Three Questions by a Christian and their Answers — Page 21
21 ing signs which the former peoples saw and which they re- jected, and were not at all frightened or deterred by them? Divine signs, let us say, are of two kinds: (1) Signs consist- ing of warning and punishment, which can also be called signs of Divine wrath. (2) Signs of glad-tidings or peace, also known as signs of Divine mercy. Signs of warning are shown to people who are hard-hearted, disobedient, faith- less and of Pharaonic dispositions, so that they may take heed and their hearts may become overawed by the Might and Majesty of God. Signs of glad-tidings are meant for seekers after truth, sincere believers, lovers of guidance, and meek and humble people, who think lowly of them- selves and seek to strengthen their faith. These signs are not meant as warnings. Their purpose is to bring comfort to God’s loyal servants, to deepen their faith and conviction, and to lay the hand of His grace and mercy on their trou- bled hearts. The believers, therefore, always continue to receive such signs through the Holy Quran and keep ad- vancing in faith and conviction. Signs of Divine mercy bring peace and solace to the believers, dispel the anxiety which man is naturally prone to and bring tranquillity to his heart. As a reward for following the Book of God, he re- ceives signs of glad-tidings throughout his life. Signs of peace and comfort keep descending upon him, so that he continues to advance in certainty and knowledge and reaches the stage of H aq-ul-Yaq i n. 23 Another blessing of 23 Perfect Certainty. [Publishers]