The Outset of Dissension in Islam — Page 21
21 and well-equipped armies of their enemies, the opponents of Islam thought that the Muslim victories were temporary and soon this wave would take another turn; and this nation, rising in the likeness of a storm would soon fly away like a tornado. However, there astonishment knew no bounds when in a period of a few years the horizon was cleared and the banner of Islam began to flutter in all four corners of the world. This was such a triumph which left the enemy dumbfounded and it drowned in a sea of surprise and astonishment. In the eyes of enemy forces, the companions as well as those who gained their company began to appear as supernatural beings. The enemy lost all hope. However, when a period of time elapsed after these victories and their awe and astonishment lessened, and their fear lessened after meeting the Companions as , the thought of opposing Islam and establishing false religions developed. As far as argumentation was concerned, they could not contest with the pure teachings of Islam. Governments had been wiped out and the one tool that was always used against the truth i. e. , oppression and tyranny, had been destroyed. Now only one avenue remained, which was to do the work of an enemy in the guise of a friend, and through agreement, create divide. Hence, various evil people who were becoming blinded by the light of Islam accepted the religion outwardly, but actually sought to destroy it after apparently converting to Islam. Since the progress of Islam was associated with Khilafat , in the presence of a shepherd, the wolf was unable to attack. Therefore, it was proposed that Khilafat be wiped out and the thread of harmony which tied the Muslims of the entire world together be torn, so that the Muslims could be deprived of the blessings of unity. In this manner, false religions could