Lecture Ludhiana — Page 53
53 reform, has his reward with God. Thus forgiveness is emphasized but on the condition that it results in reform; forgiveness doled out thoughtlessly causes mischief. This is a moment to reflect. One must forgive if forgiveness is likely to bring about reform. This point can be illustrated by an example of two servants: one basically decent, obedient, well-meaning but quite unintentionally makes a mistake, it would only be proper to forgive him and punishing him would be inappropriate; the other, a mis- chievous rogue who does not desist from mischief and causes damage, if let off, would become even more reckless, hence he must be punished. So act wisely in keeping with the demands of the situation. This is what Islam teaches and it is indeed is the perfect teaching. No other teaching or law can ever replace it, for the Holy Prophet sa is the Seal of Prophets, and the Holy Qur’an is the Perfect Book. There can be no other Kalima or prayer. The Holy Prophet sa demonstrated what he preached. No salvation is possible without following the Holy Qur’an. He who turns his back on it, will land in hell. This is our faith and belief. But it should as well be borne in mind that the door of divine converse and revelation remains open for this Ummah. This door is an ever present and lasting testimony to the truth of the Holy Qur’an and the Holy Prophet sa. It was to this end that God taught us this prayer in the Chapter Al-Fatihah :