Fatima Danayal, Epsom
The start of Jalsa each year stands as a beacon of hope in a world awash with distractions, serving as an opportunity to rejuvenate one's faith and spirituality. Its vibrant atmosphere, marked by colourful flags of the world and the enthusiasm of attendees, creates a truly uplifting experience. As this momentous occasion approaches, the excitement at the prospect of reconnecting with our faith and community is palpable – of course, Jalsa this year did not fall short.
Volunteering at the Tabshir department provided me an opportunity to witness firsthand the impact of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community's humanitarian work. A conversation with the principal of a Guatemalan school built by Humanity First funds was particularly inspiring. Her gratitude underscored the transformative power of our community's efforts, rendering me speechless.
Against the backdrop of a society often consumed by distractions, these experiences served as a potent reminder of the importance of selfless service. The words of our beloved His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad (may Allah be his Helper), in his Jalsa address to ladies, echoed this sentiment, urging us to prioritize spiritual growth amidst life's temptations.
In his insightful address, His Holiness cautioned us about the pervasive influence of unfiltered use of social media and the internet, capturing the challenges of our digital age. These platforms, while offering connections to amazing educational and informative sources, can also be the breeding grounds for moral decay.
His Holiness eloquently stated, "These are the things that undermine efforts for pure transformation and consume them like a pest. This [modern] day society is considered civilised, but not everything in these developed countries is truly civilised. Some things are taught under the guise of freedom that lead away from civilisation, morals, and towards corruption."
By relating excessive internet use to a "pest" eroding one's moral values, His Holiness (may Allah be his Helper) warns of the insidious influence of our digital age. His words made me reflect on my own digital habits, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding our faith and values in an increasingly material world. With the misconception of Islam as an anachronistic faith running rampant in today's society, listening to our Caliph address guiding us about contemporary challenges has equipped us to resist the allure of a materialistic and morally compromised society, immediately dispelling such fallacies.
This renewed sense of purpose was further fortified by the annual Bai'at ceremony, a spiritual epiphany that never fails to rejuvenate the soul. Despite its familiarity, the magnitude of the words recited provides a profound cleansing, offering an opportunity for renewal and a reaffirmation of our commitment to Islam and its teachings.
The echoes of Jalsa Salana 2024 linger, carrying with them a profound sense of spiritual enrichment. The wealth of knowledge imparted by His Holiness' enlightening addresses, coupled with the uplifting camaraderie of fellow Ahmadis, has left an indelible mark. These invaluable insights serve as a compass, guiding us through the complexities of contemporary life. As we eagerly anticipate the next Jalsa, may we all strive to embody the spirit of Jalsa in our daily lives, endeavouring to become beacons of light in our communities. Ameen.
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