The Message or A Cry of Anguish — Page 7
THE MESSAGE OR A CRY OF ANGUISH 7 prophecies in their works. Thus, how can he who is unaware of these historical events, discuss in his books such prophecieis that have been proven to be from God? For instance, without the reli- ance on history, how could anyone come to know about that part of the life of the Messiah, peace be upon him, which preceded his ministry and extended three and a half years? These events were documented by Jewish historians as well as by certain Christian ones; how could one determine the events and conflicts recorded by past historians regarding the Messiah and his real brothers, or about the human weaknesses and shortcomings of the Messiah described in other historical works in relation to both parts of his life? There are very few Muslims who know that Jesus had four real brothers born from the womb of the same mother. His brothers did not accept in him during his life, rather they were extremely sceptical concerning his truthfulness. To know all these facts it is necessary to go through the annals of history. By the grace of God Almighty, I have had access to the books of Jewish scholars and of some Christian philosophers in which these specifics have been recorded in detail. SEVENTH CONDITION is possessing somewhat proficiency in the science of logic and dialectic—for a thorough study of these two sciences sharpens the mind so that one's method of investigation and argumentation leaves little room for error. Indeed, experience also shows that if one is deprived of God-given enlightenment and sagacity, then this knowledge too can be of no avail. Many a dimwitted mullah think it sufficient to have studied Qutbī and Qādī Mubarak or [Kitāb ash-]Shifā by Sheikhur-Ra'īs [Avicenna] etc. , yet they have no competence in debating, and are unable to