Malfuzat – Volume I — Page 147
Malfuzat - Volume I 147 apprehensions and concerns are the very decline that are illustrated in the state of duluk. This is the first state that is represented by the Zuhr prayer and it is this Zuhr prayer which symbolically reflects this initial condition. The second state that overtakes a person is when they are stood in the courtroom. The opposing party and court are engaged in questioning and cross-questioning. This is a most uncomfortable state and it is this condition and time which is illustrated in the Asr prayer. For the word 'asr' means to suffocate and strain. When the state of affairs becomes even more delicate and a charge-sheet is prepared against the per- son in question, despair and desperation grow. For at this time the individual in question believes that they will be sentenced. This is the time which is symboli- cally reflected in the Maghrib prayer. Then, when the verdict is announced and the individual is handed over to the constable or court inspector, this is represent- ative of the spiritual condition symbolically illustrated by the Isha prayer. Finally, the dawn of Prayer arrives and the state of (Verily, there is ease after hardship) is manifested. This is the time which parallels the spiritual condition that is symbolically reflected in the Fajr prayer. In short, I address you and say once again that the purpose for which you should forge a sincere relationship with me should only be to bring about a noticeable transformation in your morals and habits, so that as a result, you may become a source of guidance and blessing for others. ² The End al-Inshirah, 94:7 Report on the Jalsa Salana of 1897, p. 130-167