The Advent of the Promised Messiah — Page 23
23 great dishonour to this Community, as well as an act of temerity and insolence in the face of Allah the Exalted. For He has repeatedly expressed that darkness has engulfed the world both in respect of practice and doctrine. Countless Prophets and Messengers appeared in the world, and tirelessly toiled and strove to establish the Oneness of Allah, but today a dark veil has been drawn over it. Further, the people have fallen victim to various forms of polytheism. The Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, enjoined that one ought not to love the world, but today, the love of the world dominates every heart and everyone seems immersed in this very love. When asked, some are averse to under- taking even an iota of work for the sake of religion, reluctance holds them back and they begin to invent thousands of excuses. Every form of misconduct and immorality is considered permissible and every possible transgression is brazenly committed. Religion has become fatally weak and stands helpless like an orphan. In this state, if Islam had not been helped and supported, when else was it to confront such circumstances as would lend reason for its support? Islam remains only in