Islam and Human Rights — Page 27
Man and the Universe 27 passage of time brings about a decline in spiritual and moral values in a civilisation. It is inevitable, therefore, that over the centuries there should occur a falling-off in the true appreciation of Divine guidance set forth in Divine revelation as applicable to current conditions and situations. The complete safeguarding of Divine revelation thus necessitates a constant process of spiritual revival and rebirth. In the nature of things this must also come about through revelation. It was announced by the Prophet that to meet this need God would continue to raise from among the Muslims, at the beginning of each century, someone who would be inspired to revive the faith by drawing attention to the guidance contained in the Quran apposite to existing conditions. 2 History has confirmed the truth of this assur ance conveyed by the Prophet. The last half-century has, however, witnessd the onset of a tremendous revolution in human values in all spheres of life. Standards that had been accepted and subscribed to through centuries are undergoing rapid revision and modification. The very dimensions of human life are being reshaped, so that scholars and thinkers are beginning to stress the need of a new 2 Abu Daud II, Sect. :Al-malahim.