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At AROPL Studios, working as a media presenter, I had the privilege to explore one of the most fascinating topics from The Goal of The Wise; the subject of alien life, and how it branches into religion and our history as a human species. While the idea of alien life is not considered to be ‘scientifically proven’, extraterrestrials have a mention in many spheres of our existence, and that includes religion and religious history. In The Goal of The Wise, Abdullah Hashem Aba Al-Sadiq explains how denying the presence of other worldly entities is impossible - we must embrace the truth that they are out there. And he has uncovered fascinating truths regarding the subject in his book and also in his video series, ‘The School of Divine Mysteries’ on the Mahdi Has Appeared YouTube channel. We, at AROPL Studios, took inspiration from that and decided to speak to experts in the field. Members of the team have conducted interviews with renowned personalities - David Icke, Erich Von Danicken (author of Chariots of the Gods), Malcolm Robinson, Derrel ‘Alien Hunter’ Sims and others. We took their theories and findings, and studied what we know to be true from the teachings of the Riser Aba Al-Sadiq. This is part 2 of a series of articles written based on what we heard. If you have not read part 1, click here. Chapter 3: CLOSE ENCOUNTER of the First Kind "Visual sighting of an unidentified flying object seemingly less than 500 feet away that shows an appreciable angular extension and considerable detail." (UFO researcher J. Allen Hynek) As humanity continues to grapple with the idea that reality may be manipulated by non-human forces from another dimension, we begin to see that our ancestors, too, might have experienced similar phenomena. Throughout history, ancient civilizations have left behind cryptic texts and symbols, many of which suggest encounters with beings that were neither human, nor of this world. From the pyramids of Egypt to the scriptures of the Bible, hidden clues may reveal that UFO sightings are not exclusive to the modern era. Could it be that what we are experiencing today is simply the continuation of an ancient and ongoing phenomenon? Pyramid Texts: The Pharaohs and Spaceships The Pyramid Texts of ancient Egypt are often interpreted in a spiritual light, with scholars suggesting that they describe the Pharaoh's journey to the afterlife. However, a closer look reveals a startling alternative. Some of these texts, which were believed to describe the Pharaoh's ascent to the heavens, speak not of a metaphysical journey, but of a literal one. According to Erich von Däniken , author of ‘ Chariots of the Gods ,’ the Pharaohs are recorded as talking about traveling with their gods in what could be interpreted as a spacecraft.  Could these ancient Egyptian rulers have been describing encounters with UFOs? If the Pharaohs truly believed they were traveling with gods in spaceships, then we must consider the possibility that humanity has been interacting with extraterrestrial entities for millennia. These encounters may have been recorded as divine experiences in religious texts, but they may in fact be early examples of close encounters of the first kind—direct sightings of UFOs. UFOs in Scripture: The Star of Bethlehem One of the most well-known stories from the Bible is the birth of Jesus Christ. According to the Book of Matthew, wise men from the East, or Magi, followed a mysterious star that led them to the birthplace of the Messiah. But what was this star? Was it truly a celestial body, or could it have been something else, perhaps an unidentified flying object guiding the Magi to the location of this divine event? "We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." (Bible, Book of Matthew, Chapter 2, Verses 1-2) Stars do not appear out of nowhere, nor do they lead people to specific locations on Earth. Could the "star" that guided the Magi have been an advanced craft or UFO? If so, it would not be the first time that such phenomena were recorded in scripture. Throughout the Bible, there are numerous accounts of strange objects in the sky—lights, clouds, and pillars of fire—that guided and protected the people of God. The Pillar of Cloud: Divine Craft or UFO? In the Book of Exodus, the children of Israel are said to have been guided by a "pillar of cloud" during their exodus from Egypt. This mysterious cloud not only moved ahead of them, but also provided protection and illumination at night, turning into a pillar of fire. The pillar of cloud was always associated with "the glory of the Lord," and its appearance was so powerful that even Moses could not enter the Tent of Meeting when the cloud descended upon it. "Then the angel of God who was going before the host of Israel moved and went behind them, and the pillar of cloud moved from before them and stood behind them... And it lit up the night without one coming near the other all night." (Bible, Book of Exodus, Chapter 14, Verses 19-20) The description of this pillar—a cloud by day, a fire by night—could easily be interpreted as a UFO sighting. In modern accounts, witnesses often describe UFOs as glowing, fiery objects in the sky, much like the pillar of cloud that guided the Israelites. Could this "divine cloud" have been an extraterrestrial craft, guiding the people of Israel through the desert? Clouds, Fire, and Flashing Lights: The Signs of the Heavens The Bible frequently describes divine encounters as being accompanied by clouds, fire, and flashing lights. At Mount Sinai, God is said to have appeared to Moses in a "dense cloud," and His voice could be heard from within it. In Psalm 99, it is written that God spoke to Moses and Aaron from within a "cloudy pillar." "I am going to come to you in a dense cloud, so that the people will hear me speaking with you and will always put their trust in you." (Bible, Book of Exodus, Chapter 19, Verse 9) Once again, these divine encounters bear striking similarities to modern-day UFO sightings. The descriptions of clouds and fire are reminiscent of the glowing, hovering objects that have been reported by witnesses for decades. Could it be that these "divine clouds" were not clouds at all, but rather extraterrestrial crafts cloaked in a way that would be understood by the people of ancient times? What Does This Mean for Religion Today? If the UFO phenomena have been present throughout history and are documented in religious texts, what does this mean for structured religion today? The question of God’s image becomes particularly relevant. If humanity was created in God's image, as the Bible states, then whose image are we talking about? Could these extraterrestrial encounters suggest that what we consider divine might have origins in something far more cosmic? Ecclesiastes 1:9 offers a haunting reflection on this idea: "What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun." (Bible, Book of Ecclesiastes , Chapter 1, Verse 9) The presence of UFOs throughout history raises significant questions about the nature of God, angels, and divine encounters. If extraterrestrials have been visiting us for thousands of years, how does that change the way we view traditional religious narratives? Do UFOs offer an alternative explanation for some of the most significant events in human spiritual history? While some may find these ideas unsettling, they offer a fascinating perspective on ancient scripture and religious experience. If the divine clouds of the Bible were, in fact, extraterrestrial crafts, then humanity's understanding of the cosmos, and its place in it, may need a radical revision. The cosmic battle between good and evil, angels and demons, may be far more intertwined with extraterrestrial influences than we ever imagined. As we continue to explore the skies and uncover new evidence of UFOs, we may discover that what we thought was divine has always been out there, watching and guiding us from the stars. Chapter 4: Close Encounters of the Third Kind "The presence of an animated creature, such as a humanoid, robot, or apparent UFO pilot." (UFO researcher J. Allen Hynek) When we think of UFOs, most people's minds go straight to sightings of strange crafts in the sky. But a Close Encounter of the Third Kind takes us beyond mere observations of unidentified objects. It's the direct experience of encountering animated beings—humanoids, robots, or other mysterious entities that seem to pilot these crafts. Are these beings extraterrestrial visitors? Or are they something else entirely, hidden in the ancient texts and stories that have shaped our world for centuries? Let’s dive into one of the most striking descriptions of a possible Close Encounter of the Third Kind, the vision of the prophet Ezekiel. Ezekiel’s Vision: A Close Encounter? In the Book of Ezekiel, the prophet describes an extraordinary experience. He saw a windstorm, a massive cloud surrounded by flashing light, and within it, he glimpsed living creatures and something that looked like glowing metal. This description is often interpreted as a divine vision, but when viewed through a modern lens, it sounds eerily similar to the descriptions of UFO sightings. Ezekiel’s vision includes wheels intersecting with wheels that sparkled like topaz and were full of eyes. These wheels moved with the living creatures, following their every motion, even rising off the ground as they ascended. This level of detail, especially when describing the movement and construction of these "wheels," is strikingly mechanical. Modern interpretations of this passage suggest that Ezekiel may have been witnessing something that could be compared to an advanced flying craft. As Ezekiel continues, he describes hearing the sound of wings, "like the roar of rushing waters, like the voice of the Almighty."  When the creatures lowered their wings, he heard a voice coming from above. Above these beings was a brilliant figure, glowing with fire, seated on a radiant throne. This figure, which Ezekiel identifies as the likeness of the glory of the Lord, appears humanoid, but with otherworldly characteristics. Could it be that what Ezekiel encountered was not just a divine vision, but a direct interaction with non-human entities—beings from another realm or planet? Ancient Encounters with Non-Human Entities The beings Ezekiel saw might be described today as extraterrestrial or interdimensional entities. His description of wheels within wheels, creatures full of eyes, and a glowing humanoid figure fits eerily well with modern reports of encounters with UFO pilots and otherworldly beings. Across many cultures, ancient texts describe beings who descended from the skies, interacting with humanity. The Sumerians spoke of the Anunnaki, gods who descended from the heavens to shape human civilization. In India, the Vedic texts describe flying craft called Vimanas and beings of immense power who pilot them. The Greeks had their own stories of gods descending from Mount Olympus in fiery chariots. Could these myths and religious texts be documenting ancient encounters with extraterrestrial beings? If so, these visitors seem to have left an indelible mark on human history, influencing cultures, religions, and even technological development. The descriptions may have been interpreted in a spiritual or divine framework at the time, but today, they could be reinterpreted as encounters with advanced beings and technology. Close Encounters in Religious Texts One of the challenges when discussing the possibility of UFOs and extraterrestrial beings in ancient religious texts is that these texts are written with a specific cultural and spiritual perspective. The Bible, for example, is filled with visions, miracles, and divine interventions that were framed within the religious context of the time. However, many of these encounters share characteristics with modern reports of UFO sightings and alien abductions. In Genesis 6:1-4, we read about the Nephilim, a mysterious race of giants said to be the offspring of the "sons of God" and human women. The term "sons of God" has been interpreted in various ways, but some believe it refers to non-human, possibly extraterrestrial beings who came to Earth and interacted with humans. The Nephilim were described as mighty beings, different from regular humans, and their presence marked a significant period of interaction between humans and these otherworldly entities. In Daniel 7:9, we encounter the image of the Ancient of Days, whose throne was made of fiery flames, and whose wheels were burning fire. Again, we see the presence of wheels and fire, which bear a striking resemblance to the imagery used in Ezekiel's vision. These fiery wheels could be interpreted as a kind of spacecraft, piloted by divine or extraterrestrial beings. Beings Not of Earth As we continue to examine ancient texts through a modern lens, one theme becomes clear: many of these beings, whether they are referred to as angels, gods, or messengers, share one trait—they are not from Earth. The descriptions of these beings in various religious texts share common characteristics with modern accounts of extraterrestrial encounters: glowing light, strange technology, humanoid forms with otherworldly features, and advanced capabilities beyond human comprehension. These beings often arrive in flying craft, speak in thunderous voices, and possess knowledge or abilities far surpassing that of humans. In Ezekiel’s vision, the "living creatures" and their wheels are clearly not native to our planet. The interaction between these beings and their technology points to something far more advanced than what humans at the time could explain. The eyes surrounding the rims of the wheels suggest a level of surveillance or awareness beyond what is natural. The creatures' ability to move in any direction without turning implies a form of movement that defies the laws of physics as we understand them. Close Encounters and the Modern UFO Phenomenon What makes Ezekiel’s account particularly intriguing is how closely it parallels modern reports of UFO encounters. Witnesses often describe seeing glowing, metallic objects that move with precision, accompanied by strange beings with humanoid characteristics. Many also report feeling a sense of awe or terror, much like Ezekiel, who "fell facedown" when he witnessed the vision. In modern UFO studies, encounters with alien beings, whether humanoid, robotic, or otherwise, are classified as Close Encounters of the Third Kind. These encounters are rare but profound, often leaving a lasting impact on the witness. Just as Ezekiel’s life was forever changed by his encounter, so too are the lives of those who report modern sightings and abductions. Divine Beings or Extraterrestrial Visitors? The vision of Ezekiel raises many questions about the nature of divine encounters in religious texts. Were these encounters truly spiritual, or were they interactions with advanced, non-human entities—perhaps extraterrestrial visitors? As we explore these ancient stories in the context of modern UFO sightings, it becomes increasingly difficult to dismiss the possibility that what Ezekiel saw was more than just a symbolic vision. Across cultures and time, humanity has reported encounters with beings that defy explanation. Whether they are gods, angels, or aliens, these beings share common traits—they descend from the skies, they bring with them advanced technology, and they interact with humans in ways that shape our beliefs, our histories, and our future. Ezekiel’s vision may be one of the earliest recorded Close Encounters of the Third Kind, a moment when the veil between our world and another was briefly lifted. Perhaps we will one day understand the true nature of these beings—and discover what role they have played in our past, present, and future.

Throughout history and across the earth, God has sent more than 124,000 prophets and messengers to guide humanity toward the right way of living and establish a Divine Just State. "And certainly We sent messengers before you: there are some of them that We have mentioned to you and others whom We have not mentioned to you." (Qur’an, Chapter 40 (Ghafir), Verse 78) From the books of prophecy, it seems that these unknown prophets play a pivotal role in the unfolding events of the apocalyptic end-times scenario. In the Book of Revelation 14:1, it says, “Then I looked, and behold, on Mount Sion stood the Lamb, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father’s name written on their foreheads.” (Bible, Book of Revelation, Chapter 14, Verse 1) Throughout history, there were many men who, through their writings or works, affected how human civilization developed. Their teachings are astonishingly similar to those of the commonly known prophets like Moses, Jesus, David, and others. But because history was heavily corrupted, and because some of them could not speak freely about what they truly believed, they are not known as prophets today but rather as scientists, artists, warriors, or philosophers. One of those unknown messengers is the Greek Platonist philosopher Plotinus, who lived around 250 AD.  Plotinus' Search for A Divine Guide Plotinus, a deeply spiritual man, traveled to Alexandria, Egypt, in search of an enlightened and divinely wise teacher. His quest for knowledge even led him to join military expeditions traveling east to learn from Indian and Persian mystics. Ultimately, his determination and willingness to sacrifice everything for wisdom led him to the Platonist philosopher Ammonius Saccas at the age of 27 years. Plotinus' resolve echoed the willpower of Moses on his journey to reach the most knowledgeable one of his age: "I will not give up until I reach the junction of the two seas, or (until) I spend years and years in travel." (Qur’an, Chapter 18 (Al-Kahf), Verse 60) Plotinus did not seek a material life and even refused to discuss his own familial background, at least in public circles. Hence, very little is known about his life story. His teacher, Ammonius, received insights, dreams, and visions and was blessed to be called Theodidaktos, or 'divinely taught,' by Hericoles. In his discernment, Plotinus was wise to dedicate himself to following Ammonius, whose universal philosophy was to practice truth in all ways, not merely to study it in ancient texts. There are no clear written texts of Ammonius Saccas available today, but compatriots mentioned he would expound upon the profound concept of the unity of existence, positing the existence of the One, an ineffable and transcendent principle from which all reality emanates. Ammonius, like other divinely inspired guides, formed an inner circle of close disciples, including Origen and Plotinus establishing an esoteric secret mystery school based in Alexandria. Plotinus remained a close disciple for 11 years at least until his teacher passed away. When Ammonius became of old age, he passed the reins of succession to Plotinus, his most illustrious student, who now bore the immense responsibility of guiding lovers of truth and wisdom as a philosopher-king. Plotinus, after 11 years of study under Ammonius, set up his own school in Rome, calling his students Philaletheans, or ‘friends of truth.’ His st udent Porphyry collected Plotinus most famous writings in his book called the Enneads . Plotinus on God and Reaching Unity with Him Plotinus wrote a treatise on the oneness of God at the end of Enneads , emphasizing that the absolute One is the first cause, above the intellect and forms, transcending created beings in majesty and power, beyond our limited perception and understanding. "The One is all things and no one of them; the source of all things is not all things; all things are its possession — running back, so to speak, to it — or, more correctly, not yet so, they will be." (The Enneads, Plotinus) Plotinus emphasizes that unity is the foundation of existence, and while physical things like armies can achieve unity with effort, natural things like sunflowers reflect unity naturally by turning toward the sun. Armies require a unified focus to perform effectively; otherwise, they are merely disbanded forces or arsenals. Armies strive for complete unity, but this is not innate; it requires practice and dedication, imposed upon them by generals, much like masons building structures under the direction of a foreman. The sunflower however, in its simple connection to life and nature, is seen as more “real” than an army because it represents a deeper form of unity. Plotinus clarified the implicit order of creation: "The universe is a life organized, effective, complex, all-comprehensive, displaying unfathomable wisdom." (The Enneads, Plotinus) Plotinus argued that health and beauty are reflections of unity and cooperative order, as opposed to conflict and resistance. The same applies to the human soul: its parts, when in virtuous harmony, master the rational aspect of ourselves, mirroring the well-ordered cosmos. The soul possesses an undying resolve to seek the source of unity, goodness, harmony, and order. The inescapable conclusion is that all else derives from, and strives to return to, the One and Good—the divine principle of unity. This correlates clearly with the monotheistic world religion, Islam in particular: "Say, He is Allah, the One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge, He neither begets nor is born, nor is there to Him any equivalent." (Qur’an, Chapter 112 (Al-Ikhlāṣ)) Plotinus presents a practical exploration of universal laws, guiding the reader through the resolution of philosophical problems. His teachings demonstrate that everything returns to oneness, the first principle.  Plotinus reveals that four times in his life, he achieved mystical unity with God, alluding to an experience where the self dissolves, not through words or thought but through pure unity. “There were not two; beholder was one with beheld; it was not a vision compassed but a unity apprehended. The man formed by this mingling with the Supreme must — if he only remember — carry its image impressed upon him: he is become the Unity, nothing within him or without inducing any diversity; no movement now, no passion, no outlooking desire, once this ascent is achieved; reasoning is in abeyance and all Intellection and even, to dare the word, the very self; caught away, filled with God, he has in perfect stillness attained isolation; all the being calmed, he turns neither to this side nor to that, not even inwards to himself; utterly resting he has become very rest. He belongs no longer to the order of the beautiful; he has risen beyond beauty; he has overpassed even the choir of the virtues; he is like one who, having penetrated the inner sanctuary, leaves the temple images behind him.” (The Enneads, Plotinus) This mirrors the night journey of Prophet Mohammed when he reached the highest horizon, oscillating between existence and non-existence, two bow-lengths away or even closer. “Someone possessing such ability that he soared up and stood, poised at the highest [point on the] horizon. Then he approached and came right down (to) and stood two bow-lengths off or even closer. He (God) inspired whatever He inspired in His servant. His vitals did not deny whatever he saw.” (Qur'an, Chapter 53 (Al-Najm), Verses 6-12) Plotinus on the Struggle between the Soul and the Self “The Soul of each one of us is sent, that the universe may be complete.” (The Enneads, Plotinus) Plotinus describes awakening from the body to the self, realizing that one belongs to a higher world, the world of the intellect or what he called the “Realm of Forms”. By connecting to this realm, one can become identical with the divine through contemplation. On the contrary, the Material World is a lower world, subject to change and decay.  Plotinus emphasizes that our soul is in danger from bodily desires, while our true self is in touch with intellect and forms. He acts as the divine philosopher, reminding us that we need only look within ourselves to find what was never truly lost. This mirrors the teachings of Imam Ali, who declared that we can discover the universal forms by turning inward. Our souls are constantly in contact with the higher realm of intellect and forms, having witnessed the beauty of higher truths before being embodied. However, when trapped in the sensory world of the body, we often forget this and identify with the fleeting sights and sounds that bombard our consciousness. The body acts like a sensory kaleidoscope, tempting the soul to focus on temporary pleasures. Plotinus teaches that, instead of pursuing such fleeting desires, we should cultivate optimism and use our intellect to seek traces of deeper truths within ourselves. Like the characters in The Wizard of Oz —the Scarecrow who seeks a brain, the Tin Man unaware of his compassion, and the Cowardly Lion unaware of his courage—we already possess the traits we seek. It is only through faith, conviction, and the right circumstances that these qualities come to the forefront. Plotinus, like the Divine Wizard, reminds us that these traits have been within us all along. The soul, according to Plotinus, is incorporeal, while others, like the Stoics, believed that souls were material objects. He stresses the importance of using the rational part of our judgment, which is true wisdom, to rise above mere sensory experiences. By focusing on intellect and knowing ourselves, we can integrate and unify our being. As the Delphic command urges us, "Know thyself." We should not chase after bodily pleasures or luxuries, for they hold no real value. Instead, we should engage in activities that center the soul, allowing us to gain discernment and wisdom, even though our soul is limited in its capacity compared to the intellect, which grasps all knowledge at once. Those whose intellect overcomes their desires join the angels, while those whose desires overpower their intellect descend to the level of animals.  Plotinus writes: “Mankind is poised midway between the gods and the beasts.” (The Enneads, Plotinus) This aligns with Islamic teachings. Ali ibn Abi Talib said: "God, the Exalted, gave the Angels intellect without desires, He gave the animals desires without intellect, and He gave both to Humans. So a man whose intellect prevails over his desires is better than the Angels, whilst a man whose desires prevails over his intellect is worse than the animals."  When the divine light enters the soul, it gathers strength, spreads wings, and ascends toward something greater. Plotinus compares this process to a sculptor chiseling a statue, revealing its beauty. Yet, human beings are inherently forgetful and easily distracted, turning away from the intellect toward bodily desires, losing dignity in the process. “Go back inside yourself and look: if you do not yet see yourself as beautiful then do as the sculptor does with a statue he wants to make beautiful; he chisels away one part, and levels off another, makes one spot smooth and another clear, until he shows forth a beautiful face on the statue.” (The Enneads, Plotinus) This concept of going against one’s own desires and working on becoming a better version of oneself can be found in all major world religions.  Plotinus explains that the soul engages in both internal and external activities, much like fire, which burns internally and emits heat externally. Similarly, the soul contemplates the forms internally and bestows them on physical objects externally, albeit in a weaker form. This idea of internal and external activity is closely tied to the Neo-Platonic concepts of procession and reversion. Each activity produces an effect, and everything reverts back to its cause, except for the One, which has no cause. It is clear that for Plotinus the Soul and the body are distinct and from two different realms of existence. “From the Soul using the body as an instrument, it does not follow that the Soul must share the body's experiences: a man does not himself feel all the experiences of the tools with which he is working.” (The Enneads, Plotinus) Plotinus revealed how God, in His wisdom, granted human beings free will to choose to be masters of our own selves and not allow external forces to drive us through bodily desires that are external to our souls. Both these aspects present competing demands, and there is no compulsion for us to act according to either principle. God grants us the power to do as we wish without hindrance or compulsion; otherwise, we could imply we had no choice and deny accountability for our actions. If we focus on the soul, we can achieve significant progress by focusing on what he calls “Nour” (Reason). Plotinus warned us of the consequences of descent: “Identity is a kind of immediate sense (synesis) and consciousness of the self (synaisthēsis), which itself must take great care not to distance itself from itself by wanting to sense too much.” (The Enneads, Plotinus) Our God consciousness must be open to allow us to be conduits for the “voices from above” (Enn. V.1.[10].12.12–20). Thus, we are better able to identify with the source of individuality and dissolve the individual into the universal Nour (Reason). This is part of the cathartic journey—a trajectory of consciousness awakening for the separated soul, the night journey, or the oscillation of existence and non-existence of the ego spoken about by Muhammad. In this process, the soul looks to the intellect, and the intellect looks to the One. Just as Jesus says that without the Father he can do nothing, he also affirms that no one can reach the divine except through his reflection. As Jesus, representing the intellect, says, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life,” the soul must struggle against bodily desires and trust in divine grace. Plotinus offers the insight that, through this struggle, the soul may reunite with the essence of truth, fulfilling its purpose and returning to its source. Plotinus on Evil and Karmic Justice There is still much to contemplate. If God is perfect, all-powerful, and all-knowing, then surely evil would not escape His notice, yet we see so much evil pervading creation. This presents a firm challenge to the idea of a good God. Does God tolerate the existence of evil? If God wanted to give us free will, evil could be a consequence, making the point that God gives us a choice. God might allow evil to exist, as this is a metaphysical issue. Plotinus believed that all things derive from a first principle, the One or the Good—how, then, does evil come from this? How could anything bad be derived from good causes?  “Thus a man, once a ruler, will be made a slave because he abused his power and because the fall is to his future good. Those that have money will be made poor- and to the good poverty is no hindrance. Those that have unjustly killed, are killed in turn, unjustly as regards the murderer but justly as regards the victim, and those that are to suffer are thrown into the path of those that administer the merited treatment.” (The Enneads, Plotinus) As human beings, we often struggle to learn from others' experiences alone; it is usually through suffering and struggle that we realize we would not want to inflict that pain on others. By developing more empathy, we strive to eradicate such concerns from our societies. Plotinus revealed the importance of karmic law drawn out through reincarnation, stating that things like poverty and disease occur as punishments for offenses in a former life. God has given us the ability to discern between good and bad, as Plotinus highlighted. This temporary life is a testing ground, with divine wisdom and justice beyond our limited perception. The true human being transcends the material world through the immortal soul, and we have the freedom to align with the intellect and divine mission. However, we risk becoming enslaved by bodily pleasures and actions if we allow it. Evil, in this sense, is a deficiency or lack of goodness, something not as perfect as it should be, and we must work on purifying ourselves. Plotinus viewed evil as gaps in overall goodness, much like holes in Swiss cheese. The image of forms is imperfect in the material world, where matter presents challenges not found in higher realms. Here, beings are subject to space, time, and change, causing them to fall away from perfection. Material objects must strive for virtue, but matter resists, being linked to badness and non-being. Bodies are weak imitations of the forms, like reflections in a mirror, beautiful yet bound by imperfection, much like a decorated corpse. Matter is the principle of evil, explaining illness, deformity, and moral weakness, as it promotes selfish desires and draws us away from the intellect. Plotinus was not just focused on divine reflections; he was deeply concerned with establishing an Ideal State, particularly for the oppressed, women, and orphans, where true justice would reign. He eventually proposed to his associate, Emperor Gallienus, the rebuilding of a ruined City of Philosophers in Campania to create a society based on Plato’s laws. However, the plan was thwarted by the self-seeking, elitist Roman Senate, who opposed the ideology, as it threatened their self-glorified status quo. This mirrors the divine manifesto of Aba Al-Sadiq, who is diligent in his efforts to establish the kingdom of heaven on earth, aiming to bring true justice and harmony to the people. Despite Plotinus' focus on divine intellect, he remained grounded in humility through his love for the neglected and lost, particularly orphans, and his wise ambition to establish a state where people could thrive in a just community. "Creation are the children of God; the most beloved of His children to Him are those who are the kindest to His creation." (Jami’ ahadith al-Shi’a, Al-Sayed Burujirdi, Vol. 16, p. 177) Plotinus exemplified this motto, demonstrating how God raises the humble to great heights and brings low the arrogant. In line with the teachings of Aba Al-Sadiq from The Goal of the Wise , we see how God’s love for humanity is like that of a parent, though far more profound. While we cannot be better than God, He wishes for us to strive for perfection in nature like Him. True growth comes from experiencing the responsibility of creation. Plotinus shared this mission by working practically toward building a society where everyone could receive education, accommodation, and opportunities to work. Though Plotinus acknowledged the value of good deeds, he understood that without divine guidance, such acts are fruitless. For instance, aiding an orphanage in a dictatorship where the leader later oppresses the helpless is futile. True justice and harmony come from divinely inspired actions. In keeping with the oriental teachings of Krishna, Plotinus would note that elite souls who have reached elevated heights of self-renunciation and unity with the intellect are chosen to escape the cycle of rebirth and the state of flux. As revealed by Aba Sadiq in the Goal of the Wise , after passing through many bodies and incarnations in this material realm, by identifying with the higher souls, a human being can elevate in rank and closeness to the divine principle. From the teachings of Plotinus, we see a striving, immaculate man, seeking divine intellect while remaining grounded in humility through his love for the neglected and lost orphans of this world.  Plotinus, through his own spiritual journey, aspired to emulate Prophet Mohammed, who was elevated by God on his night journey to take care of all creation. Plotinus, as a beacon of light, taught humanity to seek this divine path, no matter the trials, and to persist despite setbacks. His message was clear: we must turn away from earthly gratifications and focus on the divine Mind, on God. “We dare not keep ourselves set towards the images of sense, or towards the merely vegetative, intent upon the gratifications of eating and procreation; our life must be pointed towards the divine Mind, toward God.” (The Enneads, Plotinus) With the guidance of Aba Al-Sadiq, many now know of Plotinus and other lovers of wisdom inspired by God. Despite seeking divine wisdom, Plotinus's main goal for humanity was to restore order, remove injustice, and fulfill God’s will, even at personal cost. This dedication has placed Plotinus among the 313 pure souls, returned today to support the Qaim in realizing the Divine Just State of God on earth.

Update – May 23, 2025: After a lengthy detention and interrogation, Hassana was sentenced to at least one month of involuntary commitment to a mental institution, solely for her belief in the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light. This case raises grave concerns about violations of basic human rights. The forced entry into Hassana’s home, followed by her detention and institutionalization based solely on her religious beliefs, contravenes international human rights standards, including the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion (UDHR Article 18) and the right to security and protection from arbitrary detention (UDHR Article 9). Such actions reflect a troubling disregard for religious freedom and individual dignity. Fez, Morocco — May 21, 2025 : The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light is deeply concerned by the dramatic arrest of Hassana Rachdi, a 35-year-old Moroccan mother and believer, who was taken into custody today in Meknes while engaging in peaceful missionary activity on TikTok Live. Viewers of the livestream witnessed the moment her home was raided by authorities, interrupting her broadcast. Rachdi, who is married and has several children, was detained on the spot and remains in police custody. Recording of the TikTok Live session during which Hassana was arrested This arrest adds to a growing pattern of persecution against members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light in Morocco. On April 24, Fateh Bennais and Afaf Ijaouane, were arrested in the Assaada neighborhood of Marrakech following the peaceful distribution of religious materials. Bennais had been handing out flyers over the course of two days, exercising his constitutional right to freedom of religion and expression. On February 27, 2025 , two other community members—Yahya Marfouk (24) and Huzaifa Azuz—were charged under Article 220 of the Moroccan Penal Code, which criminalizes "undermining the faith of Muslims through employing incitement or threats."

Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21st and in the days leading up to the conclave to elect his successor, a unique voice echoed across Christian grounds in Europe. The believers of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, followers of the Mahdi Aba Al-Sadiq Abdullah Hashem, gathered at symbolic Christian landmarks to proclaim a bold message: God has already chosen the new Pope. According to the faith, Aba Al-Sadiq is the divinely appointed successor for this age — a man who has called humanity for over a decade to the supremacy of God, proclaiming the message of divine justice, truth, and unity. For his followers, this is not merely a religious claim but a spiritual truth rooted in divine revelation. On May 8th, a striking international gathering took place in front of Germany’s iconic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) — a towering symbol of Catholic faith and European heritage. But this was no protest. It was a peaceful assembly of spiritual solidarity, drawing believers from Germany, Azerbaijan, Syria, Iran, Turkey, Russia, and Serbia, united in one purpose: to share a message they believe is divinely ordained. The mission is not to convert, but to share — to present the truth as revealed by God, and to invite every sincere soul to listen, reflect, and decide freely. True spiritual leadership does not arise from institutional power, elections, or tradition, but is divinely appointed. It comes only from God. The presence at the Cologne Cathedral was deeply symbolic. It marked a divine confrontation between inherited tradition and living revelation. As the voices of the believers echoed through the square, the proof was established before the eyes and ears of all who witnessed it. "Surely in this is a reminder for whoever has a ˹mindful˺ heart and lends an attentive ear." — Qur’an, Surah Qaf (50:37) “He who has ears, let him hear.” — Matthew 11:15 These verses served as spiritual anchors for the event, calling upon both Muslims and Christians to awaken their hearts and minds in a time of great transition. The gathering once again showcased that the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light is not just about preaching ideals; it is about living them. The faith stands firmly against all forms of sectarianism, racism, and nationalism, and upholds the unity of humanity. Their message in Cologne was one of inclusion, not division. This was not an isolated event. AROPL communities are hosting similar gatherings around the world, each one breathing new hope into their surroundings, offering a future grounded in divine justice and mercy. The Cologne gathering left a lasting impression, not just as a religious event, but as a moment of reflection for all those who encountered it.

As one of the members of the studio and outreach department, I deal with many questions people have concerning this Call and the man behind it daily, especially those from Sunni Muslim backgrounds. I come from a Sunni Muslim background myself, so I understand how Sunnis think and view the Mahdi figure, as much of what Muslims think they know about the Mahdi is mainly based on assumptions, lies, and imagination from the words of the non-working scholars. Here are some of the important questions and obstacles that I have seen frequently raised: Won’t the Mahdi’s name be ‘Mohammed ibn Abdullah’ instead of ‘Abdullah Hashem’? The truth is that there does not exist a single narration that states: ‘The Mahdi’s name will be Mohammed ibn Abdullah.’ This is an idea that originated with Sunni scholars, who in doing so, have made it impossible for Muslims to recognize the Mahdi. Here is what the narration states: Narrated by Abdullah ibn Mas'ud: The Prophet said: "If only one day of this world remained, Allah would lengthen that day, till He raised up in it a man who belongs to me or to my family whose father's name is the same as my father's, who will fill the earth with equity and justice as it has been filled with oppression and tyranny (according to the version of Fitr). Sufyan's version says: The world will not pass away before the Arabs are ruled by a man of my family whose name will be the same as mine." (Sunan Abi Dawud, Ibn Abi Dawud, The Book of The Promised Deliverer, Hadith 4282) Many might think that this means his name will be ‘Mohammed ibn Abdullah,’ but the truth is that the Prophet has many names and did not specify which name he was referring to. Narrated Jubair bin Mutim: Allah's Messenger said, "I have five names: I am Muhammad and Ahmad; I am Al-Mahi through whom Allah will eliminate infidelity; I am Al-Hashir who will be the first to be resurrected, the people being resurrected thereafter; and I am also Al-Aqib (i.e. There will be no prophet after me)." (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Al-Bukhari, Book of Virtues and Merits of the Prophet and his Companions, Hadith 3532) Even Jesus himself referred to Prophet Mohammed as ‘Ahmed’: “And [mention] when Jesus, the son of Mary, said, “O Children of Israel, indeed I am the messenger of Allah to you confirming what came before me of the Torah and bringing good tidings of a messenger to come after me, whose name is Ahmed.” But when he (Ahmed) came to them with clear proofs, they said: “This is plain magic.” (Qur’an, Chapter 61 (Al-Saf), Verse 6) And another name of Prophet Mohammed in Islam is mentioned in the Qur’an as ‘Abdullah’: "And when Abdullah (the servant of Allah) rose, they almost gathered around him in piles." (Qur’an, Chapter 72 (Al-Jinn), Verse 19) So from what we can gather, Prophet Mohammed had many names. But what about the name of his father? In one narration, Prophet Mohammed referred to his ancestor Ishmael/Ismail as his father. The Messenger of Allah said: “I am the son of the two slaughtered ones.” (Al-Mustadrak ala al-Sahihayn, Al-Hakim Al-Nishapuri, Vol. 2, p. 609) The scholars of Islam are unanimous as to the identity of those two that the Prophet was referring to, and they are his biological father Abdullah and his ancestor Ishmael/Ismail. So we can see that the name of his father can be referred to anyone from his lineage: it can be Abdullah, it can be Ishmael/Ismail, it can be Abdul-Muttalib, or it can be Hashem. The possibilities are now open. Will he be Mohammed ibn Abdullah? Or Mohammed ibn Hashem? Or Ahmed ibn Ismail? Or Ahmed ibn Abdul-Mutallib? Or Al-Mahdi ibn Abdullah? Today, we see that the Mahdi that appeared is named ‘Abdullah Hashem.’ ‘Abdullah’ is like the name of the Prophet, and ‘Hashem’ is the grandfather of Abdullah Hashem Aba Al-Sadiq and the great-grandfather of Prophet Mohammed. How can you prove that Prophet Mohammed wrote a Will? It is obligatory in the Qur’an to write a Will:  “It is prescribed that when death approaches any of you—if they leave something of value—a will should be made in favour of parents and immediate family with fairness. ˹This is˺ an obligation on those who are mindful of Allah." (Qur’an, Chapter 2 (Al-Baqarah), Verse 180) In the narrations, it is emphasized by the Prophet that it is not acceptable for a Muslim to die without having written a Will:  Allah's Messenger said, "It is not permissible for any Muslim who has something to will to stay for two nights without having his last will and testament written and kept ready with him." (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Al-Bukhari, Book of Wills and Testaments, Hadith 2738) The Prophet Mohammed obeyed every obligation by God. Would it be rational that he would abandon the obligation of leaving behind a Will?  We find many narrations that show us that he indeed wanted to write a Will. There is a narration that has circulated among the Muslims in multiple books of narrations dubbed ‘The Calamity of Thursday’ or ‘The Hadith of the Pen and Paper,’ which proves without a shadow of a doubt the intention of Prophet Mohammed to write a Will. Ibn 'Abbas narrated: When Allah’s Apostle was on his deathbed and in the house there were some people among whom was Umar bin Al-Khattab, the Prophet said, “Come, let me write for you a statement after which you will not go astray.” Umar said, “The Prophet is seriously ill, and you have the Qur’an; so the Book of Allah is enough for us.” The people present in the house differed and quarreled. Some said: “Go near so that the Prophet may write for you a statement after which you will not go astray,” while the others said as Umar said. When they caused a hue and cry before the Prophet, Allah’s Apostle said, “Go away!” ‘Ubaidullah said: Ibn ‘Abbas used to say, “It was very unfortunate that Allah’s Apostle was prevented from writing that statement for them because of their disagreement and noise.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Al-Bukhari, Book of Patients, Hadith 5669) Many would say that although the Prophet wanted to write his Will, he was unable to do so because of the quarrel that took place in his home. However, there are narrations of the Will having been dictated in the following hadith. Narrated Said bin Jubair: that he heard Ibn Abbas saying, "Thursday! And you know not what Thursday is?" After that, Ibn Abbas wept till the stones on the ground were soaked with his tears. On that, I asked Ibn Abbas, "What is (about) Thursday?" He said, "When the condition (i.e. health) of Allah's Messenger deteriorated, he said, 'Bring me a bone of scapula so that I may write something for you after which you will never go astray.' The people differed in their opinions although it was improper to differ in front of a prophet. They said, 'What is wrong with him? Do you think he is delirious? Ask him (to understand).' The Prophet replied, 'Leave me as I am in a better state than what you are asking me to do.' Then the Prophet ordered them to do three things, saying, 'Turn out all the pagans from the Arabian Peninsula, show respect to all foreign delegates by giving them gifts as I used to do.' " The sub-narrator added, "The third order was something beneficial which either Ibn `Abbas did not mention or he mentioned but I forgot." (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Al-Bukhari, Book of Jizyah and Mawaada'ah, Hadith 3168) Rationally, how would keeping out all the pagans and respecting foreign delegates be a method by which we would never go astray when the religion of Islam today has split into 73 sects? Unless the answer lies in the third point which Ibn ‘Abbas ‘Forgot.’ The third point must deal with successorship, as word had gone around among the companions about a written Will which included the immediate successor of the Prophet, Imam Ali. Narrated Al-Aswad: In the presence of Aisha some people mentioned that the Prophet had appointed Ali by will as his successor. `Aisha said, "When did he appoint him by will? Verily, when he died, he was resting against my chest (or said: in my lap) and he asked for a wash-basin and then collapsed while in that state, and I could not even perceive that he had died, so when did he appoint him by will?" (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Al-Bukhari, Book of Wills and Testaments, Hadith 2741) Although ‘Aisha denies the appointment of a successor, we see that Ibn ‘Abbas and the people are aware of a written Will and the appointment of Imam Ali by Will. The only one that matches the narration in Bukhari is the one that we extracted from Ghaybat Al-Tusi and Bihar Al-Anwar and can be read here. Wasn’t Abu Bakr the Caliph after Prophet Mohammed? From the time of Adam until Mohammed, God was always the one to appoint the Prophet, Messenger, King, or Caliph of the time. The method of appointment is known as ‘The Law of Knowing the Vicegerent,’ in which God sends a man with three proofs: 1) The Will; 2) The Knowledge; 3) Calling to the Supremacy of God. So it must be the case that the person in question demonstrates that he is mentioned by a preceding vicegerent that the people accept, he has to demonstrate that he is knowledgeable, and he must call to God’s supremacy and never to the supremacy of the people. Let’s take a look at two examples we find in the Quran: The Appointment of Adam:   "And [mention, O Muḥammad], when your Lord said to the angels, 'Indeed, I will make upon the earth a vicegerent.' They said, 'Will You place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we exalt You with praise and declare Your perfection?' (Qur’an, Chapter 2 (Al-Baqarah), Verse 30) The Appointment of Saul:   "And their prophet said to them, 'Indeed, Allāh has sent to you Saul as a king.' They said, 'How can he have kingship over us while we are more worthy of kingship than him and he has not been given any measure of wealth?' He said, 'Indeed, Allāh has chosen him over you and has increased him abundantly in knowledge and stature. And Allāh gives His sovereignty to whom He wills. And Allāh is all-Encompassing [in favor] and Knowing.'" (Qur’an, Chapter 2 (Al-Baqarah), Verse 247) Imam Ali embodies all three qualifications of God’s vicegerent: he is named in the Will of Prophet Mohammed as his successor, he is renowned for his profound knowledge and wisdom, and he consistently called for the Supremacy of God rather than elections or allowing people to select their leaders. In addition, Imam Ali was publicly appointed as the successor in the incident of Ghadeer Khum, in front of many witnesses. This event is well-documented in authentic Sunni sources. For example, Prophet Mohammed declared, “For whomever I am his Mawla/Master, then 'Ali is his Mawla/Master.” (Jami`at-Tirmidhi, Book 49, Hadith 109) Abu Bakr, on the other hand, called towards elections and was elected into the seat of Caliphate, and not ever appointed by the prophet. "Abu Bakr said, 'No, we will be the rulers and you will be the ministers, for they (i.e., Quraysh) are the best family amongst the Arabs and of best origin. So you should elect either 'Umar or Abu 'Ubaida bin Al-Jarrah as your ruler.' 'Umar said (to Abu Bakr), 'No, but we elect you, for you are our chief and the best amongst us and the most beloved of all of us to Allah's Messenger.' So 'Umar took Abu Bakr's hand and gave the pledge of allegiance, and the people too gave the pledge of allegiance to Abu Bakr."(Sahih Al-Bukhari, Al-Bukhari, Book of Companions of the Prophet, Hadith 3667, 3668) Umar ibn Al-Khattab emphasized this during his reign as Caliph when he said: "(O people!) I have been informed that a speaker amongst you says, 'By Allah, if `Umar should die, I will give the pledge of allegiance to such-and-such person.' One should not deceive oneself by saying that the pledge of allegiance given to Abu Bakr was given suddenly and it was successful. No doubt, it was like that, but Allah saved (the people) from its evil, and there is none among you who has the qualities of Abu Bakr." (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Al-Bukhari, Book of Limits and Punishments set by Allah, Hadith 6830) We can clearly see that Abu Bakr was not appointed by either a verbal or a written statement by the Prophet Mohammed, and we also see that both Abu Bakr and his successor Umar do not call towards the Supremacy of God, but rather towards election and consensus, the Supremacy of the people. Abu Bakr himself openly admits that he is not the best of the Muslims, that he will make mistakes, demonstrating his lack of knowledge and discernment between right and wrong. Abu Bakr said: “Oh people, as I have now been placed in a position of authority over you and I am not the best of you, if I do good, then help me, and if I do wrong then correct me. Truthfulness is a trustworthiness while lying is betrayal. The weak amongst you is strong with me until I get his rights returned to him, God willing; and the strong amongst you is weak until I [justly] take the right from him, God willing… Obey me as long as I obeyed Allah and His messenger, so if I disobey Allah and His messenger then you owe me no obedience.” (Al-Bidayah Wa Al-Nihayah, Ibn Kathir, Vol 5, p. 269) Can someone else claim to be the Mahdi under the name ‘Abdullah’ or another of the Prophet’s names? Many have come in history who have claimed to be the awaited Mahdi under various names. However, the safeguarded Will of Prophet Mohammed mentions the Mahdi by the name ‘Abdullah,’ and nobody has claimed this name before. So Abdullah Hashem is the first in 1400 years to claim the name ‘Abdullah’ from the Will. In Shia Islam there is a narration that states from Imam Al-Sadiq who said, “This matter will not be claimed except by the rightful owner, or else Allah will cut off his age.” (Al-Kafi, Al-Shaikh Al-Kulayni, Vol. 1, p. 373, Bihar Al-Anwar, Al-Allamah Al-Majlisi, Vol. 25, p. 112) And this goes hand in hand with the saying of the Qur’an which states a similar saying: "And if he had made up about Us some [false] sayings, We would have seized him by the right hand; Then We would have cut from him the aorta." (Qur’an, Chapter 69 (Al-Haqqah), Verses 44-46) The same applies today, nobody can claim the Will and say that they are the ones mentioned by God or his Prophet in a text except that he is truthful or else God will cause that individual to die without having claimed a false claim by the letter of appointment (i.e., The Will). How can I trust the Will if it comes from a Shia source while I am Sunni? Sunnis and Shia differ in the way they grade narrations. They have adapted the "Science of Hadith" as a way to authenticate narrations. However, this only came about because the followers could not agree on the successors of Prophet Mohammed, and so it became imperative for them to authenticate what he actually said and did. But we cannot disregard the verses of the Qur’an which command us to investigate the information that comes to us, even if it is from those we consider disobedient. "O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful." (Qur’an, Chapter 49 (Al-Hujurat), Verse 6) Until today, nobody has presented a valid Will except for the one that we have, which matches the narrations we discussed earlier. Prophet Mohammed is the last prophet sent by God. How can it be that we need to follow anyone after him? Prophet Mohammed is the last messenger and prophet sent by God. However, when Prophet Mohammed reached the rank of two bows' length or closer to God, God designated him with the task of taking care of all creation. So, by the permission of God, Prophet Mohammed is now the one who sends forth messengers in the form of the twelve Imams and the twelve Mahdis. The Prophet said: “Allah will raise for this community at the end of every hundred years the one who will renovate its religion for it.” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Ibn Abi Dawud, The Book of Battles, Hadith 4291) And the one who appoints them is none other than Mohammed himself: Allah's Messenger said, "Whoever obeys me, obeys Allah, and whoever disobeys me, disobeys Allah. And whoever obeys the ruler I appoint, obeys me, and whoever disobeys him, disobeys me." (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Al-Bukhari, Book of Judgments, Hadith 7137) So, we see from the narration that God does not leave the Muslims after the death of Prophet Mohammed except that He sends someone to keep the religion of God alive through the appointment of rulers who must be obeyed, all appointed by Prophet Mohammed himself through his written Will. And how could God and Mohammed leave us without a messenger or guide in our time? How are we supposed to answer questions about the internet, abortion, or driving cars—things that didn’t exist in the time of Prophet Mohammed? Who is supposed to let us know what God wants from us in these modern times, on matters that neither Prophet Mohammed, nor the Qur'an commented on? There is no narration stating that Prophet Mohammed wanted us to consult the scholars after his death. How can a fallible scholar make new laws and verdicts, while he does not have a direct connection to God? But the prophet did say that he wanted us to consult his successors after him, the messengers he dispatched after his death. Zayd ibn Arqam reported: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:" I am leaving among you two weighty things: the one being the Book of Allah in which there is right guidance and light, so hold fast to the Book of Allah and adhere to it. He exhorted (us) (to hold fast) to the Book of Allah and then said: The second are the members of my household. I remind you (of your duties) to the members of my family.” ( Sahih Muslim, Muslim ibn Al-Hajjaj Al-Naysaburi, Book 44, Hadith 55 ) How can there be twelve Mahdis when the narrations speak of a single Mahdi figure? It must be known that “Mahdi” is a title, much like the word “Messiah” is a title for Jesus Christ, so multiple Messianic figures are not a foreign concept in Islam. This matter has been hidden from mainstream Muslims by the scholars of Islam, but we find narrations from Sunni Islam concerning the rulership of twelve caliphs who will make Islam triumphant. It has been narrated on the authority of Jabir bin Samura, who said: "I heard the Messenger of Allah say: Islam will continue to be triumphant until there have been twelve caliphs. Then the Prophet said something which I could not understand. I asked my father: What did he say? He said: He has said that all of them (twelve caliphs) will be from the Quraish." (Sahih Muslim, Muslim ibn Al-Hajjaj Al-Naysaburi, Book 33, Hadith 8) These twelve are the Mahdis and not the twelve Shia Imams, as the Imams were not able to rule over the people as caliphs. There are also narrations stating that we must follow these caliphs. It was narrated from 'Abdur-Rahman bin 'Amr As-Sulami that: He heard Al-'Irbad bin Sariyah say: "The Messenger of Allah delivered a moving speech to us which made our eyes flow with tears and made our hearts melt. We said: 'O Messenger of Allah. This is a speech of farewell. What did you enjoin upon us?' He said: 'I am leaving you upon a path of brightness whose night is like its day. No one will deviate from it after I am gone but one who is doomed. Whoever among you lives will see great conflict. I urge you to adhere to what you know of my Sunnah and the path of the Rightly-Guided Caliphs, and cling stubbornly to it. And you must obey, even if your leader is an Abyssinian leader. For the true believer is like a camel with a ring in its nose; wherever it is driven, it complies." (Sunan Ibn Majah, Ibn Majah, Book of the Sunnah, Hadith 43) As Muslims, we are obligated to follow God, the Messenger of God, and his Sunnah, but we are also commanded to follow the Sunnah of the 'Rightly Guided Caliphs' after him. Some argue that these caliphs were the Sunni caliphs such as Abu Bakr, Umar, and Uthman, but both of these narrations refer to these ‘Rightly Guided Caliphs’ as ‘Mahdis.’ The Arabic text includes the phrase “وَسُنَّةِ الْخُلَفَاءِ الرَّاشِدِينَ الْمَهْدِيِّينَ” which literally translates to “the Sunnah of the Rightly Guided Caliphs, the Mahdis.” Refer to the following links for the original Arabic and English comparison to see the clear deceit of the scholars of Islam: https://sunnah.com/mishkat:276 These Rightly Guided Caliphs, the Mahdis, are the twelve that Prophet Mohammed promised would come to make Islam triumphant after its disintegration and degradation by the scholars of the end times. Where is the Mahdi or Riser mentioned in the Qur’an? Although we do not find the word ‘Mahdi’ or ‘Riser’ in the Qur’an, the Qur’an nonetheless mentions a man who would appear, who has a rise, whose name matches the name of one of the Mahdis in the Will, the exact Mahdi who shall bring justice and equity into the world as the narrations state, and it is ‘Abdullah’: "And when Abdullah rose, they almost gathered around him in piles." (Qur’an, Chapter 72 (Al-Jinn), Verse 19) Nobody came forth claiming the name ‘Abdullah’ mentioned in both the Qur’an and Will and at the same time rose as the promised Mahdi and Riser from the Family of Mohammed except for Abdullah Hashem Aba Al-Sadiq. Why do you drink alcohol and why don’t the women wear hijab? Alcohol was permissible from the time of Adam until Prophet Mohammed. In fact, we see that the prophets used to drink wine: Noah plants a vineyard and drinks wine: "Noah, a man of the soil, proceeded to plant a vineyard. When he drank some of its wine, he became drunk and lay uncovered inside his tent." (Bible, Book of Genesis, Chapter 9, Verses 20-21) Jacob brings wine to his father Isaac: "Then he said, 'My son, bring me some of your game to eat, so that I may give you my blessing.' Jacob brought it to him, and he ate; and he brought some wine and he drank." (Bible, Book of Genesis, Chapter 27, Verse 25) Jesus turns water into wine: "Jesus said to the servants, 'Fill the jars with water'; so they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, 'Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.' They did so, and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine." (Bible, Book of John, Chapter 2, Verses 7-9) The proof that alcohol was not always forbidden is found in the verse regarding paradise: "(Here is) a description of the paradise that is promised for the God-fearing! In it, there are rivers of water, never spoiling, and rivers of milk the taste of which would not go bad, and rivers of wine, delicious to the drinkers, and rivers of honey, fully purified." (Qur’an, Chapter 47 (Mohammed), Verse 15) If alcohol exists in paradise, it can not be inherently impure. This means it was forbidden for a certain reason, which was that debauchery and drunkenness had become a major problem in Arab life. This type of prohibition was necessary to cleanse them. As for the hijab, there is no verse in the Qur’an that obliges women to cover their hair with a headscarf. The verse often used to advocate for the obligation of wearing hijab states: "And the women should strike their khimar over their jiyub (pockets)." (Qur’an, Chapter 24 (Al-Nur), Verse 31) Many believe the khimar to be a headscarf, but this is not what it means. Khimar means “covering.” The verse instructs women to cover their chests, as their dresses often had openings, or ‘pockets,’ that would expose their breasts unless something was drawn over to cover them. Many may find these teachings strange and contrary to the mainstream version of Islam we see today. However, with each new covenant, new laws accompany it. In this covenant, the Mahdi clarifies and establishes the true laws of God. If you find these teachings strange, know that this fulfills the prophecy of Prophet Mohammed, who predicted that the true Islam of God would appear strange and different from the Islam practiced by the people. Prophet Mohammed said: "Islam began as something strange, and it will return to being strange, so blessed are the strangers." (Sunan Ibn Majah, Book of Tribulations, Hadith 3986) Why do you quote the Bible while it is a corrupted book? The Qur’an makes it very clear that Allah revealed the Gospel and the Torah: Indeed, We sent down the Torah, in which was guidance and light. The prophets who submitted to Allah judged by it for the Jews, as did the rabbis and scholars by that with which they were entrusted of the Scripture of Allah, and they were witnesses thereto. So do not fear the people but fear Me, and do not exchange My verses for a small price [i.e., worldly gain]. And whoever does not judge by what Allah has revealed - then it is those who are the disbelievers. (Qur’an, Chapter 5 (Al-Ma’idah), Verse 44) And We sent, following in their footsteps, Jesus, the son of Mary, confirming that which came before him in the Torah; and We gave him the Gospel, in which was guidance and light and confirming that which preceded it of the Torah as guidance and instruction for the righteous. (Qur’an, Chapter 5 (Al-Ma’idah), Verse 46) Although the previous books have some degree of distortion and corruption, it does not mean that we should completely abandon reading them and extracting from them. The Qur’an itself informs the believers that if we are in doubt regarding what has been revealed, then we should read the scriptures that were sent before it. "So if you are in doubt, [O Muhammad], about that which We have revealed to you, then ask those who have been reading the Scripture before you. The truth has certainly come to you from your Lord, so never be among the doubters." (Qur’an, Chapter 10 (Yunus), Verse 94) The Qur’an testifies that it came confirming the previous scriptures and did not come as a replacement for them. "And We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book [i.e., the Qur’an] in truth, confirming that which preceded it of the Scripture and as a criterion over it. So judge between them by what Allah has revealed and do not follow their inclinations away from what has come to you of the truth. To each of you We prescribed a law and a method. Had Allah willed, He would have made you one nation [united in religion], but [He intended] to test you in what He has given you; so race to [all that is] good. To Allah is your return all together, and He will [then] inform you concerning that over which you used to differ." (Qur’an, Chapter 5 (Al-Ma’idah), Verse 48) Because we believe in the validity of the past prophets and messengers and their words, we take what they have revealed and follow the guides who have come after them in this day and age. The Quran is meant to be read like a trilogy, like the last part of a series of books. That is why the Quran briefly mentions many stories of prophets and messengers, expecting that the reader already knows the details of the story. Some of them are not even fully explained, but can only be understood on the basis of pre-knowledge of the Torah and Bible.  Didn’t God perfect the religion of Islam? Why would the Mahdi come to ‘fix it’? The verse you are referring to is: "This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion." (Qur’an, Chapter 5 (Al-Ma’idah), Verse 3) This verse was revealed after Prophet Mohammed appointed his successor, Imam Ali, at Ghadir Khumm, where the Prophet said: "For whomever I am his Mawla/Master, then 'Ali is his Mawla/Master." (Jami`at-Tirmidhi, Book 49, Hadith 109) The completion of the religion of Islam is by following the one appointed by God. Whoever does not obey and follow the man appointed by God is upon an incomplete religion. The Messenger of Allah said, "Whoever dies without an Imam dies the death of ignorance." (Musnad Ahmed ibn Hanbal, Vol. 28, p. 88-89) This means the religion of Islam is not complete without a living Imam who can explain it. In fact, Prophet Mohammed said: “Now to our purpose. O people, I am a human being. I am about to receive a messenger (the angel of death) from my Lord and I, in response to Allah's call, (would bid good-bye to you), but I am leaving among you two weighty things: the one being the Book of Allah in which there is right guidance and light, so hold fast to the Book of Allah and adhere to it. He exhorted (us) (to hold fast) to the Book of Allah and then said: The second are the members of my household. I remind you (of your duties) to the members of my family.” (Sahih Muslim, Muslim ibn Al-Hajjaj Al-Naysaburi, Book 44, Hadith 55) Religion with the book but without the Imam of guidance from the Ahlul Bayt is a dead religion. If you found this article interesting and want to read about misconceptions that you might have about the Mahdi and that stops you from joining this call: click here . If you want to know how you can join the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light click here .

Most religions don’t welcome questions—in fact, they often discourage them. Faith, I was taught, means trust, not investigation. Raised in a Christian household, I took this to heart. But eventually, curiosity got the better of me, and I started asking questions—big, uncomfortable ones. The answers I got were often unsatisfying and full of shaky logic. Then, everything changed when I found the call of the Mahdi.  What I found so unique about this call is its emphasis on asking questions and following the evidence to find the truth, wherever that may lead. Below is a list of essential questions every Christian should consider, because sometimes, real faith in God begins with the courage to question. What is the path to salvation? We can all agree, the purpose of religion is to provide a roadmap: a way to get to a “better place,” whether it’s the eternal bliss of heaven, reincarnation into a higher form, or simply avoiding a plunge into eternal damnation. Across faiths, the destination may vary, but the goal remains the same. Everyone is striving to reach that elusive "better place." But how do we obtain salvation? According to Christian teachings, salvation hinges on faith in Jesus. Believers hold that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross absolves them of sin, and simply professing belief in him ensures salvation. In Christianity, Adam’s original sin brought death into the world, and everyone inherited that sin. According to the writings of Paul, Jesus’ sacrifice paid for this sin. By accepting Jesus and his sacrifice, Christians believe their sins are forgiven. But a puzzling question is: If Jesus' sacrifice removed sin, and death is caused by sin, why do Christians still die? This question highlights an important flaw in the logic when it comes to the Christian perspective on salvation.  The question then becomes: Is salvation only attainable in the afterlife or could salvation be possible to obtain here and now? Aba Al-Sadiq teaches that true salvation is attainable both in this life and the hereafter and it comes from following the divinely appointed spiritual guide.  “In the Seventh Covenant we believe that religion is a man. So just like the Christians, it's extremely important. And salvation cannot be attained unless we recognize the Imam of the time, that Spirit of God. In the time of Jesus, Jesus was the Imam of the time, he was the proof of God in the time, he was the living spirit of God in the time. And nobody could get to the Father except for him…The same thing goes for today. The same thing goes for every day and age.” (The School of Divine Mysteries, Aba Al-Sadiq) Heaven is a utopia because God is ruling there. Therefore, it is possible to create a utopia on earth under the rulership of the man who carries within him the Spirit of God.  “And so [God] decides to send His Spirit into this world so that He also may give commandments, guide people, be obeyed, and create on earth a utopia, a heaven on earth, so to speak, where there's no suffering, and where everybody gets along and shares in all things.” (The School of Divine Mysteries, Aba Al-Sadiq) It's crucial to recognize and follow a chosen representative of God in the present time. Obeying this figure's specific commandments, rather than relying solely on past scriptures, is a sign of true faith. The ultimate goal of religion, across traditions like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, is to create a utopia—an ideal world free of suffering, jealousy, and crime, filled with love, peace, and prosperity. This utopia can be realized on Earth, just as it exists in heaven, by following God's Spirit and obeying His commandments.  Is the Bible true? The advice from some Muslim scholars to avoid reading the Bible or Torah, calling them “corrupted,” doesn’t align with the teachings of Prophet Mohammed and his family, who held these texts in high regard. The Prophet Mohammed saw the earlier scriptures as valuable and respected resources of divine wisdom, instructing followers to seek insights within them. The Quran affirms the enduring worth of the Bible and Torah: “If you are in doubt about what We have revealed to you, ask those who have been reading the Book before you” (Quran 10:94) . In other words, the Quran expects believers to go back to the “People of the Book”, Jews and Christians, as keepers of earlier revelations. We believe that there is truth in the Quran and the Bible and that the Quran is meant to be the final part of this divine message, completing and correcting the previous scriptures. To fully understand God’s message, one should read the Old Testament, the New Testament, and the Quran side by side. In one of his episodes of the School of Divine Mysteries , Aba Al-Sadiq explains this, stating: "The Quran is chapter three of the story, the final chapter of the trilogy. It was meant to be read in connection to and with the Old Testament and New Testament. It should have been placed right after the New Testament in the Bible." (The School of Divine Mysteries, Aba Al-Sadiq) But what about the idea of “corruption”? Both the Torah and the Bible, like the Quran, have seen editorial changes over centuries, sometimes to suit political needs. The Council of Nicaea in 325 CE was a prime example of this reshaping, as church leaders, under the influence of Roman Emperor Constantine, curated which Christian texts to preserve and which to discard. Writings that didn’t fit the political agenda—like those aligned with the Arian “heresy”—were cast aside and even burned, leaving us with a Bible that’s far from the full story. Then, in 1945, the Nag Hammadi Library was unearthed, revealing a treasure trove of early Christian writings, from the Gospel of Thomas to the Apocryphon of John. These texts offered an alternative lens on Christian beliefs before Nicaean censorship, with passages that even echo the Quran. Take the Infancy Gospel of Thomas , where a young Jesus is said to form birds out of clay and breathe life into them, “And he took from the palm tree a piece of clay and shaped it into the form of a bird. And he breathed into it, and it became a living bird. And he said to it, ‘Fly!’ and it flew away.” (Infancy Gospel of Thomas, Chapter 2) This exact event is also mentioned in the Quran (3:49) but omitted from the canonical Bible. Such intersections offer a powerful reminder: these texts might be far more interconnected than the church wanted us to know. Was Mohammed a true prophet? If you were living in the time of Jesus, how would you have recognized  him  as a genuine messenger of God? Would it be his words, his miracles, or something more definitive? Jesus gave us a powerful clue about identifying a true prophet when he said, “ If I were to testify on my own behalf, my testimony would not be valid. ” (John 5:31) In other words, no genuine prophet arrives with only their own endorsement. Instead, they come with a lineage of credibility, a testament or appointment by a previous prophet or leader. For Jesus, it was John the Baptist who publicly identified him. “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John proclaimed (John 1:29) . And it wasn’t just John’s testimony; Jesus pointed to Isaiah’s prophecy, reading aloud in the synagogue:   “He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: ‘The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.’ Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. He began by saying to them, ‘Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.’” (Bible, Book of Luke, Chapter 4, Verses 16-21) Unsurprisingly, Prophet Mohammed followed this same blueprint, claiming the mantle of prophethood just as Jesus had foretold. The Quran quotes Jesus saying, “And [mention] when Jesus, the son of Mary, said, 'O Children of Israel, indeed I am the messenger of Allah to you, confirming what was before me of the Torah and bringing good tidings of a messenger to come after me, whose name will be Ahmad.' And when he came to them with clear proofs, they said, 'This is obvious magic.'” (Qur’an, Chapter 61 (Al-Saf), Verse 6) This was the very “advocate” Jesus had promised to send after him—a direct thread from one prophet to the next. And here’s the key: Jesus warned about “false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves” (Matthew 7:15). The implication? True prophets would still emerge after him, requiring a way for the people to discern a true claimant from a false one.  Throughout the Old Testament, we see this ritual of endorsement as a gold standard for recognizing the chosen successor. David appointed Solomon with anointing by the priest, proclaiming him king of Israel (1 Kings 1:32-35). Moses publicly commissioned Joshua as his successor under God’s directive (Numbers 27:18-20). This wasn’t merely tradition; it was the God-given way to identify those divinely chosen. This pattern is a clear, waterproof method for recognizing an authentic messenger from God. Is Jesus the son of God or a prophet? In the age-old debate over the identity of Jesus, certain biblical passages raise questions that add nuance to the portrayal of him as divine. Take Mark 13:32, where Jesus himself states, “But of that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” If Jesus were truly God, wouldn’t he know everything, including the timing of the end? By explicitly saying he doesn’t know, Jesus seems to underscore his role as a human prophet rather than a divine being. Then there’s Luke 4:24, where Jesus says, “Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in his hometown.” Here, he calls himself a prophet . So, if he identifies as a prophet, why jump to calling him God? And what about that moment in Matthew 12:40, when Jesus compares his coming ordeal to Jonah’s time in the belly of the fish, saying, “As Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” Just as Jonah’s story didn’t imply divinity but rather survival and return, Jesus’s parallel could be read as another example of prophetic endurance, not necessarily divine resurrection. By this logic, if surviving death made Jesus divine, wouldn’t that apply to Jonah as well? In the Garden of Gethsemane, we see an especially telling glimpse into Jesus’s humanity when he pleads, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not as I will, but as you will” (Matthew 26:39) . If Jesus were God, would he really need to plead with himself for intervention? This moment speaks to a deeply human vulnerability and dependence on divine will, a far cry from omnipotence. The Old Testament’s repeated emphasis on God’s singularity also contradicts the idea of Jesus as a divine figure within a trinity. Deuteronomy 6:4 commands, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one,” a foundational declaration of God’s indivisibility. Isaiah doubles down on this concept: “I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God.” (Bible, Book of Isaiah, Chapter 44, Verse 6) All these passages together seem to tell a different story from the mainstream Christian doctrine, hinting at Jesus as an extraordinary prophet of God rather than a deity.  Was Paul an apostle of Jesus? Paul looms large in the New Testament. Of its 27 books, 13 or 14 are traditionally attributed to him, making him one of the most influential figures in Christianity. But here’s the catch: Paul’s claim to apostleship is, in many respects, deeply questionable. Unlike the true apostles chosen by Jesus, Paul never met Jesus in the flesh, and his claim to authority rests solely on a highly inconsistent account of a vision on the road to Damascus. In fact, the book of Acts presents different versions  of this story, which contradict one another—this alone should raise concerns about his legitimacy. More importantly, Jesus clearly set the number of apostles at twelve, aligning with the twelve tribes of Israel. After Judas’ betrayal, the remaining eleven apostles prayed for guidance and selected Matthias to replace him, maintaining this symbolic number. Paul, however, inserted himself as a self-proclaimed apostle later, making him the 13th—an idea that directly contradicts Jesus’ instructions. Additionally, Paul’s teachings often contradict the words of Jesus . Where Jesus upheld the Jewish law, saying, "I have not come to abolish [the law], but to fulfill them" (Matthew 5:17) , Paul openly rejected it, stating that believers are "no longer under the law, but under grace" (Romans 6:14). Jesus treated women with dignity, including them as followers and giving them important roles in His ministry. He engaged women in theological discussions (e.g., the Samaritan woman in John 4) and appeared to them first after His resurrection, showing their significance in the faith. In contrast, Paul called for women to be silent and submissive in church. Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church. (Bible, Book of 1 Corinthians, Chapter 14, Verses 34-35) I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man;[ a ] she must be quiet. (Bible, Book of 1 Timothy, Chapter 2, Verse 12) It sounds as if Paul is the one that turned Christianity into a religion that degrades women rather than raises them. While Jesus rejected earthly power, saying, "Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only" (Matthew 4:10) , Paul taught submission to governing authorities, claiming all authority is established by God (Romans 13:1-2). And this while Jesus only a few years earlier had been executed by the Romans. Paul is clearly a figure who distorted the teachings of Jesus, introducing new doctrines like the Christian understanding of atonement for sins and advocating submission to oppressive authorities. Paul's influence fundamentally altered Christianity as we know it today. For an in-depth look at Paul’s departures from Jesus’s teachings—and a scripture-based approach to identifying a true messenger versus a false prophet— click here . Who is the Paraclete? The Paraclete, as mentioned in the New Testament, refers to the "Comforter" or "Advocate" that Jesus promised to send to his disciples after his departure. In John 14:16-17, Jesus states, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth.” The term “Paraclete” comes from the Greek word parakletos , meaning “one who is called alongside” to help or support. However, it's essential to recognize that the New Testament was originally written in Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus and his disciples, before being translated into Greek. Some scholars argue that the original Aramaic term used by Jesus may have been Ahmed , which means "the praised one." In a riveting episode of the School of Divine Mysteries , Aba Al-Sadiq does a deep dive into this topic and clarifies what the term Paraclete really means. "Paraclete," as mentioned in the Bible, was originally a prophecy about a messenger who would come after Jesus. The word "Paraclete" was a translation inserted to replace the original Aramaic word "Ahmed," referring to Prophet Mohammed. The change was deliberate, intended to prevent recognition of Mohammed as the next prophet, and to solidify the control of early Christian leaders and Roman authorities over religious interpretation.  The Paraclete is understood not merely as the Holy Spirit but as another messenger like Jesus himself—someone in whom the holy spirit resided. Someone who Jesus said would “ teach you all things, and remind you of everything which I said to you. ” (John 14:26) . This is a much more logical explanation of these verses than the traditional understanding of the Paraclete in Christian theology. The role of the Paraclete is to remind people of Jesus' teachings and guide them further, fulfilling the divine mission. Prophet Mohammed was the fulfillment of this prophecy. Jesus said “I am the light of the world,” why would we need anyone else? Jesus did say, “I am the light of the world” (John 9:5) , but he also clarified this statement by adding, "While I am in the world, I am the light of the world." This is crucial because it indicates that his role as the guiding light was specific to the time when he was physically present. While Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through him (John 14:6), he emphasized that his presence as the "light of the world" was limited to his time on earth. When Jesus ascended, he entrusted his followers with the Holy Spirit and promised that God would continue to guide them. Just as God sent Jesus for that time, the continuation of divine guidance comes through those appointed by God after him. In the same way that Jesus was the light during his time, each era has a divinely appointed leader to guide believers, and it is our responsibility to find and follow that leader, the "light of the world" for our time. Is reincarnation mentioned in the Bible? In Jesus’ time, the idea of reincarnation—or the return of souls—wasn’t as foreign as many might think. This concept surfaces in a casual yet telling conversation between Jesus and his disciples in the book of Matthew. When Jesus asks, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” they respond with names of figures from the past—John the Baptist, Elijah, and Jeremiah—implying that people saw these revered prophets as potential returnees in new forms. Notably, Jesus himself asserted that John the Baptist was indeed Elijah returned, affirming the prophecy that Elijah would precede the Messiah (Matthew 11:11-15). Without Elijah’s reincarnation through John, the legitimacy of Jesus as the awaited Messiah would be called into question, as the Old Testament prophecy of Elijah’s return had to be fulfilled first.  Hints of reincarnation and karma pop up throughout Jesus’ teachings, and even his disciples seemed comfortable with the idea. In John 9:1-3, when they encounter a man blind from birth, the disciples don’t question whether  he might be paying for sins from a previous life—just whose  sin it was, his or his parents’. In a similar vein, Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 26:52, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword” —suggests a karmic principle, implying that actions in one life might echo into another, shaping a recurring cycle of consequence and redemption. Even the Old Testament nods to this cycle of life and death. Job reflects, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there,” (Job 1:21) while another verse in Job mentions God returning souls from the pit, hinting at a cycle of rebirth (Job 33:29-30).  Also, Job 14:14 asks, “If someone dies, will they live again? All the days of my hard service I will wait for my renewal to come.” The word “renewal” comes from the Hebrew word “Chaliyphah,” which means “change of garments” or, in this case, “change of bodies.” This reinforces the idea that life is a continuous cycle of rebirth, where the soul goes through changes in different bodies. Altogether, these examples underline a narrative of the soul’s continuity beyond single lifetimes. Whether through allegorical hints or direct statements, both Testaments show that reincarnation and the eternal journey of the soul may indeed be far more rooted in scripture than traditionally understood. Was Jesus really crucified? In the Bible, it’s mentioned that some people thought Jesus might be the reincarnation of John the Baptist. When Jesus asks his companions who the people say he is, they respond: "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets." (Bible, Book of Matthew, Chapter 16, Verse 14) This shows that people back then believed in the idea of souls returning in different bodies. What makes this even more intriguing is that Jesus and John were the same age, so if John's soul had entered Jesus, it would have occurred while they were both grown men. This suggests that people of that time didn’t just believe in reincarnation (a soul being born again in a new body after death) but also in the transmigration  of the soul—the idea that a soul can enter or exit a person’s body while that person is still alive. You might wonder: What does this have to do with the crucifixion? Well, more than you may think. The Bible tells us Jesus was crucified, died, and miraculously rose from the dead three days later. The Quran, on the other hand, asserts he was not killed, claiming it only seemed  so. A tension between these perspectives seems inevitable, right? One that might prevent Christians from embracing the Prophet Mohammed or the teachings of Islam? Not so fast. There’s a fascinating twist here, a hidden narrative within both faiths. Enter the so-called gnostic gospels, texts from early Christian circles that were quietly left out of the New Testament. These writings, largely banished from society, tell a story that reconciles both crucifixion narratives. They claim Jesus’ soul escaped the crucifixion, leaving his physical form and, in a radical feat, transmigrated into other bodies. According to this narrative, while Jesus’ body was on the cross, his soul escaped, leaving another to take his place. And who was this stand-in, this mysterious substitute? Both gnostic texts and hints within the Bible itself point to Simon of Cyrene, the man historically recorded as helping carry Jesus’ cross. "A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross." (Bible, Book of Mark, Chapter 15, Verse 21) Knowing this casts a new light on those puzzling resurrection scenes in the New Testament. There’s Jesus, appearing to Mary Magdalene, who doesn’t recognize him; she thinks he’s the gardener. "She turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus." (Bible, Book of John, Chapter 20, Verse 14) It wasn't only Mary who failed to recognize Jesus. H is own disciples see him again and—amazingly—don’t immediately know who he is. Why the anonymity? Why the hesitation to recognize someone as familiar as their teacher? The gospel of John, chapter 21 notes this was the third time Jesus appeared to his followers after the crucifixion, as if each encounter involved a man who was Jesus but, somehow, wasn’t. The teachings of Aba Al-Sadiq have finally made sense of this age-old debate . His explanation aligns the Bible, the gnostic accounts, and the Quran in a way that unlocks this mystical puzzle: Jesus was crucified in “appearance only,” his soul moving from body to body, eventually reappearing to his followers in a new, altered form. Crucified, yet transcendent. Dead, yet alive. This understanding bridges these faiths, providing a logical answer that Christianity’s more traditional explanations fail to match. Is the Jesuit covenant still valid today? The story of the Abrahamic faiths is one of promises, betrayals, and renewed hope—a tapestry of divine covenants that stretch back to the dawn of humanity. The scriptures record God establishing covenants with Adam, Noah, Abraham and Moses, before the arrival of Jesus Christ. Each covenant marked a sacred bond between God and mankind, a spiritual contract meant to guide and protect. But as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear: these covenants were often broken. The Children of Israel, central to the story of the Mosaic Covenant, repeatedly faltered. Their transgressions led to 40 years of wandering in the desert, the destruction of the Holy Temple, and even the loss of the original Torah and the Ark of the Covenant. Despite God’s forgiveness, each violation came with consequences, a reminder that breaking faith carries a price. And then came the turning point—Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah. Jesus, sent specifically to the Israelites, came to renew this sacred bond. In his own words,  “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel” (Matthew 15:24) . But instead of embracing him, the Israelites turned him over to the Romans, and with that act of betrayal, God ended the Mosaic Covenant once and for all. In its place, Jesus established a new covenant with a new people, as he foretold:   “The kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit.” (Bible, Book of Matthew, Chapter 21, Verse 43) The bond once held by the descendants of Isaac shifted to the descendants of Ishmael, fulfilling God’s ancient promise to Abraham: “As for Ishmael, I have heard you. I will surely bless him... and I will make him into a great nation.” (Bible, Book of Genesis, Chapter 17, Verse 20) And from Ishmael's line came Prophet Mohammed, the next bearer of God’s covenant, the sixth covenant. But this time, the scope was broader. Mohammed’s covenant wasn’t just for a chosen people—it was a covenant with all of humanity. Yet, as history shows, the Mohammedan covenant was also broken. When a covenant is broken, it is no longer valid. That is why the scriptures record new covenants being established throughout time. The covenants established with Moses, Jesus and Mohammed are no longer valid, which necessitates the establishment of a new contract between God and mankind.  Now, in a world rife with spiritual disarray, the Mahdi, Aba Al-Sadiq, has come forward to establish the final and ultimate covenant—the seventh covenant, a last chance for mankind to renew its bond with the divine and strive for that long-promised peace on Earth. “Imam Ahmed Al-Hassan seeks to unite all religions, and show the falsehoods and show the truths in every one of them, thus uniting all Covenants, all messages from all Prophets under one divine Covenant and message, the Seventh Covenant.” (The Goal of the Wise, Aba Al-Sadiq, Door 7, p. 110)

Behind the Iranian government’s religious facade lies an intricate web of corruption, power plays, and exploitation. At its core, this system disguises financial and political machinations with sacred symbols, manipulating faith and reverence to tighten its grip on both the Iranian people and resources. Among the most striking examples of this is Astan Quds Razavi (AQR), a large organization in Iran that was founded to manage and look after the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, one of the holiest places in Islam, especially for Shia Muslims. Instead, AQR has grown into a financial powerhouse, profiting off its privileged status, while the Iranian population endures poverty and deprivation. This article delves into AQR's transformation from a religious institution into a tool of control and wealth accumulation, highlighting the staggering misuse of its resources. Through a careful look at how political connections, tax exemptions, and unchecked economic power sustain AQR's monopoly, we’ll examine the broader implications for a country that claims allegiance to divine justice, yet systematically undermines it.  How Four Elite Organizations Control Half of the Economy The Iranian economy is dominated by a few key organizations that control a significant portion of the country's wealth and resources. Four of the most powerful entities are Astan Quds Razavi (AQR), the Executive Headquarters of Imam's Directive (EIKO), the Bonyad Mostazafan (Foundation of the Oppressed), and Khatam al-Anbiya Construction Headquarters, which is owned by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). They are directly or indirectly under the supervision of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. They form the backbone of Iran’s economic power structure and are deeply embedded in the country's political apparatus. Together, they are said to control more than half of the Iranian economy.  The wealth generated by these institutions serves multiple interconnected purposes, all reinforcing the power structure of the Iranian regime. These organizations function as the financial backbone for the Supreme Leader, enabling control over domestic policy, the support of loyalists, and the suppression of opposition through economic dominance. Religious activities are another key focus, with institutions like AQR funding projects such as the maintenance and expansion of shrines, religious education, and propaganda aligned with the regime’s ideological goals. Military and strategic interests are also supported through this wealth, with Khatam al-Anbiya financing and bolstering the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a powerful military and political organization in Iran. This funding it received from Khatam al-Anbiya allows the IRGC to sustain military operations both domestically and across the Middle East, where it supports allied regimes and militias, particularly in Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon. While foundations like Bonyad Mostazafan are intended to aid the impoverished, critics argue that a substantial portion of their wealth is redirected toward political and personal gains for the elite, leaving their stated mission of social welfare largely unfulfilled. The History of Astan Quds Razavi: From a Religious Institution to a Financial Empire Since its establishment after the Islamic Revolution in 1979, Astan Quds Razavi rapidly transformed from a small and limited institution to a massive financial and economic empire. Initially, its main responsibility was managing the shrine and tomb of Imam Ali Al-Reza and helping the needy through donations. However, it has now become one of the largest economic organizations in Iran and the Islamic world. This economic expansion began in the 1980s and gradually extended into various fields, including agriculture, livestock, industry, oil and gas, and even automotive manufacturing. Another important aspect of Astan Quds Razavi’s economic activities is its vast ownership of real estate. More than half of the city of Mashhad's land is owned by Astan Quds, and the institution earns substantial profits from renting and selling these properties. In addition, Astan Quds owns endowments and properties in other provinces of Iran. This extensive ownership has made Astan Quds one of the biggest players in Iran’s real estate market, significantly impacting the housing market in Mashhad and providing a considerable source of income for the institution. The monopoly AQR holds in the real estate sector, particularly in Mashhad, has driven up housing prices, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to afford property. This financial barrier has contributed to widespread public discontent, as the economic benefits of Astan Quds' ventures appear to serve only the elite. In addition to real estate development, Astan Quds Razavi has benefited from its privileged status in the allocation of land and resources by the government. Its ties to the political elite have ensured that the institution continues to expand its holdings without facing significant opposition, allowing it to solidify its control over Mashhad and other regions.  Ebrahim Raisi and the Misuse of Imam Ali Al-Reza’s Shrine Ebrahim Raisi, former President of Iran, a prominent figure in the Islamic Republic who held the position of custodian of Astan Quds Razavi from February 2016 to April 2019, played a key role in increasing the economic and political influence of this institution. During his tenure, Raisi widely used Astan Quds' resources to advance his political ambitions, turning the institution into a tool for his electoral campaigns. While Raisi has consistently positioned himself as a defender of the poor and a promoter of social justice, his tenure at Astan Quds tells a different story. The institution's resources were regularly exploited for political gain, with donations and public works being redirected toward building his personal political brand. These actions have severely damaged the credibility of AQR as a religious organization, revealing how deeply intertwined it has become with political machinations. One of Raisi's controversial actions during his tenure was the widespread distribution of donations during election times. Using Astan Quds' financial resources, he distributed sacks of rice and flour in rural and impoverished areas, attempting to gain popular support for the elections. This act is seen as one of the clearest examples of political misuse of Astan Quds’ resources. The distribution of these resources was not motivated by a genuine desire to help the poor, but was a calculated move to buy votes and influence public opinion. Many critics argue that such actions are a blatant misuse of religious donations and endowments meant to support the needy. Instead, these resources were used to further Raisi’s political ambitions, undermining the principles of charity and social welfare that Astan Quds Razavi was originally founded upon. Establishment of an Independent Protection Unit Another of Raisi’s actions was the establishment of an independent protection unit for Astan Quds. Believing that Astan Quds’ endowed properties needed special protection, he created a private security force for the institution. This move essentially created a private military force for Astan Quds, increasing its autonomy. The creation of this security force has set off alarm bells, with critics warning that it marks a dangerous escalation in the militarization of Iran’s already powerful economic and religious institutions. By handing Astan Quds Razavi (AQR) its own security apparatus, Ebrahim Raisi has effectively transformed the institution into a semi-autonomous fortress, capable of wielding force and defending its vast financial empire with zero government oversight. This brazen move has intensified fears of unchecked power, fueling concerns that AQR will now have even more freedom to protect its interests, further blurring the already murky lines between Iran’s religious, economic, and military realms.  Financial Corruption in Astan Quds Razavi: The Tire Case and a $22 Million Embezzlement One of the most significant cases of financial corruption involving Astan Quds Razavi occurred in 2019, linked to the import of tires. Astan Quds Razavi, through its supply chain management subsidiary, was allocated $80 million in government foreign exchange for the import of 200,000 tires. However, due to mismanagement and potential corrupt practices, only part of this amount was actually used for the intended purpose, with $22 million of the funds unaccounted for. This scandal lays bare the glaring absence of transparency and accountability within one of Iran’s most powerful institutions. Despite the blatant mismanagement of public funds, those at the helm of Astan Quds Razavi (AQR) have faced little more than a slap on the wrist. The tire scandal is yet another damning example of how AQR, bolstered by its vast political connections, operates with total impunity. Instead of facing consequences, AQR has thrived, exploiting its privileged position for financial gain. It’s no wonder that public perception is shifting—this institution, once revered for its religious mission, is increasingly seen as a profit-hungry giant, more interested in expanding its wealth than serving its spiritual purpose. Key figures involved in this case managed to evade prosecution through political connections. Despite failing to fulfill the contract for the tire imports, with only part of the order arriving, those responsible have avoided serious consequences—just another instance of the elite shielding their own. Worse still, many of the individuals implicated in the mismanagement have since been elevated to powerful government roles, a brazen reminder of the incestuous relationship between financial corruption and political power in the Islamic Republic. This pattern of promoting individuals involved in financial scandals to higher government positions suggests a system deeply embedded in corruption and nepotism. The Impact of $22 Million: What could have been Achieved With an exchange rate of 62,000 tomans per US dollar as of October 2024, the minimum wage in Iran remains approximately 9,500,000 tomans, or around $153 per month. The theft of $22 million is roughly equivalent to the monthly wages of 144,000 Iranian workers. Beyond this comparison, $22 million could have had a transformative impact on critical social and development projects across Iran, especially amid the country's economic challenges and high inflation. This amount could have funded the construction of around 40 to 110 schools in rural areas, providing education to thousands of children. In terms of housing, the stolen funds could have financed approximately 450 to 730 housing units, offering homes to families in need. This money could have covered healthcare costs for 100,000 to 200,000 people or significantly expanded medical facilities for underprivileged communities. In rural areas facing water scarcity, $22 million could have funded about 1,100 to 2,200 projects, bringing clean water access to hundreds of thousands. With the cost of feeding a family of four for a month at approximately $200–$300, this amount could have provided basic food supplies for around 75,000 to 110,000 families or supported food banks and soup kitchens to aid hundreds of thousands facing food insecurity. The contrast is nothing short of staggering. The misused funds, funneled through corrupt deals and backdoor channels, represent far more than just financial mismanagement—they are a direct affront to Iran’s most vulnerable. This is not just about lost money—it's about lost opportunities to address the urgent, critical needs of a population in crisis. It’s a moral and economic failure on a massive scale. The Role of Tax Exemptions in Facilitating Corruption  One of the main factors contributing to widespread corruption in Astan Quds Razavi is the institution’s tax exemption. Astan Quds, citing orders from the leadership of the Islamic Republic, is exempt from paying any taxes. This exemption is applied despite the institution benefiting from government resources and preferential currency and earning enormous profits from its economic and commercial activities. The tax exemption enjoyed by Astan Quds Razavi has long been a lightning rod for public outrage, and rightfully so. Critics across the board, from economists to ordinary citizens, have repeatedly slammed the institution’s privileged status, arguing that its refusal to pay taxes is bleeding the government dry while piling financial strain onto the backs of other sectors. The institution's preferential treatment creates an uneven playing field, allowing AQR to dominate the economy while ordinary businesses and citizens are forced to bear the tax burden. During his presidency, Ebrahim Raisi significantly increased taxes on workers, employees, and businesses to address the government's budget deficit. However, he did not advocate for imposing taxes on Astan Quds Razavi. Yet, in a glaring contradiction, Raisi made no move to impose taxes on AQR, an entity swimming in wealth. Despite its significant financial advantages, Raisi defended AQR’s tax-free status by claiming that the institution was “helping the poor” to the tune of ten times what it would have contributed in taxes—a defense that critics tore apart as a hollow excuse to maintain the status quo. Raisi further justified his stance by stating, " they don't tax people's donations " and condemned those questioning the institution's tax-exempt status, stating in a speech at Mashhad University, " God forbids those who created the doubt of the Astan Quds tax in their minds. " Conclusion: A Drop in the Ocean of Corruption The case of Astan Quds Razavi (AQR) is a stark example of how deeply financial corruption is ingrained within the Iranian government. The institution’s misuse of its religious status, tax exemptions, and privileged access to state resources has allowed it to amass vast wealth at the expense of the Iranian people. From diverting funds intended for social welfare to political campaigns, to the embezzlement of millions of dollars through corrupt deals like the tire import scandal, AQR’s actions highlight a disturbing pattern of financial abuse and impunity. The $22 million that disappeared in the tire case represents just a fraction of the larger issue, but its impact is significant. The funds could have been used to build schools, provide housing, improve healthcare, or feed thousands of hungry families in Iran. Instead, they have been funneled into the pockets of those who exploit their political connections for personal gain. This financial abuse, however, is only part of a broader systemic problem within the regime. In the Gospel of the Riser of the Family of Muhammad, titled "The Goal of the Wise," Aba Al-Sadiq condemns the Iranian government as an Anti-Divine Just State: "The terror that Iran spreads upon its own people and around the world in the name of God and the Holy Household (Ahlul-Bayt) makes it illegitimate... they have not provided solutions for humanity’s needs and problems. These states are notorious for discriminating against those outside their faith. They are Anti-Divine Just States." (The Goal of the Wise, Aba Al-Sadiq, Door 33, p. 447) This denunciation highlights not only the government’s corruption, but also its failure to uphold the values of justice and equity; exploiting religious symbols for political control and global manipulation. However, this example is just a drop in the ocean of financial corruption that plagues Iran’s governing institutions. AQR, alongside other powerful entities like the IRGC’s Khatam al-Anbiya and the Bonyad Mostazafan, forms part of an intricate network of wealth and power that sustains the regime. The Iranian people, who bear the brunt of these corrupt practices, are left with a system that prioritizes the enrichment of the elite over the well-being of its citizens. Until these corrupt structures are dismantled and real reforms are implemented, the promises of justice and fairness will remain hollow, and the regime’s grip on power will continue to tighten at the cost of the nation’s future.

In a world where many leaders try to lie to us about international scandals involving religious leaders, everybody is aware and cautious, to avoid being cheated by religious figures.   Jung Myung-Seok opened his first church, Jesus Morning Star, claiming to be the Messiah. In the period between 2001 and 2006, he was charged with sexual abuse, using his religious standing to abuse and rape women. He was arrested in 2008 and convicted of assaulting his followers of the church; in 2018, he manipulated and carried out the sexual abuse of 3 victims. In 2023, he was sentenced to 23 years. "Following someone" can be a safe life decision or an egregious life mistake. Being aware is crucial for our eternal salvation. Properly defining who is and who was not a disciple of Jesus is an essential doctrine that salvation depends on. We must find out ourselves, rather than just follow our family and community traditions. The Christians are supposed to follow Jesus and be able to identify if they are following a false prophet though Jesus has died, as they continue following his teachings. The concept of a false prophet is usually something people do not research, but it is a crucial aspect of our faith. The warning about false prophets is a well-known caution in religion, and being aware of it can prevent potential harm, empowering us with knowledge and understanding. We must review some essential topics. We invite you to analyse them with an open mind.  The Concept of a False Prophet in the Bible Understanding that a false Messiah and a false prophet are dangerous is crucial. The Bible underscores the severity of the issue and the need for vigilance. We have current examples of false prophets that we will discuss later, some of whose scandals are evident today.  We can see a contrast between early Christianity, Judaizing Christianity, and Paul's doctrine. Here, the consequences of following a false prophet could be egregious and should make us feel responsible and accountable. This doctrine of the false prophets has been studied even in some Christian circles. For example, The Dead Sea Scrolls contain numerous references to an enigmatic figure known as the "Teacher of Righteousness" (Moreh ha-Tsedek in Hebrew). Many scholars believe this individual was instrumental in establishing the sect responsible for the Dead Sea Scrolls, often associated with the Essenes. According to prevailing theories, the Teacher of Righteousness played a crucial role in organizing the Community (Yahad) and authored several of its key texts. In contrast to this revered figure, the scrolls also mention an adversary known as the "Wicked Priest" (ha-Kohen ha-Rasha). This antagonist is referred to by various other names, including the Lion of Wrath, the Liar, the Spreader of Lies, and the Man of Scoffing. The mystery surrounding these figures adds an intriguing layer to our understanding of false prophets. While these interpretations represent the mainstream view among Dead Sea Scroll scholars, some researchers such as Robert Eisenman and Barbara Thiering propose more controversial theories. Robert Eisenman suggests that the Teacher of Righteousness was actually James, Jesus' brother, and that the apostle Paul was the figure referred to as the Liar.  In the Bible, we find many warnings against false prophets and idolaters: "It is the Lord your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him. That prophet or dreamer must be put to death for inciting rebellion against the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt and redeemed you from the land of slavery. That prophet or dreamer tried to turn you from how the Lord your God commanded you to follow. You must purge the evil from among you."(Bible, Book of Deuteronomy, Chapter 13, Verses 4-5) Characteristics of a Messenger of God The main feature in identifying a false prophet or messenger is knowing the character of a real messenger. The Goal of the Wise teaches us the proofs: 1. Appointment by God: The Vicegerent must be appointed and mentioned by a previous Prophet or Messenger Jesus was appointed by John the Baptist: "Now the Pharisees who had been sent questioned him, “Why then do you baptise if you are not the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” “I baptize with water,” John replied, “but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.” (Bible, Book of John, Chapter 1, Verses 24-27) Jesus claims the will written in Isaiah 61, and refers to it in Luke 4:21:   "He began by saying to them, "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." (Bible, Book of Luke, Chapter 4, Verse 21) 2. Possession of Divine Knowledge: The Vicegerent must be well informed and possess divine knowledge The knowledge of Jesus in the scriptures was tremendous, and people came and witnessed it from him. He always said that his knowledge was not from himself.  "Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Instead, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work." (Bible, Book of John, Chapter 14, Verse 10) 3. Call to God's Rulership: The Vicegerent should call to God and God's rulership, emphasising that only God appoints the Caliph or ruler "I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but the one who sent me." (Bible, Book of John, Chapter 5, Verse 30) If you review these points, all of the divinely sent messengers have these three criteria in the holy scriptures. Signs of a False Prophet are the Following: 1.He names himself The false prophet in the Bible is the one who, instead of being mentioned by a previous  prophet or messenger, testified about himself and his conversion. Scripture says that: "And last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born." (Bible, Book of 1 Corinthians, Chapter 15, Verse 8) 2.Differing versions of events Saul’s conversion: Contradictory   accounts of Saul’s conversion are presented in the Book of Acts. One version states: “Meanwhile, Saul still breathed murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus so that if he found any who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” The men travelling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone.” (Bible, Book of Acts, Chapter 9, Verses 1-7) One issue with this account is that the function of the high priest was not to send letters or to accept attacks on Christians. The Jews argue the high priest didn’t offer sacrifices for the people's sins. The Jews point out that high priest did not give a letter to kill anyone because it was not their work. And Damascus had no relationship with Jerusalem or political association between them and the prisoners. This is one of the reasons why they consider Paul a liar. "I persecuted the followers of this Way to their death, arresting both men and women and throwing them into prison, as the high priest and all the Council can themselves testify. I even obtained letters from them to their associates in Damascus and went there to bring these people as prisoners to Jerusalem to be punished. About noon, as I came near Damascus, suddenly a bright light from heaven flashed around me. I fell to the ground and heard a voice say to me, ‘Saul! Saul! Why do you persecute me?’ “‘Who are you, Lord?’ I asked.” ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting, ‘he replied. My companions saw the light, but they did not understand the voice of him who was speaking to me. “‘What shall I do, Lord?’ I asked. “‘Get up,’ the Lord said, ‘and go into Damascus. There, you will be told all that you have been assigned to do.’” My companions led me by the hand into Damascus because the brilliance of the light had blinded me." (Bible, Book of Acts, Chapter 22, Verses 4-11) We can notice a difference in the book of Acts. Acts 9 states that: “The men travelling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone”. Later in Acts 22, it says the opposite: “My companions saw the light, but they did not understand his voice.” He was being deceptive, presenting different versions and going around the topic in different ways. When in a court, you give different versions, that could be considered a misrepresentation to a jury. The resurrection of Christ: Another contradictory testimony is given about the witnesses of the resurrection of Christ: "Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel, you are saved if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, five and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8 and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born." (Bible, Book of 1 Corinthians, Chapter 15, Verses 1-7) Here, we have two contradictions in the scriptures. Paul considers that only those who receive his gospel are saved, but Jesus never said that only faith will save believers.   Here there is also an enormous mistake: there were not 12 apostles because Judas died, and Matthias was named as apostle after the above event.  The book of Acts of the Apostles, chapter 1, refers to the fact that Matthias was appointed only after the Ascension.  Paul didn’t meet Jesus when he was alive and said the people would be saved if they accepted his gospel.  Events in Damascus: There is yet another contradiction in events in the city of Damascus. "At Damascus, the governor of the province of King Aretas guarded the city of the Damascus, to arrest me; And I was taken down from the wall in a basket by a window, and escaped from his hands." (Bible, Book of 2 Corinthians, Chapter 11, Verses 32-33) Contrast with: "After many days had passed, the Jews decided in counsel to kill him; But their snares came to the knowledge of Saul. And they guarded the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night, lowered him down the wall, and let him down in a basket." (Bible, Book of Acts, Chapter 9, Verses 23-25) In one declaration, Paul says that the governor of the province of King Aretas and, in the other, the Jews decided in counsel to kill him. 3. His prophecy is not fulfilled About the false prophets the Bible states that their words are invention and falsehood, and they have not been to God's secret council. Their prophecy was not fulfilled: "Therefore, this is what the Lord Almighty says concerning the prophets: “I will make them eat bitter food and drink poisoned water, because from the prophets of Jerusalem ungodliness has spread throughout the land.” This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Do not listen to what the prophets are prophesying to you; they fill you with false hopes. They speak visions from their minds, not from the mouth of the Lord. They keep saying to those who despise me, ‘The Lord says: You will have peace.’ And to all who follow the stubbornness of their hearts, they say, ‘No harm will come to you.’ But which of them has stood in the council of the Lord to see or to hear his word?" (Bible, Book of Jeremiah, Chapter 23, Verses 15-18) The false prophecy has no fulfilment.  "From early times, the prophets who preceded you and me have prophesied war, disaster and plague against many countries and great kingdoms. Still, the prophet who prophesies peace will be recognised as indeed sent by the Lord only if his prediction comes true." (Bible, Book of Jeremiah, Chapter 28, Verses 8-9) Let us look at the example of the rapture: "For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we think that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so, we will be with the Lord forever." (Bible, Book of Thessalonians, Chapter 4, Verses 14-17) So, Paul said he would still be alive, “we who are still alive.” Not only was he teaching the men to avoid marriage, he claimed an apocalyptic vision in which he would be caught in the clouds. Of course, this never happened. 4. Acts as an infiltrator How does an Insider act? One way to gather data and information about an organisation is to infiltrate its ranks. Spies can then pass on information such as enemy forces' size and strength to destroy or attack them.  Spies may also find dissidents within the organisation and influence them to provide more information or defect. In times of crisis, spies steal technology and sabotage the enemy in various ways. Counterintelligence is the practice of thwarting espionage and intelligence gathering from the enemy. Almost all sovereign states have strict laws on espionage, including those spies that engage in espionage in other countries, and the penalties for being discovered are often severe. As we have explained, according to the scriptures, a messenger never named himself. Even Jesus said: "If I testify about myself, my testimony is not true. There is another who testifies in my favour, and I know his testimony about me is true. You have sent to John, and he has testified to the truth. Not that I accept human testimony, but I mention it that you may be saved. I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him." (Bible, Book of John, Chapter 5, Verses 31-34, 43) As you can note, he said, “But if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him.” Paul wasn’t a disciple of Jesus.  Paul was not one of Jesus's original twelve disciples and did not meet him once during his lifetime. Despite this, more than a dozen of the 27 books of the New Testament were written by Paul alone. Jesus didn’t ever appoint him.  He does not know Jesus, nor does he quote him; he referred to a character of Jesus that he only knows from a vision that was revealed to him in a vision. "In those days, he went into the mountain to pray and spent the night praying to God. And when it was daylight he called his disciples and chose twelve of them, whom he also called apostles: Simon, whom he also called Peter, Andrew his brother, James and John, and Philip and Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon called Zealot, Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became the traitor." (Bible, Book of Luke, Chapter 6, Verses 12-16) According to some theologians, what is stated in the Bible indicates five characteristics necessary to be called an Apostle. A true Apostle must possess all five characteristics: 1. To have known Jesus. 2. To have been chosen and sent by Jesus. 3. To have been witnesses of the risen Jesus Christ. 4. To give one's life for God and the gospel. 5. Follow Jesus Christ. Jesus did not send the apostles to the Gentiles: "Jesus sent these twelve and gave them instructions, saying, do not go in the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter the city of the Samaritans, but go first to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." (Bible, Book of Matthew, Chapter 10, Verses 5-6) Paul calls himself an apostle to the Gentiles.  The opposition with other apostles Not only does Paul contradict the command of Jesus, Paul accepted that other apostles were preaching a different gospel, and he recognised that Satan could appear as an angel of light. These differences between Paul and the apostles were evident in early Christianity, most predominantly in the gospels and the differences between Paul and Peter about the law and circumcision. Paul rebukes Peter in Antioch "But when Peter came to Antioch, I had to oppose him to his face, for what he did was very wrong. When he first arrived, he ate with the Gentile believers, who were not circumcised. But afterwards, when some of James' friends came, Peter wouldn’t eat with the Gentiles anymore. He was afraid of criticism from these people who insisted on the necessity of circumcision. As a result, other Jewish believers followed Peter’s hypocrisy, and even Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy." (Bible, Book of Galatians, Chapter 2, Verses 11-13) Paul recounts how he publicly confronted Peter, also called the "Incident at Antioch," because of Peter's reluctance to share a meal with Gentile Christians in Antioch. Paul soon left Antioch as a persona non grata, never to return. "Write this letter to the angel of the church in Ephesus. This is the message from the one who holds the seven stars in his right hand, the one who walks among the seven gold lampstands: I know all the things you do. I have seen your hard work and your patient endurance. I know you don’t tolerate evil people. You have examined the claims of those who say they are apostles but are not. You have discovered they are liars." (Bible, Book of Revelations, Chapter 2, Verses 1-2) This happened in Asia, where Ephesus is located and also a place that Paul never returned to, so this writing seems to refer to him. Paul opposed other apostles "Some time later, Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the believers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.” Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, but Paul did not think it wise to take him because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the believers to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches." (Bible, Book of Acts, Chapter 15, Verses 36-41) 5. Hypocrisy Paul spoke of hypocrisy and admitted that he applied it: "Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. 20 To the Jews, I became like a Jew to win the Jews. To those under the law, I became like one under the law (though I am not under the law) to win those under the law. To those not having the law, I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law) so as to win those not having the law. To the weak, I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means, I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings." (Bible, Book of 1 Corinthians, Chapter 9, Verses 19-23) Paul was born a Roman gentile, not a Jew. Based on supposed "visions" and contradicting the scriptures, against the true apostles, and above all, Jesus, he shamelessly proclaimed himself to be the greatest apostle, preacher, and one chosen by Jesus to bring his personal and contradictory theology to the world. 6. Doctrinal differences  We can find some differences between the doctrines. The doctrinal differences between them are the key point that made me, as a Christian, reflect. As you must reflect about it, if you want to follow Jesus.   Jesus answered, “I am the way, truth, and life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (Bible, Book of John, Chapter 14, Verse 6) We notice that it is essential to understand why the one appointed by God must be followed. The Holy Qur'an said, referring to the Christians: “O People of the Book! Do not go to extremes in your faith beyond the truth, nor follow the vain desires of those who went astray before you. They misled many and strayed from the Right Way.” (Qur’an, Chapter 5 (Al-Ma’idah), Verse 77) Jesus's doctrines emphasise the law and following the correct person. He also appointed Peter.  The main points at which Pauline theology conflicts with Jesus' theology are critical: elements so crucial that deviation from the truth threatens a person's salvation. In order of importance, they rank: 1. Justification by faith, proposed by Paul, versus the Old Testament law, endorsed by Jesus Christ. Jesus replied, “And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition?” “These people honour me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rule.” (Bible, Book of Matthew, Chapter 15, Verses 3, 8-9) You must ask yourself, "Do I want to follow Jesus, or do I want to follow human rules?"  "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfil them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the most minor stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven." (Bible, Book of Matthew, Chapter 15, Verses 17-20) James talked more about keeping the law as a part of Judaism. He is an example of a genuine disciple of Jesus.  "For whoever keeps the whole law, but offends in one point, is guilty of all. For he who said, thou shalt not commit adultery, has also said, Thou shalt not kill. Now, if you do not commit adultery but kill, you have already become a transgressor of the law. Thus speak, and so do, as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty. For judgment without mercy shall be made upon him that doeth not mercy; and mercy triumphs over judgment." (Bible, Book of James, Chapter 2, Verses 10-13) Paul was preaching a different Gospel  "For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the Spirit you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it quickly enough." (Bible, Book of 2 Corinthians, Chapter 11, Verse 4) Faith without works is dead. "My brethren, what profit will it profit if anyone says he has faith and has no works? Can faith save him? And if a brother or sister is naked, and needs daily sustenance, and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warm, and be satisfied, but do not give them the things that are necessary for the body, what profit does it profit?" Faith, if it does not have works, is dead in itself. But someone will say, You have faith, and I have works. Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that God is one; you do well. Demons also believe and tremble. But do you want to know, vain man, that faith without works is dead?" (Bible, Book of James, Chapter 2, Verse 14-20) Paul said that Christ died for the sins of the believers and even went further to say that to be saved, one only needs faith in Christ and, of course, following his gospel.  "Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel, you are saved if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures." (Bible, Book of 1 Corinthians, Chapter 15, Verses 1-4) "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Bible, Book of Ephesians, Chapter 28, Verses 8-10) 2. The divinity of Jesus claimed by Pauline Theology versus the unity of God taught by Jesus Christ: Part of the trinity is essential to this idea, which was introduced in the Council of Nicea. "Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else?" (Bible, Book of Romans, Chapter 8, Verse 32) "It is God who enables us, along with you, to stand firm for Christ. He has commissioned us, and he has identified us as his own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the first instalment that guarantees everything he has promised us." (Bible, Book of 2 Corinthians, Chapter 1, Verses 21-22) But Jesus never said he was the same as God; he always accepted God's authority. As you know, submission to God's authority is one of the critical points to identifying a prophet of God. Jesus had all of these, as we already know.  "I don’t speak on my own authority. The Father who sent me has commanded me what to say and how to say it. And I know his commands lead to eternal life; so I say whatever the Father tells me to say." (Bible, Book of John, Chapter 12, Verses 49-50) "Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will return to you again. If you loved me, you would be happy that I am going to the Father, who is more significant than I am." (Bible, Book of John, Chapter 14, Verse 28) The paraclete Jesus also said he would send prophets and messengers, so you must be open to this possibility.  "Therefore, I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers of religious law. But you will kill some by crucifixion, and you will flog others with whips in your synagogues, chasing them from city to city. As a result, you will be held responsible for the murder of all godly people of all time—from the murder of righteous Abel to the murder of Zechariah, son of Berekiah, whom you killed in the Temple between the sanctuary and the altar."(Bible, Book of Matthew, Chapter 23, Verse 34-35) You might only accept the previous prophets but must realise he sent a Paraclete. The term Paraclete, originally a verbal adjective, referring to someone summoned to provide assistance in a court of law. In Jewish tradition, the Paraclete represented angels, prophets, and righteous individuals who act as defenders or intercessors before God's divine tribunal. Over time, the meaning of Paraclete also signified a comforter or ‘one who consoles’.  “I have heard all this before. What miserable comforters you are!" (Bible, Book of Job, Chapter 16, Verse 2) "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognise him. But you know him because he lives with you now and later will be in you." (Bible, Book of John, Chapter 14, Verses 16-17) The Roman power imposed a non-aggressive, non-combative movement. And accepted some of the books and rejected others. But even though you have enough evidence to reject Paul and accept Jesus and the prophets who lived after him, such as Mohammed and the Mahdi, how does it happen that most Christians follow the teachings of the false teacher Paul? "Their worship is a farce, for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God." (Bible, Book of Matthew, Chapter 15, Verse 9) “Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. On judgment day, many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name, cast out demons, and performed many miracles in your name.’ But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’” (Bible, Book of Matthew, Chapter 7, Verses 21-23) There are only two ways to deceive someone: not having the knowledge and falling into the trap, in which case you will be a victim, or having the knowledge and not wanting to see or analyse the reality, in which case you will not be innocent of that deception. The Bible tells us that those who reject God's message whether or not they are religious people; God doesn’t accept their prayers or their worship. Search and find out for yourself. We invite you to research and ask God about us, and to see further evidence on our website: https://theahmadireligion.org/ .

Amidst the tyranny and turmoil faced by supporters of the Riser of Ale Mohammed, Abdullah Hashem, in Malaysia and other countries across the globe, the believers of Indonesia hold even more firmly to their faith, marking their doors with the phrase "Allegiance is to God." In times like these, true faith shines in adversity; God protects His righteous servants who adhere to His covenant and support the chosen messenger of the age, while true believers find solace in God's goodness, even in times of great calamity. From the Book of James: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (Bible, Book of James, Chapter 1, Verses 2-4) In an era where distrust and division prevail, standing firm in faith provides hope and comfort to those who seek resilience and hope. Today, Indonesia—a nation of over 13,000 islands with a mix of Animist, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, and Muslim backgrounds—is united by a divine call to bridge divides and forge unity under the banner of the Riser of Truth. This universal message aims to restore harmony after years of sectarian discord fueled by deviant religious teachings and political oppression. Prophet Mohammed emphasized that the Riser comes to restore the original religion of Islam, and Aba Sadiq has revealed that the messengers of all faiths share the same truth, calling for unification. “O humanity! We created you from a male and a female and made you into peoples and tribes so that you may know one another.” (Qur’an, Chapter 49 (Al-Hujurat), Verse 13) Indonesia, as the largest Muslim-majority nation, now faces a time of testing. Will they submit to God's will or follow self-proclaimed rulers? Are they truly accepting of God’s seventh and final covenant with His messenger, Aba Al-Sadiq, as indicated in the Holy Will and Last Testament of Prophet Mohammed? Prophet Mohammed said, “A time of patience will come to people in which adhering to one’s religion is like grasping a hot coal.” (Jami`at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 2260) In Southeast Asia, and especially Indonesia—situated in a volatile "ring of fire"—volcanic eruptions and earthquakes underscore life’s precariousness, highlighting the courage of those who seek the path of truth despite such uncertainty. Indonesia’s long history of oppression, beginning with colonial rule by the Dutch in the 1600s, brought brutal exploitation, theft, and genocide. Even after independence, leaders like Suharto perpetuated this legacy, with his regime responsible for massacres, censorship, and the oppression of millions. Today, religious intolerance has intensified, fueled by foreign influences, making Indonesia a hostile environment for those seeking an independent path to God. “Follow what Allah has revealed,” they say, “No! We absolutely follow what we found our forefathers practicing.” (Qur’an, Chapter 2 (Al-Baqarah), Verse 170) Since the 1970s, Indonesian students and revolutionists have resisted tyranny. Despite violence and suppression, the movement for justice continues, inspiring everyday Indonesians to stand against oppression. Prophet Mohammed forewarned, “There shall not come a time upon you except that the one after it is worse.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Al-Bukhari, The Book of Trials, Hadith 7068) This prophecy is a clear sign of the times, urging people to unite and support the one who can bring Indonesia out of darkness, the Riser of Ale Mohammed, the remnant of God sent to lead humanity from an age of despair. “The remnant of Allah (Baqiyatullah) is better for you if you are believers.” (Qur’an, Chapter 11 (Hud), Verse 86) For Indonesia to emerge from suffering, disease, and poverty, it is crucial to unite in support of the Qaim of Ale Mohammed. Across the globe, people hear the message of the Mahdi in their native languages, bearing witness to the fulfillment of ancient prophecies. “The signs of the Hour will emerge in quick succession, one after another, just like the beads of a string.” (Al-Mu’jam al-Awsaṭ lil-Ṭabarānī, Hadith 4271) The steadfast faith of the believers in Indonesia, their unwavering support for God's cause, and their declaration of allegiance inspire others to join in spreading the Mahdi’s message. By sharing it in their own language, they awaken their nation to the reality of the Mahdi’s appearance in this apocalyptic age, offering salvation to all.

We are raised to believe that breaking the law is wrong and following the law is right. But what if the law itself is a miscarriage of justice, crafted by those more interested in power and politics than in fairness? In the US, a country that prides itself on being a beacon of justice, whistleblowers like Snowden and Assange receive life sentences for trying to help their fellow citizens, while war criminals like Geogre Bush and Dick Cheney remain immune and never face charges for inciting mass murder and torture. In Europe, 30 percent of child rapists receive probation, and fewer than 10 percent of rape cases are prosecuted to begin with. At the same time, ordinary people serve years in prison for pirating movies or committing tax fraud.  What is wrong with our justice system? And do we have no choice but to adhere to a system that is proven to be unjust? Or do we have the right to object? When Serial Pedophiles Walk Free One of the greatest dangers of a system that we can observe, is that citizens come to accept the system's injustices as the norm. Over time, they begin to believe that only the state apparatus can implement justice, and that questioning or opposing the justice system makes them criminals or bad citizens. Imagine a man repeatedly raping a child and through that scarring it forever. Destroying its innocence and happiness, and causing lifelong trauma. Most people would agree that such a crime should be punished with the harshest possible sentence. Yet in Europe, child rapists are often not even imprisoned and continue their lives as if nothing ever happened. The Telegraph for example titled in 2013, “ Hundreds of violent criminals, including rapists, are walking free from court after lenient sentences .” In Germany, for example, a police officer was found guilty of raping two children while on duty. The verdict ? Twelve months of probation. In fact, in 2018, a federal court forced the local police station to reemploy the predator, arguing that his offenses occurred too long ago to impact his career. These lenient verdicts have serious consequences. According to a recent federal study, around 1 million German children are subjected to sexual abuse. In the US, approximately 7 million children are affected. What a failure of the justice system, that is supposedly designed to safeguard its citizens. In fact, The Guardian  reported that in England and Wales, less than 2 percent of all reported rapes are prosecuted. This means that in 98 percent of cases, the rapist escapes justice and is never held accountable. It is not only pedophiles that walk free. Many serious and violent offenders plead guilty and get lenient sentences, leading to them walking free after just a few years of prison. According to the Canadian National Post : “The Canadian justice system has freed serial killers, child murderers, mass shooters, cop killers, cannibals and even terrorists. These releases have almost always occurred despite the fervent appeals of victims’ families.” Life Sentence for Stealing a Wallet or Selling Painkillers It is shocking to look at the failure of the justice system to put and keep criminals behind bars. This injustice becomes even more difficult to bear when we consider the system's treatment of innocent people or those who have committed minor offenses. Consider this: In both Europe and the US, you can be sentenced to up to five years in prison for downloading and distributing a movie. Is it fair, by any standard, that someone who sells CDs of Hollywood movies goes to prison for years while someone who raped a child walks free? No it is not fair, but it happens all around the world, all the time, every single day.  A shocking study by the American Civil Liberties Union  has found that more than 3,200 people in the US are serving life terms without parole for nonviolent offenses. The crimes that led to life sentences include stealing gas from a truck, shoplifting, possessing a crack pipe, facilitating a $10 sale of marijuana, and attempting to cash a stolen check. Patrick Matthews for example is a father of two. He received a life sentence without parole for stealing tools from a tool shed. It is important to understand that many of those who commit minor thefts are pushed into a life of crime by the very government that convicts them. Around 1 in 500 Americans is homeless. How can a system that creates and enforces poverty, convict those that are forced into a life of petty crime? Business Insider  also reports that hundreds of Americans are serving life sentences for minor drug offenses. Among the most shocking cases are Scott Earle, who received 25 years in prison for selling painkillers; Atiba Parker, who was given 42 years for selling less than three grams of crack; and Todd Hannigan, who received a 15-year prison sentence for attempting to overdose on the painkiller Vicodin. How can it be that a justice system sentences someone who occasionally sold drugs at a party to 40 years in prison, while a serial rapist receives only five? How does a murderer of 300 girls get released after just 14 years, while a shoplifter is handed a life sentence without parole? Buy your Justice Not only are the poor pushed into a life of petty crime, but they are also sentenced much harsher than their wealthy counterparts.  If you are rich enough or powerful enough, you can even break international law — even with complete impunity, like Dick Cheney  who openly admitted to advocating and implementing war torture techniques, a crime that is normally punished by a life sentence in prison. The Bush administration broke a long list of laws; torture , spying without warrants, lying to Congress, and many others. No one has even been charged with these crimes, much less tried or punished. In contrast, Snowden, who exposed the NSA's mass surveillance programs, has been exiled in Russia since 2013, unable to return home without facing espionage charges that could lead to decades in prison. Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, who was trying to point the world’s attention to war crimes in Iraq, has been imprisoned and held against his will in several countries for trying to help their fellow citizens.  Hosni Mubarak, the former President of Egypt, had a lengthy charge sheet including murder, attempted murder, corruption and profiteering. During the 2011 Egyptian Revolution, Mubarak’s regime was implicated in the deaths of over 800 protesters. Despite this, Mubarak only served 5 years in prison and then walked free. Meanwhile, an anti Mubarak activist was sentenced for 15 years in prison for “ violating a protest law ” by Egyptian courts. It is clear that we live in a world, where those who execute and write the laws, are the ones who do not get judged by them.  Miscarriages of Justice Over the past quarter century, Western nations have incarcerated millions of people. An alarming number of them were wrongly convicted, with some spending decades behind bars for crimes they did not commit. According to the 1996 book Convicted But Innocent , roughly 10,000 people in the United States may be wrongfully convicted of serious crimes each year. Wikipedia's "List of miscarriage of justice cases" lists hundreds of wrongful convictions, with many individuals serving years, sometimes decades, in prison without having committed any crime. But as if it were not enough that people are accidentally convicted while innocent, in some cases, persecutors purposefully coerce someone who is innocent to admitting to a crime he did not commit. Declassified confession tapes show that many investigators use psychological and physical pressure to extract convictions from innocent people.  This boy for example was coerced into giving a false confession by the Detroit police and spent 9 years in prison while being completely innocent. This is the interrogation of the innocent Thomas Cogdell. He was 12 when his little sister was murdered and was pressured to confess to the crime. The judges accepted his confession and sent him to prison for years until the verdict was finally overturned. A landmark case of wrongful conviction fueled by racism is that of the "Central Park Five." In 1989, five Black teenagers were wrongfully convicted of raping and assaulting a white woman in Central Park. Although the police had no evidence or eyewitness testimony that incriminated them, the police coerced confessions from the teens through violent interrogation tactics. After spending a decade in prison, their convictions were overturned when the real perpetrator was found. They did not receive any apology and the officers and prosecutors responsible for the wrongful convictions have not received any repercussions, due to the rule of prosecutorial immunity . Yes, that is correct: A prosecutor who induces a witness or suspect to lie under oath is immune  from civil liability. If a prosecutor withholds evidence of a defendant’s innocence at trial and the defendant is wrongfully convicted, the defendant has no legal recourse against the prosecutor . Miscarriages of Justice and the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light Members of the AROPL have experienced miscarriages of justice ever since its inception. Today, we won’t delve into the heresy laws of countries like Algeria, Malaysia, and Iran, where constitutional provisions criminalize the propagation of any faith other than the state religion. However, it is worth noting that the AROPL has also struggled with the nonsensical justice system in the West. In May 2023, 104 members of the AROPL, persecuted for their religion in their home countries, received news from the Bulgarian Council on Refugees and Migrants and over 20 human rights organizations that they would “process their asylum applications as soon as they reached Bulgarian soil.” They understood this to be a humanitarian invitation from the Bulgarian government to welcome them—as any normal person would. Yet, Turkish border guards violently stopped them at Kapikule, as they did not have visas to enter Bulgaria. The invitation from the Bulgarian Council on Refugees and Migrants was not enough. At the same time, Bulgaria does not offer humanitarian visas and strongly condemns illegal entry into the country by cutting the border fence. So, one may ask, how should the 104, or any person persecuted in Turkey and their home country, reach safety to lodge an asylum application? Is it not completely ridiculous to offer an asylum proceedure to those who enter the country legally, but then offer no way and no visa to do so? Systems like these make a mockery of the so-called “justice” system. In July 2024, Turkey once more proved the absurdity of its asylum system when 40 members from Iraq and Iran applied for asylum in the country. Under Turkish asylum law, the government can assign applicants to so-called Satellite cities without regard to whether they have housing or connections there. The government provides no accommodation or support, leaving asylum seekers stranded in unfamiliar cities with no assistance. For the AROPL members, this policy meant that four elderly women with serious health conditions were placed in Satellite cities alone, without any support network. The Turkish government, by law, sentenced them to a life on the street or to return home to Iran and Iraq, where they face prison for their religious convictions. On July 24, 2024, the Sabail District Court sentenced Rustam Gasimli and Neriman Shabanzade to 30 days in prison for "hooliganism" (Article 510 of the Azerbaijani Criminal Code)  and "disobedience to a police officer" (Article 535.1 of the Azerbaijani Criminal Code). The court protocol accuses them of destruction of property as well as an aggressive demeanor, while the entire event was caught live on camera until the moment of their arrest. The two believers are seen peacefully and quietly distributing flyers in Baku, Azerbaijan. One is left to wonder, if the ruling judge has either failed to watch the video that was provided by the believers lawyer or chosen to ignore it? The current state of the justice systems around the world are proof that we are living in the end of time, a time during which the world is described to be full of injustice. Abu Ja'far al-Baqir said: “When al-Qa’im of Ahlul Bayt rises, he will divide the wealth equally and rule justly over the people.… He-will fill the world with justice, equity and light after it has been filled with injustice, oppression and evil. ” (Bihar Al-Anwar, Al-Allamah Al-Majlisi, Vol. 51, p. 29)

The believers in the call and salvation of the Riser of Truth, Aba Al-Sadiq, from Tunisia, a country where the satellite channel “The Mahdi has Appeared” is broadcasting to reveal hope for the downtrodden, are rising up like stars to share this divine message with all comers. “ There will be a voice from the sky to the people of the earth, such that everyone will hear it in his own language.” (Al-Burhan fi Alamat al-Mahdi Akhir az-Zaman, Al-Muttaqi al-Hindi, p. 37) The Tunisians are not afraid to declare that the Mahdi has come as a voice for the oppressed, announcing that enough is enough to tyrannical oppressors who have held the people in shackles for too long. “For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. So keep watch at all times, and pray that you may have the strength to escape all that is about to happen and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Bible, Book of Luke, Chapter 21, Verse 36) The self-immolation of Tarek El-Tayeb Mohamed Bouazizi, a street vendor, on 17 December 2010—who had given his blood, sweat, and tears to earn an honest living—was a pivotal moment in history. His spirit had been worn down by authorities who confiscated his wares and harassed him incessantly. This became a catalyst for the Tunisian Revolution and the wider Arab Spring against autocratic regimes, which led to tens of thousands dying across the region. Public anger and sporadic violence intensified following Bouazizi’s death, leading then-president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali to step down on 14 January 2011, after 23 years in power. The state of affairs in Tunisia has only worsened for the people since, just as the Prophet Mohammed declared it would, by merely exchanging one self-appointed leader not chosen by God with another. Believers in Tunisia are openly declaring that only God has the right to choose, and until the people accept God’s messenger of our age, the Riser with Truth, Aba Al-Sadiq, the world will know no peace and comfort. They are unafraid of recent events in Afghanistan involving AROPL members and are determined to continue spreading the message through the Mahdi’s Manifesto. Political tyrants and false religious scholars, who care little for rhetoric or wisdom, fear this movement that threatens to remove them from their elitist, selfish power base, which grants them wealth and comfort while millions suffer and starve needlessly. And He, the Exalted, said: “And listen on the day when the crier shall cry from a near place. The day when they shall hear the cry in truth; that is the day of coming forth.” (Qur’an, Chapter 50 (Qaf), Verses 41-42)

Hatice Bekkar from Istanbul, Turkey, has lived for 20 years in Rotterdam, Holland, as a teacher working with children. She recently became a member of the AROPL faith and has been tirelessly distributing posters across the city in public spaces to spread the message that a solution for the world's problems has finally arrived in the form of Aba Al-Sadiq. Imam Al-Sadiq relates: “If the Riser rises he shall call the people to a new Islam, and he shall guide them to a matter that was lost and that the people strayed from, and verily the Riser was called a Mahdi (Guide) because he guides to a matter which is lost, and he was called Qa'im (Riser) because he rises with the truth.” (Bihar Al-Anwar, Al-Allamah Al-Majlisi, Vol. 51, p. 30) Hatice comes from an Alevite family connected to the teachings of the Ahlul Bayt and grew up in Istanbul learning from her father from as early as 5 years of age. He worked for Haci Bektasi Veli for at least 30 years and was always praying upon God and the family of Muhammad. He taught Hatice the true concept of humanity and spiritual guidance. She recognized how he was dedicated to helping sustain and clothe the poor and oppressed in society and even little animals. “And the Messiah will answer them, 'Don't you know? When you cared for one of the least of these, my little ones, my true brothers and sisters, you demonstrated love for me.'" (Bible, Book of Matthew, Chapter 25, Verse 40) Hatice discovered the call of Aba Al-Sadiq through social media after intense meditation and prayer sessions asking for support and guidance for her family and humanity. She soon became convinced that the teachings of Aba Al-Sadiq dovetailed with those of Ahlul Bayt and was able to accept the call with peace and tranquility. Hatice, who loves to reflect on the divine beauty of the narrative, was deeply convinced by the wisdom of Ahmed Al-Hassan, who said: “Love, my son, love, forgiveness, inner peace, faith, clean, clear and sincere hearts towards one another and towards its Lord can achieve the impossible.” (Sayings of Imam Ahmed Al-Hassan, p. 16) “If there is no love, there is no life.” (Sayings of Imam Ahmed Al-Hassan, p. 10) Today, through her media work, Hatice seeks to introduce as many other people to the faith so they too can feel the same tranquility that she feels after embracing this call of God.