Malfuzat - Volume VIII — Page 372
372 MALFŪZĀT - ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF URDU VOLUME 8 ill of him. There are many people whose initial condition is bad, and then suddenly, a time of change comes over them. Just as their physical condition goes through many stages: first, a sperm, then a blood clot, and a most contemptible condition which goes on progressing step by step. In the same way, all peo- ple, except the Prophets, have to go through all the stages. The company of one appointed by Allah can correct the condition of man. If every person was to emerge an Abdal [saint] from home, then what would be the need for the whole system of enter- ing into Bai'at [the Pledge of Allegiance]? A weak man gains strength gradually by entering the Movement. Consider the initial condition of the Companions. When a kāfir [disbe- liever] can become a believer, can a wicked man not become righteous? Many states come over a person, and many changes occur. ¹ 10 MAY 1906 Mubāhalah is a High Calibre Weapon There was mention of Ahmad Masīh the Christian calling upon the Promised Messiahas for a mubāhalah [prayer duel]. (The acceptance reply to which has been published in the previous edition of the newspaper. ) The Promised Messiahas said: 1. Badr, vol. 2, no. 20, p. 3, dated 17 May 1906