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Ahmadiyya Movement: Founder, Core Beliefs & Challenges - UPSC Notes
IMPORTANT LINKS
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GS Paper |
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Topics for UPSC Prelims |
Origins of Ahmadiyya Movement, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, Ahmadiyya and British India, Ahmadiyya Teachings |
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Topics for UPSC Mains |
Socio-Religious Reform Movements in India, Impact of Ahmadiyya Movement on Indian Society |
What is Ahmadiyya Movement?
The Ahmadiyya Movement was founded in British India in 1889 by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. It bases its belief on the fact that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was the promised Messiah and Mahdi. The emphasis of the movement is upon peaceful propagation of Islam by love, tolerance, and serving humanity. It also works for the reform of Islam.
The Ahmadiyya believes that the teachings of Islam, as understood by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, provide answers to modern problems. The movement has experienced severe persecution, especially in countries dominated by Muslims, who refer to them as heretics. However, the Ahmadiyya community remains active worldwide, engaging in humanitarian activities and interfaith dialogue.
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Ahmadiyya Movement Founder
The founder of the Ahmadiyya Movement is Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. This was during the year 1835. It is believed he was born in Qadian, a small town in British India. The individual was both a scholar and a reformer. He claimed to be the chosen revivalist of God in Islam. This, but, was according to his teachings. He would imbibe it with a new direction. He was inspired by, as well as devoted to, Prophet Muhammad's teachings. But, he said that Islam had strayed away from its true principles.
His message is controversial, particularly in terms of the messianic claim. Orthodox Muslims believe the Messiah will come in the future. Ahmadis believe that it was Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. He is the promised messiah. His claims brought about major controversy among Muslims. They were at the center of the emergence of the Ahmadiyya movement. His followers believe he was Islam's last reformer. They think he was sent to restore its original nature.
Early Life and Teachings of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad
Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was born in a religious background. He was educated in the scriptures and philosophy of Islam. He was devoted to religion, so he sought to learn more about Islam. He said that after all those years of study, God gave him a revelation. The revelation was the foundation of the Ahmadiyya movement. He advocated the revival of Islam and eliminating misconceptions about it.
He added it would be a movement of peace and tolerance. Its followers would live in harmony with people of all faiths. He also insisted on knowledge and education as he believed in the intellectual growth of his followers. Ahmad believed that the actual essence of Islam was love for humanity, and hence he urged his followers to work for the welfare of society.
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Core Beliefs of the Ahmadiyya Movement
The Ahmadiyya movement has several core beliefs that set it apart from other Muslim sects. These beliefs center around the figure of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, his divine mission, and the interpretation of Islamic teachings. The key principles of the Ahmadiyya movement include:
The Messiah and Mahdi
One of the most controversial beliefs in the Ahmadiyya movement is the belief in Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as the promised messiah and mahdi. The Ahmadis believe that the messiah has already come in the form of their founder, and this belief sets them apart from mainstream Muslims. They do not believe in the second coming of Jesus Christ, which most Muslims and Christians believe will happen. Instead, they view Ghulam Ahmad as the fulfillment of the prophecy of a reformer in Islam.The Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam emphasizes reform, peaceful propagation, and the belief in Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as the promised Messiah.
Finality of Prophethood
Whereas Muslims believe in the finality of the prophethood of Prophet Muhammad, followers of the Ahmadiyya movement believe that the title of "seal of the prophets" applies to Prophet Muhammad concerning his complete message but not the end of all prophetic guidance. They believe that new prophets can emerge, but only as part of the broader mission to spread the message of Islam. Mirza Ghulam Ahmad is seen as a prophet who came to bring a renewed message of peace.
The Concept of Jihad
The Ahmadiyya movement takes a unique stance on jihad. While some extremist groups associate jihad with violent struggle, Ahmadis view jihad as a spiritual and moral struggle. They emphasize peaceful propagation of faith and the importance of internal self-improvement. Jihad, in the Ahmadiyya movement, is about striving to lead a righteous life and spreading Islam’s message peacefully.
The Belief in Peace and Tolerance
The emphasis of the Ahmadiyya movement on peace is one of its major tenets. In fact, the founder, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, was a proponent of the idea that Islam is a religion of love and peace for all human beings. The movement has taught its followers to maintain harmony with people of all different faiths, and there is much emphasis on interfaith dialogue and mutual respect. Ahmadis are encouraged to be active social contributors, working for the common good of humanity.
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Global Reach of Ahmadiyya Movement
Since its founding, the Ahmadiyya movement has gained far greater expansion beyond Indian origins. Currently, its followers spread over more than 200 countries and territories. In fact, this movement is relatively powerful in Africa, Middle East, and some regions of Europe. The International Headquarters is in the United Kingdom.
Global Extent to Over 200 Countries
The Ahmadiyya movement has spread to more than 200 countries, covering Europe, Africa, North America, and Asia. Its international headquarters is based in the United Kingdom, referred to as the "International Headquarters." The movement has established communities worldwide, contributing to religious and humanitarian development in many regions.
Solid Missionary Work and Outreach
One of the significant reasons for the spread of the Ahmadiyya movement across the world is its powerful missionary work. The movement has built mosques, schools, and hospitals in many countries. Ahmadis engage in interfaith dialogue, sharing their peaceful message and attracting converts. Their efforts promote tolerance, peace, and understanding across cultural divides.
Growth in Africa
The Ahmadiya movement has gained immense popularity in Africa, especially in some countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Tanzania. Many are attracted to the movement since it emphasizes education, healthcare, and community service in these regions. The peace teachings of the Ahmadiya movement have made them a trusted movement in a number of African countries.
Expansion in Western Countries
The Ahmadiyya movement has expanded significantly in Western countries, especially in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Many immigrants from Muslim-majority countries have adopted the teachings of the movement. The community in these countries is very involved in local social and charitable projects, contributing positively to the cultural fabric.
Challenges and Resilience in Southeast Asia
The Ahmadiyya movement has thrived in Indonesia and Malaysia, even though the followers face persecution in certain regions. Though legal restrictions prevail, Ahmadis have found ways to practice their faith quietly and respectfully. Their commitment to peaceful coexistence and social welfare has allowed them to maintain strong communities in these nations.
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Challenges Faced by the Ahmadiyya Movement
The Ahmadiyya movement has been opposed and persecuted in many countries that are predominantly Muslim. Due to its belief in Mirza Ghulam Ahmad being a prophet, the group has faced opposition from majority Islamic groups who do not believe in these claims.
Legal Discrimination in Pakistan
Followers of the Ahmadiyya movement suffer legal discrimination in Pakistan. In 1974, the government of Pakistan officially classified Ahmadis as non-Muslims and, therefore, deprived them of elementary religious rights. Ahmadis are barred from claiming to be Muslim or even participating in some religious practices. Legal status has been followed by persecution and social exclusion in the country.
Terroristic Acts and Social Exclusion
Ahmadiyya movement members have been attacked and targeted in violent attacks in Pakistan and parts of the Middle East. Mosques are bombed, and followers get beaten up or killed over their beliefs. Ahmadis are socially ostracized and labeled as heretics by mainstream Muslim groups and therefore live in hostile environments.
Restrictions on Religious Practices
In many countries, the Ahmadiyya movement is severely restricted from practicing their faith. In Bangladesh and Indonesia, laws bar Ahmadis from public manifestation of their religious identity. They cannot openly profess their beliefs, and religious gatherings or activities often come under government scrutiny, which restricts them from freely worshiping and practicing their faith.
Religious Rights Denied in Egypt
In Egypt, adherents of the Ahmadiyya movement have suffered systematic discrimination in denial of religious rights. Ahmadis are not enrolled as acceptable Muslims and may not even have the right to incorporate their faith into government records. Such lack of recognition carries through into marriage, inheritance, and legal rights. Social isolation is one of the key consequences.
Persecution in the Middle East
In some Middle Eastern countries, Ahmadiyya movement followers are subjected to extreme persecution. Some of them are imprisoned or even killed because of their beliefs. In the countries of Saudi Arabia and Yemen, the Ahmadiyya movement is banned, and the people are often considered apostates. Religious police have persecuted them for spreading "false" interpretations of Islam.
Opposition from Mainstream Muslim Organizations
Followers of the Ahmadiyya movement usually face resistance from the majority of Muslims. For most orthodox Muslims, it is a theological threat when one proclaims to be a messiah and a prophet simultaneously. An ideological difference causes denial and hostility, and in many cases, Ahmadis are not allowed into religious congregations and social networks.
Social welfare through the Ahmadiyya Movement
The Ahmadiyya movement is highly active in humanitarian and social welfare projects. Schools, hospitals, and relief organizations have been established in various parts of the world through the movement. Such activities are guided by the movement's teachings of peace, love, and service to humanity.
Humanitarian Projects
Leadership of Ahmadiyya underscores a call for the service to mankind, that resulted in hundreds of thousands of projects. Now, taking charity projects for instance, it focuses its attention towards the issues involving education, health, and disaster rescue. In those activities, the members of Ahmadiyya encourage others and participate in all those practices, which made it good in transforming numerous different areas.
Community and Fellowship
The Ahmadiyya movement is very strong on community and fellowship. Ahmadis hold regular prayers and events where they strengthen their bonds of faith and commitment to service. The movement also provides support to individuals in need, ensuring that no one in the community is left behind. This sense of solidarity has been a key factor in the movement's growth and success.
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Key Takeaways for UPSC Aspirants
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Conclusion
The Ahmadiyya movement is an extremely unique and influential Islamic movement of the modern era focused on peace, tolerance, and service for humanity. Their beliefs had earned appreciation from many; however, at the same time, they antagonized some groups of Muslim people, leading to victimization in many countries of the world. Despite such hardships and challenges, the Ahmadiyya movement is growing with millions serving to spread its message of reform and peace.
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Ahmadiyya Movement UPSC FAQ’s
Why is the Ahmadiyya Movement considered controversial?
The movement is considered controversial mainly because of its belief in Ghulam Ahmad as the final prophet, conflicting with mainstream Islamic beliefs.
How has the Ahmadiyya Movement contributed to social reform?
The Ahmadiyya Movement has played a role in promoting gender equality, education, interfaith dialogue, and charitable activities like healthcare.
How did the Ahmadiyya Movement spread worldwide?
The Ahmadiyya Movement spread globally through missionary work, with significant communities in countries like Pakistan, UK, and the USA.
Why is the Ahmadiyya community persecuted?
The Ahmadiyya community faces persecution, especially in Pakistan, due to its belief in Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as a prophet, deemed heretical by others.
What is the role of the Ahmadiyya Movement in modern Islamic thought?
The Ahmadiyya Movement influences modern Islamic thought by advocating for scientific progress, education, and a balanced approach between tradition and modernity.
How does the Ahmadiyya Movement contribute to literature?
The Ahmadiyya Movement contributes significantly through publications like The Review of Religions, which engage in theological discussions and interfaith dialogue.
What is the Ahmadiyya Movement?
The Ahmadiyya Movement is a religious reform movement founded by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad in 1889, advocating for peace, tolerance, and the unity of God.
What are the core beliefs of the Ahmadiyya Movement?
The Ahmadiyya Movement believes in the continuation of prophethood with Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as the promised Messiah, emphasizing peace and tolerance.