people fall into error, and it is a promise that truth will triumph despite darkness.

 

Today, our era is filled with tribulations. So-called powers are conspiring, enriching themselves upon the suffering of people; they believe they are eternal upon the earth. But the Qur’an reminds us: “Every soul shall taste death” (Al-Imran 3: 186). They do not realise that their wealth and power will vanish, and they will have to answer for their crimes. In Hadith, our beloved Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (pbuh) announced the coming of the Mahdi and the Messiah, who will appear in a time filled with injustice and oppression. And it is important to clarify, as a Hadith in Ibn Majah states, that the Mahdi and the Messiah are one person, not two different individuals. This truth is a key to understanding our era: a single Chosen One of Allah has come, but people blinded by their own interpretations do not recognise him. They prefer to follow explanations and invented beliefs that they have inherited, instead of the living truth that Allah is manifesting.

Eid-ul- Adha Sermon 2025

Serious Advice for the Ummah

All of us today in our Eid Gah or in our Masjids are performing Salat-ul-Eid (Eid-ul-Adha) and listening to the Eid Khutba, while waiting for those among us who have the means to perform Qurbani today, just as Allah has commanded the believers who have the means and are not in debt to perform sacrifice in order to acquire His pleasure. Yes, of course, today is the greatest Eid for the Muslim Community; but in this moment of joy, in the Eid celebration, there is also sadness because of the division of the Muslim Ummah [Ummat-e-Muhammadiyya (pbuh)], a division which did not exist when our beloved Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was alive. Of course, he too went through troubling trials with his own disciples, especially with the hypocrites, but also with the adversaries of Islam who were constantly trying to overthrow Islam for their own benefit. Yet the Prophet (pbuh) taught an undeniable truth for the victory of Islam: the unity of his followers upon the path of Allah and strict obedience to his instructions.

 

In commemorating the sacrifice of our ancestors Hazrat Ibrahim (as), Isma’il (as) and Muhammad (pbuh), today more than ever, we must not forget those instructions.

The Hidden Meaning of Ramadan

  

Fasting in general is filled with many benefits. It does not only bring physical benefits, but also spiritual benefits, hidden benefits. Ramadan is a month in which the hidden truth within the soul is given an opportunity to manifest. It is an opportunity that Allah grants to each of His believing servants to change, to reform, to reflect upon their past mistakes and sins, and to approach Allah with repentance in the hope of acquiring His forgiveness. Whoever Allah forgives during the sacred month of Ramadan is given by Allah a new beginning, a new chance to prove themselves in the world.

 

The benefits of fasting are great, but the fast of Ramadan is greater still, because here lies the question of obedience and recognition that this month, as Allah has revealed, is a month filled with blessings. Thus, whoever observes the fast of Ramadan obtains an inner unveiling of their soul: all their sins or mistakes that they once thought small and without consequence take on a great magnitude in their own eyes, and they truly realise how wrong they were and they ask Allah for forgiveness. And Allah loves the one who becomes conscious of themselves, of their mistakes and sins, and turns towards Him. This is why Hazrat Muhammad (pbuh) taught his wife Hazrat Aisha (ra) to recite often: Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun, tuhibbul-‘afwa, fa‘fu ‘anni – O Allah, You are Forgiving, You love to forgive, so forgive me.

The Benefits of Ramadan Fasting

  

Ramadan does not only mean abstaining from eating and drinking, but it is also a complete transformation that touches faith, society, health and spirituality. Whoever practises it with sincerity gets inner discipline, succeeds in drawing closer to Allah, develops a solid brotherhood with the Ummah – his Muslim brothers and sisters – and attains a sure means to purify his body and his soul. The Holy Qur’an and Sunnah have shown us several categories of benefits of Ramadan, and I will cite some of them before you:

 

(1) Taqwa (Fear of Allah) 

 

Allah says in the Qur’an: “O you who have believed, fasting (Roza) has been prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain Taqwa.” (Al-Baqara 2: 184)

The Shahada- 2

  

Shahada, that is, the testimony: Laa Ilaaha illallaahu Muhammadur-Rasullullah, is not merely a formula of faith; it is a complete commitment that Allah demands from a believer, so that he establishes only Allah alone in his heart as his Lord, his God, and that he does not worship any other things, or people, or animals, or claim that these are gods alongside Allah. This person must be conscious that when he pronounces these words, that Allah alone is worthy of worship, not others, and NOT EVEN THE PROPHETS whom Allah sent upon the earth.

 

That is why Shahada is in two phases: first, to believe in Allah and worship Him alone, and second, to believe in Muhammad (pbuh), His Prophet, His Messenger. Here, what is important to retain is that Allah makes it clear: Beware! I alone am worthy of worship – you must pray to Me alone. My Messenger Muhammad (pbuh), just like all the prophets and messengers before him and even those who will come after him, are only human beings who come from Me to show you the path that will lead you to Me.

The Shahada- 1

  

The Shahada, that is, the testimony of faith, is a simple yet profound declaration which forms the heart of a believer in Islam. When a believer says: Ash-hadu alla ilaaha illallahu, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadar-Rasullullah (I bear witness that there is no other god except Allah and that Muhammad (pbuh) is [simply] His Messenger), it is not merely a phrase upon the lips and tongue; it is a spiritual commitment, a promise that this believer is making before Allah, for this phrase which appears very simple is in fact the key that opens the door of faith.

 

(The first part of the Shahada i.e.) “Laa Ilaaha Illallah” is beyond what people can describe, beyond what they can comprehend; it separates the believers from the disbelievers, those who are blessed and in peace and happiness from those who are far from Allah’s blessings and who make their lives bitter through their own faults; thus this Shahada (Laa Ilaaha Ilallahu Muhammadur Rasullullah) represents the very foundation of Islam. Whoever holds firmly to this word, this key, attains eternal life; whoever neglects it falls into perdition.

'Tawheed': Mission of the Prophets

  

Tawheed, that is to say the absolute Oneness of Allah, remains the very foundation of Islam. Tawheed means to believe in one single God, without giving Him any associate, child, or even wife (spouse).

 

The Holy Qur’an establishes Allah’s Oneness clearly in a direct and plain way: “Say: He is Allah, the One; Allah, the Only One to be implored; He has not begotten (has no child), nor has He been begotten (none has brought Him into existence); and none is equal to Him.” (Al-Ikhlas, 112: 2-5).

 

This Surah summarises all the beauty and truth of Tawheed; each verse evokes the Oneness of Allah, either positively, or by rejecting all associations that humans or jinns attribute to Him in His worship.

 

Islam refuses all diversity in divinity. In Surah Bani Isra’il, Allah says: “Say: Praise be to Allah Who has not taken any child, Who has no associate in His sovereignty, Who has no need of any Protector out of weakness...” (17: 112).

 

In Surah Al-An’am (6: 102), Allah says: “How could He have a child, when He has no wife?”

 

This proves that Allah remains Unique and Alone – He alone is our Creator and none resembles Him in His complete, perfect and eternal attributes. Allah is One in His essence and in His divine nature.

Bai’ah & Sincerity in Repentance

  

Sincere repentance towards Allah is a great obligation for every Muslim. When a person makes a mistake, falls into sin, or deviates from the straight path, he must return to Allah with a humble and sincere heart. Repentance is not merely words on the lips; it is a deep commitment in the heart, a true regret and a firm decision not to return to the same error again.

 

In the Holy Qur’an (Az-Zumar, 39: 54), Allah says that His mercy is vast and He forgives all sins if people return to Him with sincerity. This shows that despite the number of mistakes a servant may commit, the door of forgiveness remains open if he/ she asks for His forgiveness sincerely.

 

In a Hadith reported by Anas bin Malik (ra), the Holy Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: “Allah is more pleased with the repentance of His servant than a traveller who finds his mount after losing it in the desert.” (Bukhari, Muslim). This comparison shows the depth of Allah’s joy when a servant returns to Him.

Generosity in Islam

  

Generosity in Islam is a spiritual treasure which our Creator – Allah – has placed as a light in the life of the believers. It is not only a moral quality; it is an obligation which forms an integral part of faith. In the Holy Qur’an, Allah says concerning the Holy Prophet Muhammad (pbuh): “And indeed, you (Muhammad) are of a great moral character.” (Al-Qalam 68: 5).

 

This verse clearly shows that the Holy Prophet (pbuh) was a perfect model of nobility, kindness and generosity. In a Hadith reported by Tirmidhi, he recommended people to always show beautiful qualities and good behaviour; and he himself embodied this in his daily life.

'Patience is a Light'

Patience (Sabr) is a light in Islam. When a person adopts patience, he gains an inner clarity which illuminates his path. This protects his heart against the darkness of despair and gives him strength to pass through trials without panic. Without patience, life becomes like a house without light; but with patience, every difficulty becomes an opportunity to come closer to Allah.

 

Allah has said in the Qur’an:

 

“O believers! Seek help through patience and prayer; truly Allah is with those who are patient.” (Al-Baqara 2: 154)

 

This verse shows that patience is not merely a moral quality, but a spiritual means of attaining closeness to Allah. When a Muslim practises patience, he feels that Allah is with him, he gains divine support, and he gains courage to continue despite adversities.

Anger and Self-control

Anger Management in Islam

 

Anger is a natural feeling that exists in every person; but Islam has taught that one must control one’s anger and not express it in a brutal manner. Allah has given clear guidance in the Holy Qur’an and the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad Mustapha (pbuh) has shown by his own example how a Muslim must live with patience, gentleness and discipline. Anger is a poison that destroys family relations, marital relations and social relations; and whoever allows anger to dominate loses the blessings of Allah. Whoever succeeds in suppressing his anger gains immense reward in the Hereafter.

 

In the Holy Qur’an, Allah says: “The pious are those who spend in prosperity and in difficulty; those who control their anger and forgive people; and Allah loves those who do good.” (Al-Imran 3: 135)

Al Azim Tafsir: Volume 7

  

New Volume Released

Book 7: Al-Azim Tafsir'ul Quran Series  | Hazrat Munir Ahmad Azim, Al-Azim Tafsir’ul Qur'an, Vol. 7: English Commentary of the Holy Quran, pp. 530, Mauritius: Jamaat Ul Sahih Al Islam International, 21 January 2026, First edition.

New Year

   

As we have reached a new year, it is essential that we reflect profoundly upon the passage of time and our temporary stay in this world. Remember that time is among the most precious gifts granted by Allah, and it is a trust that cannot be reclaimed once it slips away. Allah says in the Holy Qur’an: “In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. By time; indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience” (Al-Asr 103: 1-4).

 

This verse teaches us that every moment carries weight; if wasted, it leads to loss, but if invested in faith, good deeds, truthfulness and patience, it becomes a source of salvation. The beginning of a new year, therefore, should not be seen merely as a change of dates, but as an opportunity to renew our commitment to living with purpose, discipline and devotion.

The essence of 'Islam'

 

My dear disciples,

Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah Wa Barakaatuhu.

I hope and pray that you have maximised your time in spiritual learning and reinforcing your ties of brotherhood and sisterhood during this blessed Jalsa Salana event. May Allah always maintain you on the way of rectitude and grant you relief from all burdens and difficulties of life, and encourage you in His way to promote His will in the world. Ameen. 

You should know that one of the most essential qualities of a true believer is their Submission to the Will of Allah and having a firm belief in His Divine Plan.

Submission to the will of Allah is the very heart of faith and the essence of Islam. The word ‘Islam’ itself means submission and peace, and it refers to the surrender of one’s entire being to the Creator. Allah commands in the Holy Qur’an: “O you who believe! Enter into Islam completely and do not follow the footsteps of Satan; indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.” (Al-Baqara 2: 209)

 

This verse makes clear that submission is not partial or selective; it is complete, unconditional, and sincere. It is not only the outward act of obedience but also the inward surrender of the heart, mind, and soul to the Divine Will. To submit is to recognise that Allah alone is the Sovereign, and His decree governs all creation.

Spirituality and Inner Health

My dear Suruj Makin,

Assalamu Alaykum Warahmatullah Wabarakaatuh.

 

I am most happy to deliver to you some precious advices which shall benefit you, not only in this life, but in the hereafter as well. With the advent of a New Year, I wish you many blessings in its midst, and I pray that Allah may crown your Jalsa Salana with much success and blessings. Insha-Allah, Ameen.

 

Today, let’s us reflect on those things that weigh heavily upon the heart and shape the path we walk. We can speak of patience, modesty, and gratitude, but to implement it is of paramount importance. Besides this, there are other truths that deserve our attention, truths that are often left in silence.

 

Today, I wish to remind you of these matters, so that our hearts may be awakened to the fear of Allah and His love.