Alhamdulillah, a blessed gathering took place last night at Jamia Masjid Madinat al-Zahra titled "The Eminent Status of Sayyiduna Siddiq-e-Akbar (رضی اللہ عنہ)." The gathering commenced with a beautiful recitation of the Holy Qur’an by respected Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Ijaz Qadri.

Following this, the honour of presenting naat in praise of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم) was shared by young Muhammad Adam, Dr Muhammad Aamir Raheem, Ch. Ijaz Chishti, and Muhammad Ijaz Qadri.

A highlight of the evening was the special address by Allama Shaykh Muhammad Afzal Saeedi (Director of Madinat al-Zahra), who shed light on the life and services of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Siddiq (رضی اللہ عنہ). He stated that during his caliphate, four major accomplishments were achieved:

• Dispatching the army under the leadership of Sayyiduna Usama bin Zaid – fulfilling the command of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم).
• Eliminating Musaylimah Kazaab the Liar – quashing the fitnah of a false claimant to prophethood.
• Suppression of apostasy – dealing effectively with certain tribes who attempted to abandon Islam after the apparent passing of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم).
• Confronting those who denied Zakat – protecting this vital pillar of Islam.
• Additionally, he completed the monumental task of compiling the Qur’an and ensured a copy was preserved with Umm al-Mu’minin Sayyidah Hafsah (رضی اللہ عنہا).

Allama Saeedi also recounted inspiring stories of the Prophet’s love shown by Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (رضی اللہ عنہ), such as presenting all his wealth during the Battle of Tabuk and declaring, “I have left Allah and His Messenger at home.” These acts remain profound demonstrations of faith.

His practical life, loyalty, and sacrifices shall be remembered for all time. In conclusion, Allama Saeedi urged attendees to emulate the noble character of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Siddiq (رضی اللہ عنہ) and cultivate the spirit of sacrificing everything for the sake of faith.

The gathering saw a large attendance of both men and women, and Allama Saeedi expressed heartfelt thanks to all participants at the end.