The Life & Character of the Seal of Prophets (sa) – Volume III — Page 177
VI - All Races Invited to Islām 177 the propagation of truth. Their task is to invite people to goodness, teach virtue and forbid evil; And the truth is that it is these very people who shall prosper. ” 1 No Compulsion in Religion Whilst drawing attention towards fervent preaching, the Holy Qur’ān teaches the principle that preaching should always be done in the best possible manner, with wisdom and intelligence, so that the heart of the addressee inclined towards truth does not become obstinate and averse. Instead, the windows of the heart open automatically for the acceptance of truth. As such, He states: ُ هِيَ اَحْسَن ى بِالَّتِ دْعُ اِلَىٰ سَبِيلِ رَبِّكَ بِالْحِكْمَةِ وَالْمَوْعِظَةِ الْحَسَنَةِ وَجَادِلْهُم ُ ا “O Messenger of God, call people unto the way of thy Lord with wisdom and goodly exhortation; and if ever an occasion of discussion or debate arises, then argue in a manner that is appealing and finest. ” 2 Then, further expounding this principle, Allāh states that a way of compulsion and coercion in the matter of religion is not permissible under any circumstances. Nor can true faith be developed by compulsion and persecution. Once an explanation with proof and argumentation has been furnished, the addressee should have the right to either accept or reject it, as per his wishes, because no individual can be worthy of reward or punishment without free acceptance or rejection. As such, Allāh states: ِّ تَّبَيَّنَ الرُّشْدُ مِنَ الْغَي الدِّينِ قَد اِكْرَاهَ فِي لَا “There can be no compulsion in the matter of religion. Guidance and misguidance are two distinct things; And every individual has the right to his own decision. ” 3 1 Āl-e-‘Imrān (3:105) 2 An-Nahl (16:126) 3 Al-Baqarah (2:257)