Malfuzat – Volume I — Page 215
Malfuzat - Volume I 215 The government has the right to put the infected in quarantine. In other words, those that are isolated will be grappling with death. There will be no distinction between the rich and poor, male or female, nor old or young. Therefore, if God- forbid the plague spreads to a locality in which any of you reside, I instruct you to be among the first who obey the laws of the government. There are reports that in most areas the police forces have been met with con- frontation. In my view, to oppose the laws of the government is rebellion, which is a terrible crime. It is, however, an obligation of the government to appoint such officials who are well-mannered and honest, and who are aware of the traditions, customs and religious practices of the land. In short, take it upon yourselves to obey the laws, and inform your friends and neighbours of the advantages that are attached to these regulations. I say repeatedly that now is the time for prayers; it appears that this epidemic has turned its face towards the Punjab. Therefore, it is necessary for each and every one to be forewarned and awakened so that they may supplicate and seek forgiveness from God. It is the stance of the Holy Quran that once divine punishment descends, seeking forgiveness cannot save one from chastisement. How to Save Oneself from Divine Chastisement Hence, before divine punishment arrives to close the door of repentance, seek re- pentance. When worldly laws arouse such fear, then why should people not fear the law of God Almighty? A person is left with no choice but to taste a calamity once it has arrived. Every one of you ought to strive and wake for Tahajjud prayer; and also offer special supplications in your five daily Prayers when you stand after the ruku. Repent from anything and everything which displeases God. Repentance is to abandon all the evil deeds and situations which cause the displeasure of God, and to bring about a sincere change; to move forward and adopt righteousness. One ought to hold morality in high regard, for this too brings the mercy of God; refine your habits; be free from anger and replace it with humility and meekness. Along with the reformation of your morals, give charity to the extent of your means ,he feed. يُطْعِمُونَ الطَّعَامَ عَلَى حُبِّهِ مِسْكِيْنًا وَيَتِيْمًا وَّاسِيرًا :as well. Allah Almighty states for the pleasure of God, the poor, orphans, and prisoners, and they say: 'We give you only for the pleasure of Allah Almighty, and fear a day that is most terrifying. In short, engage yourselves in prayer and repentance, and continue to give charity 1 ad-Dahr, 76:9