The conflict is rooted in the literal and theological interpretation of the Arabic term Khatam un-Nabiyyin (خاتم النبيين):
InterpretationMainstream Muslim View (Sunni/Shia)Ahmadiyya Muslim Community ViewMeaning"The Last and Final" Prophet, concluding the institution of prophethood absolutely."The Seal" or "The Best" of the Prophets, whose prophetic authority validates or authenticates the prophethood of others.ImplicationNo individual can ever claim to be a prophet (new or old) after Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.).Prophethood continues, but is restricted to non-law-bearing prophets who must be a follower (Ummati) of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) and receive grace through him.ResultRejection of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's claim as a violation of the faith's finality.Acceptance of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani as a non-law-bearing prophet of God.
The conflict is rooted in the literal and theological interpretation of the Arabic term Khatam un-Nabiyyin (خاتم النبيين):
InterpretationMainstream Muslim View (Sunni/Shia)Ahmadiyya Muslim Community ViewMeaning"The Last and Final" Prophet, concluding the institution of prophethood absolutely."The Seal" or "The Best" of the Prophets, whose prophetic authority validates or authenticates the prophethood of others.ImplicationNo individual can ever claim to be a prophet (new or old) after Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.).Prophethood continues, but is restricted to non-law-bearing prophets who must be a follower (Ummati) of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) and receive grace through him.ResultRejection of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's claim as a violation of the faith's finality.Acceptance of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani as a non-law-bearing prophet of God.