My Mother — Page 11
Trial of Faith 11 my humble entreaty and grant him respite for ten days, I beg of Thee, so that his grandfather might enjoy his frolics. Thereafter if Thou art pleased to summon him, I shall not breathe a sigh. ’ She knew not how long she continued in that vein. She was still so occupied when she felt a tug at her veil and heard Rafiq’s call baybay (‘mama’) in a perfectly healthy voice. She realised that her prayer was heard and her heart was filled to overflowing with grat- itude to her Maker. Her father-in-law was delighted to welcome her back earlier than he had expected, and fondled his little grandson joyously. The days passed happily. Watching her child frolicking merrily with his grandfather, she smiled, knowing that this was a manifestation of Allah’s grace whereby he had been granted a brief reprieve. On the expiry of ten days, Rafiq suddenly exhibited the same symptoms and passed away within a few hours. The twice bereaved mother bore the loss steadfastly, submitting to the Divine will with hum- ble resignation, grateful for the favour accorded to her in response to her pitiful entreaty. These two poignant episodes and their sequel have puzzled some of the readers of the Urdu booklet, and a word of explanation seems called for and may be ventured. The fundamental, unalter- able verity is that Allah alone is the Master of life and death—as indeed He is of everything else—as is said in the Holy Quran: ‘It is Allah Who bestows life and causes death’ (3:157); and, ‘No one can die, except by Allah’s leave’ (3:146). Husain Bibi’s faith was rooted in that firm rock. It brooked neither exception nor variation. But there may be trials, so that steadfastness may be promoted and faith may shine forth as a liv- ing and suffering reality, rather than a mere verbal affirmation; as