The Need for the Imam — Page 26
26 comes as if from the other world. Moreover, how can Satan, who is so wretched, dare to come openly like a man? In view of this discussion one can’t help accept- ing the stand taken by Draper. But this much can be said that Jesus as with his prophetic power and light of truth never allowed any satanic inspiration to come anywhere near him. Instead, he immediately set about rejecting and repudiating it. And just as darkness can- not stand up against light, in the same way Satan could not stand up against Jesus as and fled. This indeed is the correct meaning of the verse: 25 Satan can only become dominant over those who suc- cumb to his temptations and inspirations. But those who strike Satan from a distance with the arrow of light, and smite him in the face with the lash of rebuke, and refuse to submit to any of his nonsense, are ex- empt from his sway. But since God Almighty wants these people to see the kingdom of heaven and earth, and Satan belongs to the kingdom of the earth, there- fore, in order to attain full knowledge of the creation, they must have a glimpse of the face of this bizarre creature known as Satan and hear his speech. But this 25 Surely, thou shalt have no power over My servants. — Al- H ijr , 15:43 [Publishers]