Mirza Tahir Ahmad

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KhalifaIV Surrey

Mirza Tahir Ahmad (18 December 1928 – 19 April 2003) was the fourth Caliph (spiritual leader) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, serving from 1982 until his death in 2003. He was the son of Mirza Basheer-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad, the second Caliph, and the grandson of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.

Early Life and Education

Mirza Tahir Ahmad was born in Qadian, Punjab, India. He received his early education in Qadian and later attended the Government College University, Lahore. He also studied at the University of London where he pursued a degree in Arabic and Islamic Studies.

Caliphate

Mirza Tahir Ahmad was elected as the fourth Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community on 10 June 1982, following the death of his predecessor and elder brother, Mirza Nasir Ahmad. His caliphate was marked by significant developments and challenges.

Migration to the United Kingdom

In 1984, due to increasing persecution of Ahmadis in Pakistan, Mirza Tahir Ahmad migrated to the United Kingdom. He established the international headquarters of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in London.

Initiatives and Contributions

Mirza Tahir Ahmad was known for his efforts to spread the message of Islam through modern means of communication. He launched the Muslim Television Ahmadiyya International (MTA) in 1994, which broadcasts religious programs globally. He also initiated various humanitarian projects under the banner of Humanity First, an international charitable organization.

Literary Works

Mirza Tahir Ahmad was a prolific writer and authored numerous books on various aspects of Islam and contemporary issues. Some of his notable works include:

• Revelation, Rationality, Knowledge & Truth
• Murder in the Name of Allah
• Christianity: A Journey from Facts to Fiction

Death and Legacy

Mirza Tahir Ahmad passed away on 19 April 2003 in London, United Kingdom. He was succeeded by Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the current and fifth Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. His legacy continues through the ongoing activities and growth of the community worldwide.

See Also

• Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
• Mirza Ghulam Ahmad
• Caliphate
• Muslim Television Ahmadiyya International
• Humanity First