Punishment of Apostacy in Islam — Page 20
20 partners with God. Thus a tremendous truth was set forth, strong proofs of the Unity of God were furnished, man was shown the way whereby he could establish a living relationship with God, and recognize his Lord through his experience. Despite all this, concerning him who persists in associating partners with Allah it is only said: Turn away from him. Then it is said: Had Allah so willed, they would not have set up partners with Him. We have not appointed thee a keeper over them, nor art thou their guardian. Again it is said: Your Lord knows you best. If he pleases He will have mercy on you, and if He pleases He will chastise you. We have not sent thee to be a keeper over them (17:55). Whether a person truly loves God is known only to God. No one else can disclose it. Your Lord knows you best. If He pleases He will have mercy on you, that is to say, He will have mercy on him concerning whom He judges that he deserves mercy, and if He so wills He will chastise you. The Holy Prophet is told: We have not appointed you a keeper over them. At another place it is said: Say to them: O my people, carry on, on your side; I shall carry on, on my side; when God manifests His design and you are called to account, and the believers are bestowed favors, you will realize which side is afflicted with a degrading and abiding punishment. We have revealed to thee the Book, comprising truth and wisdom for the benefit of mankind. Then whoever follows the guidance truly does so to his own good ; and whoever goes astray does so to his own loss. Thou art not appointed a guardian over them (39:30-42). If the Holy Prophet himself is not a keeper or a guardian over the people, it would be