The Message or A Cry of Anguish — Page 27
THE MESSAGE OR A CRY OF ANGUISH 27 too would go through a time of weakness in future, similar to the one that the Messiah had faced before, and they were strictly enjoined to remain steadfast in the face of harsh words and per- secution by other peoples. Blessed are those who act upon these verses and do not disobey God. A deep study of the Holy Quran reveals that its teaching has two aspects to this issue. The first concerns the injunction as how to respond when our opponents such as priests etc. , abuse and provoke us by levelling various kinds of slanderous accusations against our faith, our Prophet, peace be upon him, and the Holy Quran, the lamp for our guid- ance. The second is about our obligation when our opponents publish misleading objections against our leader and the founder of our faith, Muhammad, the Chosen One, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and the Holy Quran, and try to lead the hearts away from the truth. Both these commandments were so essential that the Muslims ought to have kept them in mind. But, alas! The opposite is the case today. Provocation and taking vengeance from the cunning opponent has come to be regarded as a sign of religiousness, and man's policy is given preference over the one taught by God. However, the true wisdom of our religion, and our goodness and prosperity requires that we care the least for human designs and become faithful servants in the eyes of God Almighty by following His guidance. God has explicitly told us at the end of the chapter Al-e-Imran of a time when our religion will be insulted and extremely harsh words will be used against our Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. It is as follows,