By Ibrahim Akinwande Oladayo
Jalsa Salana is an annual spiritual gathering where members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community convene for three days to worship, listen to Islamic lectures, and foster love and unity. This unique convention transcends ordinary gatherings, aiming to awaken spiritual consciousness, inspire self-reformation, uplift Taqwa (righteousness), and deepen participants’ connection with Allah while strengthening their bond with one another.
The Jalsa was Initiated in 1891 by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (AS), the Promised Messiah and founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, in the humble village of Qadian. Starting with just 75 attendees, it has now expanded globally, with conventions held in over 200 countries, often drawing over 30,000 participants per event.
In Nigeria, the first Jalsa Salana was held in April 1949 at the Ahmadiyya First Central Mosque, located at 21/23 Ojo Giwa Street, Lagos Island. It began modestly with 75 delegates, comprising 50 men and 25 women, including children. Today, it has grown into a conference that attracts over 40,000 participants annually, reflecting its spiritual significance and transformative power.
Allah states in the Holy Qur’an:
“There is no good in many of their gatherings except the gathering of such as enjoin charity, or goodness, or the making of peace among men. And whoso does that, seeking the pleasure of Allah, We shall soon bestow on him a great reward” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:115).
This verse highlights the qualities of a virtuous gathering, emphasizing the importance of charity, goodness, and sincere intentions to seek Allah’s pleasure. These principles serve as the foundation of Jalsa Salana.
At the Jalsa grounds, countless volunteers dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to various tasks, regardless of the challenges they face. With heartfelt devotion and unwavering passion, they perform their duties with smiles on their faces. Departments such as the kitchen team, health services, security, and media exemplify this selfless spirit. These collective efforts aim to inspire the development of Taqwa in the hearts of attendees.
The Role of Jalsa in Fostering Spiritual Growth and Enhancing Taqwa
Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aba), the Fifth Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, beautifully articulated the objective of Jalsa Salana:
“The main objective of the Jalsa Salana is to inculcate a deeper relationship with Allah Almighty. Thus, all duty holders and all guests must pay special attention to safeguarding their prayers and offering Nawafil prayers, supplications, and worship, because the solution to all our hardships, especially in the face of persecution, lies in these acts of worship.”
Jalsa Salana provides a unique platform to connect with Allah through congregational prayers, Qur’an recitation, and Dhikr (remembrance of Allah). Its impact is manifold, as highlighted below:
- Strengthening Faith: Jalsa creates an environment where participants can deepen their faith through collective worship, lectures, and Qur’anic recitations, reinforcing their relationship with Allah.
- Promoting Unity: By bringing together members from diverse tribes and regions—such as Hausa, Yoruba, and other ethnicities—Jalsa fosters a profound sense of brotherhood, encouraging mutual support in spiritual and moral growth.
- Educational Programs: The event features lectures, discussions, Q&A sessions, and exhibitions showcasing the teachings of the Promised Messiah (AS) and his Khilafa, guiding attendees on how to incorporate Taqwa into their daily lives.
- Role Modeling: Scholars and leaders at Jalsa share personal experiences and practical advice on living a pious and righteous life, inspiring attendees to follow their example.
- Charitable Spirit: Jalsa emphasizes humanitarian service and charitable acts, motivating participants to integrate these practices into their lives as expressions of Taqwa.
- Nikkah Ceremonies: Jalsa serves as a platform for solemnizing marriages, where couples receive Allah’s blessings and the prayers of thousands of worshippers.
- Prayers for the Deceased: Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (AS) emphasized the importance of collective prayers for the deceased during Jalsa, which elevate the spiritual status of departed souls.
- Connection with Leadership: Speeches delivered by the Khalifa of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Amir, and other scholars deepen attendees’ spiritual bonds with their leadership, offering guidance on addressing contemporary challenges.
Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (AS) consistently highlighted the transformative power of Taqwa and the role of Jalsa Salana in fostering it. He stated:
“The purpose of this Convention is to instill in people the love of Allah and to create in their hearts fear of His greatness, so that their lives may be guided by true piety.”
He also stressed the Importance of humility and mutual love, urging participants to use the Jalsa as an opportunity to strengthen bonds and overcome personal weaknesses.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the teachings of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (AS), we are reminded of the profound significance of Taqwa—true piety—and its transformative power in our lives. The purpose of Jalsa Salana is to kindle in our hearts a deep love for Allah and instill a reverent fear of His greatness. This divine connection enables us to align our lives with righteousness and strive to become better individuals.
This sacred gathering is not merely a spiritual journey but also a platform to nurture humility and mutual love—the hallmarks of a true believer. It offers us the chance to rise above personal shortcomings, strengthen our bonds with one another, and unite in our shared mission of seeking Allah’s pleasure.
As we depart, let us carry these lessons forward. May Taqwa guide our actions, foster unity in our communities, and inspire us toward continuous self-reformation. May this Jalsa leave an everlasting impact on our hearts and draw us closer to Allah.
Jalsa Salana Mubarak!
