The Light of Truth — Page 381
REFUTING OBJECTIONS well-known, in March 1894 CE. As for the details of their testi- monies, it is as follows: The solar eclipse that occurred on 6 April 1894 was unique in its novelties, and the like of it has not been observed before with regard to its modalities. Its shape and form are extraordi- nary and its modes strange. It is supernatural and contrary to the ordinary and established practice. Accordingly, that which has been related in the Quran and the hadith of Khātamun-Nabiyyīn [the Seal of the Prophets] has been proved true. There is no doubt that the joining of the lunar and solar eclipses in the month of Ramadan with this peculiarity is a supernatural phenomenon. So if, alongside it, you observe a person saying, 'Verily I am the Promised Messiah and Blessed Mahdi and a recipient of revelation and sent by God, and his appearance coincides with this Sign, there can be no doubt that these are matters whose co-occurrence has never been heard of in previous times. If someone claims otherwise, it is incumbent upon them to prove its occurrence at some pre- vious point in time. Then, as this Sign appeared in this country and at this place [Qadian], and not a trace of it appeared in Arabia or the Levant, this is a testimony—O people of Islam!—from Allah the All-Knowing to the truthfulness of my claim. So arise one by one and renounce those who refuse and oppose; then, reflect and abandon your stubbornness. Do not cast yourselves into ruin with your hands and do not create disorder to bring about ruination, and do not turn away hastily. O servants of Allah! May the mercy of Allah be upon you! Fear Allah and do not behave arrogantly. Think and reflect: Is it acceptable in your view for the Mahdi to be in Arabia or the Levant whereas his Sign should appear at this place? You know full well that divine wisdom does not separate a Sign from its people, recipient, and place. So how it is possible for the Mahdi 381