AHMADIYAH Meaning and
Definition
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Ahmadiyah is a term used to refer to both a religious sect and a movement within Islam. It is named after its founder, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, who proclaimed himself to be the Mahdi (divinely guided one) and Messiah, believed by his followers to be the promised spiritual reformer.
As a religious sect, Ahmadiyah emerged in the late 19th century in the town of Qadian, India. It diverges from mainstream Islam by embracing the concept of "non-law bearing prophethood," which means that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad did not bring any new laws, but rather came to revive the spiritual aspects of Islam. Some of its distinctive beliefs include the claim of the finality of prophethood with Mirza Ghulam Ahmad being considered the Promised Messiah, the emphasis on peaceful propagation of Islam, and the interpretation of jihad as a metaphorical struggle rather than armed conflict.
The Ahmadiyah movement has gained followers in various parts of the world, with significant communities present in Pakistan, India, Indonesia, and the United Kingdom. However, it has also faced opposition and persecution in certain regions, particularly in countries where mainstream Islamic authorities consider it to be heretical.
In summary, Ahmadiyah is a religious sect within Islam that follows the teachings of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. Its beliefs differ from mainstream Islam, with a focus on the revival of spirituality and the non-law bearing nature of prophethood. However, it has encountered controversy in some countries due to its differing interpretations, resulting in persecution of its followers.
Etymology of AHMADIYAH
The word "Ahmadiyah" refers to a religious movement within Islam known as the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. It was founded in the late 19th century in India by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. The name "Ahmadiyah" is derived from the founder's name, Ahmad, who claimed to be the Mahdi (the awaited messiah) and a subordinate prophet to Muhammad.
The term "Ahmad" is an Arabic name that means "highly praised" or "praiseworthy". Ahmad is derived from the Arabic root word "hamida", meaning "to praise". The addition of the suffix "-iyah" denotes a group or movement related to Ahmad. Hence, "Ahmadiyah" can be understood as "related to Ahmad" or "followers of Ahmad".
