Bounties of the Gracious God — Page 38
38 be blamed, for they had no idea of the result that came forth. They were deeply agitated and anguished and were deeply saddened by the calamity that befell that town, and no mind was able to per- ceive what actually happened. That is why the British government fixed stipends for the heirs of the departed and with deep sad- ness expressed its sympathies with the former and prepared itself to look after them and to further please them, bestowed favours upon them. At the outset of this matter, the idea of inoculation was like such a delicious food for [the government] as causes one’s mouth to water and lips to relish. But thereafter, the government con- centrated all its attention on safety and prevention and vowed to provide all possible facilities in this regard. This government has always done everything with great care and deliberation and treats its subjects as its children and does not approve of any measure as might cause people to suffer. Gratitude is therefore due to this government since it acts like a mother towards its subjects. Look everywhere and in every direction and you will not find such a benevolent government. I find that every wise person praises it for its magnanimity and is whole-heartedly devoted to it, and all this is on account of the favours and abundant kindness of this gov- ernment. We thank Allah for this bounty. Gratitude towards the government is incumbent upon every Muslim man and woman for it guards our lives, our honour and possessions with justice and fairness. And it is unlawful for every believer to fight against it with the intention of Jihad. This would not be Jihad; rather it would be the worst kind of violence. Is this the sign of the valour of Islam that kindness should be reciprocated with sword? Again, remember that I do not make any objection against