Today Huzoor^(aba) commenced on a series of Friday Sermons on the Divine attribute of Al Sami (The All-Hearing). Huzoor^(aba) explained that when used for Allah, the word `Sami' connotes that He has full knowledge of what can be heard and bestows accordingly. Huzoor^(aba) said sometimes people injudiciously assume that Allah does not listen to their repetitive pleas. Fact of the matter is that He has prior knowledge, well before our plea is made, of what our needs really are and what is appropriate for us at a given time. It should always be borne in mind that He is Sami ul Aleem, All-Hearing, All-Knowing, and our task is to ask and not be disappointed if a particular prayer is not answered and to acknowledge that Allah indeed knows best as to what our needs are.

Huzoor^(aba) elucidated the Divine quality Al Sami largely with reference to the prayers made by Hazrat Ibrahim (on whom be peace) in particular the prayers he made to Allah at the time of laying foundations of the Ka'aba and the most astonishing fulfilment of his prayers in the person of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him).

With reference to the writings of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih 1 (may Allah be pleased with him) Huzoor^(aba) explained that the Quran tells us that Hazrat Ibrahim (on whom be peace) made seven prayers to Allah, these were `Our Lord, accept this from us; for Thou art All-Hearing, All-Knowing.' (2:128) - `Our Lord, make us submissive to Thee and make of our offspring a people submissive to Thee. And show us our ways of worship.' (2:129) - `.. and keep me and my children away from worshipping idols.' (14:36) - `.. and provide with fruits such of its dwellers..' (2:127) - `So make men's hearts inclined towards them..' (14:38) - `.. raise up among them Messenger..' (2:130) - and `..make this a town of peace..' (2:127) & (14:36). Indeed all these prayers were accepted by Allah and the Holy Quran details the manner in which that materialized.

Huzoor^(aba) commented that it is the distinction of prophets that they are heedful of seeking Divine help and assistance as they go about carrying out their mission in life. Huzoor^(aba) also expounded Traditions of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him) detailing his prayers and their relevance on his remarkable blessed life. Huzoor^(aba) also presented a few examples of the acceptance of prayer of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace).

With view of the fiscal end of year of the Jama'at approaching Huzoor^(aba) drew attention to the issue of `chanda' and said that although Allah Himself looks after the monetary affairs of the Jama'at, he wished to explain to all that individuals should keep the Jama'at notified of any change/amendment in their particular situation in respect of monetary contributions as and when it happens and that they should ever be mindful of practicing qawl e sadeed (the right word) in doing so. With reference to acceptance of prayers, Huzoor^(aba) said that it is indeed vital that we keep our affairs with Allah, who is All-Hearing, All-Knowing, fair and honest in that in light of our truthfulness He grants acceptance to our prayers.