The Light of Truth — Page 482
482 THE LIGHT OF TRUTH-PART TWO allegations and the other concerning the Sign of the two eclipses. I swear by Him who revealed and perfected the Furqan [i. e. Quran] that all of them are ignorant. They lack knowledge and understanding and whoever [among them] claims to be a scholar has certainly lied. As such, for those of them who claim to have a command of Arabic and erudition in its literary sciences, the best way to establish their skill, verify their expertise, and measure their stock is for such a claimant to undertake the writing of a book similar to this one and the composing of wonders similar to these, committing to extemporisation and brev- ity. I give the Christians a period of two full months from the date of the printing [of this book]; therefore, let those who possess knowledge and insight step forward. It was revealed to me by my Lord that they are all like the blind; they will never produce the like of this [book] and they are liars in their claims. Is there anyone among them who will contend with a book and demonstrate his bravery in this battle of rhetoric? Will he refute this revelation of mine and claim my prize? Will he remain safe from the curse [of God] and serve his faith and people, avoiding the taunts of the denigrators? I have committed to give them five thousand rupees after confir- mation of the pact, no matter my condition, be it poverty or affluence, provided that they produce the like of this [book], either individually or with the cooperation of all those who oppose me. However, if they do not do so-and never will they do it—then know that they are ignorant liars and sinful traitors. When they are defeated, they resort to deception. They know nothing of the sciences of this religion nor possess any knowledge of its law. They abuse Muslims unjustly and do not fear the anger of the Lord of all the worlds. مَالُوْا إِلَى أَمْوَالِهِمْ وَعَلَاءِ مَا لِلْعِدَا مَالُوا إِلَى الْأَهْوَاءِ What is the matter with the enemies that they turn towards base desires? They incline towards their wealth and prestige.