13 February - Mīrzā Ghulām Aḥmad birth anniversary

 

Mīrzā Ghulām Aḥmad was born on 13 February 1835, in Qadian, Punjab, British India. He passed away on 26 May 1908, in Lahore, British India (now in Pakistan).He was the founder of the Ahmadiyya movement in Islam. Mīrzā Ghulām Aḥmad claimed to be the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, a figure expected by Muslims to appear towards the end times.

The Ahmadiyya movement, which he established in the late 19th century, is known for its distinctive beliefs. The followers of Ahmadiyya consider Mīrzā Ghulām Aḥmad as a prophet, though this belief is considered controversial and has led to tensions with mainstream Islamic groups, who generally reject the notion of a prophet after Muhammad.

Mīrzā Ghulām Aḥmad emphasized peaceful propagation of Islam, interfaith dialogue, and service to humanity. The Ahmadiyya community has faced persecution in some countries due to its beliefs, particularly in Pakistan where Ahmadis have been declared non-Muslims by the state.

It's important to note that the views and status of the Ahmadiyya movement are a matter of theological and doctrinal debate within the broader Muslim community. Different sects within Islam hold varying perspectives on the legitimacy and status of the Ahmadiyya movement.