Aftab Khan – Salaam One سلام

Brigadier (Retired) Aftab Ahmad Khan : A freelance writer, researcher, and blogger, holds Masters in Political Science, Business Admin, Strategic Studies, spent over two decades in exploration of The Holy Quran, other Holy Scriptures, teachings & followers. He has been writing for “The Defence Journal” since 2006. His work and free eBooks has been accessed by over 4.5 Millions. FB: @IslamiRevival Email: Tejdeed@gmail.com , Twitter @SalaamOne

بریگیڈیئر (ریٹائرڈ) آفتاب احمد خان , فری لانس مصنف ، محقق اور بلاگر ہیں۔ انہوں نے پولیٹیکل سائنس، بزنس ایڈمنسٹریشن، اسٹریٹجک اسٹڈیز میں ماسٹرز کیا ہے اور قرآن کریم و دیگر آسمانی کتب، تعلیمات اور پیروکاروں کے مطالعہ میں دو دہائیوں سے زیادہ وقت صرف کیا ہے – وہ 2006 سے “Defence Journal کے لیے لکھ رہے ہیں۔ ان کی منتخب تحریریں پچاس سے زائد ایکتب میں مہیا ہیں۔ ان کے علمی و تحقیقی کام کو 4.5 ملین تک رسائی ہو چکی ہے۔

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آعُوذُ بِاللَّهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ 0 بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

لآ اِلَهَ اِلّا اللّهُ مُحَمَّدٌ رَسُوُل اللّهِ

شروع اللہ کے نام سے، ہم اللہ کی حمد کرتے ہیں اس کی مدد چاہتے ہیں اوراللہ سے مغفرت کی درخواست کر تے ہیں. جس کواللہ ھدایت دے اس کو کوئی گمراہ نہیں کرسکتا اورجس کو وہ اس کی ہٹ دھرمی پر گمراہی پر چھوڑ دے اس کو کوئی ھدایت نہیں دے سکتا- ہم شہادت دیتے ہیں کہ اللہ کے سوا کوئی عبادت کے لائق نہیں، محمد ﷺ اس کے بندے اورخاتم النبین ہیں اور انﷺ کے بعد کوئی نبی یا رسول نہیں ہے. درود و سلام ہوحضرت محمّد ﷺ پر اہل بیت، خلفاء راشدین واصحاب (رضی اللہ تعالیٰ عنہ) اجمعین پر- .دین میں ہر نئی بات بدعت ہے اور ہر بدعت گمراہی (ضَلَالَۃٌ) ہے- جو نیکی وه کرے وه اس کے لئے اور جو برائی وه کرے وه اس پر ہے، اے ہمارے رب! اگر ہم بھول گئے ہوں یا خطا کی ہو تو ہمیں نہ پکڑنا –

Detailed Introduction: He was born at Lahore, spent early days of childhood in East Pakistan [present Bangladesh]. Studied at FC College Lahore and later Government College [now GC University]. Took a break in the education, left the pen and picked up gun at age of 19 to get one year’s military training in newly introduced National Service Infantry Battalion (31 FF) because Jihad is essential ingredient of his faith and practice. The military training culminated in his participation in 1971 war around Lahore-Kasur, and adopting military as a career, though he desired to a be Professor, which was partially fulfilled being chosen as instructor in military institution twice. A graduate of Command and Staff College Quetta, his the quest for knowledge lead him to obtain Masters/ equivalent in ‘Political Science’ (University of the Punjab) , War Studies (Air War College), Business Administration’ (Executive).

After the end of active military service, again picked up the pen to continue with Greater Jihad (Quran:25:52),through the digital word, “Salaam Network” is the manifestations. He has authored over 50 e-Books amd made them freely available for spread of knowledge.

Besides military, he also worked in the ‘Corporate Sector’ in multinational environments at Hashoo Group, as GM Administration, Security and Coordination [The top business Group, known for PC and Marriot Hotel Chains in particular, besides many other businesses] He observed divergent cultures during his world wide travels to USA (Military Training), Europe, Middle East (Saudi Arabia on deputation), China, Far East and Australia.

The focus of study is on defence, management through knowledge for Muslims, Pakistan and Humanity. The Holy Quran, the fundamental source of guidance for humanity has been neglected as visualized by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) (Quran; 25:30). Quran, needs to be accorded its due, it requires Greater Jihad (Quran:25:52) Adherence to the Islamic fundamentals & Pillars of Islam and by adopting the Quranic name “Muslim”, the journey towards unity of Muslims can begin.

His articles are regularly published in DJ (www.defencejournal.com) since 2006. The research work is available at “Salaam Network” in the form of e-books, articles، blogs, social media, magazines, and videos. The Network has been visited by around 4.5 Millions now touching 5. More at https://SalaamOne.com/about/

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Three incidents influenced his approach towards proper understanding of religions for peace:

Firstly; As religious youth in teens, was highly influenced and motivated by the inflammatory sermons delivered by local mosque Khateeb [Imam/prayer leader] in favor of armed Jihad. This ultimately lead to joining Army of Islamic republic, initially as a volunteer and subsequently adopting military as a career. The Mullah also spoke against Molana Abul A’la Modudi, not living very far, which created an urge in the young mind to kill him being infidel, holding anti Islamic views. Thanks God, there were no Taliban and suicide bomber trainers, it remained an urge, never materialized. Allah saved from a heinous sin and crime.

Secondly;

In January 1971, there was call by the Pak-Army for the students of Lahore and surrounding areas to come forward and support Pak-Army in defence of Pakistan. The response was instantaneous & positive which changed the life….. [see details here …31FF

Thirdly;

In 2001, while travelling to Abbottabad he noticed wall chalking on many mosques on the roadside;کافروں کو جہاں پاؤ قتل کرو “Kafroon ko jehan pao qatal karo-Quran“ [Kill the non believers where ever you find them-Quran]. This was quite disturbing, how Islam, the religion of peace, could urge its followers for such an insane behaviour, not compatible with the life of Prophet Muhammad [peace be upon him], his companions and hundreds of years of Muslim rule world over? The non Muslims lived as peaceful citizens rather than being killed in Muslim empires.

Hence it was decided to carry out in-depth study of the Quran and later Bible. It was astonishing that while critics of Islam, twist the meanings of Quranic verses to extract the meanings of their liking, same is being done by some [not all] of the semi literate extremists calling themselves Moulana [Islamic scholar]. He decided to share the knowledge gained through research to remove the misconception about Quran, Islam and Muslims. The scope of research got expanded to include Bible, Christianity, Judaism and even Atheism.

Quran provides sufficient guidance based upon monotheism, which even many non Muslim scientists and philosophers accept:

“Did blind chance know that there was light and what was its refraction… These and other suchlike considerations, always have, and always will prevail with mankind, to believe that there is a Being who made all things, who has all things in his power, and who is therefore to be feared”: Isaac Newton (1642 – 1727).

“My religion consists of a humble admiration of the illimitable superior spirit who reveals himself in the slight details we are able to perceive with our frail and feeble mind”: Albert Einstein (1879 – 1955)

“Say nothing of my religion. It is known to God and myself alone. Its evidence before the world is to be sought in my life: if it has been honest and dutiful to society the religion which has regulated it cannot be a bad one”: Thomas Jefferson (1743 – 1826)

“Treat the other man’s faith gently; it is all he has to believe with. His mind was created for his own thoughts, not yours or mine”: Henry S. Haskins.

The Holy Quran remains the central focal point of research and study. An Indepth study of Quran and history revealed astonishing facts, though known to the academics but covered under haze, which have been made public through sites at serial 2 and 3.

His works for peace and interfaith peace & harmony. His articles are published in DJ (www.defencejournal.com). The research work has been compiled in the form of books ،articles، blogs, social media, magazines, and videos available at:

Brig Aftab Khan (R) does not claim copy rights for his work , his writings may be copied and shared with or without credits/reference. Jazak Allah.

For further information please visit:

Aftab Khan can be followed at@Twitter @SalaamOne , FB@SalaamOne , Defendeers@WhattsApp

SalaamOne NetWork – Websites/Blogs, Social Media

The Network, since inception in 2003, have been visited by Millions of visitors around the world.

Social Media:
MAGAZINES: Over 40 Flipboard Magazines

VIDEO CHANNELS:

The Deal – Golden Jubilee

January 11, 1971. Pakistan was passing through critical phase of its existence. The survival of Islamic Republic was at stake. State called the students youth to come forward to help Pak Army in defence of Pakistan.

The CIVILIAN YOUTH, 50 YEARS ago, said لبیک and came forward to defend Pakistan purely on religious (Jihad) moral, ethical and national grounds, the spirit of Pakistan freedom movement.

They made a Deal with The Lord :

“Surely Allah has purchased of the believers their lives and their belongings and in return has promised that they shall have Paradise. They fight in the cause of Allah, and slay and are slain. Such is the promise He has made incumbent upon Himself in the Torah, and the Gospel, and the Qur’an. Who is more faithful to his promise than Allah? Rejoice then, in the bargain you have made with Him. That indeed is the might triumph.” (Quran 9:111)

A student of GC (Govt College Lahore) who had won two scholarship plus pocket money making it Rs.150 pm (Gold Rs.160/10 grms in 1971) was offered stipend of Rs.20 pm, he thought its not the money but the cause and the promise by Allah which was important.

شہادت ہے مطلوب و مقصود ِمومن

نہ مال غنیمت نہ کشور کُشائی

The Deal was executed through Pak Army, not some Jihadi, group, Lashkir or gang, Jihad is the responsibility of Islamic State not individuals.

He was not alone; there were hundreds of enthusiastic volunteer students from all shades of society, elite, rich, middle class & poor. All ready to sacrifice their lives for the noble cause. Those found medically unfit were found weeping.

After intensive military training and participation in the 1971 War, some of “Young Volunteer Students” adopted the military as a career and excelled, but most of them went back to civilian life to restart their education and to build their careers again, easier said than done.

He participated in the 1971 war and then continued to serve for the next 33 years (till 2003).

He sincerely tired his best to fulfil his part of commitment he had made with ALLAH.

There were astonishing happenings:

After having defended the borders of Pakistan, he found himself at Holy Lands to defend it with weapons (What an honour !)

One of his class fellows, who became an Engineer, came to serve there. They were happy to chat, the Defender of Holy Places was drawing four times the salary than the Engineer friend!

ALLAH looked after the financial aspects in such a way that His soldier never faced any financial problem throughout his life (Who had accepted a package of Rs.20 against Rs.150).

ALLAH provided him many opportunities to defend Pakistan in multiple ways, one being the defence of nuclear assets.

Apart from military activities he was sent abroad for training and other duties. This included USA, Europe, Faar East, Indonesia, China , Australia etc. It broadened his vision.

He always missed his incomplete education which ended abruptly. But gradually he fulfilled his desire by first graduating, doing Masters in Political Science , MBA, Strategic Studies besides military courses.

On the family side children got educated and settled well in their life.

Not an angel or saint, a normal person not with all human limitations, has always shown his gratitude to the Lord for His kindness and blessings:

The most Merciful (God), has taught this Qur’an. He is Who created man and taught him how to express himself. ۞(55:1-4) So, which of your Lord’s blessings will you deny? (Quran 55:13)

The retirement from the military was not the end of his Covenant with ALLAH.

During the Pulwama crisis, he was disturbed, how could he participate? He wrote to the Chief of Army Staff to allow him to stay with the soldiers at LoC, not as a Brigade Commander, but just as an old soldier to boost the morale of troops. The offer was of course politely declined because there is no procedure.

He had made a lifetime commitment, so he picked up the pen (keyboard) to continue Bigger Jihad, Dawah, Hybrid/ Info War through Social Media.

https://salaamone.com/great-jihad/

Recently he was struck with Covid, this near death experience was different. However he recovered due to blessings of his Lord who accepted prayers of well wishers. This new lease of life, further cements his commitment to continue with his struggle in the way of Lord, Who is The Most Truthful to fulfil His promise.

This Civilian-Military bond is what binds this country to keep it united. The Nation must understand that any malicious effort on any pretext to break this bond will result in confusion and catastrophe worse than 1971. India worked for 24 years to sow the seeds of hatred and malice against West Pakistan [calling Punjabi Army], echo can be heard even now.

The Hybrid Warfare has become more sophisticated, in which every citizen has to participate with his mobile and laptop. The Covenant made with Allah by the Muslim fighter is not resticted to guns and firearms, the keyboard is new weapon, the pen [Qalam] to fight information war.,

General Douglas MacArthur said: “‘Old soldiers never die–they just fade away.”

But I say:

“The soldiers of Islam neither die nor fade away, they keep striving and then live for ever with their Lord, He is the Most Truthful to fulfil his covenant” [Brigadier Aftab Khan (r)]

Hence retirement, or our occupation does not stop us from fulfilling our part of commitment we made or can make with Allah, even now. Instead of guns we take up the pen / mobile/ keyboard and let the nation know that we stand with armed forces of Pakistan to defeat the heinous designs of the enemy.

The Spanish philosopher George Santayana is credited with the aphorism, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it,” while British statesman Winston Churchill wrote, “Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”

So please don’t take this paper as just recording some event of a military unit. The history of 31 FF is not the story of an ordinary unit, this is the history of the “First National Service Battalion of Pakistan” which was raised purely for the young students, the generation born in the 50’s and they still stand by their commitment to continue Jihad by other means!

The Peaceful .. Satisfied Soul

يَا أَيَّتُهَا النَّفْسُ الْمُطْمَئِنَّةُ ﴿٢٧﴾ ارْجِعِي إِلَىٰ رَبِّكِ رَاضِيَةً مَّرْضِيَّةً ﴿٢٨﴾ فَادْخُلِي فِي عِبَادِي ﴿٢٩﴾ وَادْخُلِي جَنَّتِي ﴿٣٠﴾

[But to the righteous, God will say], “O soul at peace, (27) return to your Lord, well-pleased, well-pleasing. (28) Join My servants. (29) Enter My Paradise.” (89:30)

The man who believed in Allah, the One, as his Lord and Sustainer, and adopted the Way of Life brought by the Prophets as his way of life, with full satisfaction of the heart, and without the least doubt about it, who acknowledged as absolute truth whatever creed and command he received from Allah and His Messenger, who withheld himself from whatever he was forbidden by Allah’s Religion, not unwillingly but with perfect conviction that it was really an evil thing, who offered without sacrifice whatever sacrifice was required to be offered for the sake of the truth. who endured with full peace of mind whatever difficulties, troubles and hardships he met on this way and who felt no remorse on being deprived of the gains and benefits and pleasures in the world which seemed to accrue to those who followed other ways but remained fully satisfied that adherence to true Faith had safeguarded him against those errors. This very state has been described at another place in the Qur’an as sharh Badr. (Al-An’am 125)

کُلُّ نَفۡسٍ ذَآئِقَۃُ الۡمَوۡتِ ؕ وَ اِنَّمَا تُوَفَّوۡنَ اُجُوۡرَکُمۡ یَوۡمَ الۡقِیٰمَۃِ ؕ فَمَنۡ زُحۡزِحَ عَنِ النَّارِ وَ اُدۡخِلَ الۡجَنَّۃَ فَقَدۡ فَازَ ؕ وَ مَا الۡحَیٰوۃُ الدُّنۡیَاۤ اِلَّا مَتَاعُ الۡغُرُوۡرِ ﴿۱۸۵﴾

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.[ Quran 3:185]

Whoever considers the effects of his actions in this earthly life to be of crucial significance, and sees in them the criteria of right and wrong, the criteria of that which leads either to one’s ultimate salvation or to one’s doom, falls prey to a serious misconception. The fact that a person is outstandingly successful in life does not necessarily prove that he is either not prove that he has either strayed from the right way or is out of favour with God. The earthly results of a man’s actions are often quite different from the ones he will see in the Next Life. What is of true importance is what will happen in that eternal life rather than in this transient one.

لَبَّيْكَ ٱللَّٰهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ ٱلْحَمْدَ وَٱلنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَٱلْمُلْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ

“Here I am [at your service] O God, here I am. Here I am [at your service]. You have no partners (other gods). To You alone is all praise and all excellence, and to You is all sovereignty. There is no partner to You.”

References/ Links

Islam & Muslim: The Perfect God Given Names

Over 1.6 billion Muslims, rich in history, culture and resources are in a state of decline from last few centuries. One of the factors is disunity among the Muslims due to sectarian differences which does not requires extraordinary efforts to tackle this menace, just stick to Command Verses of the Holy Qu ran (muhkmaat, see Quran;3:7) and the issue will disappear (but it will close the exploitation and domination of sectarian scholars, they will never let it happen).

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The Deal – Golden Jubilee

The Peaceful .. Satisfied Soul

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