The Essence of Islam – Volume III — Page 403
Repeated Challenges 403 forward another method of settlement through Divine intervention. . . . . I I propose that you should state on oath, in a public gathering, that Bābā Nānak was disgusted with Islām and esteemed the Prophet of Islām an evil man and that in truth he was (God forbid) wicked and vicious and was not a true Prophet. You should then supplicate: 'If these two statements of mine are false, then do. You, O Mighty Kartār, inflict severe punishment on me for this impertinence within one year. '. Once you have made this statement and supplication, we shall deposit five hundred rupees wherever you may desire. If you are true in your affirmation, you will suffer no harm whatsoever within one year and the amount of five hundred rupees will be paid over to you, and I will be disgraced and humiliated. But, on the other hand, if some punishment does come down upon you, all Sikhs will be guided to the truth. [Majmu'ah Ishtihārāt, vol. 2, pp. 394-399]. Announcement on the Death of Lekh Rām. I affirm truly and on oath that I bear no enmity towards any people; I only desire to correct them in their beliefs, as far as it is possible for me. If someone insults me, my complaint is addressed to God and not to any court. I am inspired with sympathy for all men. I do not know how and in what words to satisfy Āryā gentlemen that recourse to mischief is not my way. I am distressed by the loss of human life but I am also pleased with the fulfilment of a Divine prophecy. I am pleased only because I desire the good of mankind. I would wish them to reflect that it is not possible for a human being, on his own, to predict such an event so clearly years in advance.