The Mirror of the Excellences of Islam — Page 375
374 Α'ΙΝΑ-Ε-ΚΑMĀLĀT-E-ISLAM-DAFI UL-WASĀWIS His way to those who strive in His way, but on the other, it is surprising that the promise remains unfulfilled. They may not have performed Istikhārah,¹ but hundreds of people are striving with the utmost sincerity to find the straight path and to clearly see the truth. The following seem to be the issues that will reveal the truth. First: There is no excuse left now as to why the opponents should not be challenged to a mubāhalah [prayer duel] because as you have stated in reply to Maulawi ‘Abdul-Haqq, a mubā- halah is not permissible until a discussion is held first, and a demand for a mubāhalah is made therein, because the differ- ence has to do with a matter of interpretation. This is no longer the case. Opposition has intensified, and arguments have been thoroughly established. You should now challenge the oppo- nents to a mubāhalah, and, with complete concentration, seek Divine permission for it. The mubāhalah should bring out a result in the near future within a period of not more than two months, for people become weary of a long period of waiting. If it is said that the deniers will continue to deny even after see- ing the result of the mubāhalah, I would beg to state that the deniers may not believe, but those who are in a state of wavering would certainly come to believe. And a very great benefit would be that those who have already taken the Pledge of Allegiance will have their faith strengthened. In any case, a challenge to mubāhalah now seems essential. Second: In Nishān-e-Asmānī [The Heavenly Sign] you have stated that the Istikharah should be free from sentiments of hostility or love; because, otherwise, Satan interferes, and one's own thoughts determine the inspiration. Hence, it should be 1. A special prayer to seek Divine guidance in important affairs. [Publisher]