The Outset of Dissension in Islam — Page 132
132 H A D RAT MIRZA BASHIR-UD-DIN MAHMUD AHMAD called. At the time, such a mood was developing and such a degree of sorrow was overshadowing the atmosphere, that even the rebels could not remain unaffected. And why would this not be the case? Everyone was observing that a candle lit by Muhammad sa , the Messenger of Allah, upon completing its life in the world was now about to disappear from the eyes of the people. Therefore, the rebels did not cause much hindrance and all the companions gathered. When everyone had come together, Hadrat ‘Uthm a n ra climbed the wall of his house and said, “Come close to me. ” When they had all come close to him, Hadrat ‘Uthm a n ra said, “O people! Sit down. ” At this, the companions sat down and inspired by the awe of the gathering, so did the rebels. When they had all sat down Hadrat ‘Uthm a n ra said: “People of Madinah! I entrust you to God the Exalted and pray to Him that after me, He may arrange for a better successor than me. After today, until God the Exalted issues a decree in my regard, I shall not step out of my house and I shall not pass on authority to anyone by which he may rule over you in terms of religion or worldly rule. I leave it to God the Exalted to choose whoever He desires for His work. ” After this he appealed in the name of Allah to the companions and the other people of Madinah, not to put their own lives in grave danger by protecting him and to go to their homes. This instruction of Hadrat ‘ Uthm a n ra created a serious disagreement among the companions, a disagreement the likes of which cannot be found prior to this. The companions knew nothing but to obey every command, but today, in obeying this