The Outset of Dissension in Islam — Page 122
122 H A D RAT MIRZA BASHIR-UD-DIN MAHMUD AHMAD thing before the people, while concealing another thing in their hearts. These people began to level such accusations against me as were levelled against the Khulaf a ’ ra before me as well. However, I remained silent despite knowing of this. Taking advantage of my mercy, these people grew even more in their mischief. Ultimately, they attacked Madinah in the likeness of disbelievers. So, if there is anything you can do then please arrange for some help. ” 103 Similarly, a few days later, Hadrat ‘ Uthm a n ra wrote a letter to the people who had come to perform hajj. The gist of [this letter] is set out below. A LETTER TO THE PILGRIMS FROM H A D RAT ‘ UTHM A N RA “I draw your attention towards God the Exalted and remind you of His favours. At this time certain people are creating mischief and are engaged in attempts to cause divide in Islam. However, these people have not even taken into consideration that God appoints the Khalifah, just as He says: [meaning, Allah has promised to those among you who 103. T a r i khu t-T abar i , vol. 5, p. 154, Dhikru Mas i ri Mann S a ra Il a Dh i Khashabin Min Ahli Mi s ra. . . . . , Published by D a rul-Fikr, Beirut, 2002 edition [Publishers]