The Qadiani movement, founded by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad in the 19th century, has been widely rejected by Muslims worldwide. The central reason is that Islam teaches the finality of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Mainstream Muslims, whether Sunni or Shia, do not accept any claim of prophethood after him. Understanding why the Qadiani claim is rejected helps clarify a fundamental principle of Islam.
1. Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) Is the Last Prophet
Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the Seal of the Prophets (Khatam an-Nabiyyin). The Quran explicitly mentions in Surah Al-Ahzab (33:40) that he is the last prophet.
The Qadiani claim that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was a prophet contradicts this foundational belief, which is why it is universally rejected.
2. Who is Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani?
Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, referred to as Qadiani, claimed to be the promised Messiah and Mahdi and claimed to receive divine inspiration. These claims directly challenge the principle of finality of prophethood and the authenticity of the Quran as complete guidance.
3. Contradiction With Islamic Scripture
The Quran and Hadith make it clear that no prophet will come after Muhammad (peace be upon him). Any assertion, such as that of Qadiani, is therefore contrary to scripture.
Muslims believe that the Quran is complete and perfect, and no new prophet can bring additional revelation.
4. Key Differences Between Qadianis and Muslims
The Qadiani movement diverges from Islam in multiple ways:
Acceptance of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as a prophet
Reinterpretation of messianic prophecies
Alteration of Islamic practices and teachings
These differences make Qadiani beliefs incompatible with mainstream Islamic thought.
5. The Muslim Scholarly Consensus
Islamic scholars have repeatedly rejected Qadiani beliefs through fatwas, scholarly writings, and public declarations. This rejection is not personal prejudice but a reflection of consensus among the ulama that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad’s claims contradict the Quran and Sunnah.
6. Social and Theological Implications
Believing in Qadiani claims could create confusion among Muslims and weaken adherence to Islamic teachings. Islam emphasizes unity and clear guidance, which is compromised if false claims of prophethood are accepted.
7. Educating the Community
Muslims are encouraged to learn the correct teachings of Islam to recognize and reject deviations like Qadiani beliefs. Religious education ensures that the principle of finality of prophethood is preserved across generations.
8. Conclusion: Upholding the Finality of Prophethood
Mainstream Muslims reject Qadiani ideology because it challenges the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). A proper understanding of Islam requires acknowledgment that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the last prophet and that no one can claim prophethood after him.
