The Essence of Islam – Volume III — Page 409
Repeated Challenges 409 after the 20th September 1886. If no one from among the Āryās or Christians comes forward within that time, their silence will be a proof of their defeat. [Surmah Chashm-e-Āryā, Rūḥānī Khazā'in, vol. 2, pp. 312-314]. A Proposal to Seek Divine Settlement. We have learnt from long experience that, despite failing repeatedly, our opponents have not abandoned their campaign of vilification. . . . They stage foul and painful plays which are derogatory of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and represent him as a person of evil character. . How, then, should this matter be settled? We can of course issue effective refutation, but how can we stop them from offending again? How can we tie up their foul tongues and how can we put a lock upon their reviling mouths?. . . These heartless Christian ministers have wounded our hearts by hurling millions of vile abuses on our Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). . . . . How then can these contentions, which increase daily, be settled? We have despaired of anything good coming out of debates and discussions. These have only led to an increase in rancour and hatred. In this state of affairs, there is, in my estimation, only one easy way to reach a settlement, if the Christian ministers were to agree to it: It is to seek a decision of these disputes from God Almighty. . I wish to state that I am most eager to seek a Divine settlement of this affair, and I wish most sincerely that these daily contentions may be set at rest in this manner. If. God does not render a decision in my favour, I will hand over all my property, moveable and immovable, the value of which is not less than ten thousand rupees, to the