Review of Religions July 2014

Suffer Pain to Bring
Comfort to Humanity
10
The Significance
of Ramadan
14
Religious Trends
in Germany
24
Khalifah of the Promised
Messiah in Germany
40
VOL. 109 - ISSUE SEVENJULY 2014 WWW.REVIEWOFRELIGIONS.ORG
ISLAM
A THREAT OR A
SOURCE OF PEACE?
CASE STUDY:
GERMANY

God enjoins justice, kindness,
and charity to one’s kindred, and
forbids indecency, abomination,
and oppression. He admonishes
you so that you may take heed.
ISLAM, THE HOLY QUR’AN,
CH.16:V.91.
A man once asked the Prophetsa
what was the best thing in
Islam, and the latter replied, “It
is to feed the hungry and to
give the greeting of peace
both to those one knows and
to those one does not know.”
ISLAM, THE HOLY PROPHET
MUHAMMADSA
, HADITH OF
BUKHARI.
My countrymen! A religion
which does not inculcate universal
compassion is no religion at all.
Similarly, a human being without
the faculty of compassion is
no human at all. Our God has
never discriminated between
one people and another.
ISLAM, THE PROMISED
MESSIAHAS
, A MESSAGE OF
PEACE, P.6.
What sort of religion can it be
without compassion?
You need to show compassion to
all living beings.
Compassion is the root
of all religious faiths.
HINDUISM, BASAVANNA,
VACHANA, 247.
Do not rebuke an older man
but exhort him as you would
a father; treat younger men
like brothers, older women
like mothers, younger women
like sisters, all in purity.
CHRISTIANITY, 1 TIMOTHY,
5:1-2.
The world stands upon
three things: upon the
Law, upon worship, and
upon showing kindness.
JUDAISM, MISHNAH, ABOT,
1:2.
As a mother with her own life
guards the life of her own child,
let all-embracing embracing
thoughts for all that lives be thine.
BUDDHISM,
KHUDDAKAPATHA,
METTASUTTA.
The Holy Prophet
Muhammadsa
prophesied
that the Promised Messiahas
would be raised near a
white minaret, east of
Damascus. This prophecy
was fulfilled with the advent
of the Promised Messiahas
from Qadian, India, a city
directly east of Damascus.
The Promised Messiahas
& imam mahdi
Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas
, the Promised Messiah
and Mahdi was born to a noble family in Qadian, India.
From an early age he had a keen interest in religion and
developed a love for the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa
. He
was also known for his honesty, friendliness and resolve.
Over time his knowledge and understanding of religion
and its application to society deepened. Being a Muslim
it was his firm belief that all religions were true at their
source but with the passage of time had drifted away
from their original teachings; he upheld the dignity of
religion and demonstrated its relevance to everyone.
His earnest defence of religion was ultimately blessed
when he started to receive direct revelation from Allah
– a blessing that he continued for the rest of his life.
His mission was to revitalise the truth that all religions
held within them and to revive the teachings of Islam. It
was through this that he would bring mankind together
and establish everlasting peace.
In 1889, under Divine Guidance, Hazrat Ahmadas
founded the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community – a
community that has since grown in its stature and
strength and has remained active in conveying the
message of Islam to the ends of the earth.
Hazrat Ahmadas
had established himself as a respected
writer and had written over 80 books. His writings
have been translated into more than 60 languages and
continue to inspire readers to this day. One of his greatest
scholarly works was The Philosophy of the Teachings of
Islam, prepared as a paper and read out at the Conference
of Great Religions in 1896.
He also wrote a fascinating treatise in 1899 entitled Jesus
in India, a book that uncovered remarkable evidence
of Jesus’sas
journey to India. In 1902, the Promised
Messiahas
initiated The Review of Religions which has
covered a vast array of topics on religion, philosophy
and contemporary issues of the day. It is the longest
running English magazine in defence of Islam and the
values it teaches.
From 1889 until the time of his demise in 1908 tens
of thousands of people accepted him. This blessing
has continued and will continue through his Khulafa
(successors).
Currently under the fifth successor, we are seeing that the
tide of acceptance is worldwide and that the message of
Prophet Ahmadas
has really reached the ends of the earth.
©makhzan-e-tasaweer
founder of
the review of religions
Love & Kindness
WORLD FAITHS

62
62 Islam – A Threat or a Source
of Peace?
Khilafat (or Caliphate) is a word
that instils great fear amongst many
non-Muslims. Are these fears
justified? Or is there a Caliphate
that exists today that spreads peace,
love and harmony in all directions?
HAZRAT MIRZA MASROOR AHMADABA
, HEAD OF THE
WORLDWIDE AHMADIYYA MUSLIM COMMUNITY
14 24
48
10 Suffer Pain to Bring Comfort
to Humanity
True Islamic teachings teach
us to experience grief to
bring others consolation.
HAZRAT MIRZA GHULAM AHMADAS
, THE PROMISED
MESSIAH AND IMAM MAHDI
14 The Significance of Ramadan
The holiest month for Muslims
where they go hungry from dawn
to dusk, but what is the true
philosophy behind fasting?
AIZAZ AHMAD KHAN, PEACE VILLAGE,
ONTARIO, CANADA
24 Religious Trends in Germany
More people are moving away from
affiliated religion; however the
number of Muslims continues to rise.
TAZEEN AHMAD, MARYLAND, USA
30 The Role of Mosques
What are the main functions of the
mosques built by the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community today?
SHAHZAD AHMAD, LONDON, UK
38 Snapshot: Ahmadiyya Mosque
Activities in Germany
40 Khalifah of the Promised
Messiah in Germany
A new phase of Ahmadiyya
mosque openings – however these
mosques are heralded by all as
symbols of integration and peace.
48 A Gathering of Peace
Why Were Over 30,000
Muslims Gathered in Karlsruhe
in Germany this June?
TARIQ H. MALIK, OHIO, USA
58 Impressions of
Ms. Staska Baric
Ms. Baric, a Catholic, travelled to
Germany from Croatia to attend
the Ahmadiyya Annual Convention
in Karlsruhe and afterwards wrote
an intriguing letter expressing
her sentiments and views, which
we are publishing here.
CONTENTS
JULY 2014 VOL.109 ISSUE SEVEN

Ramadhan ends
after 30 days,
but for some,
the hunger persists
“And in their
wealth was a
share for one
who asked for
help and for one
who could not.”
Holy Qur’an,
Ch.51: Vs.20
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NOTE ABOUT REFERENCES
Verse references to the Holy Qur’an
count ‘Bismillah…’ (In the Name
of Allah…) as the first verse of each
Chapter. In some non-standard texts,
this is not counted. Should the reader
refer to such texts, the verse quoted in
The Review of Religions will be found a
verse earlier, i.e. at one verse less than
the number quoted in this journal.
For the ease of non-Muslim readers, ‘sa
’
or ‘(saw)
’ after the words, ‘Holy Prophet’,
or the name ‘Muhammad’, are used
normally in small letters. They stand
for ‘Sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam’ meaning
‘peace and blessings of Allah be upon
him’. Likewise, the letters ‘as
’ or ‘(as)
’
after the name of all other prophets
is an abbreviation meaning ‘peace
be upon him’ derived from ‘Alaihis
salatu wassalam’ which are words
that a Muslim utters out of respect
whenever he or she comes across
that name. The abbreviation ‘ra
’ or ‘(ra)
’
stands for ‘Raziallahu Ta’ala anhu and
is used for Companions of a Prophet,
meaning Allah be pleased with him
or her (when followed by the relevant
Arabic pronoun). Finally, ‘rh
’ or ‘(rh)
’ for
Rahemahullahu Ta’ala means the Mercy
of Allah the Exalted be upon him.
In keeping with current universal
practice, local transliterations
of names of places are preferred
to their anglicised versions, e.g.
Makkah instead of Mecca, etc.

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The second aspect of devoting one’s life
to the cause of God Almighty is that
one’s life should be devoted to the ser-
vice of His creatures and to sympathise
with them and to share their burdens and
sorrows.One should suffer pain to bring
them comfort,and one should experience
grief to bring them consolation.
This shows that the reality of Islam is a
very superior thing and that no one can
truly deserve the title of Muslim till he
surrenders the whole of his being to God,
together with all his faculties,desires,and
designs and till he begins to tread along
His path withdrawing altogether from
his ego and all its attendant qualities.
A person will be truly called a Muslim
only when his heedless life undergoes a
total revolution and his evil-directing self,
together with all its passions, is wiped
out altogether and he is invested with
a new life, which is characterised by his
carrying out all his obligations to Allah;
which should comprise nothing except
obedience to the Creator and sympathy
for His creatures.
Obedience to the Creator means that
in order to make manifest His Honour,
Glory and Unity, one should be ready to
endure every dishonour and humiliation,
and one should be eager to undergo a
thousand deaths in order to uphold His
Unity. One hand should be ready to cut
off the other with pleasure in obedience
to Him, and the love of the grandeur of
His commandments and the thirst for
seeking His pleasure should make sin so
hateful as if it were a consuming fire,or a
fatal poison,or an obliterating lightning,
from which one must run away with all
one’s power. For seeking His pleasure
one must surrender all the desires of
one’s ego; and to establish a relationship
with Him one should be ready to endure
all kinds of injuries; and to prove such a
relationship one must break off all other
relationships.
The service of one’s fellow-beings means
to strive for their benefit purely for the
sake of God in all their needs, and in
all the relationships of mutual depend-
ence which God has established out of
A person will be truly called
a Muslim only when his
heedless life undergoes a
total revolution and his evil-
directing self, together with
all its passions, is wiped
out altogether and he is
invested with a new life.
Suffer Pain to Bring
Comfort to Humanity1
hazrat mirza ghulam ahmadas
,
the promised messiah and imam mahdi
We present extracts from the writings of Hazrat Mirza
Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdias
,
on displaying sympathy and compassion to all mankind
and on the need to reform oneself to achieve this.These are
re-published from the first volume of The Essence of Islam.
JULY 2014 | THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS 11

If the superiority of any Prophet can be
established by such works as proclaim
true sympathy with mankind exceeding
that of all other Prophets,then,O ye peo-
ple, arise and bear witness that in this
respect Muhammadsa
has no equal in the
world.... Blind worshippers of creatures
have not recognised that great Prophetsa
who set forth thousands of examples of
true sympathy with mankind.I perceive,
however, that the time has arrived when
this Holy Messengersa
would be recog-
nised. If you wish you might record my
statement that henceforth the worship
of the dead will decline daily till it dis-
appears altogether.Will man set himself
up against God? Will a despised drop
frustrate the designs of God? Will the
projects of mortal man disgrace Divine
commandments? O ye who can hear,
listen, and O ye who can reflect, con-
sider and remember that truth will be
proclaimed and he who is the true light
will shine forth.[4]
endnotes
1. This is a generic title given by The Review of
Religions to describe the collection of quotes we
have selected of Hazrat Ahmad, the Promised
Messiahas
.This title has not been used by the
Promised Messiahas
himself nor is it found in
Essence of Islam.
2. A’ina-e-Kamalat-e-Islam, Ruhani Khaza’in,
Vol. 5, pp. 60- 62 (Eng.Translation in The
Essence of Islam, Vol. 1. pp. 22-23).
3. (Kashf-ul-Ghita’, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 14,
pp. 187-188 (Eng.Translation in The Essence of
Islam, Vol. 1, pp. xxxiii-xxxiv).
4. (Majmu‘a Ishtiharat, Vol. 2, pp. 305-307 (Eng.
Translation in The Essence of Islam, Vol 1, pp.
209-210).
true and selfless sympathy for them. All
in need of help should be helped out of
one’s God-given capacity and one must
do his best for their betterment both in
this world and in the hereafter.[2]
The purport of my teaching is: Believe
in God as One without associate, and
have sympathy with God’s creatures and
be of good conduct and think no ill. Be
such that no disorderliness or mischief
should approach your heart. Utter no
falsehood, invent no lies and cause no
hurt to anyone whether by your tongue
or your hands.
Avoid all manner of sin and restrain your
passions. Try to become pure hearted,
without vice. It should be your principle
to have sympathy for all human beings.
Safeguard your hands, your tongues and
your thoughts against all impure objects
and disorderly ways and all kinds of
deceit.Fear God and worship Him with
pure hearts. Refrain from committing
wrong, trespass, embezzlement, taking
bribes or unfair partisanship and keep
away from evil companions. Safeguard
your eyes against treachery and your ears
against listening to backbiting.
Entertain no ill designs against the mem-
bers of any religion or any tribe or group.
Be sincere counsellors for everyone. Let
no mischief-maker or one given to bad
behaviour ever be of your company.
Shun every vice and try to acquire every
virtue. Your hearts should be free from
deceit, your hands should be innocent
of wrong and your eyes should be free
from impurity. Take no part in any evil
or transgression.
Put forth your utmost efforts to recog-
nise God,finding Whom is salvation and
meeting Whom is deliverance.He man-
ifests Himself to him who seeks Him
with love and sincerity of heart, and He
reveals Himself to him who becomes
truly His. Pure hearts are His thrones,
and tongues that are free from falsehood,
abuse and vain talk are the places of His
revelation.He who loses himself in seek-
ing His pleasure becomes a manifestation
of His miraculous power.[3]
suffer pain to bring
comfort to humanity
The purport of my teaching
is: Believe in God as One
without associate, and
have sympathy with God’s
creatures and be of good
conduct and think no ill.
Your feedback is
important to us
Write to us with comments,
feedback and suggestions at
info@reviewofreligions.org
12 THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS | JULY 2014 JULY 2014 | THE REVIEW OF RELIGIONS 13

Introduction
Every year, as the blessed month of
Ramadan draws near, Muslims around
the world await in joyous anticipation for
the opportunity to observe fasting— the
fourth of five foundational pillars of the
Islamic faith. The opportune arrival of
Ramadan each year sparks an interest and
awareness that gives rise to several ques-
tions— what exactly is fasting? Is it an
aimless exercise of austerity or a religious
discipline promising moral,physical,and
spiritual development? Is this a novel
practise introduced by Islam? How do
various world religions inculcate fasting
and what is the true concept of fasting
within Islam? Consequently, what is the
significance of Ramadan itself and what
are the objectives that a Muslim strives
to achieve in this month?
What Exactly is Fasting?
First and foremost, fasting is commonly
defined as ‘Abstaining from all or some
kinds of food or drink, especially as a
religious observance.’[1]
In principle,
this definition is descriptive of the act
of keeping a fast, but fails to grasp the
depth and essence of the concept. The
incorporation of fasting in world reli-
gions signifies that the scope of this
practice reaches well beyond the simplic-
ity of abstention from food and drink.
Historically, fasting has also been used
as ‘an expression of protest against what
they believe are violations of social,ethi-
cal,or political principles.’[2]
For example
Mahatma Gandhi’s use of fasting to exert
moral pressure on his political opponents
was often an effective and widely pub-
licized tactic. But generally, fasting is
regarded by world religions primarily as
a mode of self-reflection, moral condi-
tioning, and spiritual advancement.
Fasting in World Religions
Interestingly, fasting is not a novel prac-
tice introduced by Islam.In fact,the Holy
Qur’an acknowledges this and declares
‘O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed
for you,as it was prescribed for those before
you,so that you may become righteous.’[3]
Thus,the practice of fasting in Islam is an
extension of the practice found in earlier
religions.
Hinduism
In Hinduism, fasting is known as
Upavasa. It is a common expression of
religious commitment and is undertaken
as part of an ascetic routine. A fast may
range from complete abstinence from all
food and water,to avoidance of specified
foods, to reduced consumption of food
for a certain time period. Full fasts are
generally practised by ascetics and devout
The Significance
of Ramadan
by aizaz ahmad khan
peace village, ontario, canada
The start of Ramadan is determined
by the sighting of the crescent moon.
© Viktarm | Dreamstime.com

18-day fast in which only small amounts
of water is taken. In contrast to this
extreme,other Buddhists consider simply
removing meat and dairy from one’s diet
to be a form of fasting. A more moder-
ate form of fasting also exists in which
Buddhists practise abstention from food
and drink after noon on certain days of
the month.[10]
Christianity
In Christianity,fasting is observed during
Lent, the period of preparation before
Easter, and during Advent, the period
before Christmas.[11]
Lent provides for
a 40-day fast (excluding Sundays) in imi-
tation of Jesus Christ’sas
own fasting in
the wilderness.[12]
In early Christianity,
fasting rules were strict— one meal a day
was allowed in the evening and meat,
fish, eggs, and butter were forbidden.
These fasting rules were dispensed with
by the Roman Catholic Church during
World War 2 and now only two days
are practised as Lenten fast days— Ash
Wednesday (marking the beginning of
Lent) and Good Friday (the day com-
memorating the Crucifixion of Jesus
Christas
).[13]
The Essence of Fasting in Islam
In Islam the practice of fasting is not only
a physical exercise but a spiritual one; the
ultimate aim of which is the attainment
of God’s pleasure through regulation of
one’s life in accordance with His ordi-
nances. If a Muslim merely observes the
outward requirements of the fast, they
will simply succeed in making themselves
hungry and thirsty and nothing more.
Explaining the true essence of fasting in
Islam, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad,
the Promised Messiah and Founder of
the Ahmadiyya Muslim Communityas
,
states:
“Fasting is not merely staying hungry and
thirsty; rather its reality and its impact
can only be gained through experience. It is
human nature that the less one eats,the more
one’s spirit is purified and thus his capacity
for [spiritual] visions increases. The will of
God is to decrease one kind of sustenance and
to increase the other. A person who is fasting
should always be mindful that he is not just
If a Muslim merely observes
the outward requirements
of the fast, they will
simply succeed in making
themselves hungry and
thirsty and nothing more.
worshippers, whereas the simpler and
more flexible forms of fasting exist for
other believers.Upavasa can also refer to
an all-inclusive abstention from all forms
of sensual gratification.[4]
Judaism
Jews observe several annual fasts during
certain periods. The great fast of Yom
Kippur entails abstention from eating
and drinking, washing, use of ointments
and creams, wearing of leather shoes,
and sexual relations. The fast is framed
by two family meals, which discour-
age asceticism and teach that it is just
as praiseworthy to dine well beforehand
as it is to fast. Worshippers are urged to
abandon the comfort of their homes and
instead remain in prayer in Synagogues.[5]
Fasting is termed as ‘afflicting one’s soul’
by the Torah[6]
and is practised for several
reasons i.e.commemorating the deliver-
ance of the Jews from Pharaoh, to atone
for sins,and in hope of obtaining favora-
ble judgment.[7]
Mosesas
is said to have
fasted twice in his life for a period forty
days each— the first time prior to receiv-
ing the tablets on Mount Sinai and the
second time upon discovering that the
Israelites were practising idolatry.[8]
Buddhism
Biographical traditions of Buddhaas
generally agree that after exploring and
experimenting with extreme austerities,
Buddhaas
remembered a prior meditative
experience as a child and realised that
extreme asceticism to the point of bod-
ily harm was futile and not necessary for
spiritual attainment.After systematically
cutting down his food consumption to
only a few drops of soup a day, Buddhaas
resolved to resume eating, in moder-
ate amounts, to adopt a diet that would
not be indulgent but would be adequate
to sustain the body.[9]
Although vari-
ous forms of fasting are found among
Buddhist schools of thought,they are not
prescribed as an obligation upon follow-
ers of the faith. Some Buddhist monks
and nuns believe extended periods of
fasting to be beneficial to their practice
and thus choose to undergo a minimum
significance of ramadan
Fasting is termed as ‘afflicting
one’s soul’ by the Torah
and is practised for several
reasons i.e. commemorating
the deliverance of the Jews
from Pharaoh, to atone for
sins, and in hope of obtaining
favorable judgment.

essence of fasting in Ramadan entails this
very spirit. Expounding upon the bless-
ings of fasting and its importance to the
welfare of today’s society, Hazrat Mirza
Masroor Ahmadaba
,the Khalifah of Islam
and the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community states:
“When fasting is based on taqwa (righteous-
ness) it produces a beautiful society, creating
a spirit of sacrifice for each other. One is
drawn to the needs of one’s under-privileged
brothers and this is very important because
it was the blessed model of the Holy Prophetsa
that during Ramadan his alms-giving and
charity would gain intense momentum like a
gale storm.This becomes a source of removing
anxiety from society and creates feelings of
empathy for the less fortunate among those
who are well-off; and feelings of love and
gratefulness in the hearts of under-privi-
leged believers for their well-off brothers.”[19]
Is Fasting Compulsory During
Ramadan?
Islam prescribes fasting for all Muslim
adults because it is a religion that wishes
for every Muslim to attain spiritual
heights and be recipient of the Grace of
God. Islam does not desire the practise
to become a burden on those who are not
able to fast.Thus,those who are incapable
of fasting due to sickness or travelling
are exempt from fasting in the month of
Ramadan and are required to complete
the missed fasts later on.[20]
Pregnant
women,menstruating women,and suck-
ling women are also exempt from fasting.
Further concession is made for those
Muslims who cannot complete missed
fasts later on; hence they are obliged to
pay fidya (a compensation for not fast-
ing— feeding the poor and destitute).[21]
This compensation is not to be consid-
ered a penalty for the inability to fast,
rather it is prescribed as a small sacrifice
so that God may bestow them the capac-
ity and the strength to observe the fast
themselves.[22]
Voluntary Fasting in Islam
The wisdom of fasting, when practised
in all sincerity and fulfilling all condi-
tions, is that if one is able to renounce
the lawful satisfaction of his desires for
the period of one month, he certainly
acquires the power and will to renounce
the unlawful gratification of his senses as
well.It is for this very reason that fasting
in Islam is not only promoted and lim-
ited to the month of Ramadan.Voluntary
fasts,as kept by Prophets and Saints,have
proven to be a source of great blessings
and divine favours from God Almighty.
The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa
, the
Promised Messiahas
, Jesusas
, Mosesas
,
required to stay hungry. On the contrary,
he should remain engaged in the remem-
brance of God so that he can cut asunder
ties of worldly desires and amusements and
is wholly devoted to God. Hence, the signifi-
cance of fasting is this alone that man gives
up one kind of sustenance which only nour-
ishes the body and attains the other kind of
sustenance which is a source of comfort and
gratification for the soul.”[14]
Indulgence in unbecoming speech and
inappropriate actions nullifies the very
objective of fasting in Islam.This is why
the Holy Prophet of Islamsa
has taught
that “He who does not shun telling a lie
by word and deed,should know that God
needs not his abstention from food and
drink.”[15]
Furthermore, fasting aims to
teach Muslims to control their passions
and lead productive lives. It is with this
intent in mind that the Holy Prophet
Muhammadsa
taught a simple lesson
regarding fasting: “Fasting is a shield; so
the day one of you fasts, he should not
indulge in foul talk nor should he shout.
And if someone abuses him or fights
with him, he should simply say to him,
‘I am fasting, I am fasting.’”[16]
According to Islam, every action man
carries out is for his own sake— except
fasting, which is for the sake of Allah
and Who is Himself the reward for it.[17]
Thus, a Muslim who is observing a fast
is advised to spend most of their time
executing their duties toward God and
His creation. They should give more
attention to the five obligatory prayers
and strive to offer supererogatory prayers
like tahajjud (after midnight) prayer.The
Holy Prophet Muhammadsa
has empha-
sised the observance of the tahajjud
prayer during Ramadan saying ‘Whoso
stands in tahajjud prayer in Ramadan
with firm faith and with the intention
of achieving the pleasure of God, all of
their previous sins are forgiven.’[18]
In addition to prayer and spirituality,
Islam is a religion that makes the welfare
of society a matter of concern for each
and every Muslim.To strive for the pros-
perity of mankind is an ambition that
Islam wishes to instil within Muslims
at every moment of their lives, and the
According to Islam, every
action man carries out is
for his own sake— except
fasting, which is for the
sake of Allah and Who is
Himself the reward for it.

of Ramadan is named as such for three
reasons:
• One who fasts becomes hot due to
thirst.
• Worship and devotion in this month
burns away the traces of sin.
• Devotion in this month produces the
necessary warmth of love in man for
his Creator and fellow beings.[25]
Ramadan was chosen as the month of
fasting and spiritual advancement due to
its association and close affinity with the
revelation of the Holy Qur’an.The Holy
Qur’an states, ‘The month of Ramadan
is that in which the Qur’an was sent
down as a guidance for mankind with
clear proofs of guidance and discrimi-
nation.’[26]
This can either mean that the
revelation of the Holy Qur’an began in
Ramadan or it can refer to the fact that
the Holy Qur’an would be repeated to
the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa
every
Ramadan by the Archangel Gabriel.[27]
It is in this month that Muslims espe-
cially strive to lead and regulate their
lives according to Qur’anic injunctions
and guidance.
The blessings of the month itself can
be understood by this saying of the
Holy Prophetsa
: “When the month of
Ramadan enters, the gates of Heaven
are flung open and the gates of Hell are
shut, and Satans are chained.”[28]
That is
to say, when the essence of the month
enters one’s heart, then the gates of Hell
are shut and the Satan that invites one to
evil is chained. Such a blessed time and
opportunity comes with equal respon-
sibilities. Thus, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam
Ahmad, the Promised Messiahas
, states:
“During that month one should discard
one’s preoccupation with eating and drink-
ing; and cutting asunder from these needs
should address oneself wholly towards God.
Unfortunate is the person who is bestowed
material bread and pays no attention to
spiritual bread. Material bread strength-
ens the body, and spiritual bread sustains
the soul and sharpens the spiritual faculties.
Seek the Grace of God,as all doors are opened
by His grace.”[29]
Components of the Month of Ramadan
A typical day in the life of a Muslim
during Ramadan is active, engaging,
and disciplined. Below is a list of the
components of Ramadan that a Muslim
observes, practises, and looks forward
to experiencing during the month and
thereafter.
Davidas
— that is to say, almost all pro-
phetic and saintly personalities have kept
voluntary fasts and demonstrated that
doing so is particularly favoured by God
and allows one to attain spiritual promi-
nence in His sight.
The fasting of Ramadan is essentially
a basic and minimal requirement for
the fulfillment of one’s faith in Islam.
Supplementing this, it is the voluntary
fasts kept by those seeking nearness and
additional favour from God that grants
them approval as truly righteous serv-
ants. Such struggles and sacrifice are
recompensed with equal rewards. Thus,
in a Hadith-e-Qudsi (revelation to the
Holy Prophet Muhammadsa
which was
not included in the Holy Qur’an by
God Himself) God the Almighty dis-
closes the rewards of one who strives to
advance in spirituality through voluntary
acts, saying:
“The most beloved things with which a
servant of Mine comes nearer to Me, is
what I have made obligatory upon him;
and My slave continues to advance closer
to Me through voluntary effort beyond that
which is prescribed until I begin to love him
[with a particular love]. When I love him,
I become his ears by which he hears, and his
eyes with which he sees, and his hands with
which he grasps, and his legs with which he
walks.When he asks Me, I bestow upon him
and when he seeks My protection, I protect
him.”[23]
Keeping in mind the potential spiritual
results promised through fasting, eager
Muslims are permitted to fast whenever
reasonable; although voluntary fasts are
prohibited from being kept on signifi-
cantly blessed and joyful occasions in
Islam such as Fridays and during the two
annual celebrations of Eid.
Voluntary fasts are essentially kept in
the same manner and with the same
intentions as those fasts kept during the
month of Ramadan.
Essence of the Month of Ramadan
The word ‘Ramadan’ is derived from
the Arabic word Ramdh, which means,
‘intensely hot’or ‘burning’.[24]
The month
“When the month of Ramadan
enters, the gates of Heaven
are flung open and the
gates of Hell are shut, and
Satans are chained.”

5. Nicholas De Lange, An Introduction to
Judaism (Cambridge, UK: Cambridge UP,
2000), 105.
6. Leviticus 23:27.
7. Nicholas De Lange, An Introduction to
Judaism (Cambridge, UK: Cambridge UP,
2000), 105.
8. Deuteronomy 9:9-18.
9. John Strong, The Buddha: A Short Biography
(Oxford: Oneworld, 2001), 83.
10. Heng Sure, Rev.“A Buddhist Perspective on
Fasting.”Urban Dharma- Buddhism in America.
Web. 03 July 2014, http://www.urbandharma.
org/udharma9/fasting.html.
11. Encyclopedia Britannica and Wendy
Doniger, Britannica Encyclopedia of World
Religions (Chicago, IL: Encyclopaedia
Britannica, 2006), 348.
12. Matthew 4:1-2.
13. Jaroslav Pelikan, Britannica Encyclopedia of
World Religions (Chicago, IL: Encyclopaedia
14. Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas
, Malfuzat
Vol. 5, (Rabwah: NazaratIsha’at Rabwah
Pakistan), 102.
15. Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitab Al-Saum, Bab:
Man lam yada‘ Qaulazzuri wal‘amala bihi.
16. Sahih Al-Muslim, Kitab Al-Siyam, Bab:
Hifz al-lisan li al-Sa’im.
17. Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitab Al-Saum, Bab: Hal
yaqulu innee saa’imun izaa shutima.
18. Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitab Al-Saum, Bab:
Man Sama Ramadana imanan wah-tisaban wa
niyyatan.
19. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba
,“Friday
Sermon: Ramadhan - Virtues of Fasting.”Al Islam.
17 June 2014. http://www.alislam.org/friday-
sermon/2013-07-12.html.
20. Holy Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse
185-186.
21. Holy Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 185.
, The Essence
of Islam Vol. 2. (Tilford: Islam International
Publications, 2004), 313.
23. Sahih Al-Bukhari, KitabAr-Riqaq, Bab:
At-Tawadhu’i.
24. Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmoodra
,
The Holy Qur’an with English Translation and
Commentary. Vol. 1, (2:186) (Tilford: Islam
International Publications, 1988), 239.
25. Ibid
27. Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmoodra
,
The Holy Qur’an with English Translation and
Commentary. Vol. 1, (2:186) (Tilford: Islam
International Publications, 1988), 239.
28. Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitab Al-Saum, Bab: Hal
yuqalu Ramadanu au shahru Ramadana.
, The Essence
of Islam Vol. 2. (Tilford: Islam International
Publications, 2004), 316.
30. Sahih Al-Muslim, Kitab Al-Siyam, Bab:
Istijaabi saumi sittati ayyamin min shawwalin
ittibaa’an li’Ramadan.
Tahajjud (Supererogatory) prayers:
Prayers offered individually after mid-
night and before the dawn prayer.early
in the morning.
Taraweeh (Supererogatory) prayers:
Prayers offered at night in congregation.
These can be offered in place of tahajjud.
Suhoor (Sehri): The traditional Islamic
meal taken before beginning a fast.
Iftar (Iftari):The traditional Islamic meal
taken upon opening a fast.
Dars-e-Qur’an: Special sermons on
verses of the Holy Qur’an given in
Mosques during Ramadan. Attending
these special sermons gives one insight
into Qur’anic teachings and comple-
ments one’s spiritual journey during the
month.
I’tikaaf (seclusion):Observed during the
last ten days of Ramadan, preferably in
a Mosque.
Laylatul Qadr (the night of destiny): A
particularly blessed night among the odd
nights of the last ten days of Ramadan.
Eid-ul-Fitr: The Islamic festival to
mark the completion of Ramadan. It is
celebrated by congregational prayers fol-
lowed by a sermon. Muslims rejoice for
having been given the strength to fulfill
their obligation of fasting.
Fasting in Shawwal (the month follow-
ing Ramadan): One may follow the day
of Eid-ul-Fitr with six days of volun-
tary fasting,during the Islamic month of
Shawwal.The Holy Prophetsa
is reported
to have said that whosoever does so will
be rewarded as if they had fasted per-
petually.[30]
May God Almighty enable Muslims to
benefit spiritually during the month of
Ramadan. Ameen!
endnotes
1. Oxford Dictionaries Language Matters,
“Fasting”Fast: Definition of Fast in Oxford
Dictionary (British & World English), Oxford
Dictionaries, http://www.oxforddictionaries.
com/definition/english/fast?q=fasting#fast-2.
2. Encyclopedia Britannica and Wendy
Doniger, Britannica Encyclopedia of World
Religions (Chicago, IL: Encyclopaedia
4. W. J. Johnson, Oxford Dictionary of Hinduism
(Oxford: Oxford UP, 2009), 335.

As in most Western countries,Germany
has a growing number of people that are
turning away from organised religion but
some would argue that the reasons in
Germany are different and may be more
financial than spiritual.
“In Germany you have to register where
you live with the local community and if
you check a box that says you are Catholic
or Protestant or Jew then the state auto-
matically levy’s a church tax which is
passed on to the church or synagogue that
you belong to,” said Dr. Albrecht Fuess,
a professor at the Philipps University of
Marburg, Germany.
Fuess believes that the special rights
given to the churches under their “cor-
poration under public law”(PLC) status
which allows religious organisations to
tax their members could be a factor in
people officially disassociating them-
selves with specific religious groups
and cautions that it does not necessar-
ily imply that these people have turned
away from religion.
“It is too easy to say that people who
leave these churches are atheists but you
can’t generalize. Many of them will still
attend mass from time to time,” Fuess
said.
Religious Trends
in Germany
by tazeen ahmad, maryland, usa
Downtown Frankfurt at night, Germany.
© S.Borisov | Shutterstock.com
Downtown
Rothenburg Ob
Der Tauber is a well
preserved medieval
german town, and
a UNESCO heritage
site which attracts
over 2 million
visitors every year.
© Perati Komson |
Shutterstock.com
“It is too easy to say that
people who leave these
churches are atheists but
you can’t generalize.”

membership and says it is an option
that the Ahmadiyya Muslim community
chose not to avail.
“We do not need a tax office to collect
money from our members,” Majoka
said. He said that more importantly
what PLC status does for Muslims in
Germany is that it gives us a seat at the
table when discussions are taking place
with governmental bodies on issues that
affect the community on a wide range
of issues.
While financial issues may have an
impact on religious affiliation in Germany
many other factors come into play and
the growth in the religiously unaffiliated
is also attributed to the reunification of
Germany in the 1980’s.
“I wonder if communism is somehow
surfacing in the form of secularism,”
Dr. Greshon Greenberg, the author of
three definitive bibliographies of reli-
gious thought and the Holocaust and
a professor at American University in
Washington D.C., said.
“You do have this deep tradition of anti-
religiosity coming out of the communist
era,”Greenberg said.
Greenberg worries about the growth of
secularism in Germany especially in light
of Germany’s history.
“In my opinion as long as you have some
religious overlay to a state or commu-
nity – some decent religious authority
whether Christianity, or good Islam, or
good Judaism it places a cap on human
autonomy,”Greenberg said.
He said the Germany of Hitlerism or
Nazism was an outburst of this human
autonomy from the early philosophers
to Friedrich Nietzche and that “there is
Rabbi Marcel Marcus who grew up in
Germany and presently lives in Israel
thinks that this is less of an issue with the
Jewish community of German decent.
“Because it is a minority there is a
stronger feeling of solidarity, of belong-
ing to each other, or looking out for
each other,” Marcus said. “You grew up
knowing that you were Jewish which
meant first of all that you were not part
of the community that persecuted you
and therefore you could not stop being
Jewish.”
Marcus does see a similar reluctance to
pay religion tax among Israelis that are
settled in Germany.
“There are a great number of them and
they come from a country where nobody
pays any tax on religion. It may be paid
indirectly so they are not even aware of
it. They can’t see any reason nor do they
have any understanding why they should
start paying it in Germany,”Marcus said.
Not all religious organisations are auto-
matically given PLC status,and the state
bases its decision to grant PLC status
based on group’s permanence, size, and
indication that it follows constitutional
law and fundamental human rights.
Until recently this status had been given
only to the Catholic, Protestant and
Jewish religious communities by the
German state.
That changed last April, when the
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of
Hessen became the first Muslim com-
munity to be granted PLC status in
Germany. Fuess said “it would be inter-
esting to see how many Muslims will join
organised Islam” once Islamic organisa-
tions all have the same right to tax their
members.
Muhammad Ilyas Majoka, the national
general secretary for the Ahmadiyya
Muslim community in Germany has no
concerns about Ahmadi Muslims turning
away from their community for financial
reasons.
“Ahmadi Muslims view the ability to
make a financial contribution to the
community as a blessing. The biggest
punishment for someone who breaks
the rules of the community is that their
financial donation is not accepted,”
Majoka said.
He pointed to the fact that under PLC
status a community is not required to get
state help to collect money from their
Cologne, Germany
Crowded
shopping street.
© William87 |
Dreamstime.com
religious trends in germany

The country with the largest Muslim
population in Europe is Russia, at 16
million in 2010 and expected to exceed
18 million by 2030. But while a major-
ity of European Muslims will continue
to live in Eastern Europe, according to
the 2011 Pew report titled ‘The Future
of the Global Muslim Population,’it will
be Western Europe,including the United
Kingdom, Belgium, France, Germany
and Italy, that is expected to have the
biggest increase in the size of its Muslim
population
“I have lived here for 23 years and I
see a change with the new generations.
German society has become very open
and the government is showing a lot of
initiative to counter discrimination and
prejudices,”Majoka said.He is optimistic
about the future of Muslims in Germany
and grateful for the religious freedom the
state gives to its citizens.
In his recent tour of Germany,the world-
wide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim
Jama’at and fifth Khalifa of the Promised
Messiahas
, Hazrat Mizra Masroor
Ahmadaba
, spoke about importance of
religious freedom and integration.1
“There should be no compulsion in reli-
gion. Jews should be able to practice
their religion freely; Christians should be
able to practice their religion freely and
Muslims likewise. However where the
interests of the country are at stake then
all citizens should work together for the
betterment of the nation.That in my view
is true integration,”his Holiness said.
And when asked what his message
was for Germany his Holiness replied,
“Our message is of peace, affection and
brotherhood. I would say that each per-
son should appreciate the qualities and
good points of one another, rather than
seeking to identify their flaws and weak-
nesses – because this is the way to build
love in society. If I am to summarise my
message in one line I would say ‘look at
your own weaknesses,before you look at
the weaknesses of others’because in this
way you will come to love and appreciate
other people.”2
endnotes
1. Huzoor’s Tour of Germany, June, 2014, A
Personal Account by Abid Khan
2. Huzoor’s Tour of Germany, June, 2014, A
Personal Account by Abid Khan
something scary in the growth of secu-
larism if it is an assertion of autonomy.
Fuess agrees that the reunification of
Germany has played a role in the secu-
larization of the German state.
“In Germany we have the special case of
East Germany which was communist. In
that time people left the Church because
within communism the church was not
seen as something you have to belong
to. And even after the unification, in
contrast to Poland, Russia or Hungary,
people in Germany did not go back to
the church,”Fuess said.
He attributes this to the fact that religion
is not connected to German nationalism
and said whereas in Poland the Catholic
Church was prominent before and it is
again, in Germany the religious situa-
tion was very much divided between
Protestants and Catholics.
“In order to be a real German citizen
you do not have to belong to a specific
church. So there was no need for these
people who were not within a church
organisation to go back to the church,”
Fuess said.
A recent report by the Pew Research
Center supports the fact that a large
percent of people in Germany are unaf-
filiated with any religious community.
The 2014 religious diversity index report
shows that almost one fourth of the
German population is unaffiliated.
The report also shows another phenom-
enon and that is the growing number of
Muslims in Germany.
Today Germany is home to over 4 mil-
lion Muslims making it among the top
– 10 countries with the largest number
of Muslims living as a minority popula-
tion. Almost 6 percent of the German
population is Muslim.
The number of Muslims living in Europe
is projected to exceed 58 million by 2030,
an increase of 28 million since 1990,and
Muslims are expected to make up 8% of
Europe’s total population, according to
a report by the Pew Research Center’s
Forum on Religion & Public Life.
religious trends in germany
Today Germany is home
to over 4 million Muslims
making it among the top – 10
countries with the largest
number of Muslims living
as a minority population.

The Holy Qur’an,regarding the creation
of man, states:
‘And I have not created the Jinn and the
men but that they may worship Me.’[1]
Considering this verse of the Holy
Qur’an, we learn that the purpose of
man’s creation is to establish the wor-
ship of God. Man has been created
with numerous faculties, which suggest
his role and purpose as being far more
significant than merely residing in this
transient world. Rather, it is to establish
a true and strong relationship with his
Creator in this world and in the hereafter.
Therefore, the places most adored and
loved by Allah are those that are support-
ive and helpful in achieving this purpose;
namely mosques. The Holy Prophetsa
laid great importance on the building
of mosques and stated,‘Of all the build-
ings,the most beautiful and attractive in
Allah’s Sight is a Mosque.’[2]
Regarding the first ever mosque built for
the worship of God Almighty,the Ka’aba
in Makkah, God Almighty states:
‘Surely, the first house founded for
mankind is that at Becca (Makkah),
abounding in blessings and a guidance
for peoples.’[3]
Further alluding on this subject, Hazrat
Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmud Ahmadra
,
Second Successor to the Promised
Messiahas
and Second Worldwide Head
of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community,
states in his commentary of the Holy
Qur’an:
“When Abraham offered this prayer, there
was no town next to the Ka’aba. There
existed only the House of God. So Abraham
prayed that in the wildest of wilderness
there might grow a town and that that
town might become a place of security,
affording peace to mankind. In fulfilment
of this prayer, the town of Makkah evolved
there and has remained a place of peace and
security for thousands of years. The prayer
also implied that the Baitullah[4]
would be
the means of bringing peace and security to
mankind. Firstly, those who accepted Islam
were to become secure from all evils and the
recipients of God’s Blessings. Secondly, Islam
The Role of Mosques
by shahzad ahmad, london, uk
The Holy Prophetsa
laid great
importance on the building
of mosques and stated,‘Of
all the buildings, the most
beautiful and attractive in
Allah’s Sight is a Mosque.’

Inauguration of the Darul Aman Mosque
in Friedberg, Germany, Hazrat Mirza
Masroor Ahmadaba
, Fifth Successor to
the Promised Messiahas
and the cur-
rent Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community stated,‘Indeed,this Mosque
does not just guarantee peace to those
who enter it, but it will also prove to be
a source of peace for all members of the
local community,no matter whether they
are religious or not.’[9]
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
under the divine leadership of its spir-
itual leader, gives the building and
constructing of mosques its due impor-
tance.Consequently,the Community has
opened over ten thousand mosques to
date around the world.These mosques are
built in order to provide a place of wor-
ship for Muslims to submit in humility
to God and as centres to spread the true
and peaceful teachings of Islam with love.
Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba
,
has personally inaugurated numer-
ous mosques built by the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community all around the
world in countries such as the UK,
Spain, Canada, America, Australia and
New Zealand. The inaugurations of the
mosques are marked with a special event
in which local dignitaries, academics,
professionals, journalists and also local
residents and neighbours are invited.
His Holiness expounds on the pure and
pristine teachings of Islam and the true
purpose of building mosques in Islam.
On one such occasion His Holinesssaid:
‘‘And I would like to inform you that the
status of the mosque as a place of refuge is
not limited only to those who enter it, but in
wider terms it means that even those who
live in the surrounding areas will always
be safe and will never have any reason to
fear the worshippers of the Mosque. Not only
will the local people be able to live safely
and peacefully, but they will also find that
every Ahmadi Muslim will stand shoul-
der to shoulder with them in an effort to
establish a society filled with peace, love and
compassion. Certainly, the local people of this
area will find that all Ahmadis will always
remain at the forefront of every effort that
is made towards transforming hatred and
enmity into love and peace.’’[10]
Today, mosques are often stereotyped as
the breeding ground for extremism and
terrorism and are perceived to be isolated
from the general community. However,
at the Inauguration of the newly built
Nasir Mosque in Gillingham, UK, His
Holiness said regarding the role of a
mosque:
was to be the means of bringing about peace
and concord among different nations of the
world.”[5]
Therefore, mosques are a source of great
divine grace and blessings. They form
an integral part of society and serve the
whole community, irrespective of one’s
faith. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVra
regarding this verse of the Holy Qur’an
states:
“Allah has here used the expression ‘man-
kind’ which indicates that this House was
constructed for neither the Muslims, nor
Hindus, nor Christians, but for the whole
of mankind, for carrying out the worship
of Allah. It was intended that here would
in due course, be born the Prophetsa
through
whom the whole of mankind would be
gathered together under the banner of one
faith.”[6]
From the early history of Islam,we learn
that mosques not only functioned as
buildings for the worship and remem-
brance of God,but that they have served
a number of functions for the general
welfare of mankind; as meeting places,
for social gatherings, as centres of learn-
ing, for respite and even for essential
water supplies (a prerequisite for Salat[7]
is to perform ablution and water is always
amply available in mosques for worship-
pers). It is a symbol that expresses the
unity of God and projects peace and
harmony.
Regarding the importance of building
mosques,the Founder of the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community –Hazrat Mirza
Ghulam Ahmadas
stated, ‘If you want
Islam to progress, build a mosque.
Wherever our Community is estab-
lished, a mosque should be built....’[8]
Indeed, mosques become the beacons of
projecting peace and harmony and illu-
minating their surroundings with their
spiritual light. At the occasion of the
‘If From the early history
of Islam, we learn that
mosques not only functioned
as buildings for the worship
and remembrance of God,
but that they have served a
number of functions for the
general welfare of mankind;
as meeting places, for social
gatherings, as centres of
learning, for respite and even
for essential water supplies.
the role of mosques

southern county of Kent,in England.Mr.
Rob Price, Assistant Chief Constable of
Kent Police, expressing his views said:
“I get a real sense of excitement actually
that the mosque can be that catalyst for bet-
ter community relations. So, I think that
because of the mosque, our community will
get only stronger. I am very excited about
the prospect.”[13]
At the Inauguration of Baitur Rahman
Mosque in Valencia, Spain, Her
Excellency Mari Carmen Contelles
Llopis, the Lady Mayor of Pobla de
Vallbona, the town where the new
mosque is located,said she was delighted
to welcome so many guests to her town.
She praised the Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community for ‘always promoting peace
and tolerance in the world.’[14]
At the opening of Baitur Rahman
Mosque in Vancouver, Canada, a guest
expressed his feelings in the following
words:
“I liked the part where His Holiness, Mirza
Masroor Ahmad, said that whenever we
open a mosque, we open a chapter for reli-
gious freedom. His speech proves Ahmadis
are non-violent and peaceful. It proves
Ahmadis are humanitarians.”[15]
continues to strive to build mosques
throughout the world. A hallmark of
the Community has become the fact that
its mosques are symbols of integration,
peace and friendship. The Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community in Germany,in par-
ticular, has been at the forefront in this
regard. The 35,000 strong Community
has long been blessed by the frequent
visits of Hazrat Khalifatul MasihVaba
.
Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Fourth
worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community, in one of his ser-
mons once said,‘I wish Germany would
be the first European country in Jamaat
Ahmadiyya to be bestowed with the abil-
ity to build a hundred mosques.’[16]
Since the establishment of the
Community in Berlin, Germany, in
1923 it has opened forty mosques
and it continues to build towards the
accomplishment of this great and noble
task. In June 2014, the current head of
the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
attended the 39th
Annual Convention
in Germany (called Jalsa Salana).
During the visit, His Holiness laid the
foundation for two mosques; and inau-
gurated Sadiq and Mubarak Mosques
in Karben and Wiedbaden, the Darul
‘‘Thus it will be a place for people to gather
in an effort to help the poor, to help orphans
and to free people from every type of slavery
once and for all. It will be a place for them to
join together to serve humanity and benefit
mankind and it will also be a place to fulfil
the rights of the Mosque’s neighbours and
to help them. In regard to the rights owed
to one’s neighbours, I would like to clarify
that according to the teachings of Islam a
person’s neighbours have a great value and
status.’’[11]
Thus,the Ahmadiyya mosques play a vital
social role wherever they are constructed.
This is because Ahmadi Muslims have
been instructed by the Founder of the
Ahmadiyya Community to extend an
affectionate hand of friendship to all
those around them. Many Ahmadi
mosques and their adjoining halls are
utilised by local communities for schools,
police public training sessions, blood
drives, inter-faith conferences and com-
munity events etc.
The efforts of the Ahmadiyya Community
to establish peace and harmony through
the building of mosques has been recog-
nised and appreciated by many.
In his recent tour to the Far East
(Singapore, Australia, New Zealand &
Japan) His Holiness inaugurated a num-
ber of mosques. The opening of these
mosques has had a tremendous impact
in dispelling the misconceptions about
Islam as an extremist religion, through
their peaceful and harmonious interac-
tion with the wider community. At the
Inauguration of the Masroor Mosque in
Brisbane, Australia, State MP Michael
Pucci said:
“What an honour to have His Holiness,
Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad here in
Logan.The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
is a major part of our Community. Ahmadis
are terrific ambassadors not just for their
faith but also for our Community. I
am proud to have this Mosque in my
constituency.”[12]
Recently His Holiness inaugurated the
Nasir Mosque in Gillingham, in the
‘When this Mosque is built
you will come to witness
that true Mosques are not
a place to spread evil or
hatred, but rather serve only
to spread peace, love and
unity throughout the world.’
the role of mosques

org/8497/a-haven-of-peace-and-love/.
11. Hazrat Mirza MasroorAhmadaba
,
“Worship Requires Service to
Humanity,”Review of Religions, http://
www.reviewofreligions.org/10656/
worship-requires-service-to-humanity/.
,
“Mosque – An Abode of Peace &
Compassion at the inauguration of a new
mosque in Brisbane,”Review of Religions,
http://www.reviewofreligions.org/10424/
mosque-an-abode-of-peace-compassion/.
13. The Review of Religions, Guest Comments
& Reflections on Gillingham Mosque
Opening,”Review of Religions, http://www.
reviewofreligions.org/10590/guest-comments-
reflections-on-gillingham-mosque-opening/.
14. Abdul Majid Tahir,“Re-Emergence of Islam
in Spain Through a Peaceful Message”, Review
of Religions, http://www.reviewofreligions.
org/9143/re-emergence-of-islam-in-spain-
through-a-peaceful-message/.
15. The Review of Religions,“Guests Reflect
on the Inauguration of the Vancouver
Mosque”, Review of Religions, http://www.
reviewofreligions.org/9430/guests-reflect-on-
the-inauguration-of-the-vancouver-mosque/.
16. Nasim Rehmatullah,“Building of Mosques
Worldwide an Ahmadiyya Priority”, Al Islam,
http://www.alislam.org/library/articles/new/
building-mosques.html.
17. Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
International Press and Media Office,
“Wiesbaden Mosque foundation stone
laid,” Press Ahmadiyya, last modified June
5, 2014, http://www.pressahmadiyya.
com/2014/06/wiesbaden-mosque-foundations-
tone-laid.html.
International Press and Media Office,“Karben
Mosque Foundation Stone Laid,” Press
Ahmadiyya, last modified June 8, 2014, http://
www.pressahmadiyya.com/2014/06/sadiq-
mosque-karben-foundation.html.
Amaan Mosque and Al Mahdi Mosque
in Friedberg and Munich, Germany.
During his visit to the various mosques,
His Holinesscontinued to remind mem-
bers of the Community and the public
of the spirit and the significance behind
establishing these mosques.
Speaking about the new mosque Hazrat
Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba
said, ‘When
this Mosque is built you will come to
witness that true Mosques are not a
place to spread evil or hatred, but rather
serve only to spread peace,love and unity
throughout the world.’[17]
He also stated:
“This mosque has been called the ‘Mosque of
the Truthful’ and so the qualities of truth,
honesty and integrity must be visible in
every word and every act of an Ahmadi
Muslim. Indeed, when the Mosque is com-
plete the local people will come to see that
Ahmadis practice what they preach and
spread truth in all directions.”[18]
Mosques built by the Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community all over the world continue
to stand as an abode of peace and tran-
quillity.Its’domes and minarets not only
represent a magnificent history of Islam,
but act as beacons from which the mes-
sage of love,respect and harmony echoes
forth to the hearts of many.
endnotes
1. Holy Qur’an, Surah Al-Dhariyat, Verse 57.
3. Holy Qur’an, Surah Al-e-‘Imran, Verse 97.
4. Definition: House of God.
5. Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud
Ahmadra
, The Holy Qur’an with English
Translation and Commentary Vol. 2, 2nd Edition,
(Tilford, UK: Islam International Publications
Ltd, 2002), 179.
6. Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khutbat-e-
Tahir, Vol.2, https://www.alislam.org/urdu/
kt/1983/19830902.pdf.
7. Formal way of worship in Islam.
International Press and Media Office,
“Friedberg Mosque inaugurated by
Khalifa,” Press Ahmadiyya, last modi-
fied June 8, 2014, http://www.pressahmadiyya.
com/2014/06/friedberg-mosque-inaugurated-
by-khalifa.html.
,“A Haven
of Peace and Love: Darul Amaan Mosque
opens in Manchester, United Kingdom,”Review
of Religions, http://www.reviewofreligions.
Your feedback is
important to us
Write to us with comments,
feedback and suggestions at
info@reviewofreligions.org
the role of mosques

To promote peace and religious
harmony ‘Day of The Founders of
Religion’ is commemorated to help
learn and appreciate the common
values shared by all religions and
their founders.
‘Mosque Day Open Events’ are
organised throughout the year,
giving the opportunity to members
of the public to visit the mosque
and learn more about Islam.
Dignitaries, politicians and
prominent guests from around the
country are regularly invited.
Exhibitions and seminars are
held in the mosques all over the
country, a platform for learning
and enquiring about the teachings
of Islam.
W
hat is the purpose of the
mosques constructed by
the Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community? Their function is encap-
sulated by the following words of His
Holiness, Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba
,
worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community, at a recent inau-
guration of an Ahmadiyya Mosque.
“…[Our mosques] will prove
to be a source of spreading love,
affection, peace and brotherhood
for all people irrespective of
whether they are Ahmadi or
non-Ahmadis or whether they
are Muslim or non-Muslims.
The doors of our mosque will
always be open to the people of
all religions, because this mosque
is a means of manifesting
God’s grace, mercy, love and
compassion for mankind…
Activities:
The mosques play a key role in
educating the youth across the
country about the true teachings of
Islam. Students from universities,
colleges and primary schools
frequently visit the mosques.
Ahmadiyya Mosque
Activities in Germany
SNAPSHOT:

D
uring his tour of Germany,
His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza
Masroor Ahmadaba
, the
Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community who is also the
Fifth Khalifah (Caliph), inaugurated
two mosques in Friedberg and Munich
mosques as well as laying the foundation
stones of a further two mosques.
We present here a glimpse into the
events that took place to celebrate the
new mosques. The Ahmadiyya Muslim
way, which is of integration, interfaith
dialogue, love and compassion is fur-
ther highlighted in the manner that the
Community has embarked on this new
phase of mosque openings.
The Mosque of Blessings - Wiesbaden
Mosque Foundation Stone Laid
4 June 2014
His Holiness laid the foundation
stone for the first Ahmadiyya Muslim
Mosque in the historic German city
of Wiesbaden and named the mosque
the Mubarak Mosque (The Mosque
of Blessings). More than 400 guests
attended the ceremony,including various
dignitaries such as Hans Peter-Schickel,
Deputy President of the City Parliament
and Joseph Dreiseitel,Secretary of State
Ministry for Social Affairs & Integration,
Hessen State Parliament. A number of
visiting dignitaries took to the stage
to offer their congratulations to the
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Hans
Peter-Schickel, Deputy President of the
City Parliament said, ‘The Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community continues to serve
the local community in an excellent fash-
ion.You always make it clear that Islam is
a religion of peace and against all forms
of extremism.’
The keynote address was then delivered
by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba
who
said it was imperative that the people of
all religions and backgrounds were able
to live side by side in peace and har-
mony and that this had always been the
message and belief of the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community. His Holiness said,
‘When this Mosque is built you will
come to witness that true mosques are
not a place to spread evil or hatred, but
rather serve only to spread peace, love
and unity throughout the world.’
The Khalifah of the
Promised Messiahas
in Germany to
Promote Integration
and Spread Peace

Regarding the importance for Muslims
to show loyalty to their country, His
Holiness said, ‘We believe that loyalty to
one’s country should be a distinguishing fea-
ture of a true Muslim and if this is not the
case then he or she is not being true to their
faith.’
TheHouseofPeace-FriedbergMosque
inaugurated by Khalifah
7 June 2014
His Holiness inaugurated the Darul
Amaan Mosque (The House of Peace)
in the German city of Friedberg.Around
200 guests attended the ceremony,
including various dignitaries such as
Peter Ziebarth,City Councillor,Joachim
Arnold,District Commissioner and Jorg-
Uwe Hahn, ex-Provincial Minister for
Justice, Europe & Integration. Peter
Ziebarth, representing the City Council
said:
“It is a great honour for me to represent the
City at the opening of the new Mosque here
in Friedberg.The fact you have built a place
of worship here shows that you consider this
city to be your home and this is a very posi-
tive example of successful integration.”
Joachim Arnold,District Commissioner
said:
“It is essential that all people respect the reli-
gions and beliefs of each other and I know
that the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is
well-known for promoting and practicing
such mutual respect. You have proved your-
selves as a peaceful and tolerant group who
seek to integrate in the local society.”
Jorg-Uwe Hahn,ex-Provincial Minister
for Justice, Europe & Integration said:
“It is an honour for me to be here at the
opening of this House of God. I wish to
acknowledge the great role the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community plays in our society.
Certainly your community is a very wel-
come part of Hessen and of Germany.”
The Mosque of the Truthful - Karben
Mosque Foundation stone laid
7 June 2014
His Holiness laid the foundation
stone for the first Ahmadiyya Muslim
Mosque in the German town of Karben
and named the mosque, the ‘Sadiq
Mosque’ (The Mosque of the Truthful).
Brief remarks were given by Phiip von
Leonardi, Councillor for Culture &
Integration and Mario Schafer, Leader
of the Green Party (City Parliament).
The keynote address was delivered by
dur-
ing which he praised the local citizens
of Karben for creating an environment in
which people of different ethnicities and
backgrounds were living together peace-
fully. His Holiness said that this was a
sign of the ‘loving and caring’ nature of
the local people. Referring to the name
of the mosque, His Holiness said:
“This Mosque has been called the ‘Mosque of
the Truthful’ and so the qualities of truth,
honesty and integrity must be visible in
every word and every act of an Ahmadi
Muslim. Indeed, when the Mosque is com-
plete the local people will come to see that
Ahmadis practice what they preach and
spread truth in all directions.”
His Holiness said that
this was a sign of the
‘loving and caring’ nature
of the local people.

“Whenever there are any humanitarian
projects run by members of the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community from Germany we
make it clear to the local people that it is a
German project and this is greatly appre-
ciated by the them. Thus, in this way we
are acting as Germany’s ambassadors and
illuminating the name of this country far
and wide.”
Al Mahdi Mosque, Munich
Inaugurated
9 June 2014
His Holiness inaugurated the Al-Mahdi
Mosque in the German municipal-
ity Neufahrn, 20km from Munich.
More than 260 guests attended a
special reception held at the Oskar-
Maria-Graf School including various
dignitaries such as Franz Heilmeier,
Mayor Neufahrn, Erich Irlstorfer,
Member of the Bundestag Freising and
Professor Heiner Bielefeldt, Special
Rapporteur for Freedom of Religion at
the United Nations.12 white doves were
also released into the sky marking a local
Bavarian tradition.
Franz Heilmeier, Mayor Neufahrn said:
In the keynote address by Hazrat Mirza
Masroor Ahmadaba
he said that the
Mosque had been named ‘The House of
Peace’ and so like all Ahmadi Mosques
it would guarantee peace and security to
all those who entered it:
“Indeed, this Mosque does not just guarantee
peace to those who enter it, but it will also
prove to be a source of peace for all members
of the local society, no matter whether they
are religious or not.”
Regarding integration His Holiness said:
“In my opinion, integration requires for a
person to truly love his new country and
so he or she should sincerely strive for its
progress and success. He or she should use
all of their faculties and capabilities to sup-
port their new country. Certainly, this is the
example of the members of the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community.”
His Holiness concluded by speaking
about humanitarian projects and said:
“In my opinion, integration
requires for a person to truly
love his new country and so he
or she should sincerely strive
for its progress and success. He
or she should use all of their
faculties and capabilities to
support their new country.”

Holiness cited the Conference of World
Religions, organised by the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community,which took place in
February at Guildhall in London:
“During the Conference the representatives
of various religions spoke about their respec-
tive faiths in front of an audience of around
1,000 guests and I also got the opportu-
nity to speak about Islam. The Conference
took place in a very peaceful and cordial
atmosphere.”
Continuing, Hazrat Mirza Masroor
Ahmadaba
said, ‘The Holy Quran says that
there should be no compulsion in religion
and so no one has the right to speak ill of
any other person’s belief or faith.’
His Holiness also responded to a small
local protest comprising a handful
of people against the building of the
Mosque that was taking place simulta-
neously. He said that Ahmadi Muslims
would not respond with counter protests
or rallies but only by peacefully raising its
slogan of Love for All,Hatred for None.

HazratMirzaMasroorAhmadaba
said,‘Islam
has taught us to respond to curses with prayers;
it has taught us to respond to those who grieve
us only with love and care and it has taught
us to respond to arrogance only with humility.’
During his address, His Holiness also
spoke of the recent martyrdom of Dr
Mehdi Ali Qamar, a US-Canadian citi-
zen in Pakistan. His Holiness informed
the audience that Dr Mehdi had trav-
elled to Pakistan to volunteer his services
at a hospital but had been target killed
only because he was an Ahmadi Muslim.
His Holiness said that the body of Dr
Mehdi was flown to Canada where it
was draped in both the American and
Canadian flags before burial and mem-
bers of both Governments paid great
respect and honour to the deceased.
said:
“When Dr Mehdi Ali Qamar was killed we
Ahmadi Muslims did not protest or take to
the streets and nor will we ever stop serving
humanity. Rather more than ever before we
will seek to help those in need or those who
are vulnerable.Wherever Ahmadi Muslims
exist they seek only to serve mankind. This
is our spirit and this is our way.”
This article is based on the official press releases
by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
International Press & Media Office. For more
information visit: www.pressahmadiyya.com
“Today is a very significant day whereby
we are all joining together to inaugurate
this new Mosque. The Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community has made a home for themselves
here and I hope and pray that you live here
in peace and harmony.”
Joseph Hauner, District Commissioner
Freising said,‘It is a great honour that His
Holiness,Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad
has come here to Bavaria and I thank
him for this. Certainly, you preach the
values of tolerance and mutual respect.’
Reiner Schneider, ex-Mayor Neufahrn
said:
“Today is a very significant day not just for
the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community but for
the city of Neufahrn and its people because
His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor
Ahmad has come to this area…This Mosque
is not just for you but for all people.”
Heinz Grünwald, Regional President,
Lower Bavaria said, ‘I have known the
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for
more than 20 years and from the outset
I have developed great respect for you
and considered you as a friend.’
Tobias Eschenbacher, Lord Mayor
Freising said, ‘The Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community has always excelled in terms
of promoting dialogue through which the
fears or reservations that are caused by a
lack of understanding are removed.’
Erich Irlstorfer, Member of the
Bundestag Freising said, ‘Your new
Mosque is a source of pride not just for
you but to all people in this country. I
wish you peace and prosperity.’
Professor Heiner Bielefeldt, Special
Rapporteur for Freedom of Religion at
the United Nations said:
“Whoever believes in freedom of religion
must know about the Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community because they are the most perse-
cuted religious community. In Pakistan their
members are killed or jailed. Pakistan is no
longer the Pakistan of the late Zafrullah
Khan (ex-Foreign Minister, an Ahmadi
Muslim) but rather what we see today is
extremism and terrorism.”
During his keynote address, Hazrat
spoke about
the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s
continued commitment to promoting
interfaith dialogue. His Holiness said
that the Community organised events
across the world in an effort to foster
mutual understanding amongst the peo-
ple of all beliefs.As a recent example,His
the khalifah of the promised messiahas
in germany to promote
integration and spread peace

“I am content and delighted to the depths
of my soul. In particular, I would like to
say regarding the address of the Khalifah
that he has invited us and called us towards
peace, tolerance, and love. We are all aware
that we are passing through a time when
the levels of tolerance are nil. This is a time
when wars and killing are prevalent,” said
Mr. Marincho, a guest form Macedonia
Mr.Marincho while commenting on the
address delivered by the Worldwide head
of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community,
the Fifth Khalifah,His Holiness,Hazrat
on the second
day of the 39th
Annual Convention of
the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community,
Germany.Nearly one thousand non-Ah-
madi guests attended this special session
and heard His Holiness’s address with
upmost respect and attention. His
Holiness’s address was replete with
faith and wisdom. Thousands of mem-
bers of the Community also eagerly
listened to their beloved Khalifah.Many
had gathered in the main hall to listen
to faith inspiring speeches and later
enjoyed a stroll in the area to meet old
acquaintances and to make new friends,
appreciating the various types of foods
being cooked,book stalls and exhibitions
set up for their benefit.
While informing the guests about the
purpose of Khilafat (spiritual successor-
ship) His Holiness said:
“Let me make it clear that the institu-
tion of Khilafat leading the Ahmadiyya
Community has no interest in power or
government. Rest assured that true Khilafat
has no worldly or political objectives. The
sole concern of the Ahmadiyya Khilafat is
that the people of the world come to recog-
nise their Creator and bow down before the
One God.”[1]
To a person who is oblivious with this
Community’s mission statement, the
thought of 33 thousand Muslims get-
ting together for three days might
sound very dangerous, suspicious and
threatening. But a visit to any event
hosted by the Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community can suddenly change that
notion. It is Khilafat that makes the
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community most
unique when compared to any other
Muslim Community around the globe.
is guided by a central spiritual leader
or Khalifah Worldwide. His Holiness,
,
is the only Khalifah of the Muslim
World and the Community believes
that only Khilafat can uphold the true
A Gathering
of Peace
Why Were Over 30,000 Muslims Gathered
in Karlsruhe in Germany this June?
by tariq h. malik, ohio, usa

Mr Claud Tatah from Cameroon said:
“The Khalifah’s speech was very elaborate
and permeated with knowledge. Inter-
religous dialogue was fabulous. I gained a
lot of knowledge regarding Islam, things
I didn’t know before. The true meaning of
Jihad is to fight for the etablishment of love
without any weapons. Now I have under-
stood the true definition of Jihad, and that
of religious tolerance and cooperation. This
is the actual meaning of Jihad.”
There were two meetings organised
during the Jalsa for the guests to ask
questions,whereas individual discussions
and interfaith dialogue continued all
three days from morning till late night.
One meeting was with the Arab guests in
which more then 220 guests were pres-
ent. The second meeting was with the
Russian speaking people from Germany
and more than 30 guests from various
countries were also in attendance. His
Holiness honoured many of the guests by
meeting with them. After which, some
The Community is at the forefront of spreading
the true and peacefull message of Islam and
holding annual conventions aids this cause.
values of Islam and unite humanity.The
Community is at the forefront of spread-
ing the true and peacefull message of
Islam and holding annual conventions
aids this cause.The Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community is the leading Islamic orga-
nisation to categorically reject terrorism
in any form.[2]
In his passed speeches,His Holiness has
laid great emphasis on the importance of
serving the rights of God and His cre-
ation. This, is the true Islamic teaching
through which peace and love can be
attained on a global level.Reiterating on
this subject His Holiness stated:
“The Khilafat of the Ahmadiyya Community
can never depart from Islam’s core teachings
of fulfilling the rights owed to God and to
mankind.Today, the institution of Khilafat
is striving for peace in every possible way
and to spread love and affection throughout
the world.”[3]
Many of the guests were touched by His
Holiness’s words. His presence left a
wonderful impression on both the mem-
bers of the Community and the guests
who attended the Jalsa.After listening to
His Holiness’s address, Karl Heinz said:
“Those things were said that the Pope would
not have been able to say. Muslims are
presented in the media as if they are all ext-
remists and people are incited against them.
And Christians are conversely presented as
peaceful.Today I have come to learn the true
teaching of Islam. It is a peaceful atmosphere
here and it is quite amazing that how so
many people are mingling together in such
a peaceful and dignified manner.”
Mr Nikolcho Goshevski, who works at
a government office, remarked:
“My visit was greatly beneficial to learn
more about religion and to study and reflect
upon it deeply. The speeches of the Jalsa left
a deep impression upon me. His Holiness’s
speeches transformed my views on Islam
altogether. Perviously, I precieved Islam as
a radical and extremist religion but now I
have removed my previously considerations
because Islam is a religion of peace.”
Mr Mehmet Turan, a German party
member, commented:
“All politicians were greatly impressed
by your address and this was something
visible from their faces. This statement of
the Khalifatul Masih was greatly impres-
sive and wise that he said to all the members
of the Jamaat to play a part in the progress
of the German nation.”
why were over 30,000 muslims
gathered in karlsruhe in
germany this june?

These addresses not only helped the
Ahmadis in attendance, who were spiri-
tually inspired and raised mighty slogans
to express their love and passion for their
revered Khalifah, but also impacted the
hearts of many non-Ahmadi guests.
Michael ch.P.Whittman,a guest in att-
nedance remarked,‘The Jalsa atmosphere
was full of joy and amusement.Speeches
of the Khalifah of the time were direc-
ted towards everyone. Hence, all in
attnedance were affected and benefited
immensely from this spiritual experience.’
Other than the addresses delivered
by His Holiness, the Jalsa programme
was loaded with speeches that enhan-
ced the spiritual and moral standards
of the listeners along with increasing
their knowledge of history of Islam and
Ahmadiyyat.Some of the speeches deli-
vered at this Jalsa were on the following
topics: ‘The importance of attributes
of God in our lives,’ ‘Disadvantages of
social ills: resentment, hatred, suspicion,
etc’,‘The life of Hadhrat Alira
’,‘The Holy
Qur’an and evolution’, ‘The importance
Jalsa guests and members of the Community
immensely benefited from the exhibition set up
by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.
couldn’t help but express their fascination
and joy.
Dusko Vuksanov,a guest at the Jalsa,was
very happy and satisfied with his Jalsa
experience. He said:
“The meeting and collective prayer attract
me to learn more about Islamic gatherings
and traditions and to learn more about
the religion. The speech of the Imam of the
(Ahmadiyya) Community had the greatest
impact upon me. I wish to attend the Jalsa
next year also.”
Referring to his meeting with His
Holiness, Mr Vuksanov said:
“He answered all our questions and
explained all matters that we asked about.
Our thoughts about Islam were transformed
all together. The answers were greatly
detailed, based on truth and we came to
learn how good are the teachings of Islam.
Islam teaches to show love and compassion
to everyone.”
While commenting on his Jalsa experi-
ence, Mr Bogon Gabriel from Romania
said:
“It was impressive to see various religions
represented at the Jalsa. We learned many
new things about Islam. I am very happy
that Ahmadiyyat grants various religions an
opportunity to share their views.”
His Holiness delivered four addres-
ses across three days during this grand
Jalsa.The Jasla commenced on Friday 13
June, 2014, with flag hoisting ceremony
followed by Friday Sermon delivered
by His Holiness. Alongside the flag of
the Community, the German flag was
also raised to show solidarity and loyalty
to one’s nation, which according to the
teachings of Prophet Muhammadsa
, the
Founder of Islam, is an integral part of
faith. On Saturday 14 June, 2014, His
Holiness delivered two addresses: one at
the Ladies marquee and the other was
delivered the same day for the guests.
Then on Sunday 14 June, 2014, His
Holiness concluded this grand event
by delivering a spiritually charged add-
ress about the importance of building a
pesonal bond and connection with God
Almighty.[4]
More than 33 thousand
members of the Community attended
this three-day convention in Karlsruhe,
Germany. Amongst the 33 thousand in
attendance,there were numerous delegates
who were representing France, Belgium,
Estonia, Croatia, Lithuania, Slovenia,
Romania, Hungry, Montenegro, Bosnia,
Kosovo,Albania,Bulgaria and Macedonia.
germany this june?

to perform their obligations and res-
ponsibilities. On a broader and more
external level, these conventions aid
the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
to fulfill its true task as initiated by its
Founder, the Promised Messiah, Hazrat
Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas
.The great task
of defending Islam and presenting its
true and beautiful teachings to the world.
The success of these blessed Conventions
is mind boggling.Clearly,the outcome of
Jalsa Salana Germany was no different.
The Promised Messiahas
emphasised the
importance of attending Jalsa Salana and
very eloquently described its essence.He
said:
“The primary purpose of this Convention
is to enable every sincere individual to per-
sonally experience religious benefits; They
may enhance their knowledge and due to
their being blessed and enabled by Allah,
The Exalted - their perception [of Allah]
may progress. Among its secondary benefits
is that this congregational meeting together
will promote mutual introduction among all
brothers, and it will strengthen the fraternal
ties within this Community.”
of Belief in life after death’,‘Harmonious
married life is important for good train-
ing of children’, ‘Good treatment of
non-Muslims by the Holy Prophet
Muhammadsa
’.
The guests of this Jalsa were indeed
very appreciative of His Holiness.
His Holiness also acknowledged the
importance of his guests and their
role in making such events successfull.
Appreciating the guests of Jalsa Salana,
in his Friday Sermon delivered on the
first day of the Jalsa, His Holiness said:
“The Jalsa’s atmosphere is created by members
of the (Ahmadiyya) Community attending
it.Ahmadi men,women and children attend
the Jalsa with great passion and zeal or they
make an effort to do so. But now part of
the ambience, flavour and atmosphere of
the Jalsa is also made up by our non-Ah-
madi friends who come to listen and see the
Jalsa...”[5]
Many guests and members of the com-
munity enjoyed the atmosphere of the
Jalsa. This atmosphere was impossible
to create without the tireless work of
hundreds of volunteers of this impres-
sive event. All the volunteers at the Jalsa
were members of the Community who
devoted their time for this noble event.
The Jalsa lasted three days, but the pre-
paration and wrap up took much longer
than that.
The purpose of these annual conventions,
that are being held in every continent,
by the Ahamdiyya Muslim Community,
which is estabished in more than 200
countries worldwide, is to foster love
and brotherhood amongst its members
and help them evolve spiritually by giving
them a chance of collective reformation
and an opportunity to attain spiritual
nourishment as well as an oppotunity
germany this june?

other human beings. For example, Ahmadis
believe that man can enter heaven by doing
good deeds. Now the questions arises that
as human beings, we have the ability to
please God the Almighty with our actions,
or we can, we will enter heaven due to his
Love and Mercy? The Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community will prosper and continues to
prosper to sway the world.”
This article is based on the reports provided by The
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Deutschland.
endnotes
International Press and Media Office,“True
Khilafat is Spiritual Leadership and Has
No Interest in Power or Government”, Al
Islam, last modified June, 15, 2014, http://
www.alislam.org/egazette/press-release/
head-of-ahmadiyya-muslim-community-true-
khilafat-is-spiritual-leadership-and-has-no-
interest-in-power-or-government/.
2. “New Introduction to the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community”, YouTube video, 9:35,
January 27, 2013, https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=kVGAPLwUBrE.
International Press and Media Office,“True
Khilafat is Spiritual Leadership and Has
No Interest in Power or Government”, Al
Islam, last modified June, 15, 2014, http://
head-of-ahmadiyya-muslim-community-true-
khilafat-is-spiritual-leadership-and-has-no-
interest-in-power-or-government/.
International Press and Media Office,“Jalsa
Salana Germany 2014 Concludes”, Al
Islam, last modified June 16, 2014, http://
jalsa-salana-germany-2014-concludes.
5. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba
,“English
Translation: Friday Sermon 20th
June 2014 –
Islam Ahmadiyya”, YouTube video, 1:09:46,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfMrBqI-
b0i4&index=3&list=PL745A4D1C28F137BB.
6. The Promised Messiahas
,“Ishtihar 7 Dec.
1892”, in Majmoo`ah Ishtiharat Vol. I, 340-341.
7. Audrey Kauffmann,“Merkel says
German multi-cultural society has failed”,
Internet Archive: WayBack Machine, last
modified October 17, 2010, http://web.
archive.org/web/20101024003727/http://
news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20101017/wl_afp/
germanymuslimreligionimmigration.
“It is essential for all those who can afford to
undertake the journey, that they must come
to attend this Convention which embodies
many blessed objectives. They should disre-
gard minor inconveniences in the cause of
Allah and His prophet (peace be upon him).
Allah yields reward to the sincere persons at
every step of their way, and no labour and
hardship, undertaken in His way, ever goes
to waste. I re-emphasise that you must not
rank this convention in the same league as
other, ordinary, human assemblies. This is
a phenomenon that is based purely on the
Divine Help, for propagation of Islam.”[6]
In October 2010, Angela Merkel,
the Chancellor of Germany, said that
immigrants should integrate and adopt
Germany’s culture and values. ‘We feel
tied to Christian values.Those who don’t
accept them don’t have a place here,’she
said.[7]
If one was to look back at the his-
tory of the German nation, it is evident
that this nation has come a long way in
promoting pluralism and multicultural-
ism. The same Ahmadiyya Community
which is a victim of severe state-sanc-
tioned persecution in Pakistan, thrives
in Germany and continues to progress
in leaps and bounds. This is a vivid sign
of this nation’s tolerance and acceptance.
Mr.Konkoly Gyorgy,a native Hungarian
guest at Jalsa Salana Germany, would
probably agree. ‘It is nice to see how
tolerant and open is Germany, Hungary
unfortunately not so much, for the fore-
igners and different religions’, said Mr.
Konkoly.
Mr Joachim Arnold, a guest at the
Jalsa commented on the work of the
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in
Germany and the positive impact it has
in society:
“I have witnessed for 25 years that the
Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat always adopts
tolerance and plays its’ role in society. Your
mosque is a symbol of religous tolerance and
the fact that we can live with each other
with mutual cooperation,” he said.
Zawadi Melimeli from Tanzania who is
doing Masters in Theology summed up
his feelings for the Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community very eloquently. He said:
“Their good actions are a challenge for others.
Their message of love is a good model for
others in order to establish peace world-
wide. They treat their guests with great
hospitality. God appears from within this
Community in a unique manner which the
world needs to understand. However, while
trying to understand that concept, you need
to understand how God can appear from
germany this june?

one place. Caring for the guests was at
the highest level. I really felt like I was
at home even though my appearance dif-
fered from the appearances of the other
women.
The Annual Gathering of the Jama’at,
called ‘Jalsa Salana’,lasted for three days.
All days were quite content and filled
with various activities, but also enriched
with invaluable interreligious experience.
What I will gladly clarify is, primarily,
the meeting with the spiritual leader
of Jama’at, Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the
Fifth Khalifah.Although the impression
I obtained from seeing his photos was
initially something else, in reality he is
incredibly patient, kind and a friendly
man. His accessibility has encouraged
us to ask him some questions.
My colleagues from SUS (Slavonian
Students’ Association) and I asked him
why there are more and more people,
especially youngsters, who are turning
away from the religion and how this can
be prevented. And how social networks
and media help or hinder this trend of
declining religiosity.We were also inter-
ested in what Muslims who are not from
Ahmadiyya think of the Jama’at and if
there are many Muslims who join it.We
also didn’t hesitate to ask some more
“tricky”questions such as the position of
women in Islam and the negative image
of Islam that was recently created in the
public due to the activities of the extrem-
ist groups.
I admired how the Khalifah was open
and willing to answer all our questions,
My name is Staska, I am Catholic and
a practical believer. I received an excep-
tional and unique opportunity to attend
the annual meeting of the Jama’at in
the city of Karlsruhe in Germany as an
interreligious guest. I went there with
very little information about that rela-
tively unfamiliar religious organisation,
with very few expectations and I was a
bit sceptical about how it was all going
to appear and whether I would like it or
would fit in.
What I experienced there was way over
my expectations. So much hospitality,
friendship and love are rarely seen in
Impressions of
Ms. Staska Baric
Ms. Baric participated in 39th Annual Convention
(Jalsa Salana) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at
(Community) held from 13-15 June 2014 in
Karlsruhe, Germany.

by the fact that the Khalifah personally
presented special medals and plaques for
young people who have gained diploma
in faculty. What amazed me the most
was, of course, an impressive number of
women who, through their hard work
and efforts,achieved a university degree.
On the last day of the Jalsa Salana
another interesting ceremony was held
– the accession of new members in
Jama’at. All newcomers gather around
the Khalifah holding each other by the
shoulder and pronouncing the oath, so
called “Bai’at.” After the vows and the
very emotional prayer they become full
members of Jama’at.
I also had an incredible opportunity to
give a short speech on the main stage and
share my impression of the event with the
large audience, as well as to describe the
existing cooperation with the Humanity
First,a humanitarian organisation which
operates within the Jama’at. Following
this we had a very important meeting
with the President of the Humanity First
Germany to whom we talked about the
possible continuation of cooperation in
the project of providing assistance to
flooded areas in Croatia.
Except for the official part, our hosts
organised the tour around Karlsruhe,
during which we visited a very interest-
ing city museum. Afterwards we went
to Heidelberg, a well-known university
city,where we visited the Heidelberg cas-
tle. We finished the tour with the city
of Frankfurt, sightseeing it by boat on
the river Main and by walking around
the city centre that impressed us with its
interesting architecture,and the contrast
between modern and classical design.
Every moment of this trip was an insight
into something new; different customs
and different culture.This experience has
helped me greatly to better understand
the Ahmadiyya Muslims, their beliefs
and the purpose of their activities. This
incredible amount of love, warmth and
hospitality concentrated in one place
showed me that those extremist groups
do not make Islam.Ahmadiyya Muslims
managed to convince me that Islam is
a peaceful religion and that they, just as
we Christians, aspire to the same lofty
goal - love.
very gladly and thoroughly. It was very
clear to me that his great desire was to
show us that Islam is not a religion of
hatred and exclusion,but a faith of peace
(as its name says),charity,help and com-
passion for the needy people,and one the
main tasks of the Ahmadiyya Muslims
is to restore the faith in the goodness of
Islam. Meeting with the Khalifah was
definitely an invaluable experience for me
and I will always cherish it.
Another insight to the world of Islam
that I was also impressed by was the
participation in Namaaz [the formal
Muslim prayer], or kneeling. During
those 15 minutes of kneeling, 16,000
women breathed as one, with the abso-
lute concentration to the words of the
Imam and with the complete composure
in prayer. Thereafter followed beautiful
songs from Qur’an whose words quite
reminded me of the words in Christian
psalms.
How Ahmadiyya Muslims support the
education of their members is best shown
impressions of ms. staska baric
The accession ceremony, called ‘Bai’at’, where
members enter the Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community by forming a human chain
which links to the Khalifah’s hand.

After reciting Tashhahud,Ta’awwuz, and
Bismillah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba
said:
“All guests, Assalamo Alaikum Wa
Rahmatullahe Wa Barakatohu –
peace and blessings of Allah be upon
you all.
First of all, I would like to express my
sincere gratitude to all of you who have
given your time to come here and attend
our Annual Convention – the Jalsa
Salana. Unfortunately, in much of the
world today a very significant number
of people hold a fear of religion in gen-
eral and of Islam in particular. Thus, in
such circumstances, your attendance of
a purely religious event shows that you
have a keen desire to learn and research
about religion.Therefore, along with my
thanks,I also pray that you may be those
who seek to learn the true essence and
true need for religion from the depths of
your hearts.
Today, as the Head of the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community, I would like to
briefly address you about the true teach-
ings of Islam. Of course in this short
space of time it is impossible to cover all
of Islam’s teachings, and so I will limit
myself to a few certain aspects.
I have no hesitation in
admitting that the overall
state of the vast majority of
the Muslim world today is
dire, and when we witness
the conduct of certain so-
called Muslims, it becomes
apparent that these fears
are becoming justified.
hazrat mirza masroor ahmadaba
khalifatul masih v
head of the worldwide ahmadiyya muslim community
Islam - A Threat or a
Source of Peace?
On Saturday 13 June 2014, the World Head of the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community, the Fifth Khalifah, His Holiness, Hazrat
emphasised the true nature of Khilafat
during an address in front of around 1000 non-Ahmadi guests at
the second day of the 39th Annual Convention of the Ahmadiyya
Muslim Community in Germany.

Review of Religions July 2014

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Review of Religions July 2014