The Life & Character of the Seal of Prophets (sa) – Volume III — Page 198
Seal of the Prophets - Volume III 198 verse or two had already been revealed, but since most were revealed then, it was said that the first eighty verses of Sūrah Āl-e-‘Imrān were revealed when the delegation from Najrān came to Madīnah. Then, it is also possible that this verse was revealed twice: initially in the first years after the migration; and secondly, in 9 A. H. , etc. However, perhaps the most solid evidence is furnished by the discovery of that letter which the Holy Prophe t sa sent to Maqauqis of Egypt in the same era. This letter has been discovered in its original form and a photo of it shall be provided ahead. In this letter as well, the Holy Prophet sa has dictated the same passage, i. e. , ٍ يَا اَهْل َ الْكِتَاب ِ تَعَالَوْا اِلَى ٰ كَلِمَة. Therefore, when it is categorically proven that this passage was also included in the letter to Maqauqis and the letter to Heraclius was also written in the same era, in any case, the issue of the validity of these letters cannot be doubted. This is my point of view. The letter inviting Heraclius to Islām which was sent by the Holy Prophet sa was a remarkably outstanding letter in terms of its meaning, the beauty of its wording and comprehensiveness. Although the letter itself is very brief, each and every word is like a gem, which has been placed into a magnificently crafted set of jewellery by a master jeweller. In this very brief letter, a wonderful model for preaching in general, and preaching to a Christian in particular has been presented. Furthermore, a complete lesson of the Unity of God has also been presented, the like of which cannot be found anywhere else. Then, the style of expression is so exquisite, as if two perfect streams of glad tiding and warning are flowing side by side. Moreover, a complete illustration of the truth of Islām has been presented without offending anyone or hiding behind the veil of diplomacy. Then, in the end the Holy Prophet sa also expressed his firm determination in that, whether you accept me or not, in any case, we are committed to the service of Islām. 1 ْ اَللّٰھُم َّ صَل ِّ عَلٰی مُحَمَّد ٍ وَبَارِك ْ وَسَلِّم Another weighty lesson which is learned from the account of the letter to Heraclius is that no grand truth can be accepted without a real spirit of sacrifice. It is evident from the questions that Heraclius inquired of Abū Sufyān, that he was a remarkably sensible and intelligent individual who had a deep study in the history of prophethood and religion. Furthermore, 1 O Allāh, invoke blessings and salutations on the Holy Prophet and his followers. (Publishers)