Guidance for Perceiving Minds — Page 42
h a d rat Mirza ghulam AHmAD as 42 The Scholars of this Era Given the evidence presented in the preceding statement, it is clear that the Muslim rulers in this era have been unable to rectify the widespread corruption that has spread like wildfire. Nevertheless, it remains valid for you to assert that these tribulations stem from the ignorance of the uninformed and can be eradicated through the guidance of scholars. They are the rightful inheritors of the Prophet’s s as legacy and the champions in this domain. Enlightened by the radiance of knowledge, they are anticipated to rectify what the rulers of states have failed to address. Know that I have always attended the gatherings of these scholars, often finding myself alone with them as a confidant. Sometimes, I approached them in the guise of a stranger or an ignorant individual, experiencing first-hand their love, resent- ment, hardship, and prosperity. Through these encounters, I learned about their character, determination, and piety. It has become apparent to me that many of them are more of a detri- ment to Islam than a remedy. They are like a severe attack or fierce storm to the religion rather than illuminating it like a bright lamp or light. They accumulate every defect in their behaviour and character, staining themselves with numerous flaws. They come up with all sorts of schemes, means, and tricks to seize people’s wealth for themselves. They speak without practicing what they preach, teaching without learning. They desire to harvest without planting, exhibiting hard hearts, vulgar tongues, darkened chests, feeble opinions, inflexible dispositions, deficient minds, weak res- olutions, and corrupt deeds. What you can observe is their intent towards those who dissent from their views: they resort to any