By Tjani Abdullah
As the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria prepares for the upcoming Jalsa Salana, members are putting in every effort to ensure that the event meets the lofty purpose envisioned by the founder of the Jama’at, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (AS). While making logistical and physical arrangements, it is essential to reflect on the spiritual guidance provided by the Promised Messiah (AS) concerning the true purpose of this sacred gathering.
The Jalsa Salana is not just an event but a profound manifestation of the unity of the Jama’at, fulfilling the prophecy of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) about the community of the Imam of the Age being united under one banner. It is also a means to cultivate the spirit of devotion and self-reformation required of all those who have taken Bai’at (the pledge of allegiance) at the hands of the Promised Messiah (AS). Attending this event with the intention of seeking Allah’s pleasure brings immense spiritual rewards.
Allah states in the Holy Qur’an:
“Who is it that will lend Allah a goodly loan that He may multiply it for him manifold? And it is Allah Who receives and enlarges, and to Him shall you be made to return” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:246).
Serving at Jalsa Salana, whether through physical efforts, financial contributions, or prayers, is akin to giving Allah a good loan. In return, Allah promises to multiply the reward manifold. This sacred event began on December 27, 1891, in Qadian with only a few devoted members of the Jama’at. Those attendees took the message of their spiritual experience home, inspiring others to join in subsequent years. This tradition continues to thrive under the current Khalifa, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (ABA), and will, God-willing, persist as long as the institution of Khilafat endures.
In his guidance to volunteers, His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (ABA) stated:
“I also wish to say to the volunteers that during the three days of Jalsa, they should serve the guests of the Promised Messiah (AS) with such passion, whereby they always understand and bear in mind that they are not serving in order to seek any sort of reward from their officers or the guests. In fact, they must serve these guests in order to attain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty. They should follow the example of that companion and his wife who put their children to bed hungry and also remained hungry themselves in order to fulfil the due rights of their guests. They turned out the light and made it seem to their guest as if they were eating along with him. Allah the Almighty was so pleased with this act of theirs that He also informed the Holy Prophet (SAW) of it. The following day, the Holy Prophet (SAW) said to that companion, ‘Even Allah the Almighty smiled at your plan last night (of feeding the guest).’ Allah the Almighty was very pleased and smiled, and Allah the Almighty has mentioned people who offer such sacrifices in the Holy Qur’an. These are people who selflessly offer sacrifices, and these are the people who are successful.”
(Friday Sermon, 5th August 2022).
An example from a past Jalsa serves to illustrate the significance of devotion and selfless service. A Khadim (youth member) was assigned to the security department during last year’s Jalsa. Despite being stationed at a post that limited his opportunities to participate in the congregational midnight prayers, he remained steadfast in his duty, obeying every instruction from his leader. He was determined not to miss even a single congregational prayer. When he finally got the chance to participate, he fervently prayed for success in his upcoming examinations and to complete his education without setbacks. By Allah’s grace, his prayers were accepted, and he was safeguarded from the destructive influences that had plagued his school.
This story is a testament to the blessings of service at Jalsa and the acceptance of prayers made during the event. Sacrificing time, comfort, and effort in the service of Allah and His Jama’at is never in vain; rather, it is rewarded in ways beyond our imagination.
Conclusion
The Jalsa Salana is not merely a gathering; it is a spiritual journey, a means to seek Allah’s pleasure, and a platform for the acceptance of prayers. It reminds us of our collective duty to strengthen our bond with Allah, nurture the spirit of sacrifice, and serve humanity with humility and devotion.
May Allah enable all members of the Jama’at to participate in the upcoming Jalsa with pure intentions, serving as true hosts of the guests of the Promised Messiah (AS). May He accept all our sacrifices and prayers and multiply our rewards manifold. Ameen.
