The Essence of Islam – Volume III — Page 451
Repeated Challenges 451 better plan for the settlement of these differences. Here- after, whichever side has the support of God will gradu- ally achieve supremacy. Truth first appears in the shape of a small seed and gradually grows into a big tree, which bears fruits and flowers among which birds which seeks the truth can relax. Announced by: Mirzā Ghulam Ahmad, From Qādiān 5 March, 1901. [Majmū'ah Ishtihārāt, vol. 3, pp. 398-400] Six Signs of Divine Support I announce once more, for the sake of those who seek the truth, that if they have not even now realized that I am true, they can satisfy themselves again through any of the following six signs which God Almighty has bestowed upon me. One: Any arrogant person who desires to compete with me in proficiency in Arabic, is at liberty to produce the match of this Arabic writing both in poetry and in prose; and if some Arabic speaking person testifies that his work is equal to mine, I shall be accounted false. Two: Failing this, my opponents can compete with me in writing an Arabic commentary on any seven verses of the Holy Qur'an which are randomly selected, and if I am not acknowledged as being clearly superior to them, I am to be accounted as false. Three: One of my well-known opponents should stay with me for a year. During this time, if I fail to manifest some sign which is beyond the power of man, I may be accounted false. Four: Some of my well-known opponents may announce