A Gift for Baghdad — Page 37
Reply to the Announcement & Letter 37 am pushed left and right. I am scrutinized under conditions of misery and prosperity and I am shifted by winds both violent and comforting. However, God willing, I will meet a good end, as I am one who has been given the glad tidings of victory. Today they despise, calumniate, and reject me; and I see that they ardently desire [to kill] me were they capable of doing so. The time will come when my truth becomes manifest and Allah will demonstrate to His servants the Signs of His grace upon me. Thereupon, the bril- liance of His Providence and the extent of His grace will become manifest. They will then come to me full of remorse. Blessed, indeed, is the eye that has seen me before the time [of my victory], and blessed, indeed, will be the fortunate one who comes to me in sincerity. O Sheikh! The time has drawn nigh and the major part of the time allocated for the life of this world has passed. So come to me, providing you are patient and willing to reflect and accept guidance. Return to truth and eschew enmity. Do not forget the consequences and engage not in a duel with the Lord. Hasten to me and restrain yourself in order that Allah might grant you forgiveness for that which has preceded, as well as that which has passed. So accept the truth and be among the obedient. If you are not able to undertake such a long journey, there is an alternative method if you wish to take it. First, expel from your heart every evil thought that has entered it. Next, arise, perform wu du’ [ritual ablution] and offer two rak‘ a t [units of prayer]. Invoke blessings on the Holy Prophet and ask for forgiveness sincerely as one who truly repents. Then, lie on your side, turn your face towards the Qiblah [in Makkah] and focus your entire