Malfuzat – Volume III — Page 106
106 Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Our Response to Opponents There was a discussion on how certain opponents treat members of our com- munity in a harsh manner and inflict grief upon them. The Promised Messiah as advised his followers to be kind and forgiving, and to refrain from mischief. He stated: “One should not be incensed by one’s opponents. I especially advise those who are young that it is imperative for you to visit me as often as possible. There is no telling how long you shall live after me. Spending time in my company is ben- eficial. If a person remains inclined towards God, they become an embodiment of divine attributes. Moreover, by staying with me, a person can observe and learn many things. ” The Definition of a Journey A written question from someone was submitted to the Promised Messiah as. The individual inquired that since they are compelled to travel here and there for up to a distance of 30 miles or so, what should they consider a journey and is the Islamic injunction of shortening the Prayer whilst on a journey applicable to them? The person stated that they were not interested in academic discussions from books and all they wanted was a verdict from our Truthful Leader. His Holiness as stated: “It is my belief that an individual ought not to impose undue difficulty upon themselves. The definition of a journey is based on the general understanding of society, even if the distance itself is only a few miles. So, if this is the case, a person should follow injunctions which are applicable in the case of a journey and shorten the Prayer. ِ َعْمَال ُ بِالنِّیَّات ْ اِنَّمَا ال Deeds are based on intentions. At times, we will cover a distance of even two or three miles when we are walking with our friends, but no one has the slightest thought in their minds that they are on a journey. However, when a person packs their belongings and sets out with the intention that they are about to undertake a journey, they are a traveller. The foundation of the shariah is not based on difficulty. A journey is a journey by generally accepted standards. ”