Voice of British Muslim Women

Kaafiya Bhatti, London

Khilafat is not a new concept, it has existed from the time Allah, the Creator of everything, first sent His Prophets to guide humankind to the right path. The truth of Khilafat is clearly mentioned in the Holy Quran. In Ayat-ul-Istikhlaf, a verse of Surah Al Nur, it is stated:

“Allah has promised to those among you who believe and do good works that He will, surely, make them Successors in the earth, as He made Successors from those who were before them; and that He will, surely, establish for them their religion which He has chosen for them; and that He will surely give them in exchange security and peace after their fear…”. (24:56)

From here, it is evident that those who follow the commandments of Allah and practice the teachings of the Prophets Allah sends into the world for guidance, many blessings will follow. It is therefore crucial for our own spiritual development we commit time to our Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and our current Khalifa, His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad (may Allah be his Helper).The blessings of Khilafat are multidimensional; meaning these blessings help us in more than one way and that they are not always explicit, some blessings are implicit and only one can realise these when one reflects over the privileges these blessings bring to those who follow Khilafat in comparison to those who do not practice the teaching of the Holy Quran.

The most obvious blessing of Khilafat is the comprehensive knowledge of rights and wrongs that is imparted to us on a regular basis. Many of us have been brought up into this religion, following the Khalifa’s words.  Trying our best to act on these teachings, has allowed us to practise ur faith in a world of havoc, selfishness and immoral acts and behaviours. As the World Christian Encyclopaedia notes, the Ahmadiyya faith is the fastest growing movement in Islam in the 21^st century.

More implicit however, is the blessings of unity formed by Khilafat. Unity is integral to the structure of anything that must succeed. It exists in education systems where students of all abilities follow the same curriculum and co-exist with the differences in their academic skills. Also, in the healthcare system where we see the NHS has been structured in a unique way allowing professionals of diverse specialities to synchronize their skills and work with one another to provide effective healthcare. It is therefore undeniable that unity and relying on each other is a valuable aspect of human life. There exists a harmonious solidarity amongst those who practice the teachings of Islam and Khilafat.

Showing loyalty to our beloved Khalifa has given us all incredible blessings. We must treasure these blessings by thanking Allah everyday Who has granted us with success and prosperity. Believers should be duty-bound to commit to supporting and obeying Khilafat, ensuring sacrifice and promoting the institution of Khilafat. Surely, as He promises, Allah will reward those who try their utmost with peace and safeguarding that no object in this world but the Almighty could provide.