Abdullah Hashem Aba Al-Sadiq, Jan. 1, 2025 By AimanAbir18plus – Own work, CC BY 4.0, Wikipedia
The Mahdi’s Manifesto by Aba Al-Sadiq Abdullah Hashem
The Mahdi’s Manifesto by Aba Al-Sadiq Abdullah Hashem is a foundational text of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL), a new religious movement that diverges from mainstream Islamic teachings. The manifesto addresses various groups—such as the oppressed, the poor, orphans, widows, and the marginalized—urging them to recognize their power to effect change. The Mahdi
To provide a comprehensive analysis, let’s examine the key points of the manifesto, offering both rebuttals (counter-arguments) and refutations (evidence-based disproofs) for each.
1. Claim: The Mahdi Has Appeared in the Person of Aba Al-Sadiq
Rebuttal: The assertion that Aba Al-Sadiq is the prophesied Mahdi is not recognized by the broader Islamic community. Traditional Islamic eschatology describes the Mahdi as a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad who will appear before the Day of Judgment to restore justice. There is no consensus among scholars supporting Aba Al-Sadiq’s claim.
Refutation: Aba Al-Sadiq’s claim is based on a document known as the “Will of the Prophet Muhammad,” which is not universally accepted and is considered apocryphal by many Islamic scholars. Furthermore, mainstream Sunni and Shia traditions do not acknowledge the legitimacy of this document or its interpretations used by AROPL. Religion Media Centre and Wikipedia
2. Claim: The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light is the True Path
Rebuttal: The AROPL is a relatively new movement with beliefs that significantly diverge from established Islamic doctrines. Its teachings are not recognized by the majority of Muslims worldwide, who adhere to Sunni or Shia interpretations of Islam. Wikipedia
Refutation: The movement’s founder, Abdullah Hashem, has been involved in controversies, including legal issues related to fraud and racketeering . Such controversies cast doubt on the credibility and legitimacy of the movement’s leadership and claims. Wikipedia
3. Claim: Followers Must Enter into a Covenant with Aba Al-Sadiq
Rebuttal: In Islam, the primary covenant is between the individual and God. The idea of pledging allegiance to a contemporary figure as a religious obligation is not supported by mainstream Islamic teachings.
Refutation: The requirement to enter into a covenant with Aba Al-Sadiq lacks basis in the Quran and Hadith. There is no scriptural mandate for Muslims to pledge allegiance to any individual outside the established framework of Islamic leadership.
4. Claim: The Movement Advocates for Social Justice for the Oppressed
Rebuttal: While advocating for social justice is commendable, the methods and teachings of AROPL are not aligned with the broader Islamic principles of justice and equity. Mainstream Islamic organizations and charities have long been engaged in efforts to support the oppressed without deviating from established doctrines. Religion Media Centre
Refutation: The movement’s focus on social justice appears to be a means to attract followers rather than a genuine commitment to systemic change. There is limited evidence of AROPL’s involvement in tangible social justice initiatives compared to established Islamic organizations.
5. Claim: The Movement Offers a New Interpretation of Islamic Teachings
Rebuttal: Islamic teachings have been interpreted by scholars over centuries, and while interpretations can evolve, they are grounded in rigorous scholarship. AROPL’s interpretations lack the scholarly consensus and methodological rigor that characterize legitimate Islamic jurisprudence. https://store.theahmadireligion.org/
Refutation: The movement’s reinterpretations often contradict fundamental Islamic beliefs and practices. For instance, their scriptures, such as “The Goal of the Wise,” introduce concepts not found in traditional Islamic texts, leading to confusion and deviation from core Islamic principles. Wikipedia
Conclusion:
While The Mahdi’s Manifesto presents itself as a call to action for the marginalized, its underlying claims and teachings diverge significantly from mainstream Islamic doctrine. The movement’s legitimacy is further undermined by controversies surrounding its leadership and the lack of recognition from the broader Muslim community. Individuals seeking spiritual guidance and social justice are encouraged to engage with established Islamic teachings and organizations that have a proven track record of serving communities in need.