Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (Qaadiyaanee): The Claim of Prophethood

Date of Reference: 09/12/2024

Understanding the Qaadiyaaniyyah (Ahmadiyyah) Sect: Origins, Beliefs, and Scholarly Consensus

The Qaadiyaaniyyah, also known as the Ahmadiyyah, is a sect whose adherents are referred to as Qaadiyaanee (plural: Qaadiyaaniyyoon). They are alternatively called Ahmadee or Mirza’ee. By the consensus of Islamic scholars, the Qaadiyaaniyyah is considered a deviant and non-Islamic sect (kaafir) that falsely assumes the name of Islam to obscure its controversial beliefs and objectives.

Key Beliefs and Practices

1. Prophethood Claim: The most controversial belief of the Qaadiyaaniyyah is the assertion that their founder, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (India, February 13, 1835 to May 26, 1908), was a prophet—contradicting the Islamic belief in the finality of the Prophet Muhammad.
2. Tampering with the Qur’an: Allegations exist that the sect altered the text of the Qur’an to align with their beliefs.
3. Denial of Jihad: The group is accused of promoting ideologies that undermine the concept of Jihad as understood in orthodox Islam.
4. Loyalty to Non-Muslims: The sect is seen as prioritizing allegiance to enemies of Islam while labeling mainstream Muslims as disbelievers.

Historical Background

The sect was founded by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad al-Qaadiyaanee, born in 1839 in the town of Qadian in Punjab, India, during British colonial rule. The name “Qaadiyaaniyyah” is derived from his birthplace. Mirza Ghulam Ahmad belonged to a family known for religious controversy, shaping his ideological development.

In 1900, during British rule, the movement was formally established with the alleged goal of alienating Muslims from the core tenets of their faith, including the obligation of Jihad. The British government supported and promoted this movement, appreciating its loyalty to their administration.

Mirza Ghulam Ahmad’s Claims

Mirza Ghulam Ahmad initially claimed to receive divine revelations through dreams. Over time, his claims escalated:

• He declared himself the reviver of Islam of his era.
• By 1901, he asserted he was Prophet Jesus reincarnated.
• In 1904, he claimed prophethood, referring to himself as “ Lord Krishna,” the Avatar of Lord Vishnu of Sanatan Dharma, who is mentioned in Rig Veda.

I have been ordained to announce that those who are seekers after truth should swear allegiance to me so that they may be enabled to find a way to the true faith, true purity and the love of God.

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Scholarly Refutations

Islamic scholars, particularly Shaykh Abul-Wafaa Thanaa-ullaah al-Amar Tisree, leader of the Ahlul-Hadeeth movement in India, actively refuted Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. Shaykh Abul-Wafaa invoked Allah to expose the liar between them, leading to Mirza Ghulam Ahmad’s death in 1908. This event was seen by many as divine proof against his claims.

Legacy and Publications

Mirza Ghulam Ahmad authored over 50 books, including:

1. Izaalatul-Awhaam
2. I’jaaz Ahmadee
3. Baraaheen Ahmadiyyah
4. Anwaar al-Islaam
5. I’jaaz al-Maseeh
6. at-Tableegh
7. Tajalliyyaat Ilaahiyyah

The Ahmadiyyah Movement in the UK and USA: History, Growth, and Influence

The Ahmadiyyah movement, officially known as the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, has experienced significant growth and influence in both the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States of America (USA). Its presence in these regions highlights a unique trajectory compared to its origins in colonial India, as it has positioned itself as a moderate, reformist sect promoting peace, interfaith dialogue, and humanitarian efforts.

Ahmadiyyahs in the UK

Historical Background

The Ahmadiyyah movement was introduced to the UK in the early 20th century, making it one of the earliest organized Islamic presences in the country. In 1913, the movement established its first mosque, the Fazl Mosque in London, commonly referred to as the “London Mosque.” This marked a significant milestone as the first mosque built in the capital.

The Ahmadiyyah leadership strategically used the UK as a platform to spread their beliefs and engage with intellectual and religious communities. Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad, the second Caliph, visited the UK in 1924, further solidifying their presence.

Demographics and Community Presence

Today, the Ahmadiyyah community in the UK is estimated to have around 35,000 to 40,000 members, with the majority of its followers being immigrants or descendants of immigrants from South Asia, particularly Pakistan.

Key locations for the community include:

• Baitul Futuh Mosque in Morden, South London, one of the largest mosques in Western Europe.
• Tahir Mosque and community centers spread across various cities like Birmingham, Manchester, and Bradford.

Activities and Contributions

The UK Ahmadiyyah community is actively involved in charitable and interfaith activities, emphasizing their slogan, “Love for All, Hatred for None.” Notable initiatives include:

1. Humanitarian Work: The community organizes blood donation drives, food banks, and disaster relief efforts.
2. Interfaith Dialogue: Ahmadiyyah members frequently engage in debates and discussions with Christian, Jewish, and other Muslim communities.
3. Public Outreach: Through events like the Peace Symposium, the Ahmadiyyah community promotes messages of coexistence and counteracts Islamophobia.

Challenges

Ahmadiyyahs in the UK face challenges, particularly from Pakistani expatriate communities who follow mainstream Sunni Islam. Many Sunni Muslims consider the Ahmadiyyahs to be outside the fold of Islam due to their beliefs in Mirza Ghulam Ahmad’s prophethood. This has occasionally led to social ostracization and protests against their religious events.

Ahmadiyyahs in the USA

Historical Background

The Ahmadiyyah movement expanded to the USA in 1920, spearheaded by Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, the first missionary sent by the community. Arriving in Philadelphia, he initiated efforts to spread the movement’s teachings, targeting African American communities with messages of Islamic revivalism, equality, and justice.

Demographics and Community Presence

The Ahmadiyyah community in the USA is estimated to have 15,000 to 20,000 members. Major centers include:

• Baitur Rahman Mosque in Silver Spring, Maryland, the national headquarters of the movement.
• Local chapters and mosques in cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, Houston, and New York.

Outreach and Influence

The movement has been successful in leveraging its presence in the USA to promote interfaith harmony and humanitarian causes. Key initiatives include:

1. Jalsa Salana USA: An annual convention held to discuss theological, social, and humanitarian issues.
2. Muslims for Life Campaign: A nationwide blood donation drive aimed at commemorating the victims of 9/11 and promoting the peaceful image of Islam.
3. The Review of Religions: A publication that serves as a platform for theological discourse, interfaith dialogue, and community outreach.

Engagement with African Americans

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Ahmadiyyah movement in the USA is its appeal to African American Muslims in the early 20th century. Promoting equality and justice, the movement attracted notable converts, including figures from the Harlem Renaissance. While the growth among African Americans has since slowed, this early engagement played a significant role in shaping the broader Islamic landscape in the USA.

Challenges

The Ahmadiyyah community faces opposition from mainstream Muslim organizations in the USA, including exclusion from many Islamic councils and events. Despite this, they continue to advocate for inclusion and maintain their distinct identity.

Key Beliefs and Controversies in the West

While the Ahmadiyyah movement is recognized for its contributions to social harmony, its doctrinal differences with mainstream Islam remain contentious. Central to this is the claim of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as a prophet, which conflicts with the Islamic belief in the finality of Prophet Muhammad.

This theological divergence has led to the community being declared non-Muslim in Pakistan under the 1974 constitutional amendment and subjected to similar accusations by other Muslim groups globally.

Global Outreach through Western Platforms

The Ahmadiyyah community leverages its presence in the UK and USA to amplify its global mission. Key methods include:

• MTA International: A satellite television network broadcasting religious programs globally.
• Social Media Campaigns: Promoting awareness about the Ahmadiyyah teachings and their humanitarian initiatives.
• Peace Advocacy: Hosting international peace symposiums and dialogues.

The Ahmadiyyah movement in the UK and USA has grown into a well-organized, active community that combines religious teachings with social and humanitarian efforts. Despite facing theological opposition, the community continues to build a reputation as a progressive and peace-promoting group. Its outreach, particularly through interfaith dialogue and public service, positions it as a unique Islamic sect with significant influence in Western societies.

Bibliography of Key Works on Qaadiyaaniyyah (Ahmadiyyah)

1. Al-Qaadiyaaniyyah

• Author: Ihsaan Elahe Zaheer
• Publication Date: 1970
• Summary: This book provides a detailed critique of the Ahmadiyyah sect’s beliefs, focusing on their divergence from orthodox Islamic theology. The author examines the historical context, doctrines, and political affiliations of the movement, particularly its ties to colonial powers. It also includes refutations of the claims made by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad.

2. Al-Qaadiyaaniyyah

• Author: Abul-Hasan ‘Alee al-Husnee an-Nadawee
• Publication Date: 1973
• Summary: Written by a prominent Islamic scholar, this book delves into the ideological foundations and development of the Qaadiyaaniyyah. It offers a scholarly analysis of their theological deviations, including the claim of prophethood, and explores the historical conditions under British rule that facilitated the rise of the sect.

3. Taareekh al-Qaadiyaaniyyah

• Author: Abul-Wafaa Thanaa-ullaah al-Amar Tisree
• Publication Date: 1910
• Summary: This early work provides a historical account of the Qaadiyaaniyyah movement, detailing its origins, the life of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, and the sect’s growth during British rule. The author, a contemporary of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, presents firsthand insights and arguments challenging the movement’s legitimacy.

4. Sowdaa.-ul-Qaadiyaaniyyah

• Author: Muhammad ‘Alee al-Amar Tisree
• Publication Date: 1955
• Summary: This book discusses the moral and ethical implications of the Qaadiyaaniyyah teachings, focusing on their societal impact and alignment with colonial agendas. It includes theological rebuttals and an exploration of how the sect’s practices contradict Islamic principles.

5. Fitnah al-Qaadiyaaniyyah

• Author: ‘Ateeq ar-Rahmaan ‘Ateeq
• Publication Date: 1980
• Summary: Written by a former Qaadiyaanee, this book provides an insider’s perspective on the sect’s doctrines and internal practices. The author recounts his journey out of the movement, offering a critical analysis of its teachings, leadership, and claims of divine revelation.

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