The Afghan Martyrs — Page 13
A Period of Turbulence in the Land of Kabul Lasting for a Hundred Years The Promised Messiah (PBUH) holds that the advent of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and the sacrifices offered by his companions (MAPT) really sprang from the sacrifice offered by Ibraheem (PBUH) and Ismaeel (PBUH). With the advent of the Promised Messiah (PBUH) a new era has begun and the phenomena of sacrifices has been renewed. Therefore, the martyrdom offered by Sahibzada Abdul Lateef (MAP H) during the lifetime of the Promised Messiah (PBUH) has a special significance and has a close link with today's festival. The punishment of the Mghans which has been spread over a hundred years has been witnessed by all and has indeed been very severe. Not only were everyone of those involved in this enormity called to account and made an example of but the whole nation has been involved in terrifying afflictions. Solicitation for Prayers for the Afghan Nation I wish to make two points in this connection. First, please do pray that this period of retribution which has been spread over a hundred years may come to an end and that the Afghans may now become recipient of the benefits flowing from the sacrifice, i. e. that they may be shown the true path and that as a recompense they may themselves be enabled to offer sacrifices for Islam. Involvement in severe and continuous adversity spread over a hundred years has indeed been a Divine punishment and a sure Sign from Him. However, we the Ahmadis must not feel elated. Every follower of every true faith necessarily feels compassion when any human being suffers. Whenever they were punished by 13