Some Distinctive Features of Islam — Page 20
20 strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also, and if anyone would use you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well. 42 Islam holds these two opposing tea chings to be complementary, each suited to the conditions and situation prevailing at the time, and neither, therefore, able to lay clai m to being universal or eternal. This perfectly stands to reason, for man was still progressing through earlier stages of development and had not yet become one community to which could be vouchsafed a law that would be final and universal. We believe that Islam is that final law and presents a teaching not influenced by place or time which fa ct is amply illustrated by its teaching in the matter being considered. The Holy Quran says: Remember that the recompense of an injury is an injury the like thereof; but whoso forgives and thereby brings about a reformation, his reward is with Allah. Surely, Allah loves not wrongdoers. 43 Islam thus combines the best features of both the earlier teachings; with the vital addition that forgiveness is commended provided it is likely to result in an improvement and in the correction of the defaulter, that being the real objective. If not, then punishment is held to be necessary, but not exceeding the degree to which one is wronged. Surely, this guidance is in full confo rmity with human nature and is as practicable today as when it was revealed, fourteen centuries ago.