Unity of God — Page 27
27 and the Teachings of Muhammad s as message and said: ‘If you desire wealth, we offer you a large sum; if you crave power, we accept you as our leader; if you want a beautiful woman, we will find you the most stunning one in all of Arabia; and if you are afflicted with madness, we offer you treatment. But do not criticise our idols. ’ 10 Upon hearing this message from the Makkan chief, the Holy Prophet s as was moved to tears, realising his people had put a price on his selfless service. He replied: ‘Even if you place the Sun in my right hand and the Moon in my left, I would never abandon belief in Tauheed. ’ This response had such a profound effect on the Makkan chief that, despite being a staunch enemy, he advised fellow disbelievers to stop opposing the Holy Prophet s as or they would be ruined. Thus, it was for propagating the that his enemies persecuted him. He was tortured. Children were sent to abuse him, and dogs were unleashed after him. Once, he went to Taif, and the locals tortured him so much that he was drenched in blood from head to toe. He kept falling with unbearable pain. Every time he stood up, they pelted him with stones. Even in this state, he prayed: ‘O Allah, forgive them, for they 10 Sirat Ibn Hisham , Translated by Farid, Egypt 2000, p. 44 [Publishers]