Baiat or declaration of initiation is an Islamic tradition dating back to the times of the Holy Prophet saw. On the Latter Days, this tradition is revived by the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as., the founder of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. On December 1st, 1888 he published an announcement that God has ordained him that whomsoever seeks true faith and piety, should take Baiat, pledge allegiance to him so that Allah may shower His mercy and beneficence on them.
On January 12th, 1889 he published a pamphlet in which he laid down ten conditions of Baiat for initiation into the Jamaat. In this pamphlet he made it known that anyone who wishes to enter into covenant of allegiance should swear on the following from the core of his heart.
That till the last day of his life, he shall abstain from shirk (associating any partners with Allah).
That he shall keep away from falsehood, cruelty, adultery, dishonesty, disorder, rebellion and every kind of evil.
That he shall offer prayers (Salat) five times daily.
That he shall not inflict injury on any of Allah’s creatures.
That he would bear every hardship for the sake of Allah.
That he shall not follow vulgar customs and guard against evil inclinations.
That he shall discard pride and haughtiness, live in humility & meekness
That he shall hold his faith, dignity, and the welfare of Islam dearer than his own life, wealth and children.
That he shall have sympathy for all of God’s creatures, and devote his talents to their welfare.
That he shall establish brotherhood with me (i.e.Ahmad), obeying me in all good things, and firmly adhere to these rules until the last breadth of his life.
