“Ahmadi Muslim women do not need any man to ‘bestow’ rights or equality upon them, as Allah Himself honoured them with true freedom, justice and equality.” – Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad

On 27 September 2025, the World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Fifth Khalifa (Caliph), His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad delivered a faith inspiring address at the National Ijtema (Annual Gathering) of Lajna Imaillah UK, the ladies’ auxiliary organisation of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.

The three-day gathering, held at Hook Lane, Puttenham, Guildford, was attended by nearly 7,500 members and commenced with His Holiness asserting that the purpose of the gathering was to enhance the intellectual, moral, and spiritual capabilities and standards of the attendees. He went on to highlight that the establishment of Lajna Imaillah by the Second Caliph, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad (may Allah be pleased with him), was “a profound gift” to Ahmadi women and girls.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad stated:

“The Second Caliph, Hazrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) founded Lajna so that Ahmadi women and girls could independently strive to build a connection with God and their faith, free from the influence or shadow of men. It was founded to nurture and guide them so they may become beacons of virtue and excellence and that their piety, knowledge and boundless potential may illuminate the world.”

His Holiness observed that modern trends often see men branding themselves as ‘feminists’ and claiming to ‘grant’ rights to women. However, he cautioned that such declarations are often “hollow gestures or fashionable postures” rather than a “sincere commitment to empowerment.” His Holiness further noted that concealed vested interests often lie behind the call for women’s rights and freedoms, with these movements frequently driven by selfish reasons, not genuine compassion.

Contrasting this with the teachings of Islam, His Holiness affirmed that Ahmadi Muslim women can proudly declare that their rights and freedoms were enshrined by Islam more than 1,400 years ago.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad stated:

“Ahmadi women can proudly proclaim to the world that, more than 1,400 years ago, Islam enshrined their rights and freedoms. They do not need any man to ‘bestow’ rights or equality upon them, as Allah Himself honoured them with true freedom, justice and equality. Moreover, Ahmadi women can proudly state that they do not need rights or freedoms as defined by worldly people or the men of this era. Rather, they desire and require those freedoms and rights as defined by Allah the Almighty and His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).”

His Holiness emphasised that Allah the Almighty has granted women countless rights, commanded that their dignity must never be violated, and affirmed that any man who denies a woman her due rights is guilty in the eyes of God. Following this, His Holiness highlighted that while rights are guaranteed, they are accompanied by obligations that women must strive to fulfil, asserting that Islam fully upholds the principle that with rights come responsibilities.

His Holiness then turned the attention of the attendees to the fundamental qualities required of a believing Muslim woman, explaining that true faith can only be achieved if they ardently act upon God’s commands. He pointed out that everyone will be rewarded equally for their good deeds with no discrimination, as every person shall reap what they sow.

His Holiness cited chapter 33, verse 36 of the Holy Quran that identifies the essential characteristics of a true Muslim.

The verse states:

“Surely, men who submit themselves to God and women who submit themselves to Him, and believing men and believing women, and obedient men and obedient women and truthful men and truthful women, and men steadfast in their faith and steadfast women, and men who are humble and women who are humble, and men who give alms and women who give alms, and men who fast and women who fast, and men who guard their chastity and women who guard their chastity, and men who remember Allah much and women who remember Him. Allah has prepared for all of them forgiveness and a great reward.”

His Holiness explained that the same righteous deeds are prescribed for both genders to attain the rank of a believer. He further elucidated that by acting on these commands, Ahmadi Muslim women will not only reform themselves but also give rise to righteous fathers, husbands, brothers, and sons, thus they will become the ones who “cleanse and liberate society from the conflicts and turmoil that grip it today”.

Commenting on moral values a believer should strive to embody, His Holiness advised that true believers do not consider this world to be their ultimate objective; instead, their eyes are set upon the eternal life in the Hereafter. He noted that some women share their worries about not seeing immediate results from their good deeds and prayers, to which he replied that “some rewards require patience and are granted at their destined time, either in this life or in the Hereafter.”

His Holiness emphasised that “no matter what adversity a believer faces, their faith in Allah must never weaken, nor must they ever harbour a grievance against God”. He stated that Allah the Almighty is the ‘Lord of all the Worlds’ and has bestowed countless blessings upon each of us from the moment we were conceived. Thus, he stated that “if we remember these favours, we will never be inclined to complain or feel that we have been unfairly treated”.

His Holiness then stressed that to strengthen faith, it is essential that every Ahmadi Muslim woman regularly recites the Holy Qur’an, strives to understand its meanings, and lives by its sacred guidance. His Holiness further elaborated on strengthening faith, referencing Chapter 2, Verse 187 of the Holy Qur’an, where God Almighty commands believers to “hearken to Me and believe in Me.” His Holiness explained that the primary method to achieve this is through the intensive study of the Holy Qur’an, reflecting upon its more than 700 commandments, and sincerely striving to act upon them.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad continued:

“If you fulfil your pledges and perfect your faith for Allah’s sake, the heavens will open and His blessings shall rain down upon you. In my Friday Sermons and other addresses, I have often mentioned how Ahmadi women are at the forefront of demonstrating their faith and making immense sacrifices. I have recounted numerous incidents of women, often living in remote and challenging conditions, who, guided by their unwavering faith, make remarkable financial sacrifices. In return, Allah always rewards them in many ways. So, if you are determined to be ready for every possible sacrifice, be sure that Allah will never leave you empty-handed. Instead, He will shower you abundantly with His rewards.”

His Holiness then reminded Lajna Imaillah of their role in fostering the moral and spiritual development of Ahmadi women and girls. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Remember, that Lajna Imaillah was founded for the moral and spiritual uplift of Ahmadi women and girls so they may recognise that they have a true identity and value within the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. To preserve the honour and dignity of Lajna and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, you must embrace this identity and seek to enhance its beauty and distinction.”

During the address, His Holiness also urged all women and girls to participate in Lajna’s moral and spiritual training programmes with a spirit of obedience, as those who participate find their standards improve. He further reminded the mothers that a profound responsibility rests upon their shoulders, as they are responsible for their children and future generations. His Holiness added that by reforming themselves and being obedient to God Almighty’s commands, their rewards shall multiply.

Following this, His Holiness spoke about the fundamental quality of truthfulness, reminding the attendees of the Hadith (saying of the Holy Prophet) in which the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) states that a person should like for others what they like for themselves. His Holiness elaborated on this, explaining that “when you desire that your prayers are answered and wish to uphold the highest moral values, you should desire to spread these qualities among your children, siblings, and in society at large.”

His Holiness then emphasised that a woman who recognises her obligation to be truthful embarks on a spiritual Jihad (striving) that purifies her from all forms of Shirk (associating partners with God) and sets a potent example for her children.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad stated:

“Falsehood is the malignant key unlocking the door to discord and disunity, corroding the foundations of home and community alike. As the next generation of Ahmadis will be nurtured in your laps, it is essential that you exemplify truth at all times.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad continued:

“If parents are pious, God-fearing, and live according to Islam’s teachings, their children will naturally learn from them. Young children, especially in their early years, spend more time with their mothers than anyone else. They adopt what they see in their mother and consider it right. Therefore, Ahmadi mothers have a great responsibility to rid society of Shirk (associating partners with God) and establish truth and piety… If Ahmadi mothers use their influence to inculcate truth in their children, they will, collectively, establish a society founded upon truth.”

His Holiness next reflected upon the virtue of patience, noting that though difficult, “patience in the face of adversity leads to Allah’s favour and rewards.” He stressed that patience is especially important within the home, as a lack of it can cause minor issues to escalate into serious arguments and division.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad stated:

“With patience and prayer, strive to settle any issues that arise amicably and strengthen your family bonds. This is a point I often emphasise to Ahmadi women who seek my advice… Believing women, whether mothers, daughters, sisters, or in-laws, who are patient and act on Allah’s teachings, will create an atmosphere of peace, harmony, and love in their homes. Remember, that a peaceful home serves as the cornerstone of a peaceful society, and so, if you cultivate peace in your homes it will radiate into the wider society and through the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad continued:

“Today, the world is in a critical state because selfishness has taken root. Everyone prioritises their own rights, often lacking a willingness to exhibit patience or compromise for the greater good. Such attitudes naturally cause disputes and grievances. So, if we wish to make our Ahmadi society a righteous and pious one, both men and women must manifest the quality of patience. Patience is not weakness, as the modern world may suggest. It is a profound virtue and a demonstration of true strength, courage, and wisdom.”

His Holiness highlighted a dangerous consequence of social media: exposure to harmful “influencers.” He noted that so-called “experts” often misguide viewers, urging women to hire a lawyer or file for divorce over minor, solvable issues. Such haste to break up families is not only harmful to the women involved but can also jeopardise the future well-being of their children. His Holiness reiterated that “believing men and women should observe forbearance and prayer” and strive to maintain the unity of their family.

Emphasising patience, His Holiness highlighted how this quality underpins harmony within the home and the wider community.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad stated:

“One sin often leads to another and continues to escalate until the peace of the entire society is disturbed. Consequently, where Allah instructs us to observe patience, it is not a small or insignificant matter. Rather, it is fundamental to the peace and well-being of every level of society, from one’s home all the way to international relations.”

Turning to humility, His Holiness reflected on its role in cultivating understanding, easing conflicts, and guiding future generations.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad stated:

“Another virtue Allah has deemed necessary for a believing woman is humility. Humility is the key to mutual respect. As Ahmadi women, if you are humble and instil humility in your children, you will raise future generations who can lead the world towards peace and prosperity. In this way, you will play a fundamental role in saving the world from destruction.”

His Holiness highlighted the blessings of financial sacrifice for the sake of God. His Holiness praised Ahmadi Muslim women who have made immense sacrifices for the construction of mosques and to help those in need. His Holiness also mentioned the virtue of observing fasts in the month of Ramadan, which leads to many other virtues, including the increased inclination to forego one’s ego and adopt humility.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad stated:

“Every righteous deed Allah requires of individuals is not just for their personal benefit but also has a collective benefit for society.”

His Holiness thus addressed the command to guard chastity and modesty. He explained that modesty is not only about dress but also includes a person’s eyes, ears, tongue, and all other things that can lead to indecency or impropriety.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“In terms of appearance, Islam teaches a woman to dress modestly to protect her from the unwanted gaze of men and to safeguard society from impure thoughts or actions. Accordingly, Hijab is a means of protecting a woman from unwanted advances and preserving her honour and dignity. While the concept of modesty has existed in all major religions, today, indecency and vulgarity have become widespread in the name of ‘freedom’. In such an era, it is a source of pride for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community that Ahmadi women and girls remain firm in their faith and continue to manifest these religious teachings.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad continued:

“I have often spoken about how Islam was the first religion to establish true women’s rights. For example, Islam has always promoted the education of girls and was the first to give women the right to inherit or to divorce. Allah does not stop women from working or require them to remain confined to their homes.

Commenting further on the topic, His Holiness highlighted that Allah the Almighty requires Muslim women to observe Hijab and maintain a degree of separation from men to prevent the risk of any improper situation arising.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad further stated:

“Thus, without embarrassment or fear, every Ahmadi woman should observe modesty at all times. Be in no doubt that the modesty and dignity of Ahmadi women are a means of pride and distinction from the rest of the world. Observing Hijab and modesty is not a restriction – it is a means of elevating your status. It does not steal your freedom. Rather, it adorns it with beauty and grace. If you are proud of your faith, others will respect you. So, never fall prey to any complex or feel embarrassed.”

In his concluding remarks, His Holiness stressed the attendees to always remember Allah and fulfil the rights of His worship. He assured the women that Islam’s teachings are perfectly aligned with human nature, and Allah does not burden any person beyond their capacity.

His Holiness then reflected upon the example of the women in the time of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) who, despite their lack of education, listened, learned, and adopted his teachings without hesitation, becoming the shining stars of early Islam. He stated that now, in the era of the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him), his followers must also bring forth a spiritual revolution within themselves.

His Holiness drew the address to a close by recalling the immense sacrifices of Ahmadi women throughout the history of the Community. He provided the striking example of women in Burkina Faso a few years prior, who displayed astonishing courage and faith even after witnessing their husbands and fathers martyred before their eyes. Any fear or worry they felt was fleeting, and Allah soon removed it from their hearts. Instead, they found renewed courage.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Those African women have set the bar extremely high and their faith should serve as a living model for all of you. So, with conviction and courage, all of you must be ready to make every necessary sacrifice, to place your faith above all worldly matters, and to act, without hesitation, upon every command of Allah in order to ignite a spiritual revolution in the world.”

Whilst concluding, His Holiness reminded the Lajna Imaillah members of their duty to convey the peaceful message of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad concluded:

“It is easy to speak of bringing about a spiritual revolution, but, in reality, revolutions are never born from convenience, comfort or words alone. They are forged through sacrifice – by surrendering one’s ego, personal interests, trends, and all desires – for a higher purpose. After inculcating this spirit within yourselves, train your children, so that the noble legacy of true sacrifice in the way of Allah may pass seamlessly from generation to generation.”

His Holiness then led the congregation in a silent prayer.