What is the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, and when and where was it founded?

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, officially known as the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at, is an Islamic messianic movement that originated in British India in the late 19th century. It was founded by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad in 1889.

Who was Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, and what did he claim?

Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1835-1908) was the founder of the Ahmadiyya movement. He claimed to have been divinely appointed as both the Promised Mahdi and the Messiah, figures expected by Muslims to appear in the end times to restore Islam and bring about peace.

What is the core belief of Ahmadi Muslims regarding Islam's status?

Ahmadi Muslims believe that Islam is the final dispensation for humanity, as revealed to Muhammad. They believe their movement is dedicated to restoring Islam to its original form and pristine state, which they feel had been lost over centuries.

How did the Ahmadiyya movement adopt its name?

The movement was founded in 1889 but officially adopted the name Ahmadiyya around 1890. Mirza Ghulam Ahmad announced that the name was chosen in reference to Muhammad's alternative name, Ahmad, signifying the "highly praised" aspect of the Prophet's character and the triumphant career of Islam.

What is the significance of the names Muhammad and Ahmad in Ahmadiyya belief?

In Ahmadiyya belief, Muhammad signifies "the most praised" and relates to the Prophet's triumphant career after his migration to Medina. Ahmad, meaning "highly praised" and "one who praises the most," relates to the beauty of his sermons and his perseverance, particularly characterizing his earlier life in Mecca.

When did Mirza Ghulam Ahmad formally establish the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community?

Mirza Ghulam Ahmad formally established the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community on March 23, 1889, by accepting the oath of allegiance from his supporters.

How is the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community led after the founder's death?

Since Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's death, the Community has been led by a succession of Caliphs, known as Khalifatul Masih.

What is the estimated global following of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community?

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is estimated to have between 10 to 20 million followers worldwide, spread across approximately 210 countries and territories.

What led to the formation of the Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement?

A schism occurred in the early history of the community due to dissent over the nature of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's prophetic status and the succession after his death. This led to the formation of the Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement.

How do mainstream Muslims generally view the Ahmadiyya movement's recognition of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad?

Mainstream Muslims generally consider the Ahmadiyya movement's recognition of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as a prophet to be heretical, as they believe Muhammad was the final prophet.

What is the Ahmadiyya perspective on the Quran and other Islamic texts?

Ahmadi Muslims accept the Quran as their holy text and follow the Sunnah (practice of Muhammad) and accept the authority of Hadith. They believe the Quran is the final divine scripture, timeless in its teachings.

How do Ahmadi Muslims align with Sunni or Shia traditions in matters of jurisprudence?

Ahmadi Muslims align more closely with the Sunni tradition. They accept the authority of the four Rightly Guided Caliphs and believe a caliph need not be a descendant of Muhammad, aligning with Sunni views rather than Shia ones.

What is the Ahmadiyya stance on adhering to specific schools of Islamic jurisprudence (madhhabs)?

Ahmadi Muslims reject strict adherence to any particular school of Islamic jurisprudence (madhhab). They prioritize the Quran and Sunnah but often base rulings on the Hanafi methodology when these sources lack clear elaboration.

What is the Ahmadiyya belief regarding the divine origins of other major world religions?

Ahmadi Muslims believe that major world religions have divine origins and are part of a divine plan that culminates in Islam. They believe these earlier religions, while essentially the same in fundamentals, have been corrupted over time.

Who is considered the first human prophet in Ahmadiyya belief?

In Ahmadiyya belief, Adam is regarded as the first human with whom God communicated and revealed divine will, thus considering him the first prophet. This differs from some traditional interpretations that place Adam as the first human on Earth.

What are the Ahmadiyya views on the Day of Judgment and Hell?

Ahmadi Muslims believe in the Day of Judgment, where the dead will be resurrected and accounts taken of deeds. They view Hell not as everlasting, but as a temporary abode for cleansing sins, similar to some interpretations in Judaism.

How do Ahmadi Muslims interpret the concept of Jihad?

Ahmadi Muslims categorize Jihad into three types: the highest order (struggle against the self), major jihad (peaceful propagation of Islam, especially through writing), and lower order jihad (armed struggle only for self-defense against extreme persecution, under the Caliph's direct instruction).

What is the Ahmadiyya stance on abrogation of Quranic verses?

Unlike many other Islamic scholars, Ahmadi Muslims do not believe that any verses of the Quran abrogate others. They hold that all Quranic verses have equal validity and harmonize apparently conflicting rulings based on context and suitability.

What is the Ahmadiyya perspective on the relationship between religion and science?

Ahmadi Muslims believe that religion and science are harmonious and cannot conflict, as both are seen as expressions of God's word and work. They emphasize the Quran's verses that encourage the study of nature and the use of reason.

What is the Ahmadiyya belief regarding the cyclical nature of history?

A distinct Ahmadi belief is that religious history is cyclic, renewing every seven millennia. They see history divided into seven ages, with Mirza Ghulam Ahmad appearing in the sixth age to herald the seventh and final age for humankind.

What significant events occurred during the First Caliphate under Hakeem Noor-ud-Din?

During the First Caliphate (1908-1914), Hakeem Noor-ud-Din oversaw an English translation of the Quran, established the first Ahmadiyya Muslim mission in England, introduced community newspapers, set up an official treasury, and dealt with internal dissensions.

What was the 'split' in the Ahmadiyya movement, and who was involved?

The 'split' occurred after the death of the first Caliph, leading to the formation of the Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement. This faction, led by Maulana Muhammad Ali and Khwaja Kamal-ud-Din, disagreed with the succession and certain doctrines, particularly the nature of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's prophethood.

What were the key contributions of Mirza Basheer-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad during his Second Caliphate?

The Second Caliph (1914-1965) spanned nearly 52 years. He established the community's organizational structure, directed extensive missionary activity abroad, launched the Tehrik-e-Jadid and Waqf-e-Jadid schemes for propagation and moral upbringing, and authored a ten-volume commentary on the Quran.

What notable initiatives were undertaken during the Third Caliphate of Mirza Nasir Ahmad?

During Mirza Nasir Ahmad's Caliphate (1965-1982), missionary work, especially in Africa, was expanded. He established the Nusrat Jehan Scheme for medical facilities and schools, the Fazl-e-Umar Foundation, and directed the collection of the founder's dreams and revelations. He also coined the motto 'love for all, hatred for none'.

What significant developments occurred during the Fourth Caliphate of Mirza Tahir Ahmad?

Mirza Tahir Ahmad (1982-2003) relocated the headquarters to London due to persecution in Pakistan. He launched the first Muslim satellite television network (MTA International), instituted the Waqfe Nau Scheme for dedicating children to service, and established humanitarian funds and charities like Humanity First.

Who is the current Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community?

The current and fifth Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is Mirza Masroor Ahmad, elected in 2003.

What is the Ahmadiyya belief regarding Jesus's crucifixion and later life?

Ahmadi Muslims believe Jesus was crucified but survived and died in Kashmir of old age while seeking the Lost Tribes of Israel. This contrasts with the mainstream Islamic belief that Jesus was raised to heaven without crucifixion.

How does Ahmadiyya interpret the concept of the 'Seal of Prophets'?

Ahmadi Muslims believe Muhammad is the final law-bearing prophet and the apex of spiritual evolution. They believe new prophets can emerge, but only if they are completely subordinate to Muhammad, reflecting his teachings without bringing new laws.

What is the Ahmadiyya view on the relationship between religion and science?

Ahmadi Muslims believe religion and science are harmonious, as both stem from God. They cite Quranic verses encouraging the study of nature and reason, and Nobel laureate Abdus Salam, a devout Ahmadi, highlighted the Quran's emphasis on scientific comprehension.

What is the Ahmadiyya stance on the concept of 'Khatam an-Nabiyyin' (Seal of the Prophets)?

While Ahmadi Muslims believe Muhammad is the final law-bearing prophet, they interpret 'Khatam an-Nabiyyin' to mean that no prophet can exceed Muhammad in excellence or bring a new law. They believe prophets can still come, but they must be subordinate reflections of Muhammad.

What are the three categories of Jihad according to Ahmadiyya belief?

Ahmadi Muslims define Jihad as: 1) Jihad al-Akbar (the highest struggle against one's own negative tendencies), 2) Jihad al-kabir (peaceful propagation of Islam, especially through writing), and 3) Jihad al-asghar (armed struggle only in self-defense against extreme persecution, under the Caliph's command).

What is the Ahmadiyya view on terrorism?

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community categorically rejects and condemns all forms of terrorism, stating that Islam does not justify any act of violence by individuals, groups, or governments.

What is the Ahmadiyya position on the abrogation of Quranic verses?

Ahmadi Muslims do not believe that any Quranic verses abrogate others. They maintain that all verses have equal validity and harmonize apparently conflicting rulings based on context and suitability.

How is the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community organized geographically?

The International Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is structured into National Communities, each with a National Headquarters, further divided into Regional and then Local Communities, often with their own mosques or mission houses.

What is the role and selection process of the Ahmadiyya Caliph?

Ahmadi Muslims believe the Caliphate is divinely designated, not solely elected by people. God instills the choice into believers' hearts through visions and spiritual guidance. The Caliph's role is primarily spiritual, to uphold and spread Islamic teachings, not necessarily to be a head of state.

What is the function of the Majlis al-Shura (Consultative Council) within the Ahmadiyya Community?

The Majlis al-Shura is the highest institution after the Caliphate. It advises the Caliph on matters of finance, projects, education, and community affairs. While the Caliph considers their views, he is not bound to accept them.

Where are the current and historical headquarters of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community?

The de facto headquarters moved to Fazl Mosque in London after the fourth Caliph's exile from Pakistan in 1984. In 2019, the headquarters moved to Islamabad, Tilford, England. Qadian is considered the spiritual headquarters, and Rabwah in Pakistan coordinates significant global activity.

What is Jamia Ahmadiyya, and what is its significance?

Jamia Ahmadiyya is an international Islamic seminary and educational institute, considered the main center for Islamic learning and missionary training within the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Graduates are appointed as missionaries or scholars.

What are the five auxiliary organizations within the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, and who do they serve?

The five auxiliary organizations are: Lajna Ima'illah (women above 15), Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya (males aged 15-40), Majlis Ansarullah (males above 40), Nasiratul Ahmadiyya (girls aged 7-15), and Atfalul Ahmadiyya (boys aged 7-15), each responsible for spiritual and moral training.

What are the main annual events observed by Ahmadi Muslims?

Besides Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, the most important annual function is the Jalsa Salana (Annual Convention), initiated by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. Other observances include 'Life of the Holy Prophet Day', 'Promised Messiah Day', 'Promised Reformer Day', and 'Caliphate Day'.

What forms of persecution have Ahmadi Muslims faced?

Ahmadi Muslims have faced persecution and discrimination since the movement's inception, being viewed as infidels or heretics by some. In 1973, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation declared them not linked to Islam, and in Pakistan, they are officially declared non-Muslims.

What is the Ahmadiyya view on the concept of 'Finality of Prophethood'?

Ahmadi Muslims believe Muhammad is the final law-bearing prophet. However, they believe prophets can still come, provided they are subordinate to Muhammad and do not bring a new law, acting as reflections of his prophethood.

What is the Ahmadiyya perspective on the Quran's relationship with previous scriptures?

Ahmadi Muslims believe that while previous scriptures like the Torah and Gospel had divine origins, they were susceptible to human interpolation. They consider the Quran the final, complete, and incorruptible divine scripture.

Which non-Abrahamic figures do Ahmadi Muslims recognize as prophets?

Ahmadi Muslims recognize figures such as Zoroaster, Krishna, Buddha, and Confucius as prophets, believing God sent messengers to all nations.

What is the Ahmadiyya interpretation of the term 'Khatam an-Nabiyyin'?

Ahmadi Muslims interpret 'Khatam an-Nabiyyin' (Seal of the Prophets) to mean that Muhammad brought prophethood to perfection and is the last prophet to bring a new law. They believe subsequent prophets must be subordinate to him.

How do Ahmadi Muslims view the relationship between God's word and God's work?

Ahmadi Muslims believe there can be no contradiction between God's word (revelation) and God's work (creation). This principle underpins their view that religion and science should work in harmony.

What is the Ahmadiyya belief about the origin of major world religions?

Ahmadi Muslims believe that all major world religions have divine origins and were essentially the same in their fundamentals at their inception, though they believe these teachings were later corrupted, with Islam being the final and perfected revelation.

What is the significance of the Ahmadiyya flag and the White Minaret in Qadian?

The White Minaret and the Ahmadiyya flag in Qadian, India, symbolize the advent of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad for Ahmadi Muslims.

What is the Ahmadiyya view on the concept of 'Tawhid' (Unity of God)?

Ahmadi Muslims firmly believe in the absolute Unity of God, considering it the cardinal principle of Islam. They believe this concept influences all aspects of life, liberating believers from all forms of carnal passions and earthly bondage, and fostering harmony between the Creator and creation.

What role do angels play in Ahmadiyya belief?

Ahmadi Muslims believe angels are spiritual beings created by God to obey Him and implement His commandments. They transmit revelations to prophets, glorify God, and record deeds, sometimes appearing to humans in spiritual manifestations rather than physical forms.

How does Ahmadiyya view the concept of 'Jahiliyyah'?

Jahiliyyah refers to the period of ignorance in pre-Islamic Arabia. Ahmadi Muslims believe Mirza Ghulam Ahmad appeared to revive Islam from a state of spiritual ignorance that had developed over centuries, similar to the state before Muhammad's advent.

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Core Beliefs

Islamic Foundation

Ahmadi Muslims adhere to the fundamental tenets of Islam, including the Five Pillars of Islam and the Six articles of faith. They regard the Quran as the final divine scripture and follow the Sunnah (practice) of the Prophet Muhammad.

The Promised Messiah

A central tenet is the belief that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1835–1908) was divinely appointed as the Promised Mahdi and Messiah, fulfilling prophecies within Islam and other religious traditions. Ahmadis believe his advent was intended to revive Islam and establish lasting peace.

Divine Unity and Prophethood

The movement emphasizes the absolute Unity of God. While affirming Muhammad as the final law-bearing prophet, Ahmadis believe that prophets can continue to appear, provided they are subordinate to Muhammad and embody his teachings, rather than bringing new laws.

History and Development

Origins and Foundation

The Ahmadiyya movement was founded by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad in 1889 in British India. He proclaimed himself the Mujaddid (Centennial Reformer) of Islam, the metaphorical second coming of Jesus, and the Mahdi. The movement officially adopted the name "Ahmadiyya" in reference to Muhammad's alternative name, "Ahmad."

The Caliphate

Following Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's death in 1908, the Community has been led by a succession of Caliphs (Khalifatul Masih). The first Caliph was Hakeem Noor-ud-Din. The current, fifth Caliph is Mirza Masroor Ahmad. The Caliphate is considered a spiritual office central to the Community's guidance and propagation.

First Caliphate (1908–1914): Hakeem Noor-ud-Din oversaw English Quran translation and early missions.
Second Caliphate (1914–1965): Mirza Basheer-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad established the organizational structure and expanded missionary work globally.
Third Caliphate (1965–1982): Mirza Nasir Ahmad focused on African missions and established the Nusrat Jehan Scheme.
Fourth Caliphate (1982–2003): Mirza Tahir Ahmad launched Muslim Television Ahmadiyya (MTA) and relocated headquarters to London.
Fifth Caliphate (2003–Present): Mirza Masroor Ahmad leads the Community from its current headquarters in Tilford, England.

Global Expansion

The Ahmadiyya movement has a significant global presence, with active missionary work dating back to the early 20th century. It is particularly strong in South Asia, West Africa, East Africa, and parts of Southeast Asia. The Community is credited with playing a role in the spread of Islam in Africa.

Distinct Teachings

Jihad and Peace

Ahmadiyya distinguishes between different forms of Jihad: the "highest order" (struggle against the self), the "major jihad" (peaceful propagation of Islam), and the "lower order" (defensive armed struggle only under extreme persecution and direct instruction from the Caliph). The Community advocates for peace, love, and forgiveness, rejecting terrorism.

Religion and Science

Ahmadi Muslims believe there can be no conflict between the "word of God" (revelation) and the "work of God" (science). They emphasize the importance of studying nature and reason to understand divine teachings, viewing scientific inquiry as complementary to faith.

Cyclical History

A distinct belief posits a cyclical nature to religious history, divided into epochs. Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's advent is seen as heralding the final, seventh age, intended to bring about universal peace and righteousness through the revival of Islam's pristine teachings.

Demographics and Reach

Global Community

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is established in over 200 countries and territories. While precise figures vary, estimates suggest a global following of 10 to 20 million adherents. The Community is particularly concentrated in South Asia, West Africa, and East Africa.

Growth and Presence

The movement is known for its active missionary efforts and has been described as one of the fastest-growing Islamic groups. It operates numerous mosques, schools, and hospitals worldwide, contributing to its significant global outreach.

Organizational Structure

The Caliphate

The spiritual head of the Community is the Caliph (Khalifatul Masih), who is believed to be divinely appointed. The Caliph provides religious and administrative guidance, overseeing the Community's global activities and spiritual development.

Consultative Council

The Majlis ash-Shura (Consultative Council) serves as an advisory body, assisting the Caliph in decision-making on matters of finance, projects, and community affairs. It comprises elected representatives from various national communities.

Headquarters and Institutions

The Community's headquarters have relocated over time, currently situated in Islamabad, Tilford, England. Key institutions include the Jamia Ahmadiyya (university for Islamic studies and missionary training) and various auxiliary organizations for youth, women, and men.

Persecution and Challenges

Discrimination and Opposition

Ahmadi Muslims have faced significant persecution and discrimination globally, particularly in countries like Pakistan, where they are officially declared non-Muslims. This includes legal restrictions, social ostracism, and violence, stemming from differing interpretations of Islamic doctrine, especially regarding prophethood.

Resilience and Advocacy

Despite persecution, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community maintains its commitment to peaceful propagation of Islam and interfaith dialogue. The motto "Love for all, hatred for none" encapsulates their approach to coexistence and community service.

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References

Mirza Ghulam Ahmad: Commentary on The Holy Quran, Volume 1 Surah Fatiha, Islam International, 2004, pp. 46â57

MalfÅ«áºÄt [Dialogues], Vol.2, (London: The Gresham Press, 1984), pp. 208â209.

Majmu'a IshtihÄrÄt, Vol.3, (London: The Gresham Press, 1984), p.364, dated 4 November 1900

Invitation to Ahmadiyyat by Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad Part II, Argument 4, Chapter "Promised Messiah, Promised One of All Religions"

E.g. Quran 24:55

A full list of references for this article are available at the Ahmadiyya Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional religious advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation or study of primary sources. Always refer to official Ahmadiyya Muslim Community resources and consult with qualified scholars for in-depth understanding.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Ahmadiyya Movement

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Core Beliefs

Islamic Foundation

The Promised Messiah

Divine Unity and Prophethood

History and Development

Origins and Foundation

The Caliphate

Global Expansion

Distinct Teachings

Jihad and Peace

Religion and Science

Cyclical History

Demographics and Reach

Global Community

Growth and Presence

Organizational Structure

The Caliphate

Consultative Council

Headquarters and Institutions

Persecution and Challenges

Discrimination and Opposition

Resilience and Advocacy

Related Topics

Further Exploration

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The Ahmadiyya Movement

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Core Beliefs 📜

☪️ Islamic Foundation

✨ The Promised Messiah

⚖️ Divine Unity and Prophethood

History and Development ⏳

🗓️ Origins and Foundation

👑 The Caliphate

🌍 Global Expansion

Distinct Teachings 📖

🕊️ Jihad and Peace

🔄 Religion and Science

⏳ Cyclical History

Demographics and Reach 📊

👥 Global Community

📈 Growth and Presence

Organizational Structure 🏛️

👑 The Caliphate

🤝 Consultative Council

🏠 Headquarters and Institutions

Persecution and Challenges ⚖️

⛓️ Discrimination and Opposition

🛡️ Resilience and Advocacy

Related Topics 🔗

📚 Further Exploration

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Core Beliefs

Islamic Foundation

The Promised Messiah

Divine Unity and Prophethood

History and Development

Origins and Foundation

The Caliphate

Global Expansion

Distinct Teachings

Jihad and Peace

Religion and Science

Cyclical History

Demographics and Reach

Global Community

Growth and Presence

Organizational Structure

The Caliphate

Consultative Council

Headquarters and Institutions

Persecution and Challenges

Discrimination and Opposition

Resilience and Advocacy

Related Topics

Further Exploration

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

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Gamer's Corner

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References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice