The Contribution of Islam to the Solution of World Problems — Page 39
39 The Chastisement There are further indications with regard to the nature of this chastisement which are also striking. A reference to some of them might help us to appreciate the contingency that might overtake mankind unless God’s grace and mercy sought and won within the time that may be left. We have already drawn attention to Verse 32 in Chapter 55, which refers to two big powers. Verse 36 of the same chapter, still referring to the two powers, says: There shall be sent against you two a flame of fire, and smoke; and you shall not be able to help yourselves. The immediately following verses refer to the heavens being rent asunder and appearing like red hide, and men being caught between fire and smoke and fierce boiling water. Here is another clear and explicit warning: By Our own command. Verily We have ever been sending Messengers, as a mercy from thy Lord. Verily, He is the All - Hearing, the All - Knowing, the Lord of the heavens and the earth and all that is between them, if you would only have faith. There is no god but He. He gives life and He causes death. He is your Lord, and the Lord of your fore fathers. Yet they play about in doubt. But watch thou for the day when the sky will bring forth a visible smoke that