Life of Ahmad — Page 25
25 CHAPTER 3 WORLD PREPARATIONS The arrival of an illustrious prince in his realm is hailed by a general commotion. Each and every department is set in motion, and preparations befitting the accasion are made in the country and in the towns. There is a show of strength to warn evil-doers and check the forces of disorder. Every effort is made to smooth and decorate the prince’s path and provide facilities for his visit. Prisoners are set free in his honour, and offences are condoned as a mark of royal mercy, so that all may heartily partake in the festive celebration of the auspicious occasion. Similar is the case with a heavenly Messenger. God is the Supreme Ruler of the universe and His Messengers are Divine Princes. When darkness engulfs the world and evil reigns supreme, when vice increases and virtue declines, when righteousness is rare and wickedness abounds— in such days, the mercy of God necessitates the raising of a Divine Messenger to reform and regenerate humanity and to bring mankind back to