🔥 Examination: Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light

Impact of Finality of Prophethood on Islamic Eschatology and Leadership Roles

The belief in the finality of prophethood, or Khatam an-Nabiyyin, is central to Islamic doctrine and has far-reaching implications for both Islamic eschatology and the legitimacy of religious leadership. By affirming that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the last prophet, Islam closes the door on any new prophets, messengers, or divinely appointed leaders who could claim a role similar to that of a prophet. This principle safeguards the integrity of Islamic teachings, provides a clear framework for end-time events, and prevents self-proclaimed leaders from assuming roles of religious authority within the Muslim community. This section explores the impact of the finality of prophethood on Islamic eschatology and leadership roles, especially as it pertains to groups like the "Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light" (ARPL).

A. The Finality of Prophethood as a Framework for Islamic Eschatology

Defining the Role of the Mahdi and the Return of Jesus (Isa) (PBUH)

The finality of prophethood establishes Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as the last prophet, shaping Islamic eschatology by providing a clear framework for future events. Within this framework, Islam anticipates the arrival of the Mahdi�a righteous leader who will restore justice and guide the Muslim community during turbulent times. The Mahdi, however, is not a prophet but a reformer and just leader whose authority stems from adherence to the Quran and Sunnah.

This declaration provides the eschatological boundary, ensuring no one can claim a prophetic or semi-prophetic role after Muhammad (PBUH). The Mahdi and Jesus (Isa) (PBUH) operate within this framework, where they are seen as leaders or reformers rather than prophets with new messages.

B. The Role of Finality in Defining Legitimate Leadership

Criteria for Recognizing True Leaders in Islam

Islamic teachings outline clear criteria for legitimate leadership, rooted in the principles of the Quran and Sunnah. The finality of prophethood ensures that no leader or religious figure can claim authority based on divine revelation or prophecy. Instead, leaders are expected to derive their legitimacy from their knowledge of Islam, piety, adherence to the Quran and Sunnah, and recognition by the broader Muslim community.

This Hadith underscores that any new claims to divine authority or quasi-prophetic roles are invalid within Islam. By positioning Aba Al-Sadiq Abdullah Hashem as a unique spiritual authority, ARPL introduces ambiguity into this doctrine, potentially leading followers away from the established teachings of Islam.

C. Ensuring Unity and Protecting the Integrity of Islamic Beliefs

Preventing Sectarian Division Through Finality

The finality of prophethood is a unifying principle that helps prevent the rise of sects or factions centered around self-proclaimed leaders. This doctrine ensures that all Muslims adhere to the same core teachings without being divided by competing claims of spiritual leadership.

ARPL�s elevation of Aba Al-Sadiq Abdullah Hashem to a special status risks creating division, undermining the unity that the doctrine of finality is meant to preserve.

D. Conclusion: Finality of Prophethood as the Foundation of Eschatological and Leadership Integrity

The finality of prophethood is a doctrinal foundation for both Islamic eschatology and religious leadership. By affirming that no prophet or divine figure will come after Muhammad (PBUH), Islam ensures that the community remains united and faithful to its original teachings. This doctrine denies legitimacy to any claims of new prophets, preventing the rise of sects and distortions.

Groups like the "Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light" (ARPL) risk undermining the integrity of Islamic beliefs by elevating figures like Aba Al-Sadiq Abdullah Hashem, creating unnecessary divisions and doctrinal ambiguities. Upholding the finality of prophethood ensures the unity, purity, and coherence of Islam as a complete message delivered by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).