into the canabyss · ‘virtues are like food. in the same manner that a person cannot exist...

INTO THE CANINTO THE CANABYSSABYSS

NEW YEARSNEW YEARSIMPAC T OF DRUGSIMPAC T OF DRUGSTIMELY MARRIAGETIMELY MARRIAGE

CLIMATE CHANGECLIMATE CHANGETHE INFO WARTHE INFO WARROLE MODELSROLE MODELSBAD CONTENTBAD CONTENT

STUDENT NIGHTSTUDENT NIGHTAMSA EXPANSIONAMSA EXPANSION

SHELTER BUSSHELTER BUS

pages 23-26

Jan 2020Jan 2020

IN THIS ISSUE

An-Nida 2020 v5.indd 1An-Nida 2020 v5.indd 1 2020-02-25 7:40 AM2020-02-25 7:40 AM

"

T he Holy Q u r a nT he Holy Q u r a n

فاستبقوا مولیہا ہو جہۃ و لکل و

ت بکمت این ما تکونوا یا

خی ال

ء قدیر عل کل ش جمیعا ان الل الل

اعوذ باهلل من الشيطان الرجيمبسم اهلل الرحمن الرحيم


And every one has a goal which dominates him; vie, then, with one another in good works. Wherever you be, Allah will bring you all together. Surely, Allah has the power

to do all that He wills.

(Al-Baqarah, 2:149)

L

L

T he Holy Q u r a nT he Holy Q u r a n

2An-Nida Magazine


HADITH اللهم صل على محمد و على آل محمد كما صليت على ابرهيم و على آل ابرهيم انك حميد مجيداللهم بارك على محمد و على آل محمد كما باركت على ابرهيم و على آل ابرهيم انك حميد مجيد

Sahih Muslim, Kitabul-Fadha’il, Bab Fadha’il Alira ibn Abi Talib

ناث حد

اال

ه - ق

ا حديث

، - وهذ

يبة

بي ش

مان بن أ

حمد بن صالح، وعث

نا أ

ث حد

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م، عن أ

سل

ام بن سعد، عن زيد بن أ

نا هش

ث ين، حد

فضل بن دك

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ه صلىا رسول الل

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هللا عليه وسلم يوما أ

ه صلى هللا عليهال رسول الل

ق

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ر إن سبقته يوما ف

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يت أل

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هلك ” يت أل

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ه صلى هللا عليه وسلم ” ما أ

ه رسول الل

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بك

بدا . ى �ضىء أ

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. ق

Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab (ra) narrates, “The Messenger of Allah (sa) commanded us one day to give sadaqah. At that time I had some property. I said, ‘Today, of all days, I shall surpass Abu Bakr’. I, therefore, brought half my property (to be spent in the way of Allah). The Messenger of Allah (sa) asked, ‘What did you leave for your family?’ I replied, ‘The same amount’. Then, Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) brought all that he had with him. The Messenger of Allah (sa) asked him, ‘What did you leave for your family?’ He replied, ‘I left Allah and His Messenger (sa) for them’. I said (to myself), ‘I shall never be able to compete with you in anything’.”


Words of the messiahas

Malfuzat, Vol. 8, p. 371,372

‘Righteousness means to abstain from the subtle paths of evil. …Rather, true virtue is to serve mankind and demonstrate absolute truthfulness and loyalty in the cause of Allah the Exalted and to be ready to sacrifice one’s life in His cause. For this reason Allah the Exalted has stated here: ‘That is, verily Allah is with those who are righteous and those who do good.’

He further says:‘Remember full well that merely abstaining from evil is not a virtue (to say that I abstain from evil and am very pious is not an act of virtue), until he does not act virtuously alongside it.’

He further says:‘In the sight of Allah the Exalted, Islam is not the name of refraining from vices. Rather, until a person does not adopt virtues, whilst abstaining from vices, he will not be able to survive in this spiritual realm. The truth of Islamic teachings is to increase and improve one’s spirituality.’

He further says:‘Virtues are like food. In the same manner that a person cannot exist without food, he will cease to exist until he adopts virtues. This state is acquired by increasing in faith’.

The Promised Messiah & Imam Mahdias states:

4An-Nida Magazine


In the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, an administrative system, running under the direct guidance and supervision of the Khalifah (caliph), helps administer all its various activities. On 22ndDecember 2019, His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aa), Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and Fifth Khalifah (Caliph), addressed the National Qaideen Forum of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, a youth auxiliary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, at Islamabad, Tilford, UK. Although addressing an auxiliary body, His Holiness’s message addressed all office bearers of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in general.

An-Nida Magazine5


In the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, an administrative system, running under the direct guidance and supervision of the Khalifah (caliph), helps administer all its various activities. On 22ndDecember 2019, His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aa), Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and Fifth Khalifah (Caliph), addressed the National Qaideen Forum of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, a youth auxiliary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, at Islamabad, Tilford, UK. Although addressing an auxiliary body, His Holiness’s message addressed all office bearers of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in general.

After reciting Tashahhud, Ta’awwuz and Bismillah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aa) said:‘With the Grace of Allah, you have gathered here today for the Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Qaideen Refresher Course and the first thing I wish to remind you is that ‘Qaid’ means ‘leader’ and a proper leader is someone who leads by example and takes his people on a path which he walks upon himself. Certainly, the responsibility of a Qaid, or for that matter of any Jama’at or auxiliary office bearer, is not at all insignificant or ordinary.

Rather, their duty, regardless of the level at which they are serving, demands that they strive their utmost to be an excellent role model for the other members of the Jama’at.In this regard, it is of paramount importance that all Jama’at or auxiliary office bearers have a firm conviction in their hearts that Allah the Almighty is looking at them at all times and will hold them accountable for their actions. They should never forget that though they may be able to hide things from other people, they can never conceal anything from Allah the Almighty.

He knows all that we do and whatever is in our hearts and so keeping this in mind, every office bearer must strive to fulfil their responsibilities to the best of their abilities and save themselves from any form of weakness in their faith, or from neglect in their duties. You must constantly pay heed and reflect upon the pledge made by every Ahmadi to forever ‘give precedence to their faith over all worldly matters.’ As an office bearer, you must uphold this pledge at all times and utilise the skills and capabilities given to you by Allah the Almighty for the fulfilment of your Jama’at duties. If all our Jama’at office bearers serve with this spirit of keeping the fear of Allah in their hearts, we can bring about a great spiritual transformation, not just within our Jama’at, but also amongst the wider society and humanity at large. As a Qaid, or in whichever position you serve the Jama’at, you must prove yourself to be a person who others consider sincere and a positive role model from whom they can learn and benefit. They should have full confidence in you and recognise that there is nothing you ask from them that you are not doing yourself.

As you will be aware, certain offices within our Jama’at are elected, whilst others are made by appointment. Regardless, of how a duty is bestowed, it is always given with the belief and expectation that the office bearer will seek to discharge their responsibilities with honesty, integrity and dedication. So, as Qaids, you must seek to fulfil the faith placed in you by your Majlis, by the Sadr Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and ultimately by Khalifa-e-Waqt.

You must spare no effort and utilise all of your faculties and talents to fulfil your responsibilities.You must be an excellent role model and endeavour to do full justice to the trust that has been placed in you. If all the Qaideen serve in this way, it will lead to the success and prosperity of the Majlis and you will play your role in helping the Jama’at fulfil the great objectives and mission of the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi (as). For we have accepted that person whose advent was foretold by the Holy Prophet (sa) and who was sent by Allah to revive the true teachings of Islam and to bring mankind back towards its Creator. Thus, at all times, the Qaideen and other office bearers, must ensure they are living their lives according to the teachings of the Promised Messiah (as).


Only then will you be in a position to guide others towards spiritual and religious prosperity. Of course, every Ahmadi should be very familiar with the instructions and guidance of the Promised Messiah (as), which are an everlasting treasure for our Jama’at. At the same time, the Jama’at or auxiliary office bearers should consider that they are the first addressees and recipients of his instructions and so, before anyone else, it is up to them to obey him in every single respect.

Only if our office bearers inculcate such qualities and values will we begin to fulfil the objectives of the advent of the Promised Messiah (as) and for which he founded the Jama’at. On one occasion, the Promised Messiah (as) spoke about the proclamation of faith in the Oneness of God that every Muslim makes:

هالل

ه إال

إل

ال

‘There is no God except Allah.’

He said that our declaration of faith should be made with complete sincerity and heartfelt fervour and with an intense desire to develop an unbreakable spiritual bond with Allah the Almighty. Similarly, the standard of our prayers and remembrance of Allah should be exemplary and made with complete certainty in the Oneness of God. Furthermore, the Promised Messiah (as) said that his followers should exhibit the highest possible standards in fulfilling the rights of humanity. They should have sympathy and love for their brothers and sisters within the Jama’at and also for the members of the wider world. Whilst these were general instructions for all Ahmadis, our office bearers must pay special heed to these blessed words of the Promised Messiah (as) and seek to live their lives accordingly.

We are living in an age where people are moving far away from God Almighty and so their goals and aspirations are devoid of spirituality. For example, people have worldly employment or responsibilities, which they fulfil according to worldly rules and regulations. As a result, they achieve certain limited targets or influence others to some extent through materialistic ways and means. However, the work of a purely spiritual community, founded according to Divine Will, is completely different because it is underpinned by a direct and constant link with Allah the Almighty.

Thus, any representative or office bearer of a divinely established spiritual community can never be successful in discharging their duties save for the blessings and mercy of Allah the Almighty. And to attain His blessings, our office bearers must develop an unwavering conviction in the truth of:

هالل

ه إال

إل

ال

‘There is no God except Allah.’

Thus, if you wish to succeed, you must, above all else, turn towards Allah the Almighty. The primary way to achieve this is through Salat and so you must ensure you offer the five daily prayers on time and strive to offer them in congregation as much as possible. Secondly, you must make it a daily feature of your life to recite and study the Holy Quran and consider it the ultimate source of inspiration for your work and service. This will enable you to derive a code of practice and action plan for yourself and your Majlis and ensure that your targets and strategies are devised in a way that will prove fruitful and blessed.


Make it a point that a Qaid or an office-bearer should not waste time waiting for a direct instruction from their superior or the Sadr Khuddam before doing any work. Of course, the centre will give you targets, a general framework to follow and will highlight your key responsibilities. At the same time, you must also take personal responsibility and develop new ways and means to enhance the progress of your Majlis. Furthermore, always remember that the Promised Messiah (as) repeatedly expressed his heartfelt desire that each member of the Jama’at should become a muttaqi– meaning a righteous and pious person. In fact, this is not only his direction – but is the instruction of the Holy Prophet (sa) and indeed the commandment of Allah the Almighty.

In the eyes of Allah the Almighty, righteousness is whatever is virtuous and moral and so a truly pious person is he who, before conducting any activity or before speaking, remembers that Allah is watching over them. They ask themselves whether what they are about to pursue is according to the teachings of Islam and if it is not, they refrain. People often ask what is permissible and what is unlawful according to the teachings of Islam. On one occasion, upon being asked a similar question, the Promised Messiah (as) gave a beautiful guiding principle.

He said:

‘Fear Allah the Almighty and do everything.’

These words of the Promised Messiah (as) are filled with boundless wisdom and reflect the fact that if a person truly fears God, it is not possible for them to knowingly act contrary to His teachings and commands. They will never disregard righteousness or morality and nor will they ever seek to further their own interests at the expense of others or manifest any form of injustice. Hence, as Qaids, your every action and intention must be for the sake of pleasing Allah alone and not to gain the praise of any individual or to win the ‘Alm-e-Inaami’. I do not mean that hoping to win the Alm-e-Inaami is wrong or that you should not accept the thanks or recognition of others for your efforts. Of course, the Alm-e-Inaami and similar awards are a means of recognising, recording and endorsing the excellent efforts of a Qaid or Region and encourage others to learn and better their efforts in future.

However, for a servant of the Jama’at, for a true believer and righteous person winning an award or gaining praise should never be their motivation; rather, their intention and desire must simply be to please Allah the Almighty. Unquestionably, Allah’s love and grace are the ultimate rewards and this is why the Promised Messiah (as) once said that: ‘If you please Allah, the sun will never set upon you.’

This means that if a person is devoted to seeking the pleasure and nearness to Allah, they will overcome whatever challenges or difficulties that may arise and will observe that the blessings of God Almighty will continually rain down upon them. Therefore, building a personal bond with Allah the Almighty is the golden key, which will enable you to unlock the doors to prosperity in your Jama’at duties and all other aspects of your lives.

8An-Nida Magazine


To forge such a connection and union with Allah the Almighty, it is also important that you offer the Tahajjad prayer with regularity. When a person makes a special effort to develop a bond and living relationship with Allah the Almighty through Tahajjad, it naturally leads them towards fulfilling the rights of mankind. So the closer you are to Allah, the more your hearts will open up to the Khuddam and Atfal in your region and you will earnestly desire to help and guide them.

Always remember that the Promised Messiah (as) has said that entering his fold should be akin to starting a ‘new life’ and this requires a person to be ready to make every possible sacrifice for the sake of their faith and to consider everything else secondary to Allah the Almighty. If a person lives their life with this righteous spirit, even whilst living in this material world, they will find that Allah becomes their friend, their helper and their protector and He will enable them to overcome whatever challenges of trials they face. It is also vitally important that you and the members of your Majlis take every opportunity to increase your religious knowledge, rather than focusing solely upon secular education. Today, with the Grace of Allah, we have a great treasure trove of Jama’at literature easily available, both in printed form and electronic form on the various Jama’at websites. In particular, on Alislam.org the commentaries of the Holy Quran are available, as are the books of the Hadith, the books of the Promised Messiah (as) and the books and sermons of the Khulafa.

Therefore, it is extremely easy for people to increase their religious knowledge, as long as they are willing to sacrifice their time to read and study. Another crucial point taught by the Promised Messiah (as), which I wish to bring to your attention, is that members of his Jama’at should constantly strive to improve their moral standards by remaining in control of their emotions and their tongue.

Hence, every Ahmadi, but especially office bearers, should pray that Allah enables them to develop the qualities of compassion, humility and meekness. Furthermore, it should not be that you are kind and considerate in public, whilst you are harsh or unjust within your home. A truly righteous person is he or she who remains kind and caring at all times and in all circumstances. A truly pious person is he who practices what they preach and whose standards of morality and decency remain of the highest order both in public and in private.

Thus, you should be kind and warm-hearted in all of your dealings, whether it be with the members of your Majlis, with other Ahmadis, the wider society or whether it be with your family and friends. In essence, it is not just your duty to guide others, rather you must first embody those instructions and principles that you try to instil in them. Furthermore, to increase your religious knowledge and to improve your moral and spiritual standards, you should listen very carefully to the sermons and addresses of the Khalifa-e-Waqt. You should reflect upon what I say and ensure you are acting upon all of my guidance and instructions.

When you are following this guidance and instructions, the members of your Majlis will naturally learn from you and you will become a positive role model for them. Leading on from this, you should understand that the principal objective and task of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya is to stand on the front lines protecting and guarding the institution of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya.

The best way to do this is by listening to and acting upon the words of the Khalifa-e-Waqt and to be completely loyal and obedient to Khilafat at all times and in all circumstances. You cannot fulfil this great duty, until and unless, you recognise the fact that the success or failure of our Jama’at hinges upon our unity. To become united we must follow the means taught by Allah the Almighty Himself and in this era, He has established the institution of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya as the spiritual rope that keeps us bound together.


Consequently, to help ensure the continued unity of our Jama’at, you must ensure you are personally loyal and obedient to Khilafat and seek to increase the bond between the Khuddam and Atfal in your area with Khilafat. If you are able to achieve this, you will be playing your role in protecting the Jama’at and guarding the institution of Khilafat. Without any shadow of doubt, if the Jama’at of the Promised Messiah (as) remains united at the hand of Khilafat, we will continue to witness the blessings of Allah rain down upon us.

We may confront challenges, we may encounter grief, we may face persecution – yet, rest assured that if we remain under the shade of Khilafat, all trials and tribulations are destined to pass and in their place, great glad tidings and eternal prosperity will surely emerge. With these words, I pray that you will have all benefited from the discussions and mutual exchange of ideas at this year’s Refresher Course and the guidance given to you by the National Khuddam team or by Sadr Khuddamul Ahmadiyya.

Moreover, I hope and expect that, having listened to my address, you will return to your Majlis much more determined to fulfil your duties and that before asking the members of your Majlis to inculcate whatever you have learned here, you will first seek to adopt those things within yourself. As Qaid, you may be treated with respect by the Khuddam and Atfal in your Qiadat, but I hope and pray that their respect is whole-hearted and not given out of a sense of duty or necessity; rather, I pray they genuinely respect you and consider you their friends, because they know that you uphold their dignity and meet them with love, sincerity and kindness.

Certainly, your concern for them should be heartfelt, you should pray for them and above all, you should earnestly desire and strive to bring every single person in your Majlis closer to their Creator. May your efforts help foster an everlasting bond between the Khuddam and Atfal in your area and the Jama’at. At the end, I pray that may all Khuddam and Atfal have firm faith in God’s Unity, in the truth of Islam and the truth of the Promised Messiah (as). May they fulfil the conditions and demands of the Bai’at of the Promised Messiah (as) and be amongst those who are forever loyal and obedient to the institution of Khilafat. May Allah the Almighty enable you to fulfil your duties in the best way possible and enable Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya to continually progress and flourish, Ameen.’

10An-Nida Magazine


“NATIONS CANNOT BE REFORMED WITHOUT THE REFORMATION OF THE YOUTH”

M A J L I S K H U D D A M U L A H M A D I Y Y A C A N A D A

HAZRAT MUSLEH MAUD(RA)

P R O D U C T I O N P R O D U C T I O N

C H I E F E D I TO RC H I E F E D I TO R

E N G L I S H E D I TO RE N G L I S H E D I TO R D E S I G N & G R A P H I C SD E S I G N & G R A P H I C S

M U H TA M I M I S H A ATM U H TA M I M I S H A ATS A D R M A J L I SS A D R M A J L I S

THINK YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE TO THE PUBLICATION OF THIS MAGAZINE?THEN DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT US!

FARHAN FARHAN

FARHAN FARHAN

ZAIHID ZAIHID ZUBAIR AFZALZUBAIR AFZAL

AHMED SAHIAHMED SAHISAROOP SAHISAROOP SAHI

[email protected]@KHUDDAM.CA

An-Nida Magazine11



Ta b l e o f Co nte nt sTa b l e o f Co nte nt s

EDITORIALIn the name of Allah, the most Gracious, the ever Merciful

Dear Khuddam brothers,

Assalaamo ‘Alaikum wa Rahmatullah!

Being a Khadim means many things. It means that we serve with humility. It means that we serve others without asking anything back. It means that we drive all night in a shelter bus free of cost with the spirit of sacrifice and longing for service to others. It means that we try our best to be role models for others. It means that we try to live a life devoted to God. It means that we never tire in our services and pledge to remain united with Khilafat. It means that we excel one another in good things as the Quran instructs, “Vie with one another in good works” (2:149). Let us join hands in efforts to do just that. Let us change our world by doing something good, something great, something remarkable; something that will make Allah pleased with us. While we are proud to be Khuddam, we are also thankful to Allah for enabling us to be part of this blessed organization, under the guidance of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya. In this edition of An-Nida, the team brings you articles that bring to light the efforts of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Canada in recent months, as well as issues that matter most to Khuddam today. May Allah continue to enable us to serve as members of MKA, and bring about a positive change to our world. Ameen.

Wassalaam,Farhan IqbalEditor, An-Nida’

POWER OF PRAYERPOWER OF PRAYERADDRESS BY ADDRESS BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL-MASIH V (AA)

pg. 17-18pg. 17-18

pg. 5-10pg. 5-10

pg. 19-20pg. 19-20

pg. 21-22pg. 21-22

pg. 23-24pg. 23-24

pg. 25-28pg. 25-28

pg. 29-32pg. 29-32

pg. 33-34pg. 33-34

pg. 35-36pg. 35-36

pg. 39-40pg. 39-40

pg. 37-38pg. 37-38

pg. 41-42pg. 41-42

pg. 43-46pg. 43-46

pg. 47-48pg. 47-48

SECRE TS TO SUCCESSSECRE TS TO SUCCESSBELIEF IN GODBELIEF IN GODCERTAINT Y OF GODCERTAINT Y OF GODMENTAL HEALTHMENTAL HEALTHCANABYSSCANABYSSNEW YEARS OLD WAYSNEW YEARS OLD WAYSEARLY MARRIAGEEARLY MARRIAGE

MTA CONTENTMTA CONTENTCAUTION WITH CONTENTCAUTION WITH CONTENT

ROLE MODELSROLE MODELSSTUDENT NIGHT & AMSA EXPANSIONSTUDENT NIGHT & AMSA EXPANSIONSHELTER BUSSHELTER BUS


NATIONAL NATIONAL

ZUBAIR AFZALZUBAIR AFZAL

MIR NASIR SAEEDMIR NASIR SAEED

SAUD AHMADSAUD AHMAD

MUBASHAR AHMAD TISHNAMUBASHAR AHMAD TISHNA

FURQAN AHMAD BAJWAFURQAN AHMAD BAJWA

AHMED BAZID SAHIAHMED BAZID SAHI

MOHAMMAD ANSAR BAJWAMOHAMMAD ANSAR BAJWAAHMED ZAKARIAAHMED ZAKARIA

BASHARAT AHMEDBASHARAT AHMED

CHAUDHRY MUNIR CHAUDHRY MUNIR

ZUBAIR AHMAD JUNJUAZUBAIR AHMAD JUNJUA

MUHAMMAD ANSAR MUHAMMAD ANSAR BHARWANABHARWANA

IFTIKHAR AHMEDIFTIKHAR AHMED

ZAHID CHAUDHRYZAHID CHAUDHRY

SAQIB MAHMOOD SAQIB MAHMOOD

SABA-UL-ZAFAR BHATTISABA-UL-ZAFAR BHATTI

AYAZ AHMAD WARRAICHAYAZ AHMAD WARRAICH

ADNAN RABBANIADNAN RABBANI

SALMAN ZUBAIR MANGLASALMAN ZUBAIR MANGLA

TAHIR AHMEDTAHIR AHMED

MUHAMMAD DAWOOD MUHAMMAD DAWOOD

MIRZA TAHIR AHMEDMIRZA TAHIR AHMED

SADR MAJLISSADR MAJLIS

MUHTAMIM ‘UMUMIMUHTAMIM ‘UMUMI

NA’IB SADRNA’IB SADR

MUHASIBMUHASIB

MUHTAMIM MALMUHTAMIM MAL

MUHTAMIM UMUR TALABA’MUHTAMIM UMUR TALABA’

MUHTAMIM ADDITIONAL MALMUHTAMIM ADDITIONAL MALNA’IB SADRNA’IB SADR

MUHTAMIM TA‘LIMMUHTAMIM TA‘LIM


MUHTAMIM MUHTAMIM TAJNIDTAJNID

MUHTAMIM KHIDMAT KHALQMUHTAMIM KHIDMAT KHALQ


MUHTAMIM ISHA‘ATMUHTAMIM ISHA‘AT

MU‘TAMADMU‘TAMAD

MUHTAMIM WAQAR MUHTAMIM WAQAR

MUHTAMIM ATFALMUHTAMIM ATFAL


MUHTAMIM TABLIGHMUHTAMIM TABLIGH

MUHTAMIM MUQAMIMUHTAMIM MUQAMI

MUHTAMIMMUHTAMIMTARBIYAT NAU TARBIYAT NAU

MUBA’I‘INMUBA’I‘IN

MUHTAMIM TAR-MUHTAMIM TAR-

“NATIONS CANNOT BE REFORMED WITHOUT THE REFORMATION OF THE YOUTH”

HAZRAT MUSLEH MAUDRA

RAUF AHMEDRAUF AHMED

MUHAMMAD MOAZZUMMUHAMMAD MOAZZUM

KHALID HASSANKHALID HASSAN

DANIYAL AHMAD MIRZADANIYAL AHMAD MIRZA



AHMED BAZID SAHIAHMED BAZID SAHI

MOHAMMAD ANSAR BAJWAMOHAMMAD ANSAR BAJWA

ADNAN ZUBAIR MANGLAADNAN ZUBAIR MANGLA

WAQAS TAIMOORWAQAS TAIMOOR

FAHID HUNDALFAHID HUNDAL

RAHMAT UL HAQ MANSOOR RAHMAT UL HAQ MANSOOR ADNAN RABBANIADNAN RABBANI

SALMAN ZUBAIR MANGLASALMAN ZUBAIR MANGLA

TAHIR AHMEDTAHIR AHMED

MUHAMMAD DAWOOD MUHAMMAD DAWOOD

MIRZA TAHIR AHMEDMIRZA TAHIR AHMED

USMAN AHMEDUSMAN AHMED

MUSAWAR AHMAD KHANMUSAWAR AHMAD KHAN

MUHTAMIM UMUR TALABA’MUHTAMIM UMUR TALABA’

MUHTAMIM ADDITIONAL MALMUHTAMIM ADDITIONAL MAL

MUHTAMIM SAN‘AT-O-TIJARATMUHTAMIM SAN‘AT-O-TIJARAT

MU‘AWIN SADRMU‘AWIN SADR

MUHTAMIM SEHAT JISMANIMUHTAMIM SEHAT JISMANI


MUHTAMIM TAHRIK JADIDMUHTAMIM TAHRIK JADID


14An-Nida Magazine

RAUF AHMEDRAUF AHMED NAVEEDUL ISLAMNAVEEDUL ISLAM ROOMI SAHIROOMI SAHIMUHAMMAD MUHAMMAD

SALAH-UD-DIN CHATTHASALAH-UD-DIN CHATTHA

MU‘AWIN SADRMU‘AWIN SADR MU‘AWIN SADRMU‘AWIN SADR MU‘AWIN SADRMU‘AWIN SADR QA’ID ‘ ILLAQA WESTERN QA’ID ‘ ILLAQA WESTERN CANADA CANADA

MUHAMMAD MOAZZUMMUHAMMAD MOAZZUM

KHALID HASSANKHALID HASSAN

DANIYAL AHMAD MIRZADANIYAL AHMAD MIRZA

SAEED AHMAD DARSAEED AHMAD DAR

ATIF IQBAL BUTTATIF IQBAL BUTT

MALIK MUBASHIR AHMADMALIK MUBASHIR AHMAD

ATTA-UR REHMANATTA-UR REHMAN

MOHAMMAD SALMAN MAJIDMOHAMMAD SALMAN MAJID

SHAHRUKH RIZWAN ABIDSHAHRUKH RIZWAN ABID

AWAIS MAHMOODAWAIS MAHMOOD

NASIR LUQMAN HAMEEDNASIR LUQMAN HAMEED

NOMAAN MUBASHIRNOMAAN MUBASHIR

CALGARYCALGARY

EASTERN BRAMPTONEASTERN BRAMPTON

MISSISSAUGAMISSISSAUGA

PRAIRIEPRAIRIE

GTA GTA

NORTHERN ONTARIONORTHERN ONTARIO

VANCOUVERVANCOUVER

GTA EASTGTA EAST

WESTERN BRAMPTONWESTERN BRAMPTON

EASTERN CANADAEASTERN CANADA

HALTON NIAGARAHALTON NIAGARA

WESTERN ON-WESTERN ON-TARIOTARIO

Regional Qa’idinRegional Qa’idin


So as this is a time of reflection, we must ask ourselves, where do we stand, what is our identity? As those fortunate ones who have accepted the Messiah (as) of this age, we need not worry about searching and despairing about our identity and purpose; because through the Holy Qur’an, the pristine teachings of the Holy Prophet (sa), the example of his greatest servant the Promised Messiah (as) and the guidance of his Khulafa, all such matters have been made clear for us.

So who are we? We are Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, the servants of Ahmadiyyat; an organization which is no less than a spiritual training ground. But what does it mean to be a Khadim? Our beloved Imam, Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih V (aa) has enlightened us, that to be a Khadim is to be a role model – not only amongst ourselves but for the entire world. Where the world, especially its youth, are on a self-destructive path more so than ever before, we must be a reflection of the beautiful teachings of Islam whereby the world can be brought to the path of guidance.

This may seem like a daunting task, or a heavy burden, but in reality, all this requires of us is effort. To be a role model does not mean that we must go out advising and admonishing, rather we simply need to present a positive example through our actions; reforming ourselves, resulting in the reformation of those around us. Take Salat for example, something obligatory upon all of us. Some of us may slacken in this regard, or may not have the habit of praying five times regularly as we should. However, rather than despairing over our condition and thinking all hope is lost or that it is too difficult to establish all five prayers, take it step by step. For those who do not offer any prayer regularly, become regular in one and slowly build upon that. For those who perhaps are regular in only one or two or three prayers, focus on adding one more at a time until you become regular in your five daily prayers. There is no use of a drastic change if this change will only last for a short time. So we must establish the habit on a permanent basis, developing the habit step by step.

To ensure our success, we need only adopt the very simple Qur’anic principle, that our every coming moment should be better than the one past. This way we set ourselves up for only one option: success. By doing so, not only do we benefit ourselves by establishing a lasting connection with Allah Almighty, but we can perpetuate a positive change for those living in the environments around us. Hence, rather than being influenced, we become the influencers and those who are able to establish a positive change in the world. May Allah enable us all to do so. Ameen!

Assalaamo ‘Alaikum wa Rahmatullah!

My fellow Khuddam! As the New Year comes around we often find ourselves reflecting, not only on the past year but casting a glance over our lives as a whole. We find ourselves living in volatile times, with catastrophic shifts in what is socially and morally acceptable. No doubt, our environment has an effect on us and our identity – in fact this is human nature – but to what extent can we, or should we allow ourselves to be influenced? Often, when answering this question, you will have noticed that many youth especially, find themselves lost, without identity or unable to recognize their purpose, leading them down a slippery slope, unable to regain their footing.

Zubair Afzal SahibZubair Afzal Sahib

MESSAGE FROMRESPECTED SADR MAJLIS

An-Nida Magazine15


Emergency Preparedness Team | Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Canada


17

THE ALLMIGHTYTHE ALLMIGHTY

T H E H I D D E N T R E A S U R E


POWEROF PRAYERFive. The number of obligatory prayers enjoined upon Muslims. Infinite. The number of ways the blessings of those prayers can manifest. This is a reality that is hidden in the words of God himself when He says: “I answer the prayer of the supplicant, when he prays to me” (2:187). We have all heard people - especially our elders – talk about how immeasurably potent prayers can be. And so the question arises: how powerful really are they?

Before we begin exploring the true potential of prayer, there is a catch. This important condition – if not fulfilled - can render us bereft of witnessing the abundance of blessings, as the Promised Messiah (as) writes: “Our God possesses numberless wonders, but only those observe them who become wholly His with sincerity and fidelity. He does not disclose His wonders to those who do not believe in His powers and are not faithful to Him” (1). Thus, a foundation to truly experience the power of prayer can only be laid when one is able to provide their eyes with the lens of faith, that yes, a higher being exists. Otherwise, any argument, parable, or story that attempts to demonstrate what prayers are capable of, will remain just a story. You need to be looking with the right perspective and attitude in order to actually recognize what you’re looking for.

In a world that increasingly seeks empirical forms of evidence that satiate their definitions of rationality, the notion of “growing up”, many of us glamorized superficial heroes who were shown to have all odds against them, and yet, they somehow managed to miraculously prevail. But once the TV screens would be turned off, and the fictional books were shut closed – we were forced back into reality devoid of such magical powers – or so we thought at least.

A well-known Islamic saint by the name of Hazrat Abdul Syed Qadir Jilani (ra) sheds some insights about the capabilities of prayer that would have us begging to differ from our TV programs, and reality.

He writes in his book Futuhul Ghaib: “Your prayers, your fortified resolve, and your blessings will relieve people of their anguish; the famine-stricken will be granted rain and crops will grow; the affliction and anguish of every low and high, and even the troubles of kings shall be alleviated through your attention and prayers…”. He then continues: “…your attention and your prayer will exercise control in the world; if you then wish to turn the existing into non-existing, and vice versa, it will come to pass; extraordinary and miraculous things will take place at your hand.” (1)

18An-Nida Magazine

THE ALLMIGHTYTHE ALLMIGHTY

If we glance back in history, there is no shortage of miracles that compel one to believe that a higher power not only listens but accepts more than what the seeker arduously desires. Whether we look at Jonah’s survival in the belly of a whale for 3 days, or the wondrous victory of the outnumbered Muslims in the battle of Badr, or perhaps the victory of the Promised Messiah (as) to the likes of Dowie and Lekhram, they all echo this reality. But unfortunately, we often treat these stories as just that – mere tales. As the saying goes: one cannot know the sweetness of a fruit, until they taste it for themselves. To have conviction about the efficacy of prayers, stories will not suffice. We all need to venture on the path for ourselves. But simply habitually offering daily prayers is not enough. We must fully submit to God with a deep yearning to feel His existence, and turn to Him with sincerity and humility. One thing God guarantees us, is that if we truly seek Him, we will find Him. As the Holy Prophet (sa) says: “When a person raises his hands asking God for something, God is shy to leave him empty handed” (Tirmidhi).

References:1: Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (as), The Essence of Islam, vol. 2 (Tilford, Surrey: Islam International, 2004), 213.

By Akbar Ali

EXPERIENCE YOUR CREATOR

"PRAYUNTO ME"


There is a well-known hadith stating that on the day of judgement, the first thing that Allah Almighty will ask us is whether or not we offered our prayers. This shows just how significant prayer really is to mankind’s existence and flourishment.

But still we have to think about why Allah asks this as the very first thing. Generally it is believed that this is a question asked in order to determine your level of punishment or reward corresponding to your level of prayers offered or not. But since Allah has said that He does not need mankind, and that rather it is we who need Him, our prayers are not for God’s satisfaction, but are for our own good. So therefore any lacking in our prayers is direct damage and loss we are causing to ourselves right here and now, because prayer is the means through which we can experience the magic and might of his hidden treasures. So when we are asked this question on the day of judgement, it may also be to make us finally realize our own folly and self-inflicted suffering by neglecting to access God’s love and bounty through “worship”.

We need to realize that prayers are the means for us to access the Help and favours of the All-Powerful God Who is eager to help us, and that when this question is asked on the day of judgement, it is like asking why we didn’t make use of the ultimate resource He has given us for success.

This is akin to the story of the man who was stranded in the ocean and began praying to God to save him at sea. Briefly after praying, God sent the man two ships to rescue him, one after the other, both of which the man declined by telling them he is waiting for God to save him and not them.

DECREES THAT SUCCESS IS THROUGH PRAYERTHE CREATOR OF THE HEAVENS AND THE EARTH

COME TO COME TO PRAYER, COME PRAYER, COME TO SUCCESSTO SUCCESS

Don’t Miss TheBoat On It


So we should never miss an opportunity to get ahead by using the power of prayers. Millions of people do not have this knowledge or know this secret and their entire lives pass by without being able to use prayers as a key to success because they are simply unaware of it. Instead, you should run with it and get the most out of your Creator. You’ve got five opportunities every single day.

The Promised Messiah (as) states that “Allah has said that man is oft turning his head to the sky and imploring for help, but instead should prostrate and ask of me humbly.”

When he died, and appeared before God, the man asked why God didn’t save him, and God responded by saying “I sent you two ships didn’t I?” Thats’ when the man clued in to his major folly and realizes that he wasted God’s favour.

So similarly if you are not getting the results you want in your life in any sphere it is simply because you are not follwoing God’s instructions to ask through prayer, essentially you are missing the boat on it. If we are missing prayers then we are missing the oppertunity. We should realize this as a serious folly, and not view prayer as a chore to show homage to God, but rather recognize it as an immense oppertunity God has granted us. The creator of the heavens and the earth has allowed you to seek from Him five times daily to access His infinite power, let that sink in. All that we need to do to be successful is offer our

Salat, and our lives and efforts will ultimately be met with success. So while sometimes we may think it is either difficult or inconvenient to do our ablution and offer prayers, we need to always remember that it is for our own benefit - God does not need it from us whatsoever - and ultimately, as the saying goes, in order for us to progress, we need to “get out of our comfort zone” just a little, and we will see the incredible results, the Power of your Creator and the growth.

Obedience is a key theme in religion and it is critical, because obedience is what is needed to follow orders (instructions) properly. That is why the prophets are the most successful, because they are the most obedient, meaning they follow the instructions of God with the utmost obedience. If you do not follow instructions, then you may not get the results needed or desired. Specific instructions matter.

As the Maker, Allah has given us - His creation - specific instructions on how to achieve success in this life and the next. Follow the instructions properly and accurately and you shall succeed. So when God is telling us to pray properly, He is telling us the way to achieve our goals and achieve happiness.

DECREES THAT SUCCESS IS THROUGH PRAYERTHE CREATOR OF THE HEAVENS AND THE EARTH

By Saroop Sahi

20An-Nida Magazine


TO BELIEVE ORTO BELIEVE ORNOT TO BELIEVE?NOT TO BELIEVE?‘TIS NOT EVEN A QUESTION‘TIS NOT EVEN A QUESTION

According to the 2011 Canadian census, nearly 8 million people or about a quarter of the Canadian population, have no religious affiliation. Compared to the 2001 census, this figure has increased by 16.5%. This means that irreligiousness is fast spreading in our country, and more and more people are turning away from God. This could be due to a number of reasons, one of which is that people are not able to connect at a personal level with God.

Being Ahmadi Muslims, it is our responsibility to tell the world about the personal God. He is living still as He lived before, and He speaks to His people as He did before, and He shows miracles today as He did before.

With respect to this argument for the existence of God, many atheists make the argument that we cannot believe in God because we don’t see Him and thus we do not have evidence for His existence. This argument implies that seeing God with one’s eyes is the only sufficient type of evidence for God’s existence.

In many ways, this argument is self-defeating as there are many things in our world which we believe in even despite there being no direct way to “see” them. There are some things which we believe to exist based on different kinds of evidence. To insist that something exists only if we can verify it by a single certain sense is completely illogical and would be called madness in most cases. For example, to insist that the existence of an aroma or a fragrance be verified through sight would be madness, when we know that its existence must be verified through different senses, particularly the sense of smell in this case. Hence, the evidence for the existence of God comes to us through different senses and means. One of the most potent means of discovering God’s existence is through His Prophets, who give us a significant amount of that evidence. In the Holy Quran, Allah says:

بصار و ہو

بصار و ہو یدرک ال

ل تدرکہ ال

خبیال اللطیف

قریب اجیب دعوۃ ادلاع اذا فان و اذا سالک عبادی عن

یؤمنوا ب لعلہ یرشدونیستجیبوا ل و ل

دعان فل


22An-Nida Magazine

TO BELIEVE ORTO BELIEVE ORNOT TO BELIEVE?NOT TO BELIEVE?

That is, “Eyes cannot reach Him but He reaches the eyes. And He is the Incomprehensible, the All-Aware”. [6:104] In other words, we ourselves cannot reach God; it is He who reaches out to us through His Prophets. He speaks to them, tells them things of the unseen, grants them prophecies, shows signs in their favour, destroys their enemies, and so on.

As individuals however, we can experience God through prayers. In his book, Ten Proofs for the Existence of God, Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad (ra) writes, “When an individual supplicates to Him in a state of anxiety, God accepts their entreaties. And this is not specific to any particular period, rather it is true for all times” (p. 31-32). This is stated in the Holy Quran as well:

That is, “And when My servants ask thee about Me, say: ‘I am near. I answer the prayer of the supplicant when he prays to Me. So they should hearken to Me and believe in Me, that they may follow the right way’ [2:187].

The reality is that most people believe in God because their prayers are accepted. Technical proofs or arguments for God’s existence are not relatable for most people. Instead, it is this proof of a personal God which enables them to believe.

Atheists ask: How can you tell if prayers are being fulfilled or if it is just chance or co-incidence? Hazrat Mirza Basir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad (ra) responds to this question by pointing out that the Promised Messiah and Mahdi (as) proposed an empirical proof for the existence of God. Explaining this proof, he writes:

“He suggested a set of patients suffering from a serious malady ought to be selected and divided into groups. One set of patients ought to be treated and cared for by doctors, whereas he would pray for the second lot and from this it could be seen as to which patients made the better recovery. What doubt can there be in such a test?” (Ten Proofs, p. 32-33)

This is just a hint of the irrefutable evidence that the Promised Messiah (as) has presented for the existence of God. Despite all this evidence, if atheists still seek more evidence, they are invited to find Him by praying directly to Him. Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad (ra) explains that those people who have a sincere desire to find the truth should fall prostrate in prayer to God by saying:

“O’ God, if indeed You exist and if, as those who believe in You say, then You are possessed of infinite power—then have mercy on me and guide me to Yourself, and fill my heart with faith and belief so that I may not be left deprived” (Ten Proofs, p. 44)

Huzoor (ra) writes that if they do this for 40 days with sincerity and a pure heart, God will certainly guide them and He will manifest Himself to them.

قریب اجیب دعوۃ ادلاع اذا فان و اذا سالک عبادی عن

یؤمنوا ب لعلہ یرشدونیستجیبوا ل و ل

دعان فل

By Farhan Iqbal Sahib - Missionary


An-Nida Magazine23

??

YOU CAN’T PROVE THE SUN WILL RISETOMORROWDid you know that you cannot logically prove that the sun will rise tomorrow as a fact? Did you know it is logically impossible to do so? Go ahead, try and prove the sun will rise tomorrow. We will wait a minute. There you have it, you can’t prove the sun will rise tomorrow for a fact - you cannot do it through any empirical way. It is impossible. When you try to prove the sun will rise tomorrow you are just relying on your recollection of memory of the past, appealing to a habitual subjective experience and are making an assumption that the sun will rise tomorrow because it has always done that up until now. This is an assumption and not a logical connection. It is a reasonable assumption but it is not a hard proof or a necessary reason that the sun will in fact rise tomorrow.

This is what the philosopher David Hume defined as the error in reasoning alone. Hume referred to this as a constant conjunction, when we appeal to something we observed to happen or exist in the past and use that to prove something yet to be seen. So there is a sufficient condition for the sun rising tomorrow but there is not a necessary condition for it, meaning there is no logical necessary proof or reason for the sun to rise tomorrow but rather just reasonable belief based on experience. So the point is, that if you cannot even prove as a hard fact that the sun will rise tomorrow through empirical evidences, then why are we ever talking about proving the existence of God through empirical evidence alone.

All we are left with is that the sun will rise because we have experienced this in the past, so it is reasonable to assume, meaning it is reasonable to believe that it will rise tomorrow. Or at least we hope it will, but we cannot know it or say it as a fact. So there you have it, this is really the reality of how to talk about the existence of God also, to put it in the realm of reasonable belief, and strong conviction.


Belief Comes First, Certainty Comes After.

Man Must PonderThe Signs

YOU CAN’T PROVE THE SUN WILL RISETOMORROW So now the question becomes, is it reasonable

to believe that God exists as we know it? Well atheists claim everything is from nothing and it is all an accident and it’s one big coincidence. That doesn’t leave you with much and it is a very negative picture. On the other hand, you can look at all the signs such as DNA, the complexity and fine tuning in nature, clear patterns that scream design and thus an indicator of a designer who created a magical symphony in perfect harmony which we experience as life.

Really, just take your pick. It comes down to a choice between a random mindless creation and existence or intelligence and deliberate existence. Which is the more reasonable and optimistic and good choice? Even atheists choose to optimistically believe in things on a daily basis, that they shouldn’t believe in, by their own measuring stick.

For example if an atheist is optimistic about their day, when logically they know they could have a bad day any given day, but they choose to be optimistic, they don’t know for certain, but rather believe that their day will be good. The core of optimism is belief. When one is an optimist, they are making a choice to believe in one side of the 50/50 chances between having a good day over an equally possible bad day. Atheists are duplicitous in this way because they will exercise optimism (belief) throughout life, but then will choose to be on the negative side of things when they have a choice to believe or not believe, meaning be optimistic or not about the existence of God, a logically 50/50 chance by their own logic.

By Saroop Sahi

A choice to believe or not. Like a detective we look at some initial indications (evidences) and then decide to believe in an idea or theory (a leap of faith) and then begin to further look at all the evidences and signs to reinforce this belief with greater certainty. And it is this conglomeration of signs and evidences including personal experience, design in nature and sociological proofs that build the whole picture, and not any one single piece alone. Like a puzzle, the more pieces that come together and fit, the more the picture is revealed. This is how one arrives at the reasonable belief and certainty of Gods existence. It’s a sincere investigation that gets clearer and clearer after identifying the evidences sincerely, it builds and builds like a snowball. That’s the beautiful experience. So the difference between believers andnon-believers is exactly that, belief or non-belief, a leap of faith, and it is this initial optimistic decision (leap) one makes which either begins the investigation (process of certainty) which creates certainty or just keeps them in darkness.

In the end, everything comes down to belief. From believing one will have a good day, to believing that the sun will rise, to believing in the One Who created the sun.


MENTAL MENTAL HEALTHHEALTH

SPIRITUAL SPIRITUAL HEALTHHEALTH==

I F Y O U ’ R E D O W N O N I F Y O U ’ R E D O W N O N T H E P R A Y E R M A T ,T H E P R A Y E R M A T , Y O U ’ L L N E V E R B E Y O U ’ L L N E V E R B E

D O W N O N L I F E .D O W N O N L I F E .


26Islam in the Media

A Spiritual Void - The Depression Epidemic

Connect More To Allah, Less to Wifi

“Aye! Only in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find comfort”

(13:29)

There is a western epidemic of mental health issues today. Many people seem depressed or dissatisfied, even though we live in a time of great abundance and material comfort. Never was there a time of such global affluence and ease; a time in which you can get anything you want with the touch of an app.

On top of that, we live in an age where there is a sea of self-help books, self-proclaimed self-improvement gurus; an era in which we are flooded with material possesions. Yet people are not happy and are drowning more than ever in despair. So what has happened? And what is happening?

Well, as foretold, this age of “abundance” is actually the final age of jahiliyya - the age of extreme darkness and ignorance about what is right and what is wrong.

When a person does not know what is wrong, then they take part in it, and those things leave one upset and perpetually dissatisfied.

At the core of this empty way of life, is the notion of materialism; this insatiable, unending desire of wants for material things, wealth and recognition. The reason people are disatisfied, is because of improper values, which prioritize the attainment of material objects, but ultimately lead to a perpetual lack of contentment.

Self improvement books and gurus are telling you to achieve more and how to do it, so that you can then achieve the “life” you want - which invariably involves becoming wealthy - and thus attain happiness.

But as the saying goes, “money can’t buy hapiness”, and the question then becomes, “what does lead to happpiness?” The answer is simple: Contentment. As the Holy Prophet (sa) told us so wisely 1400 years ago, “contentment is a treasure that never runs out”.

And how does one be content? Gratefulness.

There are countless studies showing now that online social media engagement is directly related to many of today’s mental health issues. For example, the popular photo app called Instragram has now been instructed by law in Canada to no longer show the amount of “likes” anyone has, because the case was made that this social “approval” or lack of approval has created within an entire generation, a false idea of self-worth.

Of course not all social media or internet use is bad, however the type of content you are consuming and the amount of time you are spending online will undoubtedly have an effect on your mental health. It is an information overload - the brain needs rest from the firehose of online posts all day long.

Furhermore, meditation is becoming very popular in western society, as experts are now realizing that quiet time for the mind is necessary for mental health. As Muslims, again we are ahead of the curve on this, as Allah already told us to connect with Him in a meditative state five times a day, through Salat. Salat is not only an appointment with your Creator where you can talk, vent and seek help, but it is also a physical break from everything. So if you are feeling generally down or in despair over anything, then it’s time to get down on the prayer mat, disconnect the wifi, and connect to the most High.

By AN-Nida Team


You lay awake at night, unable to sleep, unable to find respite while the world rests. You ache, yet no one can feel your pain. You feel alone, even when surrounded by a sea of people.

Mental illness affects all of us, indirectly if not directly. The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) says that in any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians will experience a mental health problem or illness. The remaining four Canadians will interact with a family member, friend, or colleague who is suffering. In the last decade alone, the prevalence of all major types of disorders have increased (Kern, Ceglarek, Phillips, 2017). The rate of mental health treatment has increased from 19% to 34% and the percentage of young people (aged 15-25) with mental health disorders have increased from 22% to 36% (America College Health Association, 2015). Most harrowingly, suicidal ideation and attempts have increased from 19% to 39% (America College Health Association, 2015; Kern et al., 2017). We live in the most technologically advanced era where we are more connected than ever, yet we are the loneliest people to have ever existed. In 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO), found that 50% of Americans over the age of 18 consider themselves to be lonely.

It may seem hard to believe, but the solutions to many of the crises we are experiencing today were given to us over 1400 years ago through the religion of Islam and its Holy Book. It is unique in the sense that Islam is the only religion that takes into consideration its practitioners’ health in all aspects, physical, mental, social and spiritual, and commands them to lead their lives in such a manner that health is optimized. Furthermore, the Holy Quran goes further in its teachings to identify why such ailments arise.

In a class with Jamia Ahmadiyya Canada, in 2016, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aa), was asked about the stark rise of mental illness and if there was anything that could be done from an Islamic perspective. Hazoor (aa), responded by referencing Chapter 13, verse 29 of the Holy Quran, that ‘It is in the remembrance of Allah that hearts can find comfort’. Hazoor (aa) explained that this is the root cause of the ailment that people are suffering. They are turning away from God, and as a result are suffering. Hazoor (aa), went on to explain that there are other causes for mental health issues, for instance parents worrying for their children, financial concerns and environmental concerns. However, the solution for all of them is the same, putting one’s trust in Allah Almighty, building a relationship with Him and turning to Him in these difficult times. Hazoor (aa), explained that this remedy of religion has been iterated by the Promised Messiah (as), that he came to bridge the divide that man insinuated in his relationship with God.

Moreover, in his Eid sermon on June 5th, 2019, Hazoor (aa) again addressed mental health. He explained that Islam is a natural religion that takes care of all of man’s needs. Huzoor (aa) spoke about man’s inherent nature as a social being. It is for this reason that Islam instructs us to take part in such festivals, like Eid, and be around one another and enjoy such occasions. On other occasions, he has encouraged those with mental health issues not to retreat into isolation, rather proactively seek social engagement. To that end, Huzoor (aa) has advised such members to become further engaged with the jamaat.

Over the course of time, we have developed a significant understanding of diseases of the body; however, we are struggling to understand ailments of the mind. Perhaps, because our very definition of health is incomplete. The WHO defines health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity (2019). Yet, it lacks one very important aspect of health, spiritual health, without which we cannot adequately address issues related to mental or physical health.

An age-old solution

Causes of Strife

The prevalence of all major types of disorders


28An-Nida Magazine

“From God we come and to God we return.” The most common meaning of this verse of the Holy Qur’an, is that God gives us physical life, and then when He causes us to die, we return to Him in the spiritual realm. However, there is another possible meaning to this, and in it, a clue to overcoming despair. Often times when a person hits rock bottom, he then returns to God. It’s almost another way of God telling us to realize that generating happiness comes from turning back towards Him, by spending time with Him. In fact, God has naturally built this into man. When he is facing danger or is at his limit he turns to God for Help; that is the natural spiritual reflex when you are at the end of the line. Therfore the remedy for this spiritual disease of despair, for the indivudal and society, is to return back to God sincerely, and actually follow what He has perscribed for us. It is no coincidence that this happens to be exactly the opposite of what is perscribed to us by modern society, which has now clearly been proven to not work.

Recent findings in the International Journal of Social Psychiatry (2015) stress the importance of social interaction for those struggling with mental illnesses. Sheridan et al. (2015) found that regardless of socialization structure, unstructured vs. structured, participants displayed significant improvements in depressive and anxiety symptoms. Participants’ psychotic episodes were also decreased in time. Similarly, it was found that participants receiving community-based care in the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) lead to significant reductions in MDD episodes both in frequency and intensity (Khodyakov et al., 2014). Within community based-care, participants were actively involved in some sort of community engagement exercise, a key aspect of this program leading to its’ success. Multiple studies have shown that community involvement, specifically religious community involvement, buffers against mental health illness and reduces the likelihood of substance abuse (Parenteau, 2018; Salsman, 2019). Once again, the words of the Khalifa of the time ring true; increasing participation within jamaat activities can act as a buffer against and mitigate the effects of mental illness.

Where needed and advised by appropriate authorities within the medical field, we should pursue recommended medical treatments. After all, Allah the Almighty has created medicine for the benefit of man. That being said, we cannot ignore the solution offered to us within the Holy Quran. Whether we are afflicted with mental illness or not, we should make our relationship with Allah Almighty our top priority. Remember these words of the Promised Messiah (as)

“One should never lose hope. God can change the circumstances in no time. You should make good use of the days of peace and health. He who turns to God during the days of peace or health he is helped by God at the time of adversity and ill health. To repent with a sincere heart is like being in a castle and nobody can attack him from outside.” (Malfoozat vol. 10, pg. 380)

Never Lose Hope

An age-old solution

MENTAL HEALTH

SPIRITUAL HEALTH==

By Tahir Mazhar - AMSA York President


INTO THE CANINTO THE CANABYSSABYSS

Don’t Fall For It, Don’t Fall Into It


“It’s not ReallyA Drug, It’s A Plant”

“It’s MedicinalThough”

The Dark Side of Canabis:Schizophrenia

Alcohol is also made from a plant (grass-plant to be specific) - it is fermented wheat. Many substances, including very harmful ones, come from plants. Similarly, nearly all pharmaceuticals, including beauty products, are some sort of plant extract in synthesized form. It all comes from God’s green earth. A sword is made from metal found in God’s limitless earth also, but it is shaped and formed by man to be a lethal weapon.

If you leave Cannabis in the ground in its natural state, it is just a plant and it is fine. But the moment a joint is rolled, it has now been shaped and formed by man to be a substance of harm to the individual and society.

Marijuana is nothing short of a mind-altering drug that has hallucinogenic properties. It is not a harmless substance by any means, and the dangers it poses are many, and can be very serious in nature, for both the body and the mind.

Make no mistake about it, one of the major reasons mental health issues are increasing so rapidly right now in the western world, is due to the increased proliferation and use of mind altering substances that have become nothing short of pandemic. In other words, drugs are a major contributor to the rise of mental illnesses. Even though there are many studies documenting this, it doesn’t take endless studies to put two and two together and realize that drugs are bad for your mental health. By definition, drugs are substances that alter your mental state.

“Cannabis use and the risk of developing a psychotic disorder”

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2424288/

This is just one of the many articles on the consensus that Marijuana (Cannabis) causes Schizophrenia. That’s right, and that’s not an exaggeration.

Marijuana has long been romanticized and made cool through pop-culture, namely movies, TV and music; depicted as a favourite pass-time for any easy going person; a casual, harmless means of getting loose. But the reality is quite dark.

Alcohol is technically medicinal as well - we use it to sterilize wounds and medical instruments, so it is used for good in these cases.

But since drinking alcohol is damaging to one’s medicinal health, mental health and spiritual health, it is therefore clear that the type of usage of a substance is the key consideration to be kept in view when determining the validity of a substance. Perhaps some Hemp related by-products can in some ways provide relief for people in extreme pain, car accident victims or terminally ill people etc. But even then there are alternatives also, so it is a preference.

But using the medicinal aspect of something to justify its use for recreational purposes which involves altering one’s state of mind, is disingenuous. Just as we do not justify drinking by arguing it has medicinal usage, and it is thus “good to go”, we likewise cannot say marijuana is medicinal and therefore smoking weed to get high is justified.

30An-Nida Magazine


“But It’s Legal Now”

DANGER DO NOT ENTER

There are many things that are legal in many societies that are in direct contravention to Islamic teachings. For example, drinking is legal and socially acceptable and even promoted in many societies across the world, however it is a practice that is categorically prohibited for Muslims. It is prohibited because it is extremely harmful to the body and even more so for society and its moral fabric. Therefore the argument for the legitimacy of marijuana use, on the basis that it is legal, is not valid or correct by any means.


By October of 2018, Canada - and even the United States for that matter - were in the midst of a full-blown opioid crisis. Hundreds of deaths had occurred from opioid overdoses within months, across a vast cross-section of society, especially among the middle-class, the largest demographic in the land. Things had gotten so bad by this time that the American government called the situation an emergency. Health professors and law enforcement had also sounded the alarm.

So in this backdrop of unprecedented and deadly drug overdoses, what does Canada decide to do?Well, they decide to legalize a drug that is quite literally called “the gateway drug”, referring to the fact that it is a soft drug that usually acts as a precursor to harder drugs such as opioids. It was like throwing gasoline on a burning fire.

In the face of the opioid crisis, the legalization of Cannabis can only make the situation worse. As a result, there is an entire generation now who have extremely easy - and legal - access to a drug which serves as a warmup for heavy drugs. That’s not a good solution; it’s more like the worst thing imaginable; like pushing somebody down as they try to walk up a slippery slope.

So in the end, every young person in this country has a choice to make now - and before they pick their path, they need to think long and hard, and ask themselves whether they’re just about to have a quick puff, or if they’re about to take their first step toward a dark abyss that ends in the darkest of places. Is it worth your life? If not,

CannAbyss and the Opioid Crisis: The Gateway Drug to a Deadly Abyss

By AN-Nida Team

32An-Nida Magazine


January 1st 2020. New year, new resolution, new aspirations. January 1st of any year is the # 1 universally agreed upon date to start something new or change one’s life. Time and time again we hear the old cliché, New Year, New You!? Interestingly, according to one study of the U.S. News, the failure rate for new year’s resolutions is about 80%. Perhaps it is time to understand that the tradition itself is problematic.

For most people, the night of December 31st means to spend their time partying and consuming alcohol and to fill their minds and hearts with unrealistic expectations of the New Year. The reality is that most people do not have any religious concern and therefore cannot achieve the changes that a believer can. Our beloved Huzoor (may Allah be his Helper) in his Friday Sermon on December 30, 2016 has said:

“In the western developed world, the New Year’s Eve is celebrated with a lot of activities. The people stay awake for the entire night and spend their time partying and consuming alcohol. Thus, the last year is concluded and the New Year is started with such immoral worldly activities. The majority of the people have no religious concern therefore they cannot reach out to the depths that a true believer can achieve. The majesty of a true believer is not only to express despair over such worldly activities but also to conduct a self-audit and evaluate the year that has passed. What have we earned and lost through this year? Will the true believer evaluate the year through a worldly lens or will it be through religious and spiritual perspective?”

N E W Y E A R ’ S ,O L D W AY S ?


Keeping this in mind we must understand that as Ahmadi Muslims we are very lucky to have a wealth of information and guidance available to us during our lives. Where others are partying and ringing in the New Year deeply entrenched in their materialistic lives, we have an opportunity for self-reflection and starting the new year with a different mindset. We are all on a spiritual journey in which we experience highs and lows. The #1 change that a person strives for in the New Year is to achieve a healthier physical body. This is why most gym memberships are created or renewed in January. Gyms are filled in the month of January but what about the status of our mosques? Perhaps we should focus on filling them. This year, let’s make a change and focus on the advancement of our spiritual self instead. If we start the year off with the mindset of development of our souls perhaps we can ring in the New Year effectively and not be among that 80% of the crowd who do not achieve their resolutions.

How do we achieve this change? Just like everything else in life, one must have an achievable plan in place to create this change. Using the acronym SMART we can actually set goals to achieve a change in our spiritual being. Just as one exercises his physical body to make it healthier, it is also possible to exercise our spiritual body. We can all easily make small changes that can develop into positive spiritual advancement. Waking up for Fajr prayers, reciting the Holy Quran and listening to the Friday sermon of Huzoor (may Allah be his Helper) are the ideal ways to begin this change. Let’s challenge one another and truly develop our spiritual states and go from the state of Nafse Lawamma (Reproving Self), to Nafs Mutmainnah (the soul at rest), Insha’Allah! Let us look within ourselves, and look toward Allah Almighty through the power of prayer, to make this change and make us truly be amongst those who can confidently say, New Year! New Me!

W H E R E T O B EW H E R E T O B EAT M I D N I G H T ?AT M I D N I G H T ?

20202020

By Salman Mangla

34An-Nida Magazine


W H A T A G E S H O U L DY O U B E G E T T I N GM A R R I E DScientists are astonished by the completeness and accuracy of the system of the universe. Every particle in the universe is playing a role in the sustainability of the system. Thus, the Creator of the universe must contain the highest level of analytical and logical abilities. Still, there are many aspects of the system of the universe unknown and incomprehensible to scientists. Such complex and complicated aspects of the system of the universe are never referred to as non-sense. On the contrary, it is a lack of knowledge and wisdom that prevents scientists from understanding.

We as Ahmadi Muslims believe that Allah Almighty has created this universe according to our needs. He also guided us on how to live our life through religion. God has said in the Holy Quran, that Islam is the best of religions.

The point to ponder over is that if his first creation which is the universe is founded on the highest level of logical and analytical principles then the guidelines, i.e. religion, must follow similar doctrines. And if we cannot comprehend something, it is mere lack of our knowledge and wisdom, and soon the reasonable aspect will be revealed to us when increasing our knowledge.

The guideline given to us in the religion of Islam is to connect us to the creator. Our success is in following the guidelines. Allah Almighty guided us on how to progress from our natural state to a moral state and from a moral state to a spiritual state. From the societal point of view, Islam is all about maintaining the highest level of morality in society. There are several dos and don’ts given in the guideline which are just like rules and regulations to maintain the government of a country. The dos and don’ts in the Islamic guidelines not only help us to progress as a strong, successful and blessed human being but also help the society to reach such a level morality where everyone enjoys equality and timely marriage. The reasoning given in the above paragraphs presents a hypothesis that if the creator of the universe and religion is the same then the solution of our daily struggles must be available in an understandable and logical way.

The journey from our childhood to youth also brings puberty, where we are attracted to the opposite sex due to the hormonal changes in our body. Should we follow our natural state by dating (i.e., an illicit relationship) or follow the prescription in the guideline which is when you reach the age of adulthood, you should get married.

18?18?


This is exactly why, in Islam, marriage is not an option but rather an obligation. The Holy Quran says that you have been created with one soul and from that your partner has been created.

These two directions along with their impact on us and society are discussed below.

Dating (i.e., Illicit relationship)

Dating seems to be very exciting but it permanently damages us and our society. Let’s pondor over the sychological effect of dating. It is a temporary happiness without any sacrifices. Due to a very minute disagreement this relationship is over. It is without any trust factor, because there is no agreement between the partners. It is important to understand that disagreeing is part of our natural state, on the other hand, compromise comes with the moral state. When dating, normally we are at our natural state. Thus temporary relationship breaks and depression prevails. The physical need of a partner is still part of nature, so a search for the new partner starts, which results in a similar ending. However, it forms the habit of moving from one partner to another.

1. Depression

2. Anger Issues because of going through the habit of disagreement.

3. Lack of morality: this continued scenario will soon result in a habit of changing partners, and every girl will be looked by such a person as if he wants to have a relationship with her.

4. The society is badly effected because of insecurity from such a person in various ways, i.e., depression, uncontrolled anger, immorality, and shameless attitude.

5. Single parenting: due to increase in temporary illicity relationships, an increase in single parents has been noticed. For example, over 9.5 million American families are run by one woman. Single mothers are likely to have mental health issues, financial hardships, live in a low income area, and receive low levels of social support. The occurrence of moderate to severe mental disability was more pronounced among single mothers at 28.7 % compared to partnered mothers at 15.7 %. These mental disabilities include but are not limited to anxiety and depression. Financial hardships also effect the mental health of single mothers. Women, ages 15- 24, were more likely to live in a low socio-economic area, have one child, and not to have completed their senior year of high school.

The marriage, itself, is a contracted and announced relationship which starts with a very clear understanding of compromise. Thus the individual who is thinking of getting into a married relationship is already in a moral state. His decisions are mature that he is going for something which he will support by sacrificing and compromising to get long term benefit not only for himself but for the partner and the society as well.

1. He will protect himself from any illicit relationship because of a person he is either engaged or married to. He will care for his actions because of a commitment.

2. He will increase in his abilities to tolerate, have self-control and soon emerged as a decent modest person. The progress toward the spiritual state becomes easier.

3. The society will not only trust such a person more but also respect him because of his composure and character. This will be a torch-bearing attitude towards society.

4. Married couples: married couples have better physical health, more financial stability and greater social mobility, children experience higher academic performances, emotional maturity and financial stability.

Why YoungPeople Getting MarriedAre Getting Ahead?

Consequences

Permanent relationship (marriage)

36An-Nida Magazine

By Dr. Mirza Tahir


An-Nida Magazine37

Caution With ContentDesigned to Pollute the Mind

Studio

Let’s start by playing a little game. Pull out your smartphone and go to “settings” or download a screen time app to see your usage statistics.

What you’ll notice is that a significant portion of our day is spent on this device. This handy little device that was designed to help us connect has now become an addiction for many of us. A combined research from Nielsen, Pew Research Center, SmartInsights, and other organizations done by inc.com reveals that the average user spends over 4 hours on their smartphone daily. Take into account the time spent watching TV or surfing on your laptop, the average screen time for an adult rises up to 9 hours a day. This is alarming. But what’s interesting is that all of this is by design. Netflix, YouTube, Social Media apps are all meticulously programmed to buy our time. The endless scrolling, the suggested videos, the “next episode in 5 seconds” are all things that keep us “wanting more”.


38An-Nida Magazine

This is something that the creators of these technologies were very well aware of. In a New York Times interview in 2011, Steve Jobs, the former CEO of Apple revealed that he prohibited his own kids from using the newly-released iPad. “So, your kids must love the iPad?” he was asked. “They haven’t used it,” said Jobs. “We limit how much technology our kids use at home.” This was a shocking discovery at the time. But current circumstances show that these CEOs were aware of the addictive elements and could foresee the dangers of these technologies. A number of CEOs of tech companies practice similar things.

There’s no denying that not all screen time is “bad” and harmful. But it’s the type of content that we are constantly exposed to. So, it’s important to make a distinction between educational and “mindless” or vain content. What each of us has to evaluate is how much of the content we consume is mindless. Experts have drawn the analogy of a diet. It is not merely about the number of calories. Rather, how many calories offer nutritional value and how many contribute to a health risk.

We are constantly bombarded with content that is vain and/or obscene. The type of content we consume affects our mood and the actions we take. This type of content adds absolutely no value to our lives. It makes us less productive and forget about our responsibilities. And a byproduct of the onslaught of this type of content is an increase in depression and suicide rates. Research shows that the depression rate for a frequent Social Media user rises up by 27%. So, there is a clear correlation between the rise of technology over the last decade and mental health issues.

Another major downside of this type of content is that it negatively affects our moral and spiritual progress. This should come as no surprise to anyone. Our beloved Imam (aa) has addressed this issue over and over.

“If the worldly desire increases so that one is engrossed in TV dramas and the Internet and is late in offering Salat, then love for Allah cannot develop. Gaining this love requires sacrifice of desires.” (Waqfe Nau Class 08 October 2011 at Masjid Baitur Rasheed Germany. Published AlFazl International 06 January 2012.)

As Muslim youth, this brings us to the crux of the matter. How do we safeguard ourselves and take caution with the content we are exposed to? Going back to the diet analogy, we have all come across the growing trends of a gluten-free diet, veganism etc. A closer look shows that these people are obsessed with their regimented intake and moral boundaries. So, what they do is take caution with their diet.

God tells us in the Holy Quran that a believer is one who shuns all that which is vain (23:4). The solution here becomes clear: refrain from anything that is mindless, vain, obscene etc. Moreover, when it comes to the consumption of immoral content, the Holy Quran provides a practical and comprehensive solution, “And come not near unto adultery” (17:33). This stipulates that not only is pornography prohibited, but obscene movies, videos, music are all things that we need to stay away from.

Of course, eliminating harmful content alone won’t be enough. Merely cutting down on the “bad” calories doesn’t make a person healthy. It is the consumption of nutritional calories that results in a healthy diet. So, it is equally as important to infuse the right type of content. The type of content that is educational enhances our morality. Only then do we become healthy mentally and spiritually.

Apple’s Steve Jobs, pro-hibits his own kids from using his invention.

By Fasih Malik


True Inspiring Content

Weekly Transmission From GodLet’s face it, between “13 reasons why” and Ramadan Dars for weekend TV content, we all know Dars is probably not going to make the cut for a lot of Khuddam.

And if you happen to be the innocent soul bringing up the latter idea, do expect awkward looks from your Khuddam brothers.

But what about the rest of the week? Well, having closely watched our - fairly active - MTA Canada social media traffic for the past two months, results have been sadly similar. This is despite very promising growth.

But of course, that’s just the natural “weekend movie night” tendency of demanding heart pumping, suspense-filled and electrifying action for consumption. Again, just the weekend’s demand. Surely, we can overlook that.

MTA INTERNATIONALMTA INTERNATIONAL

Blessed Content from a Heavenly source

friday sermonsfriday sermons The holy quranThe holy quranmta newsmta news

religious knowledge and insightreligious knowledge and insightspiritualityspirituality

the guidancethe guidance educationeducation


Why MTA KeepsIt Real

“But it’s soo boring”

Now, we can somewhat forgive restless youngsters for not knowing enough about the importance of knowledge acquisition and its relation to consequent moral and spiritual growth.

But the disappointment is when an older Khadim moans at not feeling a hollywood level adrenaline rush while watching - as outrageous a comparison it seems - an address or sermon of Huzoor Anwar (may Allah be his Helper).

The problem is, this constant hollywood level adrenaline is the very thing blurring our neuro-cognitive ability to choose right from wrong.

The science is quite expansive but Catherin Franssen, Professor of Neuroscience at Longhorn university gives a good explanation in her Huffpost article “The Netflix addiction: why our brains keep telling us to press play”.

A plethora of possible reasons rush to mind roughly represented in a single - habitually adolescent - voice of complaint:

It’s precisely why action thrillers and MTA aren’t comparable. They are two different realms of our television experience with polar opposite goals. One’s goal is to give order to life and elevate our moral and spiritual character. The other’s is literally to derange our life and make us impulsive screen gazers. Seriously, back in April 2017, Netflix’s official twitter handle quite openly announced:

“Sleep is my greatest enemy”.

Let’s say you have to get food for the group now. After all, a movie with no munching is a fruit with no flavor.

If the choice was your favorite wings and ice cream against nutrient rich granola bars and sugar free green tea, of course the bars and the green tea would be chucked out of the house.

So what does this food fight have anything to do with watching MTA? Think about it, Netflix and partners have flooded our eyes and ears with so much heart racing fantasy and fake suspense that when we watch sensible, realistic content that will benefit our moral and spiritual health, we feel utter distaste. I mean really, who would savor a dry grain bar over their favorite brand of Belgian chocolate?

This could have been seen as a joke if it hadn’t followed an earlier statement of Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings where - listing his main competitors - he mentioned Snapchat, YouTube and Sleep.

Let’s explore this. Back to the weekend movie night.

Unless - and that’s the big factor - they have knowledge of how much more beneficial the bar is for their health. But with due respect to even the strictest health guidelines, just a hint of sugary goodness and thin chocolate coating is very much desirable. Hey, it tastes amazing and motivates you to not give up on the healthy diet.

And that’s exactly how we need to approach MTA and the blessed sermons of our beloved Huzur (may Allah be his Helper). Although this profound subject calls for an entire book to be authored, the famous hadith in Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal should be a powerful reminder:

“If you find the Khalifa of God in the earth, cling yourself to him even if your body is torn to pieces”

Every Friday, we are offered an hour to renew and fortify this attachment in the comforts of our very own homes. Why not take this as a new year’s resolution and begin by feeding our minds the purest possible content. Instead of merely fake feeling it, why not personify and practice being good. The first few steps will be hard, but once you understand the real purpose behind it, you’ll never want to take your eyes off.

40An-Nida Magazine

By Basil Butt - Missionary


Tariq Magazine50

ROLE MODELSROLE MODELSARE YOU LOOKING UPTO SOMEONEARE YOU LOOKING UPTO SOMEONEWHO GOD MIGHT BE LOOKING DOWN ONWHO GOD MIGHT BE LOOKING DOWN ONWITH DISPLEASUREWITH DISPLEASURE

Hubris SatanWiki definition Wiki definitionHubris (/ˈhjuːbrɪs/, from ancient Greek ὕβρις) describes a personality quality of extreme or foolish pride or dangerous overconfidence, often in combination with (or synonymous with) arrogance.

Satan,[a] also known as the Devil,[b] is an entity in the Abrahamic religions that seduces humans into sin or falsehood.

If you haven’t noticed yet then it must be pointed out that much of modern rap and hip-hop involves the repeated themes of excessive self-praise. Everything is I did this, I’m doing this, I’m this and that, I have this, I got this. It is all about ego and self-aggrandizement.

It should be clear that the rap verses are by definition Satanic verses, meaning they are teaching falsehoods to people that are destructive in nature to oneself. These are all direct messages that infect people with a similar mentality, one of selfishness, self-praise, arrogance, pride, all of which are destructive for the person. And these are not attributes of a person of strength but quite the opposite. Religious people are tough people who have self-control and mostly the strength to admit that they themselves are nothing and it is God who is everything, going against one’s own ego is the toughest thing in life. Anyone can praise themselves, it’s the easiest thing to do in the world, and it’s a reflex. Anyone who is saying me me me, my my my is delusional, that’s the purpose of a satanic verse, to disillusion one into self-aggrandizement. Conversely the righteous believer is always praising GOD and not himself, attributing all praise to Allah and never to himself. The type of excessive self-praise found in certain music and in pop culture in general should be a huge disturbing red flag. Praise God and not yourselves. That is one of the main reasons why we constantly praise God so that we do not fall into the rap trap of constantly praising ourselves.

Satanic Verses

By AN-Nida Team


42An-Nida Magazine

ARE YOU LOOKING UPTO SOMEONEARE YOU LOOKING UPTO SOMEONEWHO GOD MIGHT BE LOOKING DOWN ONWHO GOD MIGHT BE LOOKING DOWN ONWITH DISPLEASUREWITH DISPLEASURE

Have you ever thought about how you would react if you were suddenly questioned who your role model is? Do you actually have one, would you try to come up with a satisfactory answer even if it’s not entirely accurate or would you plainly say that you do not have one?

The reality of the matter is that everyone has challenges in life. We have our highs and lows and ups and downs. Usually, we let the good times pass by without much reflection, while tough times often make people nag, complain and face depression. It is an undeniable reality that successful navigation through different aspects of our lives requires guidance and role models. This often comes in the form of fathers, bosses, celebrities etc. With the growth of technology, the online world and social media experts also tend to provide direction for masses.

A famous quote reads: “As a general rule, people disappoint you as you know them.” More often than not, this is what happens with role models as well. Yes, it is very possible that a person might be excelling in one particular field, but people are quickly put off by him or her as other aspects of their life are publicised. An athlete might be a champion on the court, but abuses his spouse. A successful businessman might be defrauding people to get ahead. A child always adores his parents, but ultimately becomes aware of their weaknesses.

This is why, as Muslims, we are taught to follow the role model of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sa). His life and character is an example for us in every aspect. The Holy Quran declares him the role model for humanity because he is flawless through and through.

Prophet Muhammad (sa) was an orphan born in an isolated desert who has now become the most famous and discussed name in the history of the world. Almost 1400 years later, billions continue to speak, marvel and send blessings and peace on this man of God. Against all odds and persevering through extreme persecution, he eventually overcame and became victorious over his oppressors. With power to punish, he chose to pardon them all. He is a real hero, the likes of whom the world will never again witness.

His life represents the epitome of serving God and Humanity. In the spiritual world, he dedicated himself to worship of Allah and became so close to Him that the Holy Quran calls him the fine line between humanity and divinity. On the other hand, his life in this world was spent struggling for human rights and improving their standard of life. He is the most perfect role model for each one of us.

Ranking the hundred most influential people in the history of mankind, Michael Hart placed the name of the Holy Prophet (sa) at the very top. Explaining his decision, he stated: “My choice of Muhammad to lead the list of the world’s most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the religious and secular level.”

Thus, it is incumbent for Muslim youth to understand that their only true role model should be the Holy Prophet (sa). It is only him who is perfect in every aspect of life. He was flawless in every capacity and his character remained free of blemish in every circumstance. The ordinary human beings, if taken as role models, will always disappoint us as we delve deeper into their lives. In contrast, a detailed study of the Holy Prophet’s (sa) character provides us light and guidance at every turn of life.

A Real Role ModelSent by God

By Dr. Mirza Tahir Ahmed (Muhtamim Tarbiyat)


STUDENT STUDENT NIGHTNIGHTJOIN THE CONVERSATION

IMPACT OF DRUGS

TIMELY MARRIAGECLIMATE CHANGE

THE INFO WARBAD CONTENT

AMSA EXPANSIONAND MORE


Many teenagers and young adults approach their high school and post-secondary education knowing that it is the most important stretch of their lives. In these years you will create habits and will have been taught lessons that will shape who you are and what you do going forward. However, the challenges faced by students all over the country are extensively overwhelming. It almost seems like an endless cycle of getting bombarded with questions like how am I going to balance my life and education? While other students are on an endless search for answers, we the members of the Jama‘at have been blessed to be given the solution right in our hands, all we have to do is go out and use it to pursue greatness. Maintaining our Ahmadi Muslim identity in our schools is the blueprint for attaining success in our education and future endeavors.

A recent 2018 study found that 70% of young North American adults are unsatisfied with their work-life balance, which has led to alarming rates of depression and mental health issues. Time management is a very simple yet vital skill that needs to be learned in these years to avoid an unhealthy lifestyle in our lives post-education, which also explains why many employers are attracted to candidates who have many extra curriculars under their resume as it shows that they have the ability to manage their time efficiently. It is troubling at times to see when Khuddam are annoyed that they have been asked to do some Jama‘at work or AMSA work while they are studying because frankly, it should never be looked at as a burden. Being involved in AMSA and participating in Jama‘at activities while balancing school work helps us achieve big things in our youth so that our whole life ahead of us is filled with successes.

Maintaining our Ahmadi Muslim identity in school also helps us fulfill our Bai’at pledge of giving our faith precedence over all worldly matters. Here in the West we are exposed to so many immoral and vile distractions, it is very easy to make a few bad decisions and end up on the wrong path. Even the other young Muslims growing up here are having a very tough time living in the Western culture while trying to hold onto their faith because they are confused as to how to respond to contemporary issues that we face. They don’t have that source of knowledge to turn to like we do, they don’t have the Man of God speaking to them like we do. How fortunate are we to be part of this glorious community? Syedna Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih V (aa) is constantly reminding us in his Friday Sermons that self-reformation is the greatest Jihad. Hence, it is imperative that we read what The Promised Messiah (as) and other Khulafa have taught us regarding the societal issues that we face. We need to continue to listen to Huzoor Anwar’s (aa) sermons and write to him and ask him for his prayers, and soon enough we will see that the struggles that many others face of maintaining a healthy school-life balance and prioritizing faith over worldly affairs will no longer be an issue for us.

Student Life in Canada70% of young North American adultsare unsatisfied with their work-life balance

44An-Nida Magazine

By Usman Suleiman AMSA Ryerson President


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An-Nida Magazine45


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Picture yourself at a university campus. Students are partying, drinking, and smoking in their free time. The only thing these students are thinking about is their classes and what they will do in their free time. But what if I told you otherwise? What if I told you that more than seven hundred students attended a lecture in their free time to talk about religion? What if I told you that this did not happen at only one university, but 6 of the LARGEST universities across Canada? This was the reality this past November. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Students Association (AMSA) in partnership with the Department of Student Affairs launched a Nation Wide Campaign that would talk about one of the most pressing questions this generation has: Does God Exist?

Under the guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (may Allah be his helper), this was the topic that was decided to be the most pressing and would garner the most interest amongst the students. Ahmadi students worked with their respective AMSA’s at their universities full time in order to construct and curate this very special event that would be held at their universities. Each AMSA worked tirelessly around the clock to hold tables, distribute flyers, utilize social media and make lecture announcements in order to garner the greatest attendance possible at their events. This is no small feat. These students juggled a full university course load during exam time, while spending more than 20 hours a week promoting and organizing their events. At a critical point in their lives these students decided to dedicate their free time and make sacrifices for the sake of the success of this campaign, and success is what they had witnessed.

By the grace of Allah, more than 500 students attended these events at the largest universities in Canada. Each of these held an interfaith discussion with a Christian, Atheist and Ahmadi Muslim that was followed up with a question and answer period. Hundreds of hours were put into the organization of these events, and it could not have been successful without the abundant blessing of God Almighty. May Allah bless each and every AMSA that participated in these events, and may Allah allow AMSA Canada to see far greater success in the future. Ameen.

A M S AA M S AE X P A N S I O N

By Kunwar Karim - AMSA McMaster President


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During the harsh winters of Toronto, Canada, an alarming number of homeless people lose their lives every year. The media reports that an average of more than 100 people without shelter are found dead. Shelters are at capacity throughout the winter and many vulnerable members are sent away due to unavailability of space.This issue, however big, unfortunately does not receive the attention it needs. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Organization’s (AMYA) Department of Humanitarian Services (Khidmat-e-Khalq) had the opportunity to come up with a humble solution to this heart-touching issue. With the mere blessings of Allah the Almighty, along with the special prayers of Syedna Huzoor-e-Anwar (aa), AMYA was able to launch a Shelter Bus, to help those in need of a warm shelter during the cold nights of the winter. Here are some key details of how this campaign started. AMYA requested to use the Humanity First bus, which had already been modified to hold 20 beds, also convertible into a seating space for 40. The bus includes a kitchenette, a toilet, and storage space as well. On December 2nd, a press release was issued for this campaign. And on December 3rd, in the presence of several media outlets, Respected Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Canada officially launched the Shelter Bus Campaign.

It is scheduled to be available for the homeless every night, from 8pm to 8am, for a period of three months. Members of AMYA from different regions volunteer to staff the bus every night. The Shelter Bus is providing a warm, secure space for rest, a hot meal, as well as sanitary kits including several necessary items for those in need. Since its launch, the Shelter Bus has been fortunate enough to help a number of homeless as well as provide winter items such as jackets and gloves. On a nightly basis, an average of 65 people visit the bus and benefit from the warmth, the meal, and the comfort of a bed. So far, over 800 visitors have taken advantage of this service and each of them has provided an incredibly positive feedback and many of them are now regulars on the bus. Some have claimed that this Shelter Bus is providing them with a safe space and a sense of belonging and they are grateful for the volunteers and their services.

This campaign has been receiving much media attention and has been covered by multiple outlets, reaching an audience of over 4 million. Three stories were aired on TV, two on CTV and one on Global TV. The radio aired six stories on different radio channels. Furthermore, eight news stories were printed in different major and minor newspapers. Due to this media coverage, several individuals and organizations are contacting AMYA and Humanity First on a daily basis to pledge various forms of donations, including monetary donations, food donations, as well as winter clothing and items’ donations. By the Grace of Allah, this initiative has been receiving a very positive response from all sides. Additionally, it is creating a sense of gratefulness, humbleness, dedication, and a sense of serving humanity among our Khuddam brothers. More and more volunteers are eager to help every night and partake from this blessed opportunity. May Allah ease the difficulties of this vulnerable group in our society and reward all volunteers abundantly. Ameen.

Making a Real Difference

SHELTER BUSSHELTER BUSSERVING MANKINDSERVING MANKIND

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By Ansar Bharwana (Muhtamim Khidmat Khalq) 48An-Nida Magazine


into the canabyss · ‘virtues are like food. in the same manner that a person cannot exist...

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