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{{Short description|Spiritual Organization}} | ||
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2022}} | |||
{{Infobox organization | |||
|name = Messiah Foundation International | |name = Messiah Foundation International | ||
|image = |
|image = Official-Logo.png | ||
|image_border = | |||
|size = 300px | |||
|alt = | |||
|caption = | |caption = | ||
| |
|abbreviation = MFI | ||
|msize = | |||
|mcaption = | |||
|motto = | |motto = | ||
|formation = 2002 | |formation = 1980, renamed in 2002 | ||
|extinction = | |extinction = | ||
|type = | |type = Organisation | ||
|headquarters = London, United Kingdom | |||
| |
|status = Foundation | ||
|purpose = Promotion of spiritual sciences and teachings of ] | |||
|headquarters = ] | |||
|location = ] | |||
|region_served = ]wide | |||
|membership = | |membership = | ||
|leader_title = | |||
|language = ] | |||
|leader_name = ] (Founder)<ref name="Guardian">{{Citation|title=Apocalypse now and again ... your choice of dates for the end of the world |newspaper=The Guardian |date=28 September 2015|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/sep/28/apocalypse-now-and-again-your-choice-of-dates-for-the-end-of-the-world|accessdate=1 October 2015 |last1=Gabbatt |first1=Adam }}</ref><ref name="jobshire">{{Citation|title=End Of The World 2015: NASA Slams Conspiracy Theorists' Apocalypse Threats, Says No Scientific Basis For Imminent Mass Destruction|date=1 October 2015|url=http://www.jobsnhire.com/articles/28714/20151001/end-world-2015-nasa-slams-conspiracy-theorists-apocalypse-threats-scientific-basis-imminent-mass-destruction.htm|accessdate=2 October 2015}}</ref><ref name="independent">{{Citation|title=End of the world: The apocalypses that await us if we make it through today|date=7 October 2015|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/end-of-the-world-the-apocalypses-that-await-us-if-we-make-it-through-today-a6685046.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220512/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/end-of-the-world-the-apocalypses-that-await-us-if-we-make-it-through-today-a6685046.html |archive-date=12 May 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|accessdate=7 October 2015}}</ref> | |||
|leader_title = Spiritual Master & Founder | |||
|key_people = ''']''' (] and CEO), '''Farah Naz''' (Guardian of MFI) | |||
|leader_name = '''Riaz Ahmed (R.A.) Gohar Shahi''' | |||
|main_organ = | |||
|key_people = ''']''' (Co-Founder) | |||
|parent_organization = | |||
|website = | |||
|affiliations = ], ], ] | |||
|website = http://www.goharshahi.gs | |||
|remarks = | |||
}} | }} | ||
'''Messiah Foundation International''' ({{langx|ur|مہدی فاونڈیشن انٹرنیشنل}}) (or '''MFI''') is a spiritual organisation formally established in 2002 to promote the ''Goharian Philosophy of Divine Love''.<ref name="Island3">{{Citation| last = Perera| first = Suresh| title = The practice of rituals alone does not initiate the heart with divine love| newspaper = The Island| date = 24 December 2011| url =http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=41850| accessdate = 25 December 2011}}</ref><ref name="Island4">{{Citation | |||
| title = The message of Divine Love has been very successful in Sri Lanka – MFI CEO | |||
| newspaper = The Island | |||
| date = 28 May 2011 | |||
| url = http://island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=26464 | |||
| accessdate =10 April 2014 | |||
}}</ref><ref name="Foreword">{{cite web| title = Foreword| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/mehdi-foundation-international/| accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
MFI is the successor of '''RAGS International''', a spiritual organisation founded by Pakistani spiritual leader ] in 1980.<ref name="Guardian"/><ref name="Foreword"/><ref name="UNHCR">{{Citation | title= Structure and objective of the Mehdi Foundation and the perception of this movement in Pakistan| date = 5 December 2008| url= http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/pdfid/49997ae7d.pdf| accessdate = 9 October 2009 }}</ref><ref name="Zee">{{Citation| title = Delhi HC seeks response from Centre on Pakistan nationals' plea| newspaper = Zee News| location = New Delhi| date = 17 December 2008| url = http://www.zeenews.com/states/2008-12-17/491805news.html| accessdate = 7 May 2010| url-status = dead| archiveurl = https://archive.today/20130217024858/http://www.zeenews.com/states/2008-12-17/491805news.html| archivedate = 17 February 2013}}</ref> The organisation claims to be a syncretic fulfilment of ], ], ] and ] ], with Shahi ] of many religions, given the title of ], ], and ] as well as the generic "Awaited One" prophesied by other religions.<ref>{{cite web| title = About Imam Mehdi| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/about/ | accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref><ref name="BBCUrdu1">{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/urdu/india/story/2007/04/070425_passport_burnt_np.shtml|title=Jail upon burning the Pakistani Passports|publisher=British Broadcasting Cooperation (Urdu)|date=25 April 2007|accessdate=April 25, 2010}}</ref> | |||
Adherents propose to promote the reduction of hatred, promotion of ] and ],<ref>{{cite web| title = Methodology and Objectives| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/mehdi-foundation-international/methodology-and-objectives/| accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> and raise awareness of miraculous images of spiritual figures they claim are on the face of such objects as the moon, sun, and the ].<ref name="divinesigns">{{cite web| title = Divine Signs| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/divine-signs/| accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> According to MFI, these images were put on these locations by God. The MFI purports that ]'s image on the moon has spoken to people in different languages and rendered spiritual grace to those searching for divine love.<ref name="AsiaToday">{{Citation | newspaper = Asia Today | title = Chai with...His Holiness Younus AlGohar of Messiah Foundation International | date = September 2014 | url = https://asiatodayaz.com/newspapers/2014/October_2014.pdf | accessdate = 7 October 2014 | url-status = dead | archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20141010125013/https://asiatodayaz.com/newspapers/2014/October_2014.pdf | archivedate = 10 October 2014 }}</ref><ref name="Lakbima Interview">{{cite web| title = His Holiness Younus AlGohar speaks to the Lakbima Newspaper| url = http://www.kalkiavatarfoundation.com/activities/activity/his-holiness-younus-algohar-speaks-to-the-lakbima-newspaper| accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref><ref name="TNL">{{cite episode| title = Jeewithay Sundarai| url = http://www.kalkiavatarfoundation.com/activities/activity/the-tnl-channel-interviews-his-holiness-younus-algohar| network = TNL TV| location = ], Sri Lanka| airdate = 2013-03-28| minutes = 00:00}}</ref> They declare that the titles of the ], ] and ] are different titles for one personality, whom they depict as Shahi.<ref name="The Tower of Divine Love and Light">{{cite web| title = The Tower of Divine Love and Light| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?articles/view/the-tower-of-divine-love-and-light/| accessdate = 1 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
'''Messiah/Mehdi Foundation International''' '''(MFI)''' is an organization established by ]<ref name="UNHCR">{{Citation | |||
Members of the MFI refer to themselves as ''Goharians'', due to their affiliation with Shahi. | |||
| title= Structure and objective of the Mehdi Foundation and the perception of this movement in Pakistan | |||
| date = 5 December 2008 | |||
| url= http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/pdfid/49997ae7d.pdf | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009 }} | |||
</ref> under the guidance of R.A. Gohar Shahi{{CN}}, in between 2001 and 2002, to promote the ''Goharian Philosophy of Divine Love''.<ref name=GPDL>{{cite web | |||
| title = Universality of Ra Gohar Shahi’s Teachings| url = http://www.theawaitedone.com/let-god-find-you.htm| dateformat = July 6 2007| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref><ref name="goharshahi.biz"> | |||
{{cite press release| title = A detailed introduction to Mehdi Foundation International And it’s Objectives | |||
| publisher = Mehdi Foundation International | |||
| date = 21 August 2007| url = http://www.goharshahi.biz/persecution/?p=4 | |||
| accessdate =9 October 2009 }} | |||
</ref> The organization claims to be a syncretic fulfillment of Christian, Muslim, Jewish and Hindu prophecy, with Shahi depicted as the messianic figure of many religions, given the title of ], ], and ] as well as the generic "Awaited One" prophesied by all other religions.<ref> {{cite web| title = About Mr. Younus AlGohar| url = http://www.younusalgohar.com/about.html| dateformat =January 6 2008| accessdate = 9 October 2009 }}</ref> Adherents promote the reduction of hatred, promotion of ]{{CN}} and ], and raise awareness of miraculous images of spiritual figures they claim are on the face of such objects as the ], ], and the ].<ref name="goharshahi.biz"/> | |||
== |
==History== | ||
'''MFI''' was previously known as "RAGS International"{{CN}}, until early 2002. Shahi's representative{{CN}}, ] merged ] with the MFI in 2002 shortly after the believed 'disappearance' of Shahi{{CN}}, which his followers consider to be miraculous ], though there have been rumours which disturbed and offended many of the followers of Shahi. The rumours are that Shahi was killed or died{{CN}}; due to which a death-certificate was published with no evidence of death{{CN}}. By then, R.A. Gohar Shahi had a large following, many of whom came from ]. Some of Gohar Shahi’s followers had been under the discipleship of Gohar Shahi for twenty years or more{{CN}}. Among these was Younus AlGohar{{CN}}, who would soon form the organization to preach Gohar Shahi’s teachings of ], ], and to tell the world about the Divine Signs on the Moon, Sun, and the ].<ref name="goharshahi.biz"/> They also herald the Second Coming of ]. The Messiah/Mehdi Foundation International has now grown to include a following from various religious backgrounds who, according to them, number in the thousands{{CN}}. | |||
''MFI'' was previously known as "RAGS International" until the year 2002, when ] became the ] and formally established the organisation.<ref name="Foreword"/> At this time, AlGohar also formed MFI's sister organisation, ], under the apparent guidance of Shahi.<ref name="KAF">{{cite web| title = Kalki Avatar Foundation| url = http://www.kalkiavatarfoundation.com/about/kalki-avatar-foundation| accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
According to a piece of paper{{CN}}, found in a followers house (where Shahi often resided whilst his many tours of Virginia, USA), in 2004 denoted MFI{{CN}}. The handwriting is said to be that of Shahi. Followers believe this may have been a prediction or a prophecy that Shahi depicted. <ref>{{Citation | |||
After ], Shahi's followers in the MFI declared it to be akin to miraculous ] and continued their activities under the leadership of AlGohar, who they claim is the personally appointed representative of Shahi.<ref>{{cite web| title = The Reality of Occultation| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/about/reality-of-occultation/|accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> In June 2018, Shahi's daughter, Farah Naz, expressed her support of the MFI and was appointed the role of 'Guardian' of the MFI. <ref>{{cite web| title = Farah Naz Takes Charge of Mehdi Foundation International| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/news/view/breaking-news-farah-naz-takes-charge-mfi/|accessdate = 8 June 2018}}</ref> | |||
| last = Morell | |||
| first = Steve A. | |||
| title = The Kalkia Avatar Foundation exemplifies Divine Love | |||
| newspaper = The Island | |||
| date =7 September 2008 | |||
| url = http://www.island.lk/2008/09/07/news9.html | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009 | |||
}} | |||
The organisation's self-proclaimed objectives are to preach Shahi's teachings of ] and ].<ref name="AsiaToday"/><ref>{{cite web| title = Methodology and Objectives| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/mehdi-foundation-international/methodology-and-objectives/|accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> They consider it their responsibility to propagate alleged images of Shahi, ], ], and others on the Moon, Sun, and the ], which they say are "divine signs".<ref>{{cite web| title = Responsibilities of MFI| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/mehdi-foundation-international/responsibilities-of-mfi/|accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> Though MFI has not released an official count of its members, ] has stated that the number is in the thousands.<ref name="Island3"/> | |||
</ref> | |||
] and ] by an MFI qawalist, ''Hafiz Nadeem Siddiqui''.]] | |||
==Shahi's alleged meeting with Jesus== | |||
=== Objectives === | |||
Wiping out hatred from society and from the lives of all humanity is a goal for Messiah/Mehdi Foundation International{{CN}}. ] strives to raise the awareness of what they claim to be "the long forgotten spiritual science" among all religions{{CN}}. ] claims to provide humanity with means of inner purification and spiritual ]. According to their website, <blockquote> MFI aims to unify all hearts and all souls of all the humanity. ] aims to bring about Spiritual ] on an international level. MFI aims to beautify the hearts of aspirants who seek ] to reach God. MFI aims to curb hatred from the hearts of humanity. Negative attributes in human beings take its roots from presence of ] in all human beings. MFI aims to help humanity eliminate devilish instinct in all human beings. | |||
In short, MFI aims to bring about divine love, and root out hatred from the hearts and lives of all human beings.</blockquote> | |||
In addition, ] also mentions that it is the responsibility of the organization to propagate various images of Jesus Christ{{CN}},]{{CN}}, ]{{CN}} (the sacred Hindu goddess) and R.A. Gohar Shahi which he claims have appeared on sacred, earthly and celestial locations as signs from God. In regards to the signs, he states, 'this is the divine plan that of unifying all religions and merging them all into one great religion; the religion of God, "]"'.<ref name="goharshahi.biz"/> | |||
Shahi claimed to have met with ] on 29 May 1997 in ], United States. When asked about what was discussed between himself and Jesus, Shahi stated that it was secretive and would be revealed at "an appropriate time". After this incident, an image of ], which the photograph's owner claimed had appeared miraculously from pictures taken of sacred places, was shown to Shahi in ], United States. It was then announced by Shahi to be the "original image of Jesus Christ."<ref name=GoharJesus>{{cite web| title = Return of Lord Jesus: Lord Jesus meets Lord Gohar Shahi in America| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?/about/meeting-with-jesus/| accessdate = July 1, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130522005656/http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?%2Fabout%2Fmeeting-with-jesus%2F| archive-date = May 22, 2013| url-status = dead}}</ref> | |||
=== Shahi's claimed meeting with Jesus === | |||
The MFI has taken this to mean Shahi has the support of Jesus Christ and propagates Jesus Christ as a "universal figure of divinity" who is for humanity rather than being confined to Christianity.<ref>{{cite web| title = Esoteric Person of Lord Jesus Christ| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?articles/view/esoteric-person-of-lord-jesus-christ/| accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
The movement claims that Shahi met with ] on the 29th of May, 1997 in ], ]. Shahi claimed that Jesus could speak many languages and did not live in a particular home. When asked about what was discussed between himself and Jesus, Shahi stated that it was secretive and would be revealed at an appropriate time. After this incident, an image of ] which, as the owner claimed, had appeared miraculously from photographs of sacred places was shown to Shahi in ]. It was then announced by Gohar Shahi as the "Original image of Jesus Christ".<ref name=GoharJesus>{{cite web | |||
| title = Return of Lord Jesus: Lord Jesus meets Lord Gohar Shahi in America | |||
| url = http://www.theawaitedone.com/jesus-second-coming.htm | |||
| dateformat = July 6 2007 | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}} | |||
</ref> | |||
==Teachings and Beliefs== | ==Teachings and Beliefs== | ||
They profess to be peace-promoting.<ref name="Island3"/><ref name="AsiaToday"/><ref name="SL2012">{{cite web|url=http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2012/01/01/spreading-divine-love-messiah-foundation-international/|title=Spreading Divine Love Messiah Foundation International|publisher=Sunday Leader|date=1 January 2012|accessdate=1 January 2012}}</ref> They condemn hate-preaching, especially in the context of religion.<ref name="Island4"/><ref name="Lakbima Interview"/><ref>{{cite press release | title = How to Practically Combat Hatred and Terrorism | publisher = Messiah Foundation International| date = 15 May 2012 | url = http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?articles/view/how-to-practically-combat-hatred-and-terrorism/ | accessdate = 1 July 2012}}</ref> Their teachings, based on ''the Goharian Philosophy of Mystical Sciences and Divine Love'', are purported to be acceptable to all regardless of religious affiliation or nationality.<ref name="Island3"/><ref name="AsiaToday"/><ref name="TNL"/><ref>{{cite web| title = The Function of Messiah Foundation International| url =http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?/news/view/the-function-of-mfi/| accessdate = 1 July 2012 }}</ref> | |||
The insitute considers itself to be peace promoting, and condemns the spread of hatred especially through religion, i.e. terrorism.<ref> | |||
{{cite press release | |||
| title = Islamic Terrorism Holds the Whole Humanity Hostage | |||
| publisher = Messiah Foundation International | |||
| date = 14 July 2007 | |||
| url = http://www.theawaitedone.com/correspondence/Islamic-Terrorism.html | |||
| accessdate = 10 October 2009 }}</ref> | |||
===R.A. Gohar Shahi and the Divine Signs=== | |||
The beliefs of MFI are based on the teachings of R.A. Gohar Shahi, whom they consider the awaited Messianic figure predicted to come towards the end of the world. They believe that it is their duty to tell humanity about R.A. Gohar Shahi’s teachings and about the “the divine signs” which are images of R.A. Gohar Shahi, Jesus Christ and other spiritual figures whose appearance on the Moon, Sun, the Holy Black Stone in Mecca, Mars, and other celestial bodies are propagated by the MFI.<ref name="divinesigns">{{cite web | |||
| title = An insight into manifestation of Human Images In the Moon, Mars, and various others planets | |||
| url = http://www.divine-signs.org/manifestation_of_human_images.html | |||
| dateformat = Unknown | |||
| accessdate = 10 October 2009 }}</ref> They believe these images were put on these locations by God. A "divine sign" that is emphasized upon the most is the image of Gohar Shahi on the moon, which the group of spiritualists claims has spoken to people in different languages and which has rendered spiritual benevolence to those searching for divine love. They declare that the titles of the ],] and ] do not refer to three personalities, but are rather different titles for one personality, whom they depict as Gohar Shahi.<ref name="The Tower of Divine Love and Light">{{cite web | |||
| title = The Tower of Divine Love and Light | |||
| url = http://www.riazaljannah.com/teachings/2008/dec/28/ | |||
| dateformat = December 27 2008 | |||
| accessdate =9 October 2009 }} | |||
</ref> | |||
===Method=== | |||
===The Spiritual Heart (])=== | |||
According to their ], God's love is implanted in the heart when one's heart is initiated with God's name.<ref name="AsiaToday"/><ref name=GPDL>{{cite web| title = Universality of Ra Gohar Shahi's Teachings| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?articles/view/universality-of-imam-mehdi-gohar-shahis-message/ | accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> In this approach, the name of God is supposed to become synchronised within the heartbeats to produce "divine energy" which would then clean the heart and implant love of God so as to connect the aspirant with God.<ref name="Island3"/><ref name="leader2011">{{Citation| last = Kannanagara| first = Nirmala| title = Spiritual Leader Speaks of Love Unsurpassed| newspaper = The Sunday Leader| date = 29 May 2011| url =http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2011/05/29/spiritual-leader-speaks-of-a-love-unsurpassed/| accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> It is referred to ] in Islamic terminology and "]" in Hindu terminology. The MFI claims to not be influenced by any one ] or ] and do not discriminate against anyone based on "nation, religion, cast, creed", etc.<ref name="SL2012"/> | |||
The focus of the institute is on spiritual cleansing to love God{{CN}}, which they say is practical. They claim to not be influenced by any particular ] or ] and do not discriminate against anyone based on nation{{CN}}, “religion, cast, creed”, etc <ref name="goharshahi.biz"/>. According to them, the way to God is through the heart, not through worship, therefore their teachings lay emphasis on the cleansing of the heart to reach God. According to their ], God’s love is implanted in the heart when one’s heart is initiated with God’s name.<ref name=GPDL/> In this methodology, the name of God supposedly becomes synchronized within the heartbeats to produce “divine energy” which would then clean the heart and implant love of God so as to connect the aspirant with God.<ref name="goharshahi.biz"/> This is called “Zikr-e-Qalb” <ref> | |||
The organisation purports that religions have both an inner dimension and outer. The teachings state that the outer part of the religion is the rituals and bodily worship while the inner religion is purification of the heart and souls to gain connection with God.<ref name="leader2011"/> In their beliefs, the inner religion is the core while the outer religion is like a "potato skin"<ref name="The Tower of Divine Love and Light"/> Part of their claims is that the spiritual system within the religions today has diminished. They propose to "convert the hearts towards divine love" rather than to a particular religion.<ref name="The Tower of Divine Love and Light"/> AlGohar asserts that because the MFI does not lay emphasis on rituals and worship, people from different religions can follow their teachings while practicing their own faith.<ref name="Island3"/><ref name="AsiaToday"/> | |||
{{cite web | |||
| title = Message Of Peace: Zikr-e-Ilahi | |||
| url = http://www.zikr-e-ilahi.com/english/zikr-english.php | |||
| dateformat = unknown | |||
| accessdate = 10 October 2009 }} | |||
</ref> in Islamic Terminology and “]” in Hinduism. | |||
=== |
===Eschatology=== | ||
The MFI maintains that the world is passing through its twilight phase.<ref>{{Citation | last = Younus | first = Nasir| title = 2026 Website| url= http://twenty26.com/}}</ref> Members propagate that the world is supposed to end in 2026, when a comet would collide with Earth in accordance with Shahi's predictions in ''The Religion of God''<ref name="jobshire"/><ref name="Guardian"/><ref name="independent"/><ref name="ROFG">{{Cite book| last = Gohar Shahi| first = Riaz Ahmed| title = The Religion of God| location = United States of America| year = 2012 | page = 36| isbn = 978-1-45254-908-8}}</ref><ref>{{Citation | last = AlGohar | first = Younus | title = 2026| url= http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?/media/watch/twentytwentysix/ | accessdate = 30 Jan 2011}}</ref><ref>{{Citation| last = Brannan| first = Eoin | title = A Christian group is predicting the world will end - today | url= http://www.newstalk.com/Christian-group-predict-the-world-will-end-tomorrow | accessdate = 11 October 2015}}</ref> They also declare that the only hope for humanity is Shahi and that his image they propagate to be on the Moon will provide salvation for humanity "when calamity strikes".<ref name="independent"/><ref>{{Citation| last = Beeksma| first = D. | title = 2026 and the End Times — Messiah appears on the moon | url= http://www.goddiscussion.com/40568/2026-and-the-end-times-messiah-appears-on-the-moon/ | accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
===Claimed miracles=== | |||
According to MFI{{CN}}, worship is fruitless if one does not have a pure heart{{CN}}. The organization believes that the religions all have two parts, outer and inner{{CN}}. The teachings state that the outer part of the religion is the rituals and bodily worship while the inner religion is purification of the heart and souls to gain connection with God. In their beliefs, the inner religion is the core while the outer religion is like a “potato skin”<ref name=towerofdivinelove>{{cite web | |||
*The MFI believes in ], offering that service to the wider community.<ref name="Island4"/> It claims to heal all diseases and ailments including ] and ]; and also claims that it has done so in the past.<ref name="Island3"/> They also publicise that the alleged image of Shahi on the Moon performs healing.<ref name="TNL"/><ref>{{cite web| title = Experiences| url = http://www.kalkiavatarfoundation.com/experiences| accessdate = 8 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| title = The Tower of Divine Love and Light | |||
*The MFI claims divine intervention caused a sandstorm during an attack on an MFI procession in ], ]. Members were allegedly attacked with bricks and bullets by local ] angered by the claims that ] represented the ]. Reports provided show that such had happened, but none of the members were injured, to which the members credited the "miracle".<ref>{{cite web| title = Miracle of Messiah Gohar Shahi| website=] | date=19 September 2008 | url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gDI-2T1FmA| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> | |||
| url = http://www.riazaljannah.com/teachings/2008/dec/28/ | |||
| dateformat = December 27 2008 | |||
| accessdate =9 October 2009 }} | |||
</ref> Part of their claims is that the inner religion, that is to say, the spiritual system within the religions today has diminished. They claim to not convert anyone to any religion, but rather convert the hearts towards divine love, which they say is the essence of all religions. Because MFI does not lay emphasis on rituals and worship, people from different religions follow their teachings while practicing their own faith, which is why the organization calls itself an “interfaith non-religious spiritual intuitional organization”.<ref name="goharshahi.biz"/> | |||
==''The Religion of God '' by Shahi== | |||
===Jesus Christ=== | |||
Before his disappearance, Shahi penned a book, ''Deen-e-Ilahi'' (literally "the Religion of God"). ''Deen-e-Ilahi'' explains secrets of spirituality as per the understanding of Shahi. On the front cover, Shahi states, "This book requires unruffled concentration and attention, pondering and research from all religious sects and every man. It poses a challenge for those who reject the existence of Spirituality."<ref name ="DIUS">{{cite web| title = The Religion of God| url = http://www.thereligionofgod.com/| accessdate = 29 June 2012}}</ref> | |||
They believe that ] has already returned to the world, and they believe that Jesus is working with R.A. Gohar Shahi to spread love.{{CN}} They also believe that images of Jesus Christ have appeared in the Holy Black Stone, and the Moon.{{CN}} MFI believes that Jesus Christ had a meeting with Gohar Shahi in 1997.<ref name=GoharJesus/> In addition, MFI propagates Jesus Christ as a ‘universal figure of divinity’ who is for humanity rather than being confined to the religion of Christianity.<ref> | |||
Originally ''Deen-e-Ilahi'' was written in ], the native tongue of Shahi, however the book is available in English, ], ], French, German, ], Italian, ], Portuguese, ], Spanish, ], and ] as well.<ref>{{cite web| title = Deen-e-Ilahi by R.A. Gohar Shahi| url = http://www.goharshahi.com/deen_e_elahi/urd_.shtml| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> | |||
{{cite web | |||
| title = Esoteric Person of Lord Jesus Christ | |||
MFI distributes the book for free and through ], with whom they republished the book in English on May 17, 2012.<ref name="balboa">{{Citation| title= The Religion of God (Divine Love) | url= http://bookstore.balboapress.com/Products/SKU-000528516/The-Religion-of-God-Divine-Love.aspx| accessdate = 29 June 2012}}</ref> As of June 29, 2012, it was #5 on the publisher's Best Seller's List.<ref>{{Citation|title=Balboa Press Best Sellers |url=http://bookstore.balboapress.com/Products/CategoryCenter/BABEST/Best-Sellers.aspx |accessdate=29 June 2012 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120701124154/http://bookstore.balboapress.com/Products/CategoryCenter/BABEST/Best-Sellers.aspx |archivedate=1 July 2012 }}</ref> | |||
| url = http://www.divine-signs.org/esoteric-jesus.html | |||
''Deen-e-Ilahi'' is now banned in ], due to it allegedly carrying material offensive to Muslims.<ref name="UNHCR"/><ref>{{Citation| title= SC moved against ban on controversial book| url= http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=story_8-7-2004_pg7_43| accessdate = 8 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| dateformat = unknown | |||
| accessdate = 11 October 2009}} | |||
</ref> They consider the interests of R.A. Gohar Shahi to be closely related to those of Jesus; i.e. global peace and divine love.<ref> | |||
{{cite web | |||
|last= Bell | |||
|first= Steve | |||
| title = Jesus’ Wings of Love | |||
| url = http://www.theawaitedone.com/christian_catholic.htm | |||
| dateformat = January 29 2008 | |||
| accessdate = 10 October 2009}} | |||
</ref> | |||
==Controversy== | |||
===Claimed miracles === | |||
MFI has been opposed by religious groups particularly in ]. Many cases, later proved false, have been instigated against Shahi. In regards to this subject, the following is written in ''The Religion of God'', written by Shahi: | |||
*The M/MFI believes in ], offering that service to the wider community. | |||
<blockquote>The Wahhabi denomination has very religiously taken it to persecute, discourage, entrap and eradicate His Divine Eminence Gohar Shahi. Hence, they instigated various false cases against His Divine Eminence Gohar Shahi. They have been threatened by the universality of His Divine Eminence’s message of Divine Love, and His ever-increasing fame on the global sphere.<ref>{{Cite book| last = Gohar Shahi| first = Riaz Ahmed| title = The Religion of God| location = United States of America| year = 2012 | page = xvii| isbn = 978-1-45254-908-8}}</ref></blockquote> | |||
*The M/MFI claims divine intervention caused a sandstorm during an attack on an MFI procession in ], ]. Members were allegedly attacked by local ] angered by the claims that Shahi represented the ].<ref> | |||
The government of ] also banned ''The Religion of God'' and his magazine ''Hatif-e-Mehdi'' for allegedly "... matter which is objectionable and maliciously intended to outrage the religious feelings of the Muslims and these should be seized".<ref name=PPF>{{Citation|title=Banned magazines to be seized |newspaper=Pakistan Press Foundation |location=Karachi |date=20 August 2005 |url=http://www.pakistanpressfoundation.org/usermediafilesdetails.asp?uid=6008 |accessdate=24 February 2010 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110727162312/http://www.pakistanpressfoundation.org/usermediafilesdetails.asp?uid=6008 |archivedate=July 27, 2011 }}</ref> | |||
{{cite web | |||
| title = Miracle of Messiah Gohar Shahi | |||
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gDI-2T1FmA | |||
| dateformat = September 19 2008 | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}} | |||
</ref> | |||
AlGohar has also been persecuted by the government of ], having been issued a death sentence for allegedly blaspheming, though details of his blasphemy have not been disclosed.<ref name="Island3"/><ref>{{Citation | title =Croydon religious leader faces life in Pakistani jail for his beliefs | newspaper = Your Local Guardian | location = London| date =30 September 2009|url=http://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/news/4645892.Croydon_religious_leader_faces_life_in_Pakistani_jail_for_his_beliefs/| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> | |||
== ''The Religion of God ''== | |||
] | |||
Before his disappearance, Gohar Shahi penned a book, ''Deen-e-Ilahi'' (literally "the Religion/Lifestyle of God"). ''Deen-e-Ilahi'' explains secrets of spirituality as per the understanding of Gohar Shahi. On the front cover, Gohar Shahi states "The book (in hand) requires unruffled concentration and attention, pondering and research from all religious sects and every man. It poses a challenge for those who reject the existence of Spirituality."<ref></ref> | |||
Originally ''Deen-e-Ilahi'' was written in Urdu, the native tongue of Shahi, however through the efforts of Messiah Foundation International{{CN}}, the book is now available in English, ], ], French, German, ], Italian, ], Portuguese, ], Spanish, ], and ] as well.<ref> | |||
{{cite web | |||
| title = Deen-e-Ilahi by R.A. Gohar Shahi | |||
| url = http://www.goharshahi.com/urdu/index.htm | |||
| dateformat = October 24 2006 | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> | |||
Because the movement is non-profit and believes that the grace of Gohar Shahi should not be held back from anyone, they distribute the book for free. According to them, anyone wishing to embark on the spiritual path should study ''Deen-e-Ilahi''. The book can be found in an online version as well.<ref>http://www.theawaitedone.com/religion-of-god.htm</ref> | |||
Due to the strict extremist nature of the ] government of ], ''Deen-e-Ilahi'' is now banned there.<ref name="UNHCR"/> | |||
Messiah Foundation International claims that the ] has persecuted and jailed some 50 MFI members under false charges of ] against ].<ref name="Island3"/><ref name="UNHCR"/> ]s have been registered against officials of MFI in ].<ref name="AverburyMFI"/> | |||
== Controversy == | |||
Members of MFI have been subject to fierce religious opposition due to their emphasis on "the spirit of the law" rather than the "letter of the law",{{CN}} the latter being given much importance by radical religious scholars, particularly in ]. Their universal method of spirituality has been fiercely opposed by radical scholars, as the beliefs of MFI do not give importance to any one religion, but rather says that all religions alluding to God are worthy of respect.{{CN}} The co-founder of Messiah Foundation International, ] has also been persecuted by the government of ]{{CN}} and they have issued death sentences against him for blaspheming,{{CN}} though it is not specified exactly how he blasphemed. <ref>{{Citation | |||
| title =Croydon religious leader faces life in Pakistani jail for his beliefs | |||
| newspaper = Your Local Guardian | |||
| location = London | |||
| date =30th September 2009 | |||
| url =http://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/news/4645892.Croydon_religious_leader_faces_life_in_Pakistani_jail_for_his_beliefs/ | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> | |||
In a related incident, an armed group hijacked a bus in ], claimed that their leader was the ], and went on to have a shootout with the police. This had been falsely attributed to Messiah Foundation International.<ref name="UNHCR"/><ref name="WWRN">{{Citation | title = Cult leader, followers sent to jail | newspaper = Worldwide Religious News| date = 16 December 2005| url =http://wwrn.org/articles/19879/?&place=pakistan§ion=other-nrms | accessdate = 9 July 2013}}</ref> The leader, Shahbaz Khan, claimed in an interview with a Pakistani newspaper to be supported by the alleged billionaire and hypnotist ]. These claims were not verified.<ref name="DailyTimes">{{Citation | title = Gohar Shahi group funding 'Imam Mehdi'network | newspaper= Daily Times | date = n.d.| url =http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2005\12\28\story_28-12-2005_pg7_7| accessdate = 9 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
On their website, Messiah Foundation International claims that the ] has persecuted and jailed some 50 ] members under charges of ] against ],though they claim to have done nothing but preach Divine Love as per Gohar Shahi’s teachings.{{CN}} ]s have been registered against officials of MFI in ]. In India, an ] was reported on members who were protesting in ] against the Pakistani government by burning effigies of the likes of ] and ] as well as burning their travel documents, which meant that they were in India illegally. <ref name=”FIRIndia”> {{Cite press release | |||
| title = India First Information Report | |||
| publisher = Messiah Foundation International Persecution | |||
| date = April 23, 2007 | |||
| url = http://www.goharshahi.biz/persecution/wp-content/uploads/2007/08/india-fir-english.pdf | |||
| accessdate = January 21, 2010}} </ref> Besides this, the government of ] also passed allegations on R.A. Gohar Shahi which were later proven false, and banned his book, "the Religion of God", for its emphasis on ] rather than the religion of ]. | |||
A press release by MFI stated that "The false claimant Shahbaz has no association with MFI. Shahbaz is a severely misguided and blasphemous to His Holiness Gohar Shahi. Shahbaz, the impostor has demanded the government to deal with Goharians harshly which suggests that he does not belong to MFI".<ref name="KhanPR">{{Cite press release| title = Press Release | publisher = Messiah Foundation International Media| date = December 25, 2005}}</ref> It is also stated in the same press release that MFI believes Shahi to be the only awaited ] and does not support Shahbaz Khan. In an open letter to the former ], ], Younus AlGohar demanded justice be served to the 50 or so MFI members who had been persecuted because Khan claimed to be associated with MFI.<ref name= "lettertoPP">{{Cite press release| title = Letter to President Pervez Musharraf from CEO MFI, Younus AlGohar| publisher = Messiah Foundation International Media | date = December 25, 2005 }}</ref> In addition, the ] stated that "There is no suggestion that either organised Ahmed's actions in Pakistan or knew what he and his disciples were planning".<ref name="UNHCR"/> | |||
MFI has been subject to negative propaganda primarily in the ] region of the world. One incident, where a man and a group of armed followers hijacked a bus in ], claimed that their leader was the ], and went on to have a shoot out with the police, has been seemingly falsely attributed to Messiah Foundation International. <ref name=”WWRN”>{{Citation | |||
| title = Cult leader, followers sent to jail | |||
| newspaper = Worldwide Religious News | |||
| date = 16 December 2005 | |||
| url =http://wwrn.org/articles/19879/?&place=pakistan§ion=other-nrms | |||
| accessdate = <!-----January 21, 2010----->}}</ref> <ref name="UNHCR"/> The man, Shahbaz Khan in an interview with a Pakistani newspaper, claimed to be supported by the alleged “billionaire” ], whom he claimed had also taught his hypnotism. <ref name=”DailyTimes”>{{Citation | |||
| title = Gohar Shahi group funding ‘Imam Mehdi’network | |||
| newspaper= Daily Times | |||
| date = Undated | |||
| url =http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2005\12\28\story_28-12-2005_pg7_7 | |||
| accessdate = <!-----January 21, 2010----->}}</ref> However, a press release by MFI stated that “The false claimant Shahbaz has no association with MFI.{{CN}} Shahbaz is a severely misguided and a blasphemous to His Holiness Gohar Shahi.{{CN}} Shahbaz, the impostor has demanded the government, to deal with Goharians harshly which suggests that he does not belong to MFI.” <ref name=”KhanPR”> | |||
{{Cite press release | |||
| title = Press Release | |||
| publisher = Messiah Foundation International Media | |||
| date = December 25, 2005 | |||
| url = http://www.imammehdigoharshahi.info/category/latest-news/2005/ | |||
| accessdate = January 22, 2010}}</ref>. It is also stated in the same press release that MFI believes Gohar Shahi to be the only awaited ] and does not support Shahbaz Khan.{{CN}} In a letter to the former ], ], Younus AlGohar demands justice be served to the 50 or so MFI members who had been persecuted because Khan claimed to be associated with MFI. <ref name= “lettertoPP”> {{Cite press release | |||
| title = Letter to President Pervez Musharraf from CEO MFI, Younus AlGohar| publisher = Messiah Foundation International Media | date = December 25, 2005 | url = http://www.imammehdigoharshahi.info/category/latest-news/2005/| accessdate = January 22, 2010}}</ref>. In addition the ] stated that “There is no suggestion that leaders of the Gohar Shahi religion either organized Ahmed's actions in Pakistan or knew what he and his disciples were planning”. <ref name="UNHCR"/> | |||
Due to the nature of topics covered in speeches by AlGohar released onto the internet, some Muslims in ] have staged protests against MFI and declared them infidels. Furthermore, newspapers in Pakistan reported protesters demanding that MFI members be punished.<ref name="AgainstMFI">{{Cite web| title = News Reports against MFI in Pakistan| url = http://www.goharshahi.com/urdu/latestnews/2010/jan/17/index.htm| accessdate = 9 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
{{Cite web | |||
| title = News Reports against MFI in Pakistan | |||
| url = http://www.goharshahi.com/urdu/latestnews/2010/jan/17/index.htm | |||
| dateformat = January 17, 2010 | |||
| accessdate = January 25, 2010}}</ref> | |||
==Persecution== | ==Persecution== | ||
''Extract written by ], in his report |
''Extract written by ], in his report on the MFI.'' | ||
<blockquote> | <blockquote> | ||
On 11 August 2008 a blasphemy case 295A, PPC was registered against eight '''MFI''' members by the Khatam-e-Nabuwwat (FIR No. 281/2008, Date of Occurrence 8 August 2008), at ] Kotri, District Jamshoro, ], ]. | On 11 August 2008 a blasphemy case 295A, PPC was registered against eight '''MFI''' members by the Khatam-e-Nabuwwat (FIR No. 281/2008, Date of Occurrence 8 August 2008), at ] Kotri, District Jamshoro, ], ]. | ||
''(See copy of English translation of FIR, attached)'' | ''(See copy of English translation of FIR, attached)'' | ||
On 5 August 2008 two '''MFI''' members (Mustaqeem and Umer) were severely beaten by extremists, but an FIR was registered against MFI members (FIR No. C/31/08, Date of Report 6 August 2008, ] Sharif Abad, District ], ], ]) ''(See copy of English translation of FIR, attached)'' | On 5 August 2008 two '''MFI''' members (Mustaqeem and Umer) were severely beaten by extremists, but an FIR was registered against MFI members (FIR No. C/31/08, Date of Report 6 August 2008, ] Sharif Abad, District ], ], ]) ''(See copy of English translation of FIR, attached)'' | ||
On 18 October 2008 at 03.30 Mr Mohammad Iqbal |
On 18 October 2008 at 03.30 Mr Mohammad Iqbal (whose family was active in MFI) was murdered (FIR No. 995/2008, Offence u/s 302, 148, 149 PPC, Date of Report 16 October 2008 at 0500 AM, ] Factory Area, District Shaikhupura, ] Province, ])(See copy of English translation of FIR, attached).Hatred has been incited against the MFI members in ], who are accused of blasphemy, and these incidents are examples of the result. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), New Delhi, wrote on 4 September 2008, to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government, setting out the case well. It was reported on 4 August 2009 in the daily Safeer, that Mr Paras Masih, organiser for the Christian community of the MFI, had been murdered in ].<ref name="AverburyMFI">{{Citation | last = Averbury | ||
| last = Averbury | |||
| first = Eric | | first = Eric | ||
| title = Mehdi Foundation International | | title = Mehdi Foundation International | ||
| date = 14 July 2010 | |||
| url=http://ericavebury.blogspot.com/search?q=mehdi+foundation | |||
| accessdate = |
| url= http://ericavebury.blogspot.com/2010/07/mehdi-foundation-international.html | accessdate = 10 July 2013}}</ref></blockquote> | ||
In another case, members of MFI in Pakistan were arrested and charged for claiming Shahi as being the Imam Mehdi. According to Dawn.com, | |||
63 members of MFI in Pakistan obtained tourist visas to India{{CN}}, where they staged a protest which had serious consequences.{{CN}} On April 23, 2007, MFI members protested in front of the Pakistani Embassy in ], ], India, against the government of Pakistan. They asked India for ], refusing to return to their homeland. During their protests, they burnt their passports and travel documents that tied them to Pakistan as well as Pakistani flags and effigies of ] and ]<ref>{{Cite news | |||
<blockquote>2005 – December 23: Five members of the Mehdi Foundation International were arrested in Wapda Town, Lahore, for putting up posters of their leader Riaz Gohar Shahi showing him as 'Imam Mehdi'. The Anti-Terrorism Court sentenced each to five years of imprisonment under 295-A of PPC. Their prisoners’ records posted outside the cell falsely indicate that they had been sentenced under 295-C – the Blasphemy Law.<ref>{{Citation|title=Is there an end? |newspaper=Dawn |date=6 August 2009 |url=http://www.dawn.com/wps/wcm/connect/dawn-content-library/dawn/news/pakistan/provinces/18-is-there-an-end-am-01 |accessdate=13 July 2013 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090903102243/http://www.dawn.com/wps/wcm/connect/dawn-content-library/dawn/news/pakistan/provinces/18-is-there-an-end-am-01 |archivedate=September 3, 2009 }}</ref></blockquote> | |||
| title ='Pakistani nationals' seek asylum, burn passports | |||
The prisoners "were forced to parade naked, hung up in the air and beaten", and were sexually abused in jail by staff members.<ref name ="report">{{Cite press release| title = Report of the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief| publisher = United Nations General Assembly | date = 28 February 2008}}</ref><ref>{{Cite press release|title=USCIRF letter to President Bush for his meeting with Pakistan's Prime Minister |publisher=United States Commission on International Religious Freedom |date=20 January 2006 |url=http://www.uscirf.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1512&Itemid=1 |accessdate=13 July 2013 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528083141/http://www.uscirf.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1512&Itemid=1 |archivedate=May 28, 2010 }}</ref> | |||
| pages = | |||
| newspaper = the Times of India | |||
| location = New Delhi, India | |||
| date = 24 April 2007 | |||
| url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/cities/delhi/pakistani_nationals_seek_asylum_burn_passports/articleshow/1947194.cms | |||
| accessdate = <!-----29 October 2009----->}} </ref><ref> | |||
{{cite web | |||
| title = Mehdi Foundation International Protests against Pakistan | |||
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BW9DFCf6zG0&feature=PlayList&p=A8E13E747437ACAE&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=3 | |||
| dateformat = April 30 2007 | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref>. They were subsequently arrested for having no travel documentation and therefore being in India illegally. <ref> {{Citation | title = HC stays deportation of 67 Pakistani nationals | newspaper = Indian Express | location = New Delhi | date = Nov 19, 2008 | url = http://www.indianexpress.com/news/hc-stays-deportation-of-67-pakistani-nationa/387834/ | accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> It is reported that they feared for their lives in Pakistan, where, if they went back, they would be charged with the ], the penalty for which is death. <ref>{{Citation | |||
| title = U.S. Department of State Annual Report on International Religious Freedom for 2000 – Pakistan | |||
| date = 5 September 2000 | |||
| url = http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/country,,USDOS,,PAK,,3ae6a88b4,0.html | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009 }}</ref> | |||
<ref name="AverburyMFI"/> | |||
<ref name="epaper.hindustantimes.com"> {{Citation | |||
| title = 67 Pakistanis in Tihar who don’t want to return home | |||
| newspaper = Hindustan Times | |||
| location = India | |||
| date = 27 November 2008 | |||
| url =http://epaper.hindustantimes.com/blog/2008/11/67-pakistanis-in-tihar-who-dont-want-to.html | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> | |||
]'', India in protest of persecution they faced in ] for their beliefs.]] | |||
Among the 63 members were 19 women{{CN}}, 5 of whom are pregnant in “advanced stages” and 7 children.{{CN}} ], the Co-Founder of ]{{CN}}, states that “They were abused and sexually harassed in Tihar Jail.{{CN}} Now, the ] is considering repatriating them back to ].{{CN}} The ] seems to bear no sympathy for these 63 ] members who escaped from severe persecution and potential ].” <ref name="goharshahi.biz"/> Later, the ] in New Delhi recommended to the government of India that the Pakistan nationals should not be deported back “till a proper decision on their request for asylum is taken by the government.” | |||
<ref>{{Cite press release | |||
| title = NHRC recommends that 63 Pakistani asylum seekers should not be deported till a proper decision on their request is taken | |||
| publisher = National Human Rights Commission | |||
| date = August 27, 2007 | |||
| url = http://nhrc.nic.in/disparchive.asp?fno=1454 | |||
| accessdate = October 29, 2009}}</ref> | |||
===MFI Members in Tihar Jail=== | |||
On April 23, 2007, 63 Pakistani MFI members, having obtained tourist visas to India, protested in front of the Pakistani Embassy in ], ], India, against the government of Pakistan. They asked India for ], refusing to return to their homeland. During their protests, they burnt their passports and travel documents that tied them to Pakistan, Pakistani flags, and effigies of ] and ].<ref>{{Cite news | title ='Pakistani nationals' seek asylum, burn passports | location = New Delhi, India| date = 24 April 2007 | url = http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-04-24/delhi/27869078_1_pakistani-nationals-terrorist-state-passports| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110811030207/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-04-24/delhi/27869078_1_pakistani-nationals-terrorist-state-passports| url-status = dead| archive-date = 11 August 2011| newspaper =] | accessdate = 10 July 2013}}</ref><ref name="asianage">{{Cite news|title=55 Pak refugees set to fly to US, Canada |newspaper=the Asian Age |location=Delhi, India |date=14 December 2011 |url=http://www.asianage.com/delhi/55-pak-refugees-set-fly-us-canada-180 |accessdate=13 July 2013 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120616155003/http://www.asianage.com/delhi/55-pak-refugees-set-fly-us-canada-180 |archivedate=June 16, 2012 }}</ref><ref name="outlook">{{Cite news | title = 55 Pak Prisoners Released From Tihar | newspaper = Outlook India | location = New Delhi, India| date = 13 December 2011 | url = http://news.outlookindia.com/items.aspx?artid=744231| accessdate = 23 December 2011}}</ref><ref name="zee2011">{{Cite news | title = Pak prisoners released from Tihar | newspaper = Zee News | location = New Delhi, India | date = 13 December 2011 | url = http://zeenews.india.com/news/nation/pak-prisoners-released-from-tihar_746759.html| accessdate = 23 December 2011}}</ref><ref name="IBNLIVE">{{Cite news | title = Pak prisoners released from Tihar | newspaper = IBN Live | location = New Delhi, India| date = 13 December 2011 | url = http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/pak-prisoners-released-from-tihar/926759.html | archive-url = https://archive.today/20130126035109/http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/pak-prisoners-released-from-tihar/926759.html | url-status = dead | archive-date = 26 January 2013 | accessdate = 23 December 2011}}</ref><ref name="bhaskar">{{Cite news | title = Pak prisoners released from Tihar | newspaper = Daily Bhaskar | location = New Delhi, India| date = 13 December 2011 }}</ref><ref name="omantribune">{{Cite news | title = 55 Pak prisoners freed from Tihar | newspaper = Oman Tribune | location = New Delhi, India| url = http://www.omantribune.com/index.php?page=news&id=107456&heading=India | accessdate = 23 December 2011}}</ref><ref name="IRNA">{{Cite news | title = Pak prisoners released from Indian Jail | newspaper = Islamic Republic News Agency| location = New Delhi, India}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title = Mehdi Foundation International Protests against Pakistan| website=] | date=30 April 2007 | url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BW9DFCf6zG0&feature=PlayList&p=A8E13E747437ACAE&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=3| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> They were subsequently arrested for having no travel documentation and therefore being in India illegally.<ref>{{Citation | title = HC stays deportation of 67 Pakistani nationals | newspaper = Indian Express | location = New Delhi | date = November 19, 2008 | url = http://www.indianexpress.com/news/hc-stays-deportation-of-67-pakistani-nationa/387834/ | accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> It is reported that they feared for their lives in Pakistan, where if they went back they would be charged with the ], the penalty for which is death.<ref name="AverburyMFI"/><ref>{{Citation | title = U.S. Department of State Annual Report on International Religious Freedom for 2000 – Pakistan | date = 5 September 2000| url = http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/country,,USDOS,,PAK,,3ae6a88b4,0.html | accessdate = 9 October 2009 }}</ref><ref name="epaper.hindustantimes.com">{{Citation | title = 67 Pakistanis in Tihar who don't want to return home | newspaper = Hindustan Times | location = India | date = 27 November 2008}}</ref> According to ''Zee News'', ''IBN Live'', ''Outlook India'' and other newspapers, the Pakistani government had banned their practice of faith in Pakistan.<ref name="asianage"/><ref name="outlook"/><ref name="zee2011"/><ref name="IBNLIVE"/><ref name="bhaskar"/><ref name="omantribune"/><ref name="IRNA"/> | |||
Among the 63 members were 19 women, 5 of whom are pregnant in "advanced stages" and 7 children. The ''DNA'' reports, "The Pakistani judges said they were shocked to see 16 Pakistani prisoners had lost their mental balance in Amritsar jail."<ref name="DNA"/> Later, the ] in New Delhi recommended to the government of India that the Pakistan nationals should not be deported back "till a proper decision on their request for asylum is taken by the government."<ref>{{Cite press release | title = NHRC recommends that 63 Pakistani asylum seekers should not be deported till a proper decision on their request is taken | publisher = National Human Rights Commission | date = August 27, 2007 | url = http://nhrc.nic.in/disparchive.asp?fno=1454 | accessdate = October 29, 2009}}</ref> | |||
On the 22nd of May, 2007 in front of Indian Embassy in London, UK, MFI members staged a demonstration to bring attention to the situations of their members who were then in jail and the dangers they faced if the Indian government decided to deport them to Pakistan. <ref name="UNHCR"/><ref> | |||
{{cite press release | |||
| title = NHRC takes up the case of 63 Pak asylum seekers | |||
| publisher = National Human Rights Commission | |||
| date = 12 July 2007 | |||
| url = http://nhrc.nic.in/disparchive.asp?fno=1435 | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009 }}</ref> | |||
On 22 May 2007, in front of Indian Embassy in London, the MFI staged a demonstration to bring attention to the situation of their members in jail and the dangers they faced if the Indian government decided to deport them to Pakistan.<ref name="UNHCR"/><ref>{{cite press release | title = NHRC takes up the case of 63 Pak asylum seekers | publisher = National Human Rights Commission | date = 12 July 2007| url = http://nhrc.nic.in/disparchive.asp?fno=1435| accessdate = 9 October 2009 }}</ref> | |||
However, the Telegraph in ], as well as other Indian newspapers, reported on November 26, 2009 that the plea to involve the National Human Rights Commission had been rejected by the government of India{{CN}} and that the ] nationals were being put in the process of deportation despite the fact that, upon deportation, they would be charged for under the ] in Pakistan.<ref>{{Citation | |||
| last = SENGUPTA | |||
| first = ANANYA | |||
| title = Pakistanis denied asylum | |||
| newspaper = The Telegraph | |||
| location = Calcutta, India | |||
| date = November 26, 2009 | |||
| url = http://www.telegraphindia.com/1091127/jsp/nation/story_11792499.jsp | |||
| accessdate = <!----- December 5th 2009----->}}</ref> <ref>{{Citation | |||
| last = Bhatnagar | |||
| first = Rakesh | |||
| title = Pakistani prisoners in Tihar won't get asylum: Centre | |||
| newspaper = The DNA | |||
| location = New Delhi | |||
| date = November 26, 2009 | |||
| url = http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_pakistani-prisoners-in-tihar-won-t-get-asylum-centre_1316993 | |||
| accessdate = <!----- December 5th 2009----->}}</ref> | |||
In the 2007 annual report on Pakistan, Human Rights Without Frontiers appealed to the National Human Rights Commission in India about the MFI case: "Is the Commission aware of the case of the planned deportation by India of 62 Pakistani citizens...? is a secular ] observing high standards of human rights including the right of peaceful practice of religion, and Pakistani Muslims consider that the religious beliefs of the Mehdi Foundation International are blasphemous, making its followers vulnerable to criminal charges for which the penalty is death under the controversial ]."<ref name=hrwf>{{Cite press release| title = Pakistan 2007 | publisher = Human Rights Without Frontiers }}</ref> | |||
In another case, members of MFI in Pakistan were arrested and charged for claiming R.A. Gohar Shahi to be the Imam Mehdi.{{CN}} According to Dawn.com, | |||
<blockquote>2005 – December 23: Five members of the Mehdi Foundation International were arrested in Wapda Town, Lahore, for putting up posters of their leader Riaz Gohar Shahi showing him as ‘Imam Mehdi’. The Anti-Terrorism Court sentenced each to five years of imprisonment under 295-A of PPC. Their prisoners’ records posted outside the cell falsely indicate that they had been sentenced under 295-C – the Blasphemy Law.<ref>{{Citation | title = Is there an end? | |||
| newspaper = Dawn | |||
| date = 6 August 2009 | |||
| url =http://www.dawn.com/wps/wcm/connect/dawn-content-library/dawn/news/pakistan/provinces/18-is-there-an-end-am-01 | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref></blockquote> | |||
The NHRC stated in reply that "The Commission...will examine...the most appropriate follow-up".<ref name="hrwf"/> However, the ''Telegraph'' in ], as well as other Indian newspapers, reported on November 26, 2009 that the plea to involve the National Human Rights Commission had been rejected by the government of India and that the ] nationals were being put in the process of deportation despite the fact that, upon deportation, they would be charged under the ] in Pakistan.<ref name="DNA">{{Citation | last = Bhatnagar | first = Rakesh | title = Pakistani prisoners in Tihar won't get asylum: Centre | newspaper = The DNA | location = New Delhi | date = 26 November 2009 | url = http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_pakistani-prisoners-in-tihar-won-t-get-asylum-centre_1316993 | accessdate =5 December 2009}}</ref><ref>{{Citation | last = Sengupta | first = Ananya | title = Pakistanis denied asylum | newspaper = The Telegraph | location = Calcutta, India | date = 26 November 2009| url = http://www.telegraphindia.com/1091127/jsp/nation/story_11792499.jsp | archive-url = https://archive.today/20130203230415/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1091127/jsp/nation/story_11792499.jsp | url-status = dead | archive-date = 3 February 2013 | accessdate = 5 December 2009}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news | title = No asylum for 66 Pak nationals, govt tells HC | newspaper = Decan Herald | location = New Delhi, India | date = 26 November 2009| url = http://www.deccanherald.com/content/38138/no%20asylum-66-pak-nationals.html | accessdate = 26 March 2010}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news | title = No asylum for 66 Pakistani nationals detained in Tihar | newspaper = Headlines India | location = New Delhi, India | date = 26 November 2009| url = http://headlinesindia.mapsofindia.com/judiciary/high-courts/no-asylum-for-66-pakistani-nationals-detained-in-tihar-29417.html | accessdate = 26 March 2010}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news | title = Delhi High Court stays repatriation of 67 Pakistani prisoners | newspaper = Associated Press of Pakistan | location = New Delhi | date = 20 November 2009 | url = http://www.app.com.pk/en_/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=59684&Itemid=2 | accessdate = 30 March 2010}}</ref> In December 2010, however, the ''Hindustan Times'' reported that the Delhi high court had issued a protection order for the inmates, preventing their deportation for 70 days as of December 2.<ref>{{Cite news | title = Delhi HC stays deportation of 55 Pakistanis in Tihar | newspaper = Hindustan Times| location = New Delhi | date = 14 December 2010 | url = http://www.hindustantimes.com/Delhi-HC-stays-deportation-of-55-Pakistanis-in-Tihar/Article1-638454.aspx | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110619152300/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Delhi-HC-stays-deportation-of-55-Pakistanis-in-Tihar/Article1-638454.aspx | url-status = dead | archive-date = June 19, 2011 | accessdate = 27 December 2010}}</ref> ''Mail Today'' reported in March 2011 that the UNHCR was asked by the Indian High Commission to conduct interviews of the jail members and grant them asylum in countries other than India within 6 weeks of December 2, 2010. This was extended another 3 weeks, but the possibility of them being deported to Pakistan had not been ruled out.<ref>{{Cite news | title = UNHCR meets Pakistani prisoners who sought asylum in India | newspaper = One India News | location = New Delhi | date = 12 January 2011| url = http://news.oneindia.in/2011/01/12/unhcrmeets-pakistani-prisoners-who-sought-asylum-inindia-aid0126.html | accessdate =17 December 2011}}</ref><ref>{{Citation | last = Choudhury | first = Anindita | title = Hounded from Pak Tihar jail is their home now | newspaper = Mail Today | location = New Delhi | date = 7 March 2011 | url = http://www.goharshahi.us/pdf/07-March-2011-Mail-Today.jpg}}</ref> In April 2011, though the Centre wished to deport the Pakistani nationals, the Delhi High Court ordered the Centre to wait until it made a decision on a plea to hand them over to the United Nations High Commission of Refugees.<ref>{{Citation | title = Court allows 65 detained Pakistanis to stay in jail | newspaper = Legal India | location = New Delhi| date = 5 April 2011 | url = http://www.legalindia.in/court-allows-65-detained-pakistanis-to-stay-in-jail | accessdate = 17 December 2011}}</ref><ref>{{Citation | title = HC asks Centre not to deport 65 Pak nationals | newspaper = MSN News | location = New Delhi| date = 5 April 2011}}</ref> On April 21, 2011, the ''Times of India'' and other Indian newspapers reported that the Indian government had granted the MFI members in jail refugee status and had requested the UNHCR to search for a third country for their relocation.<ref name ="4yr">{{Citation | last = Chauhan | first = Neeraj | title = After 4-yr wait, 64 Pak nationals to get refugee status | location = New Delhi | date = 21 April 2011 | url = http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-04-21/delhi/29458820_1_unhcr-refugee-status-tihar-jail| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120515221540/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-04-21/delhi/29458820_1_unhcr-refugee-status-tihar-jail| url-status = dead| archive-date = 15 May 2012| newspaper = ] | accessdate = 22 April 2011}}</ref><ref>{{Citation | title = Stay permit| newspaper = The Telegraph | location = New Delhi | date = 28 April 2011 | url = http://www.telegraphindia.com/1110429/jsp/nation/story_13917915.jsp | |||
===Protests=== | |||
| archive-url = https://archive.today/20130711034112/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1110429/jsp/nation/story_13917915.jsp | |||
MFI has held many protests and rallies over the years to bring attention to the way their members are treated in the country of ] and about their cause.{{CN}} | |||
| url-status = dead | |||
They staged protests on the 16th of August, 2005 in front of the Pakistan ] in London and on the 24th of August, 2005 on 10 ], London, UK.] protesting outside the Pakistan High Commission|Protesters outside the Pakistan ]]]On the 25th of July, 2005, MFI members in Pakistan staged a rally in front of the ] in ] to express their support for ] in his anti-terrorism endeavors. <ref>{{Cite press release | |||
| archive-date = 11 July 2013 | |||
| title = MFI in front of the Parliament house in Islamabad | |||
| accessdate = 10 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Citation | title = Court frees 65 detained Pakistanis, allows stay in Delhi | newspaper = The Hindustan Times | location = New Delhi | date = 28 April 2011 | url = http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/Print/690658.aspx | archive-url = https://archive.today/20130125074517/http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/Print/690658.aspx | url-status = dead | archive-date = January 25, 2013 | accessdate = 17 December 2011}}</ref> | |||
| publisher =MFI Media | |||
| date = January 6 2009 | |||
| url =http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WgEGrvKkaw | |||
| accessdate = January 6 2009}}</ref> | |||
In December 2011, various newspapers disclosed that the 65 MFI members from Tihar Jail had been granted refugee status and were being sent to Canada and the United States. They are now settled in said countries.<ref name="asianage"/><ref name="outlook"/><ref name="zee2011"/><ref name="IBNLIVE"/><ref name="bhaskar"/><ref name="omantribune"/><ref name="IRNA"/><ref>{{Citation | title = Illegal stay: 53 Pak nationals freed from Tihar after 4 yrs| location = New Delhi | date = 14 December 2011 | url = http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-12-14/delhi/30515621_1_refugee-status-unhcr-pakistani-prisoners| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130509214248/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-12-14/delhi/30515621_1_refugee-status-unhcr-pakistani-prisoners| url-status = dead| newspaper = ]| archive-date = 9 May 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Citation | title = 55 Pakistani prisoners released from Tihar, to be deported to US | newspaper = DNA India | location = New Delhi | date = 13 December 2011 | url = http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_55-pakistani-prisoners-released-from-tihar-to-be-deported-to-us_1625232 | accessdate = 17 December 2011}}</ref> | |||
On January 4th, 2006 they staged two protests simultaneously, one in front of the ] in ], United States of America and the other, again in front of the Pakistan ] in London to raise awareness about their members being persecuted in Pakistan as well as to talk about their message. , London, on January 4th, 2006. Signs held by protesters said that "Peace activists are being persecuted in Pakistan" and "Pakistani media patronized ] ]". Furthermore, they declared the prophesied ] to be the head of the ], ] and that "Religious ] teach hatred in ] instead of love". <ref>{{Cite press release | |||
| title = MFI successfully demonstrated a Protest Rally in front of White House, Washington DC America | |||
| publisher = ALR News (MFI Media) | |||
| date = 4 January 2006 | |||
| url = http://www.alr-news.com/2006/jan/04/index.html | |||
| accessdate = October 29 2009 }}</ref> | |||
===Protests=== | |||
In regards to the demonstration in front of the Pakistan High Commission in London, MFI claims to have done it to bring attention to the fact that more than 50 innocent members had been arrested in Pakistan and 8 had been booked in false cases of blasphemy.{{CN}} In addition they claimed that MFI members and their families had been ] by police and their homes had been raided. | |||
] | |||
<ref>{{Cite press release | |||
MFI has held many protests and rallies over the years to bring attention to the way their members are treated in the country of ] and about their cause. | |||
| title = MFI organized a protest rally in front of Pakistan High Commission, London UK | |||
They staged demonstrations on August 16, 2005 in front of the Pakistan ] in London and on August 25, 2005 on 10 ], London, UK. On July 25, 2005, MFI members in Pakistan staged a rally in front of the ] in ] to express their support for ] in his anti-terrorism endeavours.<ref>{{Cite press release | title = MFI in front of the Parliament house in Islamabad| publisher =MFI Media | date = 6 January 2010 | url =https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WgEGrvKkaw | accessdate = 10 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| publisher = ALR News (MFI Media) | |||
| date = 4 January 2006 | |||
| url = http://www.alr-news.com/2006/jan/04_2/index.html | |||
| accessdate = October 29 2009 }}</ref> | |||
The MFI also has called for ] to be banned in the United States of America, the United Kingdom and India, due to its alleged link to terrorism and hate preaching.<ref>{{Citation|title= Sign Petition for Ban on Wahhabism |date=4 March 2016|url=http://en.shafaqna.com/news/29721|accessdate=10 March 2016}}</ref> Due in part to their efforts in India to raise awareness of ] link to Wahhabism, he was declared a proclaimed offender by the ] and his Indian passport was revoked.<ref>{{Citation|title= India declares Zakir Naik 'proclaimed offender' |date=29 July 2017|url=https://www.themalaysianinsight.com/s/8998/|accessdate=29 July 2017}}</ref> | |||
MFI also held a protest at the ] in ], Switzerland on January 18th, 2006 to bring to their attention the situation of their members in Pakistan. | |||
<ref>{{Cite press release | |||
| title = MFI Protests at United Nations Geneva | |||
| publisher = ALR News (MFI Media) | |||
| date = 20 January 2006 | |||
| url = http://www.alr-news.com/2006/jan/20/index.html | |||
| accessdate = 29 October 2009}} </ref> | |||
<!-- Deleted image removed: ] protesting outside the ] ] in London, UK|Protesters outside the ] ], London, on the 15th of February, 2007]] --> | |||
They also held protests on the 25th of January, 2006 in front of the White House during the ] of Pakistan’s meeting with former ] ]{{CN}} and well as the 26th of January, 2006 in front of Pakistan High Commission in ], ].{{CN}} They protested on the 8th of February, 2006 in front of Saudi ] in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in front of the ] Embassy in London on the 27th of February, 2007, and on the 15th of February, 2007 in front of Saudi Embassy in London, UK.{{CN}} | |||
== |
==Expansion== | ||
Messiah/Mehdi Foundation International has centres in Canada, ], the United Kingdom, Australia, India, Greece, ], ], South Korea, ],<ref>{{Cite press release | title = MFI Nepal Opens its Doors | publisher =MFI Media | date = 26 February 2012 | url =http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?/news/view/mfi-nepal-opens-its-doors/ | accessdate = 1 July 2012}}</ref> Japan, ], and ].<ref name="SL2012"/> In association with their sister organisation, ], the organisation has centres located in ] and India, where they have been featured on television.<ref>{{cite episode | |||
| title |
| title = Jeewithay Sundarai | ||
| url = http://www.kalkiavatarfoundation.com/activities/activity/tnl-tv-interviews-his-holiness-younus-algohar | |||
| url = http://www.kalkiavtar.net | |||
| network = TNL TV | |||
| dateformat = September 17 2009 | |||
| location = ], Sri Lanka | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> | |||
| airdate = 2013-12-17 | |||
, the organization has centres located in ] and India. Representatives of ] often visit spiritualist expositions and programs. They have also been known to hold major events themselves. | |||
| minutes = 00:00}}</ref><ref>{{cite episode | |||
<ref>{{Citation | |||
|
| title = Face On | ||
| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ERGvF3Zkc8 | |||
| first = | |||
| network = ITN Prime TV | |||
| title = Interview with Younus AlGohar | |||
| location = ], Sri Lanka | |||
| newspaper = The Island | |||
| airdate = 2014-01-20 | |||
| date = 31 August 2008 | |||
| minutes = 00:00}}</ref> Representatives of MFI often visit spiritualist expositions and programmes as well as hold events.<ref name ="Foreword"/><ref name="SL2012"/><ref>{{cite web| title = The Kalki Avatar Sat Gohar Conference| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?/news/view/the-kalki-avatar-sat-gohar-conference/| accessdate = 1 July 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title = Visit MFI USA at Expos Across North America| url =http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?/news/view/visit-mfi-usa-at-expos-across-north-america/| accessdate = 1 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| url = http://www.theawaitedone.com/0908-the-Island-Interview.htm | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009 | |||
}}</ref> | |||
<ref>{{cite web | |||
| title = The Durga Maa Conference | |||
| url = http://www.theawaitedone.com/0908-Durga-Maa-Conference.htm | |||
| dateformat = August 24 2008 | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> | |||
<ref> {{cite web | |||
| title = New Life Expo 2008 | |||
| url =http://www.theawaitedone.com/NewlifeExpo2008NY-oct-pictures.htm | |||
| dateformat = Oct 21 2008 | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}} | |||
</ref> | |||
<ref>{{cite web | |||
| title = MFI at the 'Mind Body Spirit' Festival London 2009 | |||
| url =http://www.theawaitedone.com/london-expo.htm | |||
| dateformat = May 30 2009 | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}} | |||
</ref> | |||
<ref>{{Citation | |||
| title = NewLife Expo 2008 Info | |||
| pages = 7 | |||
| newspaper = ExpoInfo | |||
| location = Florida | |||
| date = 4 May 2008 | |||
| url= http://www.newlifeexpo.com/expopdfs/10_info.pdf | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}} | |||
</ref> | |||
== |
==Media== | ||
MFI also puts out monthly newspapers. Their newspaper, 'Hatif-e-Mehdi' ('The Voice of Mehdi') is distributed in ], English and ] and is authored by Shahi.<ref name="UNHCR"/><ref>http://www.hatifemehdi.com/ The Hatif-e-Mehdi Web Version</ref> Their literature is circulated worldwide. The organisation has received media attention largely for the cases against their members in India and Pakistan. | |||
] | |||
They have received attention for their activities in Sri Lanka and Canada.<ref>{{cite web| title = Face On Interview with His Holiness Younus AlGohar| website=] | date=22 January 2014 | url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ERGvF3Zkc8| accessdate = 19 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title = Messiah is here! Grand Universal Brotherhood, The Knowledge Book, and financial industry suicides| url = http://www.thatchannel.com/messiah_is_here_grand_universal_brotherhood_the_knowledge_book_and_financial_industry_suicides| date = 14 February 2014| accessdate = 19 February 2014}}</ref> They launched free ] for ] ], ] and ] in September 2010.<ref>{{cite web| title = The "Imam Mehdi" Application launched onto the Apple Application Store| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?/news/view/imam-mehdi-iphone-application-has-been-launched-on-the-apple-app-store/| date = 29 September 2010| accessdate = 15 October 2010}}</ref> In June 2011, they launched the "Imam Mehdi" Application for the ] system.<ref>{{cite web| title = Imam Mehdi App launched on Android Market| url = http://www.goharshahi.us/index.php?/news/view/imam-mehdi-app-launched-on-android-market/| date = 22 June 2011| accessdate = 22 June 2011}}</ref> | |||
MFI is also responsible for putting out three monthly newspapers.{{CN}} Their newspaper, 'Hatif-e-Mehdi' (Also known as 'The Voice of Mehdi') is distributed in ], English and ].<ref> | |||
The MFI also has official ]<ref></ref><ref>{{cite web| title = Younus AlGohar's YouTube Channel| website = ]| url = https://www.youtube.com/user/younusalgohar| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> channels. The MFI has an official blog and an official ] account.<ref>{{cite web| title = The Official MFI Blog| url = http://rariazgoharshahi.blogspot.com| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title = The Official MFI Account on Twitter| url = https://twitter.com/mehdifoundation| accessdate = 18 April 2010}}</ref> They are also on ].<ref>{{cite web| title = Official Group on Facebook| url = http://en-gb.facebook.com/pages/Mehdi-Messiah-Foundation-International/114534121896267| accessdate = 18 April 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title = Fan-page on Facebook| website = ]| url = http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Awaited-Imam-Mehdi-Messiah-Kalki-Avatar/120841179457| accessdate = 18 April 2010}}</ref> | |||
http://www.hatifemehdi.com/ The Hatif-e-Mehdi Web Version</ref>. They also distribute a magazine titled 'Messiah Herald' in English.<ref>{{cite web | |||
| title = The Messiah Herald December 2008 | |||
| url = http://www.theawaitedone.com/messiah_herald/2008/dec/page01.htm | |||
| dateformat = December 2008 | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> Their literature is circulated worldwide. In addition, the organization has recently received media attention for the cases against their members in India and Pakistan.<ref name="epaper.hindustantimes.com"/><ref> | |||
{{cite web | |||
| title = A News Report by Zee T.V. | |||
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O65JR04LetU | |||
| dateformat = | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}} | |||
</ref>, The movement also has official ]<ref></ref><ref>{{cite web | |||
| title = Younus AlGohar's YouTube Channel | |||
| url = http://www.youtube.com/user/younusalgohar | |||
| dateformat = | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}} | |||
</ref> channels. MFI has an official blog also. <ref>{{cite web | |||
| title = The Official MFI Blog | |||
| url = http://rariazgoharshahi.blogspot.com | |||
| dateformat = January 8 2009 | |||
| accessdate = 9 October 2009}}</ref> | |||
They have a fan-page on Facebook, on which the public often text questions, to which representatives from MFI correspond by either giving the answers onto the fan-page or producing educational videos that make mention of the publics questions and their answers.<ref>{{cite web | |||
| title = Fan-page for the MFI | |||
| url = http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Awaited-Imam-Mehdi-Messiah-Kalki-Avatar/120841179457?ref=ts | |||
| dateformat = January 26 2010 | |||
| accessdate = 26 January 2010}}</ref> | |||
== External links == | |||
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==References== | ==References== | ||
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==External links== | |||
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{{sisterlinks|Messiah Foundation International}} | |||
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Latest revision as of 13:50, 11 December 2024
Spiritual Organization
Abbreviation | MFI |
---|---|
Formation | 1980, renamed in 2002 |
Type | Organisation |
Legal status | Foundation |
Purpose | Promotion of spiritual sciences and teachings of Gohar Shahi |
Headquarters | London |
Location | |
Region served | Worldwide |
Leader | Riaz Ahmed Gohar Shahi (Founder) |
Key people | Younus AlGohar (Co-founder and CEO), Farah Naz (Guardian of MFI) |
Affiliations | Kalki Avatar Foundation, Mehdi Foundation International, Interfaith Institute of Divine Love |
Website | http://www.goharshahi.gs |
Messiah Foundation International (Urdu: مہدی فاونڈیشن انٹرنیشنل) (or MFI) is a spiritual organisation formally established in 2002 to promote the Goharian Philosophy of Divine Love. MFI is the successor of RAGS International, a spiritual organisation founded by Pakistani spiritual leader Riaz Ahmed Gohar Shahi in 1980. The organisation claims to be a syncretic fulfilment of Christian, Muslim, Jewish and Hindu prophecy, with Shahi depicted as the messianic figure of many religions, given the title of Mehdi, Messiah, and Kalki Avatar as well as the generic "Awaited One" prophesied by other religions.
Adherents propose to promote the reduction of hatred, promotion of divine love and world peace, and raise awareness of miraculous images of spiritual figures they claim are on the face of such objects as the moon, sun, and the Black Stone in Mecca. According to MFI, these images were put on these locations by God. The MFI purports that Gohar Shahi's image on the moon has spoken to people in different languages and rendered spiritual grace to those searching for divine love. They declare that the titles of the Messiah, Kalki Avatar and Imam Mehdi are different titles for one personality, whom they depict as Shahi. Members of the MFI refer to themselves as Goharians, due to their affiliation with Shahi.
History
MFI was previously known as "RAGS International" until the year 2002, when Younus AlGohar became the CEO and formally established the organisation. At this time, AlGohar also formed MFI's sister organisation, Kalki Avatar Foundation, under the apparent guidance of Shahi. After Shahi's disappearance in 2001, Shahi's followers in the MFI declared it to be akin to miraculous occultation and continued their activities under the leadership of AlGohar, who they claim is the personally appointed representative of Shahi. In June 2018, Shahi's daughter, Farah Naz, expressed her support of the MFI and was appointed the role of 'Guardian' of the MFI.
The organisation's self-proclaimed objectives are to preach Shahi's teachings of divine love and global peace. They consider it their responsibility to propagate alleged images of Shahi, Jesus Christ, Durga, and others on the Moon, Sun, and the Holy Black Stone in Mecca, which they say are "divine signs". Though MFI has not released an official count of its members, Younus AlGohar has stated that the number is in the thousands.
Shahi's alleged meeting with Jesus
Shahi claimed to have met with Jesus Christ on 29 May 1997 in Taos, New Mexico, United States. When asked about what was discussed between himself and Jesus, Shahi stated that it was secretive and would be revealed at "an appropriate time". After this incident, an image of Jesus Christ, which the photograph's owner claimed had appeared miraculously from pictures taken of sacred places, was shown to Shahi in Tucson, Arizona, United States. It was then announced by Shahi to be the "original image of Jesus Christ." The MFI has taken this to mean Shahi has the support of Jesus Christ and propagates Jesus Christ as a "universal figure of divinity" who is for humanity rather than being confined to Christianity.
Teachings and Beliefs
They profess to be peace-promoting. They condemn hate-preaching, especially in the context of religion. Their teachings, based on the Goharian Philosophy of Mystical Sciences and Divine Love, are purported to be acceptable to all regardless of religious affiliation or nationality.
Method
According to their methodology, God's love is implanted in the heart when one's heart is initiated with God's name. In this approach, the name of God is supposed to become synchronised within the heartbeats to produce "divine energy" which would then clean the heart and implant love of God so as to connect the aspirant with God. It is referred to Zikr-e-Qalb in Islamic terminology and "Simran" in Hindu terminology. The MFI claims to not be influenced by any one religion or faith and do not discriminate against anyone based on "nation, religion, cast, creed", etc. The organisation purports that religions have both an inner dimension and outer. The teachings state that the outer part of the religion is the rituals and bodily worship while the inner religion is purification of the heart and souls to gain connection with God. In their beliefs, the inner religion is the core while the outer religion is like a "potato skin" Part of their claims is that the spiritual system within the religions today has diminished. They propose to "convert the hearts towards divine love" rather than to a particular religion. AlGohar asserts that because the MFI does not lay emphasis on rituals and worship, people from different religions can follow their teachings while practicing their own faith.
Eschatology
The MFI maintains that the world is passing through its twilight phase. Members propagate that the world is supposed to end in 2026, when a comet would collide with Earth in accordance with Shahi's predictions in The Religion of God They also declare that the only hope for humanity is Shahi and that his image they propagate to be on the Moon will provide salvation for humanity "when calamity strikes".
Claimed miracles
- The MFI believes in spiritual healing, offering that service to the wider community. It claims to heal all diseases and ailments including HIV and AIDS; and also claims that it has done so in the past. They also publicise that the alleged image of Shahi on the Moon performs healing.
- The MFI claims divine intervention caused a sandstorm during an attack on an MFI procession in Faisalabad, Pakistan. Members were allegedly attacked with bricks and bullets by local Muslims angered by the claims that Shahi represented the Mehdi. Reports provided show that such had happened, but none of the members were injured, to which the members credited the "miracle".
The Religion of God by Shahi
Before his disappearance, Shahi penned a book, Deen-e-Ilahi (literally "the Religion of God"). Deen-e-Ilahi explains secrets of spirituality as per the understanding of Shahi. On the front cover, Shahi states, "This book requires unruffled concentration and attention, pondering and research from all religious sects and every man. It poses a challenge for those who reject the existence of Spirituality." Originally Deen-e-Ilahi was written in Urdu, the native tongue of Shahi, however the book is available in English, Dutch, Arabic, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Persian, Portuguese, Sindhi, Spanish, Thai, and Tamil as well.
MFI distributes the book for free and through Balboa Press, with whom they republished the book in English on May 17, 2012. As of June 29, 2012, it was #5 on the publisher's Best Seller's List. Deen-e-Ilahi is now banned in Pakistan, due to it allegedly carrying material offensive to Muslims.
Controversy
MFI has been opposed by religious groups particularly in Pakistan. Many cases, later proved false, have been instigated against Shahi. In regards to this subject, the following is written in The Religion of God, written by Shahi:
The Wahhabi denomination has very religiously taken it to persecute, discourage, entrap and eradicate His Divine Eminence Gohar Shahi. Hence, they instigated various false cases against His Divine Eminence Gohar Shahi. They have been threatened by the universality of His Divine Eminence’s message of Divine Love, and His ever-increasing fame on the global sphere.
The government of Pakistan also banned The Religion of God and his magazine Hatif-e-Mehdi for allegedly "... matter which is objectionable and maliciously intended to outrage the religious feelings of the Muslims and these should be seized".
AlGohar has also been persecuted by the government of Pakistan, having been issued a death sentence for allegedly blaspheming, though details of his blasphemy have not been disclosed.
Messiah Foundation International claims that the Pakistani government has persecuted and jailed some 50 MFI members under false charges of blasphemy against Islam. First Information Reports have been registered against officials of MFI in Pakistan.
In a related incident, an armed group hijacked a bus in Faisalabad, claimed that their leader was the Imam Mehdi, and went on to have a shootout with the police. This had been falsely attributed to Messiah Foundation International. The leader, Shahbaz Khan, claimed in an interview with a Pakistani newspaper to be supported by the alleged billionaire and hypnotist Younus AlGohar. These claims were not verified.
A press release by MFI stated that "The false claimant Shahbaz has no association with MFI. Shahbaz is a severely misguided and blasphemous to His Holiness Gohar Shahi. Shahbaz, the impostor has demanded the government to deal with Goharians harshly which suggests that he does not belong to MFI". It is also stated in the same press release that MFI believes Shahi to be the only awaited Imam Mehdi and does not support Shahbaz Khan. In an open letter to the former President of Pakistan, Pervez Musharraf, Younus AlGohar demanded justice be served to the 50 or so MFI members who had been persecuted because Khan claimed to be associated with MFI. In addition, the Sunday Telegraph stated that "There is no suggestion that either organised Ahmed's actions in Pakistan or knew what he and his disciples were planning".
Due to the nature of topics covered in speeches by AlGohar released onto the internet, some Muslims in Pakistan have staged protests against MFI and declared them infidels. Furthermore, newspapers in Pakistan reported protesters demanding that MFI members be punished.
Persecution
Extract written by Eric Lubbock, 4th Baron Avebury, in his report on the MFI.
On 11 August 2008 a blasphemy case 295A, PPC was registered against eight MFI members by the Khatam-e-Nabuwwat (FIR No. 281/2008, Date of Occurrence 8 August 2008), at Police Station Kotri, District Jamshoro, Sindh Province, Pakistan. (See copy of English translation of FIR, attached) On 5 August 2008 two MFI members (Mustaqeem and Umer) were severely beaten by extremists, but an FIR was registered against MFI members (FIR No. C/31/08, Date of Report 6 August 2008, Police Station Sharif Abad, District Karachi, Sindh Province, Pakistan) (See copy of English translation of FIR, attached)
On 18 October 2008 at 03.30 Mr Mohammad Iqbal (whose family was active in MFI) was murdered (FIR No. 995/2008, Offence u/s 302, 148, 149 PPC, Date of Report 16 October 2008 at 0500 AM, Police Station Factory Area, District Shaikhupura, Punjab Province, Pakistan)(See copy of English translation of FIR, attached).Hatred has been incited against the MFI members in Pakistan, who are accused of blasphemy, and these incidents are examples of the result. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), New Delhi, wrote on 4 September 2008, to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government, setting out the case well. It was reported on 4 August 2009 in the daily Safeer, that Mr Paras Masih, organiser for the Christian community of the MFI, had been murdered in Karachi.
In another case, members of MFI in Pakistan were arrested and charged for claiming Shahi as being the Imam Mehdi. According to Dawn.com,
2005 – December 23: Five members of the Mehdi Foundation International were arrested in Wapda Town, Lahore, for putting up posters of their leader Riaz Gohar Shahi showing him as 'Imam Mehdi'. The Anti-Terrorism Court sentenced each to five years of imprisonment under 295-A of PPC. Their prisoners’ records posted outside the cell falsely indicate that they had been sentenced under 295-C – the Blasphemy Law.
The prisoners "were forced to parade naked, hung up in the air and beaten", and were sexually abused in jail by staff members.
MFI Members in Tihar Jail
On April 23, 2007, 63 Pakistani MFI members, having obtained tourist visas to India, protested in front of the Pakistani Embassy in Yantra Mantra, New Delhi, India, against the government of Pakistan. They asked India for asylum, refusing to return to their homeland. During their protests, they burnt their passports and travel documents that tied them to Pakistan, Pakistani flags, and effigies of Pervez Musharraf and Maulana Fazlur Rehman. They were subsequently arrested for having no travel documentation and therefore being in India illegally. It is reported that they feared for their lives in Pakistan, where if they went back they would be charged with the Blasphemy Law, the penalty for which is death. According to Zee News, IBN Live, Outlook India and other newspapers, the Pakistani government had banned their practice of faith in Pakistan.
Among the 63 members were 19 women, 5 of whom are pregnant in "advanced stages" and 7 children. The DNA reports, "The Pakistani judges said they were shocked to see 16 Pakistani prisoners had lost their mental balance in Amritsar jail." Later, the United Nations Human Rights Council in New Delhi recommended to the government of India that the Pakistan nationals should not be deported back "till a proper decision on their request for asylum is taken by the government."
On 22 May 2007, in front of Indian Embassy in London, the MFI staged a demonstration to bring attention to the situation of their members in jail and the dangers they faced if the Indian government decided to deport them to Pakistan.
In the 2007 annual report on Pakistan, Human Rights Without Frontiers appealed to the National Human Rights Commission in India about the MFI case: "Is the Commission aware of the case of the planned deportation by India of 62 Pakistani citizens...? is a secular democracy observing high standards of human rights including the right of peaceful practice of religion, and Pakistani Muslims consider that the religious beliefs of the Mehdi Foundation International are blasphemous, making its followers vulnerable to criminal charges for which the penalty is death under the controversial Pakistani Blasphemy Act."
The NHRC stated in reply that "The Commission...will examine...the most appropriate follow-up". However, the Telegraph in Calcutta, as well as other Indian newspapers, reported on November 26, 2009 that the plea to involve the National Human Rights Commission had been rejected by the government of India and that the Pakistani nationals were being put in the process of deportation despite the fact that, upon deportation, they would be charged under the blasphemy laws in Pakistan. In December 2010, however, the Hindustan Times reported that the Delhi high court had issued a protection order for the inmates, preventing their deportation for 70 days as of December 2. Mail Today reported in March 2011 that the UNHCR was asked by the Indian High Commission to conduct interviews of the jail members and grant them asylum in countries other than India within 6 weeks of December 2, 2010. This was extended another 3 weeks, but the possibility of them being deported to Pakistan had not been ruled out. In April 2011, though the Centre wished to deport the Pakistani nationals, the Delhi High Court ordered the Centre to wait until it made a decision on a plea to hand them over to the United Nations High Commission of Refugees. On April 21, 2011, the Times of India and other Indian newspapers reported that the Indian government had granted the MFI members in jail refugee status and had requested the UNHCR to search for a third country for their relocation.
In December 2011, various newspapers disclosed that the 65 MFI members from Tihar Jail had been granted refugee status and were being sent to Canada and the United States. They are now settled in said countries.
Protests
MFI has held many protests and rallies over the years to bring attention to the way their members are treated in the country of Pakistan and about their cause. They staged demonstrations on August 16, 2005 in front of the Pakistan high commission in London and on August 25, 2005 on 10 Downing Street, London, UK. On July 25, 2005, MFI members in Pakistan staged a rally in front of the Parliament of Pakistan in Islamabad to express their support for Pervez Musharraf in his anti-terrorism endeavours.
The MFI also has called for Wahhabism to be banned in the United States of America, the United Kingdom and India, due to its alleged link to terrorism and hate preaching. Due in part to their efforts in India to raise awareness of Zakir Naik's link to Wahhabism, he was declared a proclaimed offender by the National Investigation Agency and his Indian passport was revoked.
Expansion
Messiah/Mehdi Foundation International has centres in Canada, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Australia, India, Greece, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, Nepal, Japan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. In association with their sister organisation, Kalki Avatar Foundation, the organisation has centres located in Sri Lanka and India, where they have been featured on television. Representatives of MFI often visit spiritualist expositions and programmes as well as hold events.
Media
MFI also puts out monthly newspapers. Their newspaper, 'Hatif-e-Mehdi' ('The Voice of Mehdi') is distributed in Urdu, English and Arabic and is authored by Shahi. Their literature is circulated worldwide. The organisation has received media attention largely for the cases against their members in India and Pakistan. They have received attention for their activities in Sri Lanka and Canada. They launched free apps for Apple's iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad in September 2010. In June 2011, they launched the "Imam Mehdi" Application for the Android system. The MFI also has official YouTube channels. The MFI has an official blog and an official Twitter account. They are also on Facebook.
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{{cite episode}}
: Missing or empty|series=
(help) - "Face On". Colombo, Sri Lanka. 20 January 2014. 00:00 minutes in. ITN Prime TV.
{{cite episode}}
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(help) - "The Kalki Avatar Sat Gohar Conference". Retrieved 1 July 2012.
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- "The Official MFI Blog". Retrieved 9 October 2009.
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- "Official Group on Facebook". Retrieved 18 April 2010.
- "Fan-page on Facebook". Facebook. Retrieved 18 April 2010.
External links
- MFI's website Regarding the End Times
- Younus AlGohar
- MFI Universal
- Kalki Avatar Foundation International