Arba'in — Page 49
Number Two 49 His Throne promptly. And if my Movement is heavenly and set up by God’s hand, then my prayer will be heard. Therefore—O elders!—for God’s sake do accept this proposal. There is no need for a big crowd; let forty gather from amongst the scholars—it should not be less than that. The figure of forty has a great blessed effect on acceptance of prayer. As for worldly people, they may join in any numbers. The prayer should be made whilst weeping with complete humility. Though everyone will have to go through travelling inconvenience and some expenses will also be incurred, there is great hope that God will grant His verdict. O elders, leaders, and scholars of the nation! Once again I implore you in the name of God that you must accept this request of mine! Indeed, it is also worth mentioning that trav- eling in the rainy season or in summer is not without difficulty, and seasonal illnesses are also there; therefore, for this gathering 15 October 1900 will be appropriate. By then the weather will be good. Moreover, there is nothing wrong if out of our opponents, P i r Mehr Ali Shah Golarhvi, or Muhammad Husain Batalavi, or Maulaw i Abdul Jabbar Ghaznavi may become the presiding officer or secretary for the planning of this meeting. After mutual consultation they should publish the acceptance announcement of this proposal. For God’s sake, do not add any other condition now to this announcement. I have submitted this proposal only for the sake of God, and God is my Witness that I have presented this proposal only to express the truth, with no element of any mub a halah in it. Whatever there is, it only concerns my life and honour. For God’s sake, please, do accept my proposal. Look how much pain the reli- gious scholars go to in opposing me! Many a time they criticise