By Aqeela Shanzay Zaffar
Bai’at (pledge of allegiance) is a profoundly significant and emotional moment during the Annual Convention (Jalsa Salana) for tens of thousands of Ahmadi Muslims in attendance. It takes place on the Sunday of the convention and marks a life-changing ceremony where all Ahmadis pledge their sincerity and allegiance to their Caliph, while committing to uphold the ten commandments of Bai’at.
On this momentous day, the Jalsa Gah (convention site) is filled with perfectly organized streams of loving Ahmadis, seated on their knees, awaiting the arrival of their beloved Caliph. As His Holiness approaches, a reverent silence falls upon the entire gathering, and all eyes are fixed upon the awe and majesty of this man of God.
His Holiness announces that the words of the bai’at will now be read out, and the members should repeat each word after him. With Allah’s grace and mercy, the members are facing their Imam while holding onto the shoulder of the person in front, forming a chain that carries the spiritual current of the Caliph through the thousands of people present and to the millions watching through MTA (Muslim Television Ahmadiyya).
In unison, thousands of voices echo the words of the pledge, expressing their belief in the oneness and supremacy of Almighty Allah (Tawheed). The atmosphere becomes filled with perfect peace and spirituality that is beyond expression. This profound moment symbolizes the unity and devotion of the Ahmadis towards their spiritual leader, the Caliph, and their commitment to following the teachings of Islam Ahmadiyyat as propagated by the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (as).
The Bai’at is not only a public declaration of allegiance but also a transformative experience for those participating. It strengthens the bond between the Caliph and the members, fostering a sense of unity, love, and spiritual connection that transcends physical boundaries. Through the Bai’at, Ahmadis reaffirm their dedication to serving Allah and humanity, guided by the spiritual leadership of the Caliph.
The Bai’at ceremony is a true reflection of the essence of Jalsa Salana, where spiritual rejuvenation and connection with God are at the forefront. It exemplifies the love and devotion Ahmadis have for their faith and their Caliph, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the unity that binds the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community as one family under the guidance of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya.
