The Holy War — Page 81
Proceedings—Debate 25 May 1893 81 in the creation of the heavens? If you have proof of this, or if there is some Book in which it is written that such and such a thing was created by your god, then bring that Book and present it if you are truthful. In other words, it cannot happen that someone should have himself be called Omnipotent and then not show any example of his ‘Divine’ powers, or be called the Creator yet fail to manifest any example of his creation. And then He says, and which person is more astray than the person who calls unto such a person as God who cannot answer him till the Day of Resurrection, and who is, in fact, oblivious even of his calling unto him, let alone responding to him? Now, at this point, I would like to present a true testimony that is incumbent upon me, and it is this: I believe in that Allah, the Exalted, who is not Omnipotent merely in name. On the con- trary, He is, in reality and actuality, Omnipotent, and He has, of His grace and benevolence, honoured me with His special words and has informed me: I, the True and Perfect God, shall be with you and shall bestow victory on you in every contest pertaining to spiritual blessings and heavenly support. I would now like to say to Deputy Abdullah Atham, and all the Honourable Christian audience, what need is there now to prolong this discussion by you presenting such prophecies as are contradicted by the actions and deeds of the Messiah as himself ? There is an easy and straightforward way to settle this issue; that I pray to the Living and Perfect God for a Sign and you pray to the Messiah. You believe that he is Omnipotent; thus, if he is Omnipotent, you will certainly attain success. And I now swear in the name of Almighty Allah, and proclaim that if I am unable to present a competing Sign, I shall be prepared to accept every punishment being imposed on myself. Indeed, even if you show any competing Sign to me, I shall still be prepared to suffer punishment. It would be good for you to have mercy upon the crea- tures of Allah. I have also now reached old age, and you yourself have also become old. Our last resort now is the grave. Come, let us settle