THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ (ra)

18 The Review of Religions – February 2007 (Below is an edited translation by Dr Rashid Azam, USA of the Urdu article written by Maulana Ataul Mujeeb Rashed) Whenever Allah the Almighty raises a Prophet for the spiritual rebirth and development of mankind, He provides him with unusual support and success in his mission. It is thus stated in the Holy Qur’an: Allah has decreed: ‘Most surely I will prevail, I and My Messengers’… (Ch.58: V.22) Allah’s Messenger may apparently look weak in the eyes of the world but ultimately he is made victorious. When Allah’s chosen one stands firm and proclaims His message, he is provided with helpers who are willing to sacrifice their lives like moths around a candle light. The Promised Messiah(as) was provided by Almighty God with many loving and faithful companions who were his true helpers. They are recognised as the bright stars of Ahmadiyyat, the true Islam, and their pious characters are a guiding light for all of us today. Among this fortunate and select group was a great companion of the Promised Messiah(as), Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq (may Allah be pleased with him). It is a great honor for me, (but not an easy task by any means), to talk about the life and character of this very unique personality. The Promised Messiah(as) on one occasion mentioned about Hadhrat Mufti Sahib: ‘He is young, pious, a very able and respected member of our The Life and Character of Hadhrat Dr. Mufti Muhammad Sadiq(ra) By Maulana Ataul Mujeeb Rashed – Imam of the London Mosque 19The Review of Religions – February 2007 THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) Jama’at and his good qualities cannot be fully expressed in words.’ (Zikr-i-Habeeb, by Hadhrat Mufti Sahib, page 332) It was the great honor and good fortune of Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq that the Promised Messiah(as) said this about him. On another occasion, the Promised Messiah(as) is reported to have written to Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq’s respected mother when she requested prayers for his recovery from illness: ‘I regularly pray for him. You think you love Sadiq because he is dear to you as a son but in this case my claim is that I love him even more than you do.’ (Zikr-i-Habeeb, p. 325) I will attempt to present to you, in brief, the life story of this beloved companion of the Promised Messiah(as). Brief Life Sketch: Early Life Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq was born at Bhera on January 11, 1872. His father, Mufti Inayatullah Sahib had passed away before the Promised Messiah’s(as) claim to be the Messiah(as) was made public. However, his mother, Hadhrat Faiz Bibi Sahiba, accepted Ahmadiyyat in 1897 in the presence of Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq. When they requested permission to go back home, the Promised Messiah(as) graciously accompanied them to the tanga (horse carriage) station and asked that some food should be brought for their use during their journey. When the Promised Messiah(as) observed that the food was not packed properly, he tore a piece, without any hesitation, from the turban he was wearing and gave them the food suitably wrapped in his turban cloth. The expression of this natural love and respect for them had such a deep effect on Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq that he chose Qadian for his life-long stay after that. Muhammad Sadiq was the first child of this name born in the city of Bhera and was brought up by pious parents. Prayer became part of his life at an early age because of his mother’s 20 The Review of Religions – February 2007 THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) devotion. At age 13 in 1885, he heard the name of the Promised Messiah(as) for the first time through Hakeem Ahmad Jan Sahib and this seed of love and dedication developed into a fruitful tree later. He also met Hadhrat Hakeem Maulana Noorud-Deen Sahib(ra) during this period. This bond became stronger when his father left him with Maulana Noorud-Deen Sahib(ra) in 1888 at Jammu to learn from him the translation of the Holy Qur’an. This early religious education in the holy company of Hadhrat Hakeem Maulana Noorud-Deen(ra) pro- vided him a spiritual edge to turn him into a shining and precious person of the house of Muhammad’s Messiah! During this period, the Promised Messiah(as) visited Jammu to enquire about the illness of Hadhrat Hakeem Maulana Noorud-Deen(ra). The Promised Messiah(as) had sent a message to Maulana Noorud-Deen Sahib(ra) that he would get better after his intended visit. This is exactly what happened. However, Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq arrived there when the Promised Messiah(as) had already left. After witnessing this miracle of the acceptance of the Promised Messiah’s(as) prayer Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq desired greatly to meet him. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib narrated one of his dreams and Hakeem Maulana Noorud-Deen Sahibs’s(ra) interpretation indicated the birth of a great reformer during these times. Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq wrote to the Promised Messiah(as) about the same clear dream but the Promised Messiah(as) refrained from immediate interpretation. This further increased his faith and closeness to the Promised Messiah(as). Initiation at Qadian in 1891 His devotional love for the Promised Messiah(as) brought Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq to Qadian for his first meeting with him in December 1890. He was riding in his horse carriage from Batala along with an introductory letter from his teacher, Hadhrat Mualana Noorud Deen(ra), . On his arrival, 21The Review of Religions – February 2007 THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) the Promised Messiah(as) came out of his house immediately after receiving the message and met Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq. The Promised Messiah(as) asked about his journey and food was served after that. There was another meeting after the Prayer and he joined the Promised Messiah(as) in the early morning walk the following day. These short meetings changed Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq’s life and filled his heart with light and devotion and he decided to take bai’at imme- diately. In a separate room the Promised Messiah(as) sat on the same bed (charpai) and took Mufti Sahib’s hand in his own hand for his pledge to adhere to the Ten Conditions of Initiation. After this simple ceremony this 19 year young Muhammad Sadiq resident of Bhera joined the servants of the Promised Messiah(as), the true follower of the Holy Prophet(saw). January 31, 1891 was the brightest day in his life, the day he received a new life. He truthfully (like his name Sadiq: the truthful) fulfilled his pledge of love and devotion and faithfulness made at the hands of the Promised Messiah(as) so much so that his life became a living sign of Ahmadiyyat, the true Islam. Some Important Events During 1891-1901 After his bai’at in 1891 Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq had to work and stay in Jammu and Lahore for ten years. However, during this period he often visited Qadian because of his sincere love and deep desire to be in the company of the Promised Messiah(as) to serve Islam. He would often return to be with the Promised Messiah(as) but found it harder each time to leave. Hadhrat Maulvi Abdul Kareem Sahib on one occasion encouraging others to come to spend time in the beneficial company of the Promised Messiah(as) cited the noble example of Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq: ‘I see Mufti Muhammad Sadiq here on any leave day he has from work. Like an 22 The Review of Religions – February 2007 THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) eagle, is ready to pounce upon any spare moment to snatch it away from the powerful worldly forces to be in the company of his beloved.’ (Al Hakam, January 24, 1900) And he further wrote: ‘lf Mufti Sahib is not a perfect picture of devotion then how can it be that he has frantically broken all chains to reach Batala – not caring whether it is day or night, summer or winter, rain or storm – sometimes arriving here in the middle of night on foot. The community should learn a lesson from this young devotee.’ (Ibid) It is not possible here to give a detailed account of all the benefits, this young and fortunate devotee may have enjoyed in the spiritual and purifying company of the Promised Messiah(as). Only a few instances are presented: I have already narrated the incident of farewell of the mother of Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq in 1897 after her Bai’at in Qadian. During the same year when Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was in Qadian, he was asked by the Promised Messiah(as) to make a copy of a manuscript of the Promised Messiah(as). The Promised Messiah(as) was writing in long hand and Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was making a neat copy. This task was begun after Isha Prayer and lasted till morning. It was like a candle lit for a moth to circuit it the whole night! What a blessed night of remembrance for this fortunate moth! Such favour can only be bestowed on select ones when Allah so wills. Once the Promised Messiah(as) assigned all his companions to write an essay on the topic: ‘Need for an Imam and a Reformer.’ Hadhrat Mufti Sahib also responded to this command of the Master. All essays were read out before the Promised Messiah(as). Hadhrat Munshi Zafar Ahmad Sahib of Kapoorthala stated that the Promised Messiah(as) was very pleased and liked Hadhrat Mufti Sahib’s essay. There was a unique bond of love and devotion between this 23The Review of Religions – February 2007 Servant and Master! Once Hadhrat Mufti Sahib presented to the Promised Messiah(as) his pocket watch as a gift. The Promised Messiah(as) spoke very frankly and with kindness gave Hadhrat Mufti Sahib two of his watches for his use. What an act of graciousness from Master to a devotee! Once Hadhrat Mufti Sahib arrived in Qadian and had only three days’ leave. He fervently prayed to Allah from the depth of his heart to transform those three days into three years. It so happened that for those three days Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was assigned to read out to the Promised Messiah(as) a new Commentary of the Bible. He had the good fortune to spend three days in the company of the Promised Messiah(as) working and praying and eating together. Three days passed quickly but his devotion was now stimulated to a degree that it became impossible to leave. He resigned from his employment and permanently came to settle in Qadian in 1901. The migration to Qadian itself presents an interesting story of devotion. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib had a respectable position in the office of Accountant General at Lahore. In 1898 he had made up his mind to migrate to Qadian but asked for the Promised Messiah(as)’s permission to do so. The Promised Messiah(as) advised him to stay at his position for the time being as Allah would start rewarding him for his intention. There was a need for a Second Master at Qadian High School which was filled by Hadhrat Mufti Sahib on leave from his office for three months. At the direction of the Promised Messiah(as), Mufti Sahib applied for further leave of absence for six months but was granted only three months’ leave. After Istikhara prayer he felt inner satisfaction and with the Promised Messiah’s(as) per- mission resigned his position in Accountan General Office, Lahore. A delegation of other Muslim office workers came to request his stay in Lahore but their plea was not accepted by the Promised Messiah(as). THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) 24 The Review of Religions – February 2007 After the acceptance of his resignation, this devotee of the Promised Messiah(as) abandoned all worldly pursuits and settled in Qadain proclaiming his commit- ment of giving preference to religion over worldly affairs. His heart-felt longings became reality as he joined the spiritual ocean at Darul-Aman, Qadian. This young devotee from Bhera, after many years in Jammu and Lahore, with Allah’s blessings, attained the rightful position as a precious pearl of the Promised Messiah’s(as) collection of spiritual jewels. Life Dedicated to the Service of Ahmadiyyat, the True Islam Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Sahib(ra) was dedicated to be among the first to respond to any call to serve Islam, any place at any time. He fulfilled his pledge, all his life to his best. It was a pledge taken at the hands of the Promised Messiah(as), to give precedence to faith over this world. During the life of the Promised Messiah(as) he had the unique honor to become the Promised Messiah’s(as) right hand in the propagation of Islam throughout the world. He had an excellent command of Urdu, Arabic and English languages and later also learnt Hebrew as directed by the Promised Messiah(as). When the Promised Messiah(as) presented the theory of Arabic being the ‘Mother of all Languages’, he prepared a list of Hebrew words and traced their origin in Arabic. He was also able to look up the references in the Hebrew Bible for inclusion where needed in the writings of the Promised Messiah(as), which are a great source of continuing benefits even today. Another service which Hadhrat Mufti Sahib performed with great skill and zeal was to gather and provide information to the Promised Messiah(as) about any new publication or movement pertaining to religious matters. To be able to render this service to the Promised Messiah(as) was a distinct honour. He had great passion to announce THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) 25The Review of Religions – February 2007 to the whole world about the appearance of the Promised Messiah(as) and his mission. He was writing to people in Britain, America and Russia, besides India regularly. Thousands of people heard about the Promised Messiah(as) and many were lucky enough to accept Ahmadiyyat this way through Hadhrat Mufti Sahib. In addition to his personal pursuit of communicating with others, Hadhrat Mufti Sahib also used to prepare summaries of all letters for the Promised Messiah(as) and used to take notes from him for replies. This huge task was handled by Hadhrat Mufti Sahib all alone after the passing away of Hadhrat Maulvi Abdul Kareem Sahib. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib had a natural ability to be an effective writer. Any reader would feel as if he were there with him. His diaries are now well preserved and are a great contribution to our knowledge about the times and life of the Promised Messiah(as). His writings provide a wealth of information for the benefit of all generations to come. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib also used to serve as an interpreter for any English speaking guest visiting the Promised Messiah(as). It was a great favor from Allah for Hadhrat Mufti Sahib to benefit constantly from the blessed company of the Promised Messiah(as) and thus also becoming very dear and close to him. More Delightful Memories Readings of Hadhrat Mufti Sahib’s life story provides very clear and strong evidence of his deep love and dedication to the Promised Messiah(as). The Promised Messiah(as) in return also showed great affection and kindness towards Hadhrat Mufti Sahib. Some instances are selected as a sample presentation from the life history of Hadhrat Mufti Sahib: Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was in Qadian on leave from his job in Lahore and one day was called in THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) 26 The Review of Religions – February 2007 to see the Promised Messiah(as). The Promised Messiah(as) after pointing towards a basket in the room, told Mufti Sahib: ‘Mufti Sahib, I have acquired this mango-basket for you to eat as much as you can.’ Hadhrat Mufti Sahib ate just a few mangoes and the Promised Messiah(as) with tender surprise said: ‘You have eaten only so few!’ On one occasion, the Promised Messiah(as) had a jug of milk in his hand. After filling a big tumbler, the Promised Messiah(as), like a caring mother, said to Hadhrat Mufti Sahib: ‘I will pour some more after you finish drinking this.’ When Hadhrat Mufti Sahib could not finish even the first glass, the Promised Messiah(as), with a loving smile on his face, remarked: ‘You drink so very little!’ On another occasion, Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was seated in Masjid Mubarak after his arrival from Lahore when the Promised Messiah(as) said with great kindness: ‘Please just wait here. I will get some food for you.’ Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was thinking that the Promised Messiah(as) would send some servant with food but was pleasantly surprised to see the Promised Messiah(as) himself carrying the food-tray. The Promised Messiah(as) said: ‘You start eating while I bring water for you.’ This experience was too much for Hadhrat Mufti Sahib to say anything but he was unable to control his tears of joy to witness his treatment at the hands of the Mahdi(as) the beloved of God Almighty. I am reminded of another incident when Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was looking for someone near Masjid Mubarak to bring him some water for ablution. Per- chance, the Promised Messiah(as) came out of his house at that moment and said: ‘Do you need water?’ When Hadhrat Mufti Sahib replied in the affirmative, the Promised Messiah(as) himself took the water jug and brought it back filled with water for Hadhrat Mufti Sahib. THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) 27The Review of Religions – February 2007 There are countless incidents, one better than the other, expressing the Promised Messiah(as)’s affection for his companions without much formality. One winter, Hadhrat Mufti Sahib came to Qadian to see the Promised Messiah(as) and had nothing warm for cover at night. When the Promised Messiah(as) learnt about this, he sent out two coverings (one belonging to Mahmood (Hadhrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad(ra) and the other used by the Promised Messiah(as)) for Hadhrat Mufti Sahib to choose from or keep both if needed. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib kept the covering of Mahmood’s only. This incident is just one illustration of the Promised Messiah(as)’s affection for his spiritual son, Hadhrat Mufti Sahib. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib would not miss a single opportunity to be close to the Promised Messiah(as). His dedication and affection was boundless and the Promised Messiah(as) appreciated his devotion to Islam. Once, on his way back from Multan, the Promised Messiah(as), broke his journey at Lahore but Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was not able to leave his sick-bed to come to visit the Promised Messiah(as). The Promised Messiah(as) went to enquire about his illness at his place and prayed for his speedy recovery. At the time of leaving, the Promised Messiah(as) said: You are ill. Allah grants prayers in illness. Please pray for the success of our mission, too. All the companions of the Promised Messiah(as) occupy high status in terms of their total dedication and spirit of sacrifice for Islam and deep love for the Promised Messiah(as). Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was one of those fortunate and great devotees who was specially blessed with a very sincere heart and was brightly guided in the service of true Islam. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib once was present in the company of the Promised Messiah(as) in a court of law where the Promised Messiah(as) was offered a chair to THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) 28 The Review of Religions – February 2007 be seated. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib realising that it would be tiresome for the Promised Messiah(as) sitting long in that court-room, made a footrest with his coat and turban and placed it under the Promised Messiah(as)’s feet. Obedience and prompt response to the commands of the Promised Messiah(as) provided spiritual nourishment for Hadhrat Mufti Sahib. During the earthquake- days in 1905, when the Promised Messiah(as) was residing in the garden next to Bahishti Maqbara, he gave a letter to Hadhrat Mufti Sahib and said: ‘Please take this letter to Lahore.’ It is narrated by another companion who was standing nearby that Hadhrat Mufti Sahib took that letter and left for Lahore at once without asking any further questions. Some Other Characteristics and Contributions Hadhrat Mufti Sahib’s high moral character and noble personality is clearly reflected in the expression of his thoughts and feelings in an informal way. He was blessed with a very useful habit of recording his ideas and emotions in his regularly maintained diary. He was also an avid writer of letters and essays. His writings have a unique quality and attractive beauty of their own as purified expressions of the heart. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib joined the instuitution of Wassiyyat (Will) as soon as it was established under the Divine guidance by the Promised Messiah(as) in 1906 at Qadian. Expressing his deep and sincere emotions, Hadhrat Mufti Sahib wrote in his Will that after his death, his property shall be given to the Ahmadiyya Movement for the propagation of Islam. He further wrote to highlight his feeling of devotion: ‘It should be noted that bequest for my entire property is not contingent upon my burial in the Bahishti Maqbara; it is to be given in the way of Allah anyway no matter where I am buried. I consider myself nothing but Allah’s useless, worthless, weak and humble human being. I shall leave my burial matters to THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) 29The Review of Religions – February 2007 my Gracious and Kind God Almighty; He is also Forgiving and One who covers my failings.’ (Badr, Feb. 28. 1907) People show a natural attachment to their native place. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was born in Bhera but he had deep love and emotional attachment with Qadian, Darul-Aman, abode of peace. He had to visit Bhera in March of 1908 for some necessary business but his heart was at Qadian. He wrote about these experiences and feelings: ‘Others say to me, this is your home, place of your parents and forefathers, your native land and you should stay here at least for a while longer. They say this with love and concern but I feel lost and confused and pray to Allah to be back near the feet of the Promised Messiah at Qadian.’ (Badr, March 26, 1908). He expressed similar sentiments in an earlier letter: ‘I am here in my native land but I feel far away from my real place. My native folks are rejoicing to see me but my moon is hidden from my eyes.’ (Badr, April 2, 1905). Hadhrat Mufti Sahib’s sentiments were a sincere reflection of his love for Qadian and his dedication to the Promised Messiah(as). Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq(ra) had an outstanding ability and effective approach for introducing people to Ahmadiyyat. He was intensely passionate about tabligh (preach- ing) and always endeavoured to utilise every situation appro- priately to convey the message of Ahmadiyyat, the true Islam. Once he entered a railway compartment for travel and saw all seats were occupied by other passengers. He stood at a spot where he was visible to everybody and began to address the passengers as soon as the train started: ‘Gentleman! I am standing before you because there is no empty seat for me to sit. However, I would like to make the best use of this opportunity to convey something very important to you… Thus all the passengers were introduced to Ahmadiyyat.’ (Zikr-i-Habeeb) THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) 30 The Review of Religions – February 2007 Once Hadhrat Mufti Sahib, accompanied by another friend, was passing through a Bazaar in Bombay and was asked to preach to a scribe who looked very busy writing petitions. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib sat in front of the scribe and asked him to write an important letter for him to the Honorable Nizam the Ruler of Hyderabad, Deccan: ‘According to the prophecy of the Holy Prophet(saw) about the Promised Messiah(as) that he will gather all Muslims under one flag of Muhammadiyat he has now appeared in Qadian and I invite you to accept his call.’ (Zikr-i-Habeeb) In this wise manner, Hadhrat Mufti Sahib introduced the scribe to Ahmadiyyat and at the same time sent the invitation to Nizam of Hyderabad in India. No one has any control or choice as to when one should be born. However, it can be stated with certainty that some fortunate souls are born during blessed times. For this reason, the companions of the Holy Prophet(saw) were the best and the most fortunate followed by those born during the life and time of the Promised Messiah(as), the greatest spiritual son of the Holy Prophet(saw). Hadhrat Dr. Mufti Muhammad Sadiq was one of those fortunate and unique individuals who were born during the blessed times of the Promised Messiah(as). He was the lucky one who not only derived full spiritual benefits from the times of the Promised Messiah but also had the great honour to enjoy the first two periods of the Second Manifestation, i.e., of Khilafat-i- Ahmadiyya and rendered in- valuable services to Islam during his life with total dedication and devotion. He regularly toured pre- partitioned India to promote moral training and tabligh activities among the Jama’at throughout the country. He conveyed the good news of the coming of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi(as) in every city and every town and every village he visited. His calling had such a THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) 31The Review of Religions – February 2007 profound effect on people in India that many were fortunate enough to readily accept the message and joined the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was specially gifted by God Almighty in the effective conveyance of the message of Islam to people. He was sincere, alert and was able to apply appropriate style with wisdom to win the hearts and minds of his audience. It is not possible to draw a complete picture of Mufti Sahib’s achievements in this field but I will contend with one example of his forceful style. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was a renowned speaker with a style of a teacher and a preacher reaching the hearts and minds of his audience. There were many who responded to his call and were given life with guidance from Allah. He visited Hoshiapur in 1913. He personified the city and addressed the residents as follows: ‘Hoshiapur! Listen to the call of this traveller and ponder over the message carefully so that you may prosper. I am not one of your residents. I am just a visitor but I have not come here to ask for anything of you. There is no selfish motive in my visit. If you are a wealthy and rich city, I have no desire for your wealth or riches. Yes! I have heard that you are ‘Hoshiar’ (literal meaning: sensible or clever) and that is why I thought I should tell you something which would benefit you. This call is for you from a humble servant of Allah for your own good. O Ye Clever One! Listen and wake up! If you are not listening then I am calling on your ‘Doors and Walls and your Earth and your Sky’ so that they should stand as witnesses that I conveyed my message to you but you did not heed and you did not wake up to my call.’ (Badr, November 13, 1913) Dedication to Tabligh In 1907, our beloved Imam, the Promised Messiah(as), said the task and responsibility of our THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) 32 The Review of Religions – February 2007 Jama’at has increased so much that I would like to see some young men dedicate their lives for tabligh wherever needed. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib immediately presented himself before the Promised Messiah(as) and said: I should be sent to any part of the world if considered appropriate. (Zikr-i-Habeeb, page 148). In response to this offer, the Promised Messiah(as) himself wrote with his pen: ‘accepted.’ Accordingly Hadhrat Mufti Sahib spent seven golden years of his life in the United Kingdom and United States of America with great success in tabligh, calling people to the One God Almighty. Details of his mission and accomplishments are well- documented in our Ahmadiyya literature. His life had become a living commentary of one couplet of the Promised Messiah(as): ‘Our task today is to call in every direction (in the world) and all who are pure of heart will ultimately join us (in Islam).’ Hadhrat Mufti Sahib started his voyage to England in 1917 and thus began the golden period of tabligh activity in foreign lands. The journey began with prayers expressing deep and sincere emotions and dedication. Just before his departure he wrote in a letter: ‘I am now prepared for the ultimate sacrifice. If my life is given in the way of Allah, my objective should be considered achieved’. (Al Fazl, March 22,1917). Filled with the love of Islam and the Promised Messiah(as), Hadhrat Mufti Sahib’s achievements stand as a witness to prove his truthfulness in word and deed. He used all his God-given abilities to make the best use of every situation that tabligh (preaching) provided him with needed spiritual nourishment for a purposeful life. He was an effective communicator. He was a great scholar. Tabligh activities were conducted with supreme wisdom according to the teachings of Islam. His personality also reflected natural aura of authority and dignity in THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) 33The Review of Religions – February 2007 conveying the true message of Islam. On top of all these qualities, he was a recipient of revelation and was guided through ‘visions’ from God Almighty. He was always inclined towards Allah and used to begin all his activities, including and specially tabligh, with prayer (du‘a) to achieve successful results. His tabligh which sprang from his heart deeply affected other hearts. His tabligh started as soon as he boarded the ship from Bombay. One Englishman accepted Islam within three days. There were also a number of other conversions during this voyage. Every sincere Da ‘ee Ilallah (caller to God) is supported by Allah’s signs and success. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib witnessed many such signs all his life. During the voyage, Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was confronted with a situation where he needed some money. He had no friend to turn to on board the ship but Allah. When the ship anchored at the next port, an Ahmadi friend suddenly came to see him and before leaving, left some money in his pocket. The amount of money was exactly the same that Mufti Sahib needed. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was given the glad tidings right from the beginning of his journey that he would reach his destination in safety. There was an alert on the ship that it was going to sink. There was lamentation on board and every passenger was in panic. There were arguments as to who would be given priority seating on the small rescue boats. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib offered his own seat assigned to him on a rescue boat and tried to assure everybody to have no fear because God had told him that this ship would not sink because a humble servant of the Promised Messiah(as) was also on board. This was a clear sign in favour of Islam and was a God-given opportunity for tabligh. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib as a successful Da ‘ee llallah utilized fully every opportunity presented THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) to him and intelligently explored new ways for tabligh purposes. He wrote a ‘thank you’ letter to the King of England who just glanced at Mufti Sahib with curiosity while riding through an open procession. A speaker in London Park invited the audience to ask questions. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib was ready to oblige. He attended open meetings at various churches and introduced people to Islam. He delivered lectures on Islam and partook in debates. He invited rich and poor to Islam and hundreds of good souls accepted Ahmadiyyat. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib’s next stop was the United States of America. He boarded a ship in 1920 for America and witnessed a great sign from Allah in his support. The ship was caught up in a fierce and dangerous storm and passengers were heard lamenting for fear of drowning. When the ship was at the mercy of the furious waves, Hadhrat Mufti Sahib, a gallant champion of Masih-e-Muhammadi, addressed the sea in a majestic tone: ‘O Ocean! Don’t you know that a servant of the Promised Messiah is riding on you not for any personal reason but in the service of Allah’s Islam? Will you then hurt him?’ (Al-Fazl, Jan 11 1924) Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq narrates that being an ordinary servant of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi(as) he has seen the sign of the love and kindness of God Almighty: My humble prayer was heard in Heaven and it seemed to me that God’s angels were descending to calm down the waves of the unruly ocean. Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq had a very busy schedule in America. He faced many challenges and difficulties but at the same time he witnessed the bright glimpses of Allah’s support and favours all the way. When his ship docked at Philadelphia, the U.S. Government refused his entry into America. After two months’ delay he was permitted to enter. His case was widely publicised and this exposure through media provided opportunities for 34 THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) The Review of Religions – February 2007 preaching and Allah rewarded him with immediate fruits. In the beginning numerous hurdles were overcome with Allah’s help and his cheerfulness. Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Sahib wrote about these early days: Almost every night I meet with the Promised Messiah(as) or his first Khalifa or Hadhrat Fazl- i-umar. I am with my own family at night and my days are spent among strangers. (Al-Fazl, April 29, 1920) Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq was an exemplary Da’ee Ilallah preacher. He walked on the roads and streets of America, and men and women, attracted by his personality and dress, would stop and say: ‘Look, Jesus Christ has come.’ This comment would usually serve as the starting point for preaching. Mufti Sahib would explain to the audience that he was not Jesus(as) but an ordinary servant of the Promised Messiah(as). Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq successfully established centres of preaching in New York, Philadelphia and Chicago and conveyed the message of true Islam individually as well as collectively. He published articles in newspapers and reached people through advertisements and personal letters. He delivered lectures on Islam far and wide. He started the Journal The Muslim Sunrise in America and the first Ahmadiyya Mosque was constructed in Chicago during his blessed stay. He was awarded Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his services and a Muslim leader named him ‘Khalid of this New Age.’ He was denied entry when he first arrived in America but before his return home his services were widely appreciated and recognised by many newspapers. A dedicated caller to faith always remains humble and does not attribute his successes to his knowledge or personal efforts. Hadhrat Mufti Sahib in all humility used to express his gratitude for the blessings of 35 THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) The Review of Religions – February 2007 Allah as a true believer and His dedicated servant. He introduced a religious revolution in America and facilitated hundreds of lucky individuals to join Islam. There were tears in his eyes when his ship was about to depart, not because he did not want to leave. He cried in humility before God Almighty as he wrote: ‘I have not been able to do full justice to my assigned duty and I confess my failing in my service.’ (Al-Fazl, October 30, 1923) Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Sahib returned to Qadian after his successful mission. He used to say that he had firm faith in God Almighty Who always shows miracles in support of His servants: ‘However it is not my miracle. It is a miracle of our leader Hadhrat Mahmood (may Allah be pleased with him) that his determination enabled me to fulfill my mission. It was his determination, his attention, his prayers and grace of Allah descending upon him and upon us, and through him that resulted in success.’ (Al-Fazl, December 4th, 1923) Blessed Life of Hadhrat Dr. Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Blessed was the life of Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Sahib dedicated to the service of Islam. He was very dear and close to the Promised Messiah(as). He successfully delivered the message of Ahmadiyyat the true Islam, in India, Britain and America. He continued his tarbiyyat and tabligh activities after his return to Qadian from America at the end of 1923. He also served as the Private Secretary of Hadhrat Khalifatul Mesih II(ra), and distinguished himself as a speaker, writer and a debater. He had a pure soul which reflected the attributes of God Almighty. He stands as a unique and exemplary shining star in the History of Ahmadiyyat. May Allah be pleased with him. Ameen. The companions of the Holy Prophet(saw) are like stars of spiritual heaven and a similar status was accorded to the companions of the Promised 36 THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) The Review of Religions – February 2007 Messiah(as) during the latter days. (Holy Qur’an Ch.62 V.4) Hadhrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq’s life will continue to serve as a beacon of guiding light for young and old in the service of Islam. He was a true pioneer in so many ways and his example will always present a challenge to young men of today who wish to learn how to give precedence to deen (‘religion’) over dunya (‘the material world’) for gaining the pleasure of Allah. 37 THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF HADHRAT DR. MUFTI MUHAMMAD SADIQ(RA) The Review of Religions – February 2007 Verse references to the Holy Qur’an item count ‘Bismillah…’ (In the Name of Allah…) as the first verse of each Chapter. In some non-standard texts, this is not counted and should the reader refer to such texts, the verse quoted in The Review of Religions will be found at one verse less than the number quoted. In this journal, for the ease of non- Muslim readers, ‘(saw)’ or ‘saw’ after the words, ‘Holy Prophet’, or the name ‘Muhammad’, are used. They stand for ‘Sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam’ meaning ‘Peace and blessings of Allah be upon him’. Likewise, the letters ‘(as)’ or ‘as’ after the name of all other prophets is an abbreviation meaning ‘Peace be upon him’ derived from ‘Alaihis salatu wassalam’ which are words that a Muslim utters out of respect whenever he or she comes across that name. The abbreviation ‘ra’ or (ra) stands for ‘Radhiallahu Ta’ala anhu and is used for Companions of a Prophet, meaning Allah be pleased with him or her (when followed by the relevant Arabic pronoun). Finally, ‘ru’ or (ru) for Rahemahullahu Ta’ala means the Mercy of Allah the Exalted be upon him. In keeping with current universal practice, local transliterations of names of places are preferred to their anglicised versions, e.g. Makkah instead of Mecca, etc.