ALLAH REDEEMS, FREES, AND STRENGTHENS HIS PEOPLE
by Ma’amoon Abdullah
DELIVERANCE FROM EVIL
O Children of Israel, call to mind the special favor which I bestowed upon you, and that I preferred you to all others (for My Message). – Quran, Surat-ul Baqara(2):47
What Allah out of His Mercy doth open to mankind, there is none that can withhold; what He doth withhold, there is none that can grant, apart from Him. And He is exalted in Power, full of Wisdom. – Surat-u Fatir(35):2
They (the people of Pharaoh) said (to Musa), “Whatever be the Signs thou bringest to work therewith thy sorcery on us, we shall never believe in thee. ” So We sent (plagues) on them: wholesale Death, Locusts, Lice, Frogs, and Blood, Signs openly self-explained; but they were steeped in arrogance-a people given to sin. Every time the penalty fell on them, they said, “O Musa, on our behalf, call on thy Lord in virtue of His promise to Thee. If thou wilt remove the penalty from us, we shall truly believe in thee, and we shall send away the Children of Israel with thee.”
But every time We removed the penalty from them according to a fixed term which they had to fulfill—behold, they broke their word! So We exacted retribution from them. We drowned them in the sea because they rejected Our Signs and failed to take warning from them. And We made a people considered weak (and of no account) inheritors of lands in both East and West-Lands whereon We sent down Our blessings. The fair promise of thy Lord was fulfilled for the Children of Israel, because they had patience and constancy. And We leveled to the ground the great Works and fine Buildings which Pharaoh and his people erected (with such pride). – Surat-ul A’araf(7): 132-137
In a previous lesson, we discussed the call of Allah upon the life of Musa(A:). We saw how Allah wonderfully preserved his life and caused him to be reared in the palace of his enemy. We also saw how Allah led Musa into a “desert experience,” speaking to him from the Presence of the Burning Flame! We then heard Allah speak these words of concern for the descendants of Ibrahim, Ishaq, and Yaqub, who had been suffering greatly under the bondage of Pharaoh:
I have remembered My covenant. Therefore say to the Israelites: “I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. I will free you from being slaves to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment. I will take you as My own people, and I will be your God.” – Tawrat (Exodus 6:5-7)
ALLAH DESIRES TO REDEEM HIS PEOPLE
As we review the above scriptural reference, we are reminded that it is Allah Himself who promises to redeem Bani-Israel. We particularly notice the word “redeem” which we discussed at length in the story of Ibrahim(A:) and his son. We learned that the phrase “to redeem” or “to ransom” means to free someone or something by exchanging something else of equal or greater value in its place. Thus, Allah “redeemed” the son of Ibrahim with a sacrifice. In this lesson, we will see how Allah redeems Bani-Israel also by means of a sacrifice!
First, let us follow Musa as he returns to Egypt to the palace of Pharaoh. No longer is he hiding as a fugitive, fearing for his life. Rather, he is the Messenger of Allah, the spokesman of the Almighty, who now bears the noble task of leading His people from the darkness of bondage to the light of freedom! He issues this warning from the Lord of all the universe to the king of Egypt, “Let My people go!” Musa boldly approaches the throne of Pharaoh with his brother Harun and engages in the following discourse:
“This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘Let My people go, so that they may hold a festival to Me in the desert.”‘
Pharaoh said, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go.”
Then they said, “The God of the Hebrews has met with us. Now let us take a three-day journey into the desert to offer sacrifices to the Lord our God, or He may strike us with plagues or with the sword.” – Tawrat (Exodus 5:1-3)
Musa boldly approached the king of Egypt and clearly presented the terms of Allah’s demand. Pharaoh must allow the whole community of Bani-Israel to leave Egypt. They must travel a three-day journey into the desert with all their flocks to worship the Lord their God and perform the sacrifice. It was important that every person and every animal be allowed to leave. It was equally important that they go far enough into the desert to escape the wicked and ungodly influences of Pharaoh’s kingdom.
As we consider the terms set forth by Allah, we note the following. First of all, Allah desires to free His people from the enslavement of Shaitan. Secondly, Allah wants to free His people so that they can pursue the path which leads only to Himself~a path of worship and submission. This freedom is not to be a license for people to do whatever they please and go wherever they please. Instead, it is a freedom to worship Allah. For this very purpose man was created!
We also notice that once again, Allah prepares to lead His people into a “desert experience.” This experience is to teach the lesson of complete dependence upon the provisions of Allah’s Mercy. The people of Allah must leave the worldly enticements of “Egypt” far behind, for in the worship of the Beloved, all forms of impurity and idolatry must be eliminated! Furthermore Allah has instructed His people to worship Him through the ritual of animal sacrifice. This sacrifice is to be an important symbol of Allah’s long-suffering love on behalf of man.
THE ARROGANT HEART OF PHARAOH
Notice now the arrogance of Pharaoh as he replied to the demands of Musa. He questioned, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him?” There is a reason for this audacity on the part of Pharaoh. In the ancient days of Egypt, anyone bearing the title “Pharaoh” was regarded by common man to be the son of Ra, the chief Egyptian sun-god. So, with this understanding, Pharaoh could not conceive of a greater god, or greater man than he! Because of this he scorns Musa and the claims of his own God. However, Pharaoh was soon to learn that this God of Musa, the Creator of the sun and everything under the sun, is the God Supreme! He is Allah Ta’alla with whom there is no comparison. He alone is to be exalted above all others. Allahu Akbar!
Pharaoh was outraged that anyone should dare to approach his highness as Musa had done, demanding freedom for Bani-Israel. However, his rejection of Allah’s chosen servant did not go unanswered. Allah promptly responded through the rod of Musa by sending down the first of nine terrible plagues. Let us now follow the scripture passage to see how Pharaoh reacted as the plagues fell upon the land of Egypt.
Musa and Harun did just as the Lord commanded. He raised his staff in the presence of Pharaoh and his officials, and struck the water of the Nile, and (1) all the water was changed into blood. The fish in the Nile died, and the river smelled so bad that the Egyptians could not drink its water. Blood was everywhere in Egypt. But…Pharaoh’s heart became hard. – Tawrat (Exodus 7:20-22)
So Harun stretched out his hand (according to the instruction of Musa) over the waters of Egypt, and (2) the frogs came up and covered the land. But… Pharaoh hardened his heart. – Tawrat (Exodus 8:6,15)
When Harun stretched out his hand with the staff (according to the instruction of Musa) and struck the dust of the ground, gnats came upon men and animals. (3) All the dust throughout the land of Egypt became gnats. But Pharaoh’s heart was hard and he would not listen. – Tawrat (Exodus 8:17,19)
(4) Dense swarms of flies poured into Pharaoh’spalace and into the houses of his officials, and throughout Egypt the land was ruined by the flies. – Tawrat (Exodus 8:24)
THE STUBBORN HEART OF PHARAOH
At last, after the fourth plague, Pharaoh could stand it no longer. He quickly summoned Musa to his palace and said, “Go sacrifice to your God, here in the land” (Tawrat, Exodus 8:25). Notice how Pharaoh was willing to cleverly compromise to have the sacrifice made “here in the land.” But Allah had clearly instructed His people to worship Him in the desert—outside the land of Egypt, and not “in the land.” Musa refused to compromise.
So Pharaoh made another concession. Notice, however, how he again refused to comply fully with the terms of Allah’s demands. Pharaoh said:
I will let you go to offer sacrifices to the Lord your God in the desert, but you must not go very far. – Tawrat (Exodus 8:28)
But Allah had said they must travel a long distance into the desert, “a three-day journey!” How stubborn this Pharaoh was! He was unwilling to release his grip on the necks of the Israelites.
How clever Shaitan is! He tries to deceive all of us into believing that with one heart we can fully enjoy the worship of Allah’s glory, and with another heart enjoy the worship of worldly glitter. He whispers into the heart of man these familiar words: “Don’t be a fool. Continue your ritualistic religion if you must, but do not feel it necessary to leave behind the amusements of the world.”
Shaitan continues to whisper: “If you find it necessary to become a bit more religious, that’s okay. But don’t overdo it! Simply do what you must to cancel your big sins, but keep one foot at least in the land of self-gratification. Don’t worry, Allah knows your weakness, and He knows that for you, vice is the spice of life. Surely man is entitled to some kind of pleasurable enjoyment in life!”
Beware, my brother, beware! Shaitan knows the result of lukewarm commitment to Allah. He knows well that a partially surrendered heart is not a surrendered heart at all! He knows that to infect just one little area of the heart will eventually infect the whole life with sin and corruption. For this reason, Allah demands a complete surrender of our loyalty. He demands to be Lord and Ruler over every aspect of our lives. He reminds us that man possesses one heart only, and this one heart is to be completely given over to Him who is Lord over all. Listen to these many reminders:
Allah has not made for any man two hearts in his (one) body. – Quran, Surat-ul Ahzab(33):4
No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. – Injil (Luke 16:13)
Do not love the world…. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father (Allah) is not in him. For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does-comes not from the Father (Allah) but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of Allah lives forever. – Injil (1 John 2:15-17)
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind. – Injil. (Luke 10:27)
THE PLAGUES CONTINUED
Truly in the worship of Allah, there is no room for compromise. It is all, or it is nothing! Musa could not accept the terms of Pharaoh’s offer, and so again, the plagues began to fall:
(5) All the livestock of the Egyptians died…. Yet Pharaoh’s heart was unyielding and he would not let the people go. – Tawrat (Exodus 9:6,7)
(6) Festering boils broke out on men and animals. …But Pharaoh would not listen…. – Tawrat (Exodus 9:10,12)
(7) When Musa stretched out his staff toward the sky, the Lord sent thunder and hail, and lightning flashed down to the ground. So the Lord rained hail on the land of Egypt. – Tawrat (Exodus 9:23)
Realizing the terrible impact of these plagues, Pharaoh began to reconsider his position. Again he summoned Musa and addressed him as follows:
“Go worship the Lord your God…. But, just who will be going?”
Musa answered, “We will go with our young and old, with our sons and daughters, and with our flocks and herds….”
Pharaoh said, “No! Have only the men go, and worship the Lord….” – Tawrat (Exodus 10:8-11)
Once again, we see the cleverness of Shaitan. Allah intended that Bani-Israel, including every woman and child, leave Egypt to worship. But, Shaitan knows the power of a family which is united in godly worship. He knows that to create disunity and division within the family is to assure its eventual downfall. He also knows that to destroy the family is to destroy the very foundation of a stable society. The Scriptures bear witness to the danger of disunity:
Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand. – Injil (Matthew 12:25)
We would do well to remember that when Allah first created man and woman, He intended for them to join together and live as one—one in belief and purpose. This harmonious union between husband and wife was to be a reflection of Him who is truly Lord of Harmony. This union was not to be broken, but rather it was to be revered and passed on from one generation to the next. The Scriptures reveal the following concerning the bond between a husband and wife:
Allah, who is Lord, said, “It is not good for man to be alone…. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” – Tawrat (Genesis 2:18,24)
The families must remain united, and because of this, Pharaoh’s terms of compromise were unacceptable. Again, the plagues began to fall upon the land:
(8) Musa stretched out his staff over Egypt, and the Lord made an east wind blow across the land all that day and all that night. By morning the wind had brought the locusts; they invaded all Egypt…. They covered all the ground until it was black. Nothing green remained on tree or plant in all the land…. – Tawrat (Exodus 10:13-15)
The invasion of locusts brought severe damage to the crops of Egypt. Though the food supply was destroyed, Pharaoh still refused to yield. So with the hardening of his heart came one more plague:
(9) Musa stretched out his hand toward the sky, and total darkness covered all Egypt for three days. No one could see anyone else or leave his place…. – Tawrat (Exodus 10:22,23)
PHARAOH’S LAST WORD
Again, Pharaoh consented to let the Israelites go. He summoned Musa another time to the palace, but notice what he said:
Go worship the Lord. Even your women and children may go with you; only leave your flocks and herds behind. – Tawrat (Exodus 10:24)
Here we see another compromise. Musa had already made his position clear. The people were to go into the desert to worship Allah with animal sacrifices. That meant the livestock must go as well! Pharaoh, however, insisted that their livestock should remain in Egypt.
Again and again, we see the cleverness of Shaitan. He knows the significance of the qurbani sacrifice and the shedding of blood. He does not mind if man goes through the motions of religious ritual, as long as he does not perceive the meaning of the sacrifice. Remember, it is this sacrifice which begins to reveal the long-suffering attribute of Allah; and it is this sacrifice which speaks of divine Mercy and Compassion for all mankind. Shaitan works hard to keep this wonderful mystery hidden. He knows that without the true perception of Allah’s Mercy and intervention, man is surely lost. No matter how sincerely a man may try to live a good life, he ultimately fails. He does not have adequate power in himself to live a holy life. This is because he has been unable to enter the nearness of Allah, the only source of spiritual strength and godly virtue. And only the Holy Qurbani can free man to experience this wonderful sense of Allah’s nearness!
With boldness and unwavering faith, Musa made his position clear. Under no circumstances could he accept the compromise. He was obligated as the servant of Another to fully abide by the terms set forth by the decree of Allah Himself. At this refusal, Pharaoh became greatly enraged and warned Musa never to return again.
Pharaoh said to Musa, “Get out of my sight! Make sure you do not appear before me again. The day you see my face you will die.”
“Just as you say,” Musa replied. “I will never appear before you again.” – Tawrat (Exodus 10:28,29)
THE TERRIBLE CALAMITY
Nine terrible plagues struck the land of Egypt, and still Pharaoh would not yield to the will of Allah. The plagues brought sufficient warning. The time had now come for judgment. Sin and rebellion could not go unpunished. Allah’s justice demanded that the debt of sin be fully paid.
This judgment was to bring yet one more catastrophe upon the Egyptians, and it was to be far more devastating than the nine previous plagues. It was the sentence of death! This was the judgment that would ultimately loosen the grip of Pharaoh and redeem the seed of Ibrahim. The description of this judgment is related to us by the following account:
This is what the Lord says, “About midnight I will go throughout Egypt. Every firstborn son in Egypt will die, from the firstborn son of Pharaoh, who sits on the throne, to the firstborn son of the slave girl, who is at her hand mill…. There will be loud wailing throughout Egypt-worse than there has ever been or ever will be again.” – Tawrat (Exodus 11:4-6)
“This month is to be to you the first month, the first month of your year. Tell the whole community of Bani-Israel that on the 10th day of this month (ashura), each man is to take a lamb or a baby goat for his family, one for each household. If any household is too small for a whole lamb, they must share it with their nearest neighbor…. The animals you choose must be year-old males without defect, and you may take them from the sheep or the goats. Take care of them until the 14th day of the month, when all the people of Bani-Israel must slaughter them at twilight. Then they are to take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the lambs. That same night they are to eat the meat roasted over the fire, along with bitter herbs, and bread made without yeast. Do not eat the meat raw or cooked in water, but roast it over the fire….
“On that same night I will pass through Egypt and strike down every firstborn…and I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. I am the Lord. The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt. “ – Tawrat (Exodus 12:2-9,12,13)
REDEEMED BY SACRIFICE
Yes, Allah’s judgment would definitely fall upon all the domain of Pharaoh. However, it is important torealize that it would also fall upon Bani-Israel unless they fulfilled the requirement established by Allah Himself. Just as Allah required Ibrahim to give a sacrifice, He also required the people of Musa to offer a sacrifice.
We have stated the reason once before and will do so again. Because of Adam’s downfall, we of the human race all fell with him. When he was cast out of Paradise into darkness, his seed and all future generations were likewise cast into darkness. So everyone born of the seed of Adam(A:) is infected by the germ of sin. For in this darkness of separation from Allah’s nearness, we have all been touched by the finger of Shaitan. There are no exceptions among the sons of Adam:
There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of Allah. – Injil (Romans 3:22,23)
The Word of Allah is clear. All men of all ages have sinned, and because of this sinful condition, the progeny of Adam does not even deserve to live on the face of the earth! This includes Bani-Israel. They too were the sons of Adam. They too were members of a fallen race who deserved nothing but the wrath of Allah’s judgment.
However, we see the Hand of Allah’s Mercy making a way of escape for those who have sincerely repented and turned to Him. Just as Allah redeemed the son of Ibrahim by means of a sacrifice, He also will redeem Bani-Israel. We must remember that the qurbani is the expression of Allah’s Mercy to mankind. Without the shedding of blood, there is no complete pardon of sin, and 6 Noor-ul Haq consequently no escape from impending judgment. Allah’s justice demands that the kaffara be paid. Allah has also decreed that it be paid by the blood of the sacrifice. Thus did the Almighty proclaim to Bani-Israel and to all mankind:
“I am the Lord. The blood will be a sign for you.” – Tawrat (Exodus 12:12,13)
Indeed, the death sentence fell upon the land of Pharaoh during the midnight darkness. Those whose doors were smeared with the “blood of the Lamb” remained untouched, for they seemingly had fulfilled the requirement of kaffara. But those who rejected the Word of Allah were met with terrible disaster. Al-Tawrat relates for us this account:
At midnight, the Lord struck down all the firstborn in Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh, who sat on the throne, to the firstborn of the prisoner, who was in the dungeon…. Pharaoh and all his officials and all the Egyptians got up during the night, and there was loud wailing in Egypt, for there was not a house without someone dead. – Tawrat (Exodus 12:29,30)
FREED FROM BONDAGE
Allah’s judgment upon sin is certain. However, as we have already seen, the Mercy of Allah is always ready to provide deliverance for those who turn from their evil ways and submit to His will. Truly Bani-Israel found deliverance from judgment through the qurbani sacrifice. Yet this deliverance in itself was not complete; there was more to come!
We have seen how Bani-Israel was redeemed from the death penalty of sin. Now we will see how these people were delivered from the relentless grip of Pharaoh. When death struck the homes of the Egyptians, fear and panic struck the heart of the Egyptian king. He was so shaken that he consented without compromise to release Bani-Israel. He quickly summoned Musa for the last time and spoke these words:
“Up! Leave my people, you and the Israelites! Go, worship the Lord as you have requested. Take your flocks and herds, as you have said, and go.” – Tawrat (Exodus 12:31,32)
At last, the people were free! The judgment of Allah, the stroke of death, had released His people from the grip of an unyielding tyrant. But beware, my dear brother! Shaitan does not give up so easily. It is true that Bani-Israel had been freed. They were no longer under the dominion of Pharaoh. Their great pilgrimage to the Holy Land was about to begin. Yet we know that Shaitan does not remain idle. He will pursue and attack. He will do all he can to lure the faithful pilgrims back into the prison of darkness and death.
It did not take long for Pharaoh’s heart to harden again. The pride of his soul would not permit surrender to the One much mightier than he!
When the king of Egypt was told that the people had fled, Pharaoh and his officials changed their minds about them and said, “What have we done? We have let the Israelites go and have lost their services!”
So Pharaoh had his chariot made ready and took his army with him. He took 600 of the best chariots, along with all the other chariots of Egypt, with officers over all of them. The Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh, king of Egypt, so that he pursued the Israelites, who were marching out boldly. – Tawrat (Exodus 14:5-8)
DELIVERED FROM ENEMY ATTACK
We come now to an exciting part of this story of Allah’s deliverance. Bani-Israel has quickly set out to leave the country of Egypt. They are marching out into the wilderness and are approaching the banks of the Red Sea. All is well, until they look over their shoulders back to Egypt. In the far distance, they see a huge cloud of dust rising into the sky. They soon realize that the forces of Pharaoh are following after them in hot pursuit! Their hearts are gripped with terror, for they know well the fury and cruelty of Pharaoh’s anger. Now in this great test of faith, the people begin to panic. As they see destruction quickly approaching, they begin to doubt the words of Allah and the leadership of His Messenger. Let us turn again to the pages of Al-Tawrat to continue the story:
As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the Lord. They said to Musa, “Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!” – Tawrat (Exodus 14:10-12)
How weak is the human nature of man! In the face of trial, Bani-Israel turned their eyes away from the all-encompassing power of Allah and melted at the sight of human threat. They became fearful and bitterly complained to both Allah and Musa about the predicament at hand.
As we consider what has happened, we can be sure of this one thing:
Though we are redeemed from the punishment of Allah’s wrath upon sin, the enemy of our soul will not yield in defeat. Shaitan will pursue relentlessly. He will come charging with the full strength of his entire army. We all know this to be true.
We experience this inner spiritual jihad every day of our lives. Sad to say, we often question Allah about the resulting hardships. How often we cry out, “O Allah, where are you? Why have you allowed this terrible calamity?” And often we are tempted to declare, “I would have been better off where I was, rather than to endure this life of agony. Though I was not a faithful believer back in the (land of Pharaoh,) I was able to enjoy a life of pleasure and self-gratification. I did not have to worry about how to survive and support my family through honest means. I was able to cheat, steal, lie, and even offer bribes. But now, oh Allah, this path is too difficult for me. Shaitan is attacking me, and I am doomed to destruction!”
Don’t such thoughts often pass through our minds? Of course! It is not uncommon for us to question our faith. However, in times of temptation and trial, it is extremely important to seek the encouragement of Allah’s Word. Notice how Allah speaks to Bani-Israel through His servant Musa:
“Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today, you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still. “ – Tawrat (Exodus 14:13,14)
THE “ONE WHO OPENS”
How amazing! He who is the Lord Supreme, it is He, the Lord, who will fight for you! If only we could learn to focus our eyes upon Him in times of danger and trouble, there would be no reason for panic and fear. Allah is above all! Far greater is He who is Lord of our hearts than he who is lord of horses and chariots. We must never never forget that Allah is lovingly concerned for His people and is ready always to intervene on their behalf. Truly in man’s weakness and inability is Allah’s strength revealed and glorified. Let us now continue with the story to see Allah’s might revealed:
Then Musa stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.
The Egyptians pursued them, and all of Pharaoh’s horses and chariots and horsemen followed them into the sea.
Then the Lord said to Musa, “Stretch out your hand over the sea….” Musa stretched his hand over the sea, and at daybreak the sea went back to its place. The Egyptians were fleeing from it, and the Lord swept them into the sea. The water flowed back and covered the chariots and horsemen-the entire army of Pharaoh that had followed the Israelites into the sea. Not one of them survived.
And when the Israelites saw the great power the Lord displayed against the Egyptians, the people feared the Lord and put their trust in Him and in Musa His servant. – Tawrat (Exodus 14:21-23,26-28,31)
To the human eye, there was absolutely no way of escape for the people of Bani-Israel. trapped by the Red Sea in the front and by the armies of Pharaoh to the rear. Their way to freedom was completely closed! But praise be unto Him who is Al-Fattah. Praise be unto Him who can open a way when there is no way. What Allah opens, no one can close! Furthermore, what Allah closes, no one can open! The sea opened for Allah’s people, but it closed upon His enemies. There was no god in all of Egypt, not even Pharaoh himself, who could reverse the wrath of Almighty Allah!
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CONCLUSION
Indeed, in this lesson, we have come to realize the nature of Allah’s complete deliverance for those who turn to Him. First, Allah redeems His people from the judgment and punishment of sin through “the blood of the lamb.” He then frees them from the bondage of Shaitan and all evil desires which threaten to corrupt and defile their worship. The power of habitual sin is broken, and the prison gates are opened wide! Finally, Allah continues to deliver His people from the pursuing attacks of the enemy.
Shaitan will persistently harass until the day the pilgrim crosses the sea of life into the glory of Paradise. Until that great and glorious Day, let us be encouraged by the Holy Scriptures and let us rejoice with these words:
“I will sing to the Lord, For He is highly exalted. The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise Him. O Lord, in Your unfailing love You will lead the people You have redeemed. In Your strengthYou will guide them To Your Holy Dwelling. ” – Tawrat (Exodus 15:1,2,13)
Praise be unto Allah who has redeemed us from His wrath by the “blood of the Lamb.” But notice, Allah does more than redeem us. Once we are free, He leads us and strengthens us in a pilgrimage of perseverance and faith. And did you notice where He leads us? O how beautiful! He, the Almighty Lord of the Universe, leads us into His Holy Dwelling, into His Presence. He leads us into His Divine Nearness where we shall at last behold His Face and gaze upon His eternal Beauty.
(NOTE: Arabic translation is forthcoming)
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR – Part 2
We continue to receive many letters weekly from our readers in various countries of the world. Noor ul Haq welcomes each and every one of these letters, but it reserves the right not to publish any letter or to omit any phrase or paragraph as is deemed necessary. We apologize for not being able to print all the letters we receive because of the limited space available.
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Peace be with you all and Joy which is coming from our God.
I would like sincerely to know more about the Qur’an and the Bible. I am currently studying both. I feel that God called me to research about the link joining the messages of God in the Tawrat, Injil, and Qur’an. God has called us to unite the people of God together to restore His Kingdom on the earth.
The real followers and believers of the Tawrat, Injil, and Qur’an should not fight one another, but come to the same bond and the same source that God has called them with unifying and loving intention to join all together against Satan and his followers on the earth.
Please send me all of the volumes which you have, and put me on the mailing list for your future magazines.
M.A.—Texas
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J.M.—Minnesota
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I would like to subscribe for myself and a friend. I guarantee that he is interested and will read Noor ul Haq.
J. S.-Kentucky
As-Salaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah wa Baraka-tuh. I am requesting that you send me the new issues of your magazine and some books that deal with different subjects pertaining to Al-Islam.
K.A.—New York
THE SECOND MISSION OF AL-MASIH
When the seekers of truth accept the gift of Allah’s Mercy in the form of the Holy Qurbani, the Lamb of Allah who is Al-Masih, they then enter into the nearness of Allah and into the realm of His Spiritual Kingdom. We know now that the Savior through whom we enter this Spiritual Kingdom is the very same one who presently and eternally shall rule as its great and glorious King.
Such a Kingdom for Al-Masih had been planned by Allah from ages past. However, because of Adam’s downfall, it was first necessary for Al-Masih to ransom the Children of Adam from the judgment of sin before he could lovingly rule over them as King. Now that the purpose of his first mission has been successfully accomplished, Al-Masih Al-Masih shall appear a second time, and this time he shall appear as the great and mighty Khalifa! He shall come to assemble all his followers and to establish his Kingdom of peace here on earth. And when this “Prince of Peace” does come, he shall appear in great majesty and glory. Notice the description of the Scriptures:
“When the Son of Man (Al-Masih) comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the King will say to those on his right, “Come, you are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.” Injil: (Matthew 25:31-34)
…Grace and peace to you…from Al-Masih Al-Masih, who is the faithful witness, the first-born from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him (Al-Masih) who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood (the blood of the Qurbani), and has made us to be a kingdom…to him (Al-Masih) be glory and power forever and ever! Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him…! Injil: (Revelation 1:4-7)
“…all the nations of the earth will see the Son of Man (Al-Masih) coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds…. Injil: (Matthew 24:30-31)
Surely, the return of Al-Masih shall mark the beginning of a new age. It shall bring with it a new heaven and a new earth, since the old earth and its atmosphere have been polluted with sin and destruction. For when the King appears, he shall surely put to an end the oppression of Shaitan and all his demonic forces. The great battle that will rage in Jerusalem of the Holy Land shall mark the downfall of al-dajjal and the ultimate defeat of all evil. Listen to the description found in the vision which Allah gave to one of Al-Masih’s disciples:
I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood(the blood of his qurbani death), and his name is the Word of Allah (Kalimatullah). The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.” He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of Almighty Allah. On his robe and on his thigh he has this title written: King of kings and Lord of lords….
Yes, this great battle at Jerusalem shall mark the beginning of Shaitan’s downfall and the obliteration of all evil. Shaitan shall at last be forever destroyed, and the Day of Judgment shall completely cleanse the world of sin!
And the devil (Shaitan), who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the “false prophet” had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night forever and ever.
Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it…. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and the books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life…. If anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. Injil: (Revelation 20:10-12, 15)
Indeed, as the grand Khalifa, as King of kings, Al-Masih shall usher in an eternity of peace and joy in the hearts of Allah’s people. He shall bring with him a glorious and majestic Kingdom which shall descend from the presence of the Almighty into the hearts of the faithful Pilgrims. We continue now with the vision that speaks of the wonderful future:
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth passed away…. I saw the Holy City, the New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from Allah. …And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of Allah is with men, and He will live with them. They will be His people, and Allah Himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away….”
He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” “…To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life. He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be His God and he will be my son….” Injil: (Revelation 21:1-7)
What a glorious Kingdom it shall be! And if we truly follow him who is the “Son of God”, the “King of kings”, the Grand Khalifa of all ages, then we shall likewise become “sons of God” just as Adam in his purity and innocence was crowned “son of God.” We shall inherit the Spiritual Glory of Ashraf-ul Makhluqat, and we shall be reinstated into the Royal Family of the Divine. The Holy Scriptures speak of this promise in the following way:
He (Al-Masih Kalimatullah) was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him…. Yet to all who received him (Al-Masih Kalimatullah), to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become “children of God”– children not born of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God (spiritual birth). Injil: (John 1:10-13)
Could there be any greater FULFILLMENT than to become the spiritual “Children of God”? Does not the father smile upon the son, and does not the son gaze up into the loving eyes of the father? And is it not our desire that Allah look upon us with smiling favor, and that we look up to gaze into the Face of the Beloved? Oh what glorious mystery! Our hearts cry out, “Show us the Father’, Show us the Father’! And he who is Kalimatullah, the Word, the true expression of the Almighty responds in this way:
Don’t you know me…even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father it is the Father living in me who is doing His work. Injil: (John 14:9-10)
Now we begin to see more clearly, for the Light of Allah has revealed to us a marvelous truth!
For Allah who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made His Light shine in our hearts to enlighten us about His glory in the face of Al-Masih. Injil: (II Corinthians 4:6)
My dear brother, through this lesson we have journeyed together on a pilgrimage, searching the Scriptures for spiritual truths and enlightenment. The desire of our hearts has been to return to the Most Beloved to embrace His Majesty with deepest devotion and utmost loyalty. We have deeply yearned to enter the purity and security of His Eternal Presence. And at last we have found the door of assurance! We have found the path; we have found the straight but narrow way. We have found him through whom we must enter, for there is no other way.
This one who is the way, the “qurbani” which leads into Allah’s nearness, is also the one who has been given complete authority over all creation. Al-Masih ibnu Maryam is the Grand Khalifa; he is the King, and it is only in his Kingdom that we shall ever experience the reality of everlasting peace. It is only in his Kingdom that we shall at last quench our thirst at the fountain of living water; it is only in his Kingdom that we shall walk and live in the Light of Him who is Most Glorious. The Scriptures once again address us with these concluding remarks:
Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son (Khalifa) , lest he be angry and you be destroyed in your way…. Blessed are all who take refuge in him. Al-Zabur 2:11-12
The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life! Injil: (John 3: 35-36)
CLOSING MUNAJAT:
O Allah, today with open hearts we receive Al-Masih, the Anointed One whom You ordained from ages past to rule as King. Help us to devote our fullest allegiance to his most noble mission of establishing Your Holy Kingdom in the hearts of men. 0 Allah, because he is Your appointed Khalifa for all eternity, may the peace of his Kingdom rule in our hearts; may the love of his Kingdom purify our deeds; and may the power of his Kingdom empower our lives for sacred service to You and fellow man.
Open our eyes even more so that as we gaze upon the face of him who is King, we shall be able to declare that we have indeed caught a glimpse of Him the Beloved whose love is forever pure and divine. All praise to Him who sits upon the Throne and to him who rules exalted at the right hand of Your Majesty, forever and forever.
Amin, Thummaa Amin!
THE FIRST MISSION OF AL-MASIH
Let us now consider more fully the mission of Al-Masih. We are reminded that it was the Eternal Divine Word of Allah which descended upon mankind and took on the form of humanity. This perfect man was Al-Masih ibn Maryam. Furthermore, we realize that it was Allah’s good will for Al-Masih to appear unto mankind at two different occasions, the second appearance still yet to come.
In his first appearance almost two thousand years ago, Al-Masih himself declared, according to the Scriptures, that He came to the world not to be served or ministered unto, but that rather He Himself should minister and give his life a ransom for many. Just as Allah ransomed the son of Ibrahim by means of the qurbani sacrifice, so did Allah plan to ransom all of mankind through the Holy Qurbani. Remember the proclamation of Yahya, “Look, the Lamb of Allah who takes away the sin of the world!” By this act of self-sacrifice, Al-Masih became the required kaffara for the sins of all of us, and in this way he is regarded the Savior of mankind.
The Scriptures declare that it is only by means of Al-Masih, the Holy Qurbani, that we can find atonement (kaffara) and complete cleansing from sin. It is only through Al-Masih, the Lamb of Allah, that we can qualify to enter the nearness of the Beloved. Al-Masih is the only way, the only mediator, that leads into the holy presence of the Creator; and his is the only name that leads to salvation. Notice how this is clearly revealed in the Scriptures:
“…how can we know the way?” Al-Masih answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (Injil : John 14:5-6)
“… (Allah) wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Al-Masih, who gave himself as a ransom for all men…” (Injil: 1 Timothy 2:4-6)
“…It is by the name of Al-Masih…. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved…” (Injil: Acts 4:10, 12)
Indeed, Al-Masih came the first time as the Savior of mankind, according to the will of Allah. He knew fully well that it was Allah’s plan for him to suffer the death of the sacrifice. Yet he surrendered all to Allah’s will and lived in complete obedience as Allah’s servant (abdu-llah). In this profound mission of suffering, Al-Masih revealed Allah’s profound love for mankind.
And it was to be that love which would stir up the spiritual love within the heart of man and compel him to repent and return to his Beloved Lord! It is this kind of transformation that is needed in the hearts of men before inner peace can ever begin to rule in their lives. And without this inner peace, there can be very little hope for an outer peace among the people of the earth.
THE DIVINE GLORY OF AL-MASIH
When we stop to consider the elevated state of Adam’s purity and innocence before his downfall, and when we consider that he is created in the image of the Creator, quickened by the Spirit of Allah, called “son of God,” and crowned khalifa over the earth, we are awed by the glory of Ashraf-ul Makhluqat! We are reminded of the familiar story of the angels and Adam, and how the angels bowed before him. This story comes from an account of the Qur’an as follows:
“When I have fashioned him (Adam) and breathed into him of My Spirit, fall ye down in obeisance unto him.” So the angels prostrated themselves, all of them together. Not so Iblis; he refused to be among those who prostrated themselves…. Allah said, “Then get thee out from here, for thou art rejected, accursed. And the curse shall be on thee till the Day of Judgment.” Surat-ul Hijr(15):29-31;34-35
At first glance, this story may be difficult to understand, since we believe that none is to be worshipped but Allah! However, we must realize that Adam in his innocent state was indwelled by the very Spirit of Allah. We then could perhaps understand the angels in this story to be bowing in reverence not to the man Adam, but rather to the Spirit of Allah that lived inside the man Adam.
Indeed, it was the Spirit of Allah that caused Ashraf-ul Makhluqat to shine and glitter with royal splendor and divine beauty. Truly, Adam was reflecting the very divine nature which communed and interacted with him each and every day prior to his downfall. In like manner, we see this type of reverent worship even more prominent on the part of angels reappearing for the “second Adam”—Al-Masih, the one called “Son of God,” and the one to come as King and “Prince of Peace!”
First of all, we find the presence of angels surrounding the birth of Al-Masih, with greetings of joy and peace:
An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today, in the town of Daud, a Savior has been born to you, he is Al-Masih the master. This will be a sign unto you….” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angels, praising Allah and saying, “Glory to Allah in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests.” (Injil Luke 2: 9-14)
At a later time in his life, Jesus Al -Masih experienced great spiritual testing and temptation. Shaitan repeatedly whispered lies into his ear hoping to lure him away from his divinely appointed mission. Yet, Al-Masih surrendered fully to the sovereignty of Allah at which instant Shaitan left and the angels came. The account is as follows:
Again Shaitan took Jesus to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away from me Shaitan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.’” Then Shaitan left him, and the angels came and ministered unto him. Injil (Matthew 4:8-11)
Indeed, Jesus remained faithful and true. He fully submitted to the will of Allah, even to the point of extreme agony and ultimate suffering, for this was his mission as the Holy Qur-bani. As a result of this obedience, Jesus was exalted to the by over all things! And it is he, this glorified Jesus whom we now find being worshipped by a great host of angels. For as the “Lamb of Allah”, the Holy Qurbani, he fulfilled his mission, and was duly rewarded as evidenced by the following Scriptures:
And being found in the appearance as a man, Al-Masih humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore Allah exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Al-Masih is Lord…. (Injil Philippians 2: 8-11)
Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they sang: “Worthy is the Lamb (Al-Masih), who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” Injil (Revelation 5: 11-12)
With the Qur’anic story of Adam and the angels, we soon become aware that just as Iblis in the story refused to bow before Adam, so will there be those who refuse to bow before Jesus Ruhullah Kalimatullah Al-Masih. We remember well the fate of Iblis who refused to acknowledge the son, Adam. In a similar but deeper sense, for those who refuse to acknowledge the glory of Jesus Al-Masih—The Son of God, the wrath of Allah shall consume them! It is of utmost importance, regardless of our religious affiliation, that we all listen carefully to this severe warning:
The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for Allah’s wrath remains on him. Injil (John 3:35-36).
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR – PART 1
Many of the reader’s letters are written in Arabic. In translating them into English, we have tried to preserve their original style and structure. Because of the space available, we have only excerpted most of the letters.
Dear Brothers: My name is S.A. (of Islamic heritage); and I am an inmate at a prison in Texas. 1 got your address from a friend. I do seek some literature of yours, because I want to know the truth. What is a true religion and what is a false one? What is Noor ul Haq?
I want to know the truth about Islam and Muhammad, and about Christianity and Jesus Christ.
I am confused. Now I read that Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” Which way? Is it expressed by one of these denominations of Christianity: Baptist, Evangelical, Lutheran, Catholic, Jehovah Witness, Seventh Day Adventist, or Mormon? Or by Sunni or Shi’a of Islam? Or is it expressed by the Baha’i faith?
Can you send me some literature that will shine light for me? I am confined to my cell for long hours of the day, and reading is my way out. Help me!
S. A.—Texas
I have read your Arabic/English periodical, and 1 have been very enlightened. It is my hope that you will put me on your mailing list.
S. M.—Kentucky
In the name of Allah, The Merciful, The Compassionate.
Thank you for sending copies of Noor ul Haq. I have recently obtained a copy of each of your issues, Vol. 7, No, 4,5, and 6. I would be very happy if you could post additional issues to me. I am establishing a little library that I call “Light of the Everlasting Truth” because it contains your periodicals and some booklets and books that deal with the same topic.
So please continue to send me your magazine and other beneficial publications. And I pray that by His grace and mercy, God, The Hearer, The Answerer, will preserve our faith forever. Amen!
Ahmed Kh.—Algeria
Your magazine Noor ul Haq spreads the message of peace wherever it is received in the world. Please send me this magazine in French and Russian if you have it in these two languages. I would like to resend it to some of my friends who are in France and Russia.
I correspond with friends in several countries. If any of your readers would like correspondence, please send his or her address to me.
A. Gh. S.—Gaza
I want to thank you and all the brothers and sisters in Noor ul Haq for the strong impact this magazine has. Yet, sometimes I feel puzzled because you use the Arabic term Allah in English. I know that Allah is Arabic for God and it is used by all Muslims and by Christian Arabs. But should not we use only the term God in the English text?
H. F.—Australia
I am a Christian Filipina residing in a remote area of Mindanao in southern Philippines, where unfortunate military encounters often occur. 1 have Muslim friends who come to our house to converse and eat with us. They also allow me to visit them in their homes. I find them hospitable, kind, and very accommodating. I have been praying for them since I was in my first year of college. And you know what? I got a copy of your periodical Noor ul Haq “Light of Truth” when I attended our campus fellowship. Now I have only two copies. I really want to share this magazine with my friends. JJM.—Philippines
I have recently received a new issue of Noor ul Haq, my favorite magazine, and have read it more than once. For a long time in my life, I have been reading many other religious magazines and books in search of spiritual truth. But I have not found in them what 1 was searching for. I think that I will be able to find it in Noor ul Haq. I look forward to receiving more of your issues so 1 can learn from them what other publications have not taught me.
M. H.—Morocco
I send you warm greetings filled with love and friendship. With much gratitude I received your wonderful magazine, but it arrived very late after a long, eager waiting.
I am not sure of the reason for this delay. Is it due to the type of mailing which is surface mail? Your magazine means a lot to me as one of your many readers who needs this spiritual learning. Could you please speed the mailing?
Kh. B.—Jordan
THE QUR’AN AND THE BIBLE
This is a condensation of an article written by a Christian author, urging Christians to reach a fuller understanding of Muslims by understanding how they think and feel.
To better understand what Muslims think and feel about the Qur’an and the Bible, we need to understand how Muslims communicate.
Christians believe that the supreme purpose of the Bible is to enable God to communicate with man. In most Muslim cultures, communication is primarily oral, not written. That is why stories are a very effective means of communication in the Muslim world, and are very popular among the common people.
It is important that Christians understand that stories are not just understood by Muslims, they are felt by them as well. Certain stories help them to remember both the practical and spiritual wisdom being taught.
We also need to look at how Muslims view the subject of thinking and feeling.
In the West we have been trained to believe that using one’s cognitive abilities is the best way to understand truth. We have downplayed the importance of emotions and feelings.
The Qur'an instructs Muslims to read the Bible and obey its commands
Yet for the average Muslim, when it comes to religious knowledge, feelings are probably more important than cognitive abilities. A Muslim wants to experience his faith by gathering with other believers, by hearing the Qur’an chanted, and by looking back in time at the great history and traditions of his faith.
To begin seeing the importance of the Qur’an for Muslims, the Christian needs to understand its central role in Islam. Many Christians have made the mistake of thinking that Muslims use the Qur’an as Christians use the Bible, and that Jesus and Muhammad, therefore, have corresponding roles. This is not a correct assumption.
While Christians see Jesus Christ as God’s eternal Word, most Muslims see the Qur’an as the sole, eternal revelation of God. Their feelings for the Qur’an are similar to those of a Christian toward his Lord.
When we look at what Muslims think concerning the Qur’an, we need to understand several facts.
First, Muslims believe that the Qur’an was sent down to Muhammad through the angel Gabriel (Jibra’il). Every word of it is the Word of Allah.
The Qur’an was revealed in the Arabic language over a span of 23 years. It is divided into 114 Surahs (chapters) with 6,236 verses. It is unmatched in its recording and preservation and has remained unchanged for 1400 years.
Dealing with man and life’s ultimate goals, the Qur’an has three themes: the oneness of God (tawhid); prophethood (risalah); and life after death (akhirah). Muslims believe that a successful life here on earth, and in the hereafter, depends on obedience to its teaching.
The Arabic Qur’an is the final revelation of God to man. Muslims firmly hold this presupposition. To do otherwise would be blasphemy and would incite God’s wrath.
What, then, do Muslims think about our Bible?
Often Muslims are not aware of what their own Holy Book, the Qur’an, teaches about this Christian Holy Book. Yet the Qur’an gives positive credence to the Scriptures.
Surah 2:87, 3:3, and 4:136 show that the Bible came from God.
Surah 3:3, 5:44, and 6:91 indicate that the Bible has direction, guidance, and light for man.
Surah 2:121, 3:84, and 42:15 declare that the Bible is to be believed, and it threatens those who do not believe it.
The Muslims’ biggest complaint is that the Bible has been corrupted by both Christians and Jews. Because they hold this idea so tenaciously, Muslims feel that its words can not be trusted. This is usually their verbal response concerning their feelings about the Bible, even though most have not read it.
Muslims would like to read the Bible, but it is a forbidden book in their countries
However, the Qur’an, instructs Muslims to read the Bible and obey its commands. In fact, the Qur’an states that its purpose was not to replace the Bible but to confirm and guard it. This is noted in at least seven passages of the Qur’an: Surah 2:41, 89, 91, 101; 6:92, 46:12, and 5:48.
There are many Muslims in the world who would like to read the Bible of Jesus and the Christians, but it is a closed book for them. Either it is unavailable where they live, or it is written in a dialect of Arabic, or another native language, they cannot really understand.
It can be said that Muslims “feel” the Qur’an.
The word Qur’an means “recite.” Reciting the Qur’an is their way of communing with God.
When the Qur’an is read aloud, its language provokes strong feelings in those who are listening. The rhyme and rhythm of its poetry awakens and quickens a person’s emotions. Muslims believe that a person’s emotional response to the words of the Qur’an is proof of its divine inspiration.
What do Muslims feel about the Bible?
They feel NOTHING. It is a closed book!
How can this situation be changed? By giving them the opportunity to hear the stories found in the Bible—especially the Parables of Jesus. These parables can speak vividly when they are told using expressions understood by Muslims.
When communicated in this way, a Muslim will see the Parables of Jesus in a much different light than the average Christian from the West.
One such story is the “Parable of the Prodigal Son” (Injil, Luke 15:11-32). This story could rightfully be called the “Parable of the Two Lost Sons.” It has been suggested that this parable contains the gospel in story form—speaking not only to those who are like the rebellious younger son, but also to those who are like the self-righteous older son. Told with very little change, this story can help the Muslim understand and feel five fundamental truths about God. The Muslim can learn that:
a) God loves all men, not just the ones who love Him.
b) God’s forgiveness can be known.
c) It costs God to show His mercy to man.
d) We can know forgiveness now, before the Judgment Day, and
e) God demonstrates His love by actions, not just words.
When we tell our Muslim friends the stories of the Bible, we are giving them God’s Word which can and will reveal to them the great love of God.
THE HEAVENLY BRIDE
We have heard much about the fate of all unbelievers who refuse to accept the path of Allah and His Signs of mercy. As we have seen, the HOUR of resurrection will seal their doom for eternity.
But now the question arises, what will be the fate of all those who have believed and submitted fully to Allah’s will? And what will be the reward of those who with open arms and open hearts receive Al-Masih Ruhullah as Allah’s Anointed King?
The Holy Scriptures tell us that the devoted ones will become intimately attached to the King to forever live with him in perfect love and harmony. They will receive the reward of eternal life and eternal joy!
Al-Masih and His followers will experience the love, joy, and peace of God’s Kingdom!
The Heavenly Bridegroom
We are all familiar with the feasting and rejoicing of a wedding ceremony, and also deeply aware of its great significance. It marks the beginning of a new way of life in which the bride now becomes most intimately related to her husband, the bridegroom. Together they share the beautiful secrets of pure love in the comfort of his resting chamber. This is the chamber and the experience that is completely veiled to all outsiders. In this deep experience of the love relationship, the bride and bridegroom become one. They become fully united and committed to their personal obligations to one another.
As we think about the meaning of a wedding ceremony in which two persons are lovingly united as one, we become even more aware of its spiritual significance. We will begin to see from the Holy Scriptures that just as a bride is made ready for a wedding ceremony, so also the universal Jam’at of all believers is being made ready for a “wedding ceremony.” But this ceremony will be of a different nature. It will be a spiritual and heavenly “marriage,” that is scheduled to take place during the time of the HOUR. At that time the jam at of all believers who have been purified through the mercy of Allah will at last be presented to a Bridegroom who is to come.
But who will this Bridegroom be? He will be Al-Masih, the Anointed King, into whose hand has been placed all power and dominion. In this great “wedding ceremony,” the jam at of believers will become the “Bride” and will be escorted into the Chamber of the Bridegroom by the great host of heavenly angels. There in that Paradise of Eternal Bliss, Al-Masih and his followers will experience the love, joy, and peace of Allah’s Kingdom.
The Holy Scriptures speak of this “wedding” to come and relate to us a story about the coming of the Bridegroom. To those believers who strive to keep themselves pure as “virgins,” the story gives warning to be ready and alert at all times. We must all heed this warning for no one knows the arrival date of the Bridegroom; no one knows the exact time of the coming of the Sign of the HOUR! Listen now to the story:
At that time, the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.
At midnight, the cry rang out, “Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!” Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, “Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.”
“No,” they replied. “There may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.”
But while they were on their way to buy oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. Later, the others also came. “Sir! Sir!” they said. “Open the door for us!”
But he replied, “I tell you the truth. I don’t know you.” Therefore keep watch because you do not know the day or the HOUR. Injil, Matthew 25:1-13
The Heavenly Wedding
Marriage symbolizes the union between God and His people
As we continue our discussion about this heavenly “marriage,” we are reminded of a particular religious celebration called “urs” that is observed in some areas of the world. The word urs is commonly understood to mean the anniversary celebration of a saint’s death. This is done with feast and ceremony to honor his past noble deeds and fame.
The original meaning of urs, however, is related not to death, but rather to marriage. It is especially related to the marriage feast during which the bride is escorted into the chamber of the bridegroom. So the true purpose of urs is not only to commemorate the saint’s death, but also to celebrate his intimate union with Allah; for it is the stepping stone of death that ushers him into the Chamber of his Beloved, where the two become “one” in harmony and everlasting devotion.
In regard to this deep and spiritual relationship between Allah the Beloved and His loved ones, the Scriptures at times use the symbolism and terms of a wedding ceremony. We have already noted the terms “bride” and “bridegroom.” In the following reference, we again see this type of terminology as Allah speaks to His loved ones:
In that day… I will betroth (marry) you to Me forever; I will betroth you in righteousness and justice, in love and compassion. I will betroth you in faithfulness and you will acknowledge the LORD. Writings of the Prophets, Hosea 2:18-20
It was this intimate union with Allah that characterized the life of Al-Masih Ruhullah and all that he did. As the Sign of Allah’s mercy, it was indeed his mission to lead people into Allah’s nearness, just as he himself so lovingly experiences the nearness of Allah. As we begin to understand his oneness with Allah, we realize that as we become united to Al-Masih Ruhullah by placing our faith completely in his mission and his life, then we also become intimately linked to the Almighty! Allah has promised that those who lovingly accept His mercy will in turn be lovingly accepted by Him.
Al-MasihRuhullah prayed earnestly for this experience of spiritual unity to become a reality in the lives of his followers. Just before Allah lifted him into the heavens, Al-Masih prayed these words:
I pray also for those who will believe in me through their (the disciples’) message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in me, and I am in You. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that You have sent me. I have given them the glory that You gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and You in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that You sent me and have loved them even as You have loved me.
Father, I want those You have given me to be with me where I am and to see my glory, the glory You have given me because You loved me before the creation of the world.
Righteous Father, though the world does not know You, I know You, and they know that You have sent me. I have made You known to them and will continue to make You known in order that the love You have for me may be in them, and that I myself may be in them. Injil, John 17:20-26
The message of this prayer is undoubtedly one of unity so that Allah, Al-Masih Ruhullah, and the universal jam ‘at of believers might all be united in perfect harmony by the power of Allah’s Love. Isa Ruhullah especially requested in his prayer that his followers—meaning all those who have accepted him as Allah’s Sign of mercy—might eventually be where he is that they might behold his glory and the glory of Allah Almighty.
The Holy Scriptures confirm that Allah will truly honor that request and that during the time of the HOUR, the jam ‘at of the righteous will be resurrected to life and handed over to the King. Just as a bride comes forth in all her purity, so this great body of believers will come forth in robes of clean linen. This wedding was seen in the vision of the future as recorded in the Holy Scriptures. We read these words:
Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting, “Hallelujah (Praise be to God), for our Lord God Almighty reigns! Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb (Al-Masih) has come, and his bride (the worldwide jam’at of believers) has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.” Injil, Revelation 19:6-8
The above reference certainly confirms that the “bride” and the “bridegroom” will be united. However, we notice here, as well as in other scriptural references, that Al-Masih is called the “Lamb.” This sounds strange at first. But we must keep in mind that the mission of Al-Masih during his first appearance on earth was to humbly surrender his life to die an agonizing and painful death. He was the Holy Qur’an sent from heaven above to free humankind from the curse of sin, just as Allah sent the Qur’an to free the son of Nabi Ibrahim from the curse of the blade. This endurance of pain and suffering on the part of Al-Masih Ruhullah, who did no wrong, was to reveal in a dramatic way the pain and “suffering” that Allah endures because of the sin of humankind.
Sinful humanity deserved to be completely wiped off the face of the earth long ago. But it is the love and mercy of Allah that has given humankind an appointed time on earth in which to return and submit to his LORD. So the human race continues to exist, but sad to say, sin continues to contaminate and spread. All is exposed to the eyes of Allah and surely His “heart” is painfully grieved. Al-Masih came to reveal this suffering love of Him who is forever As-Sabur. It is only because of this long-suffering love that humankind has had an opportunity to repent and return to the presence (qurb) of Almighty Allah. This Holy Qur’an is the sign of mercy that removes the veil of sin from the human heart. For this reason Nabi Yahya introduced Al-Masih to the world in these words:
Look, the “Lamb of God” who takes away the sin of the world! Injil, John 1:29
We see now that the “Lamb” refers to the Holy Qur’an that Allah Himself provided for the world. Al-Masih Ruhullah obediently fulfilled that mission and was rewarded accordingly. We have already seen how Allah lifted him into His glory and exalted him to the right hand of His throne. And those who follow after him will also be lifted and exalted!
The Heavenly Bridal Gifts
As in most weddings, the bride is often rewarded with lovely gifts to be cherished for the rest of her life. In the same way, the “bride” of Al-Masih will be showered with gifts and blessings. The Holy Scriptures declare that those who overcome the enticements of Shaitan and keep themselves pure by the strength of Allah’ Spirit will be justly rewarded for their faithfulness. The promise of reward is sure and the gifts are many:
For the Son of Man (Al-Masih) is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what he has done. Injil, Matthew 16:27
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the Crown of Life that God has promised to those who love Him. Injil, James 1:12
And when the Chief Shepherd (Al-Masih) appears, you will receive the Crown of Glory that will never fade away. Injil, 1 Peter 5:4
I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has Eternal Life and will not be condemned (to punishment); he has crossed over from death to Life. Injil, John 5:24
To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the Tree of Life which is in the Paradise of God. Injil, Revelation 2:7
They are before the throne of God and serve Him day and night in His Temple; and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them. Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb (Al-Masih) at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Revelation 7:15-17
As seen from the references above, the rewards of the righteous will be wonderful. The greatest reward will be to eternally rest in the sweet presence of Allah Almighty, and to sing His praises day and night. But there is still one more gift to be given. Once again the Holy Scriptures speak:
Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him; do not fret when men succeed in their (evil) ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land (the earth). …and enjoy great peace. Zabur, Psalm 37:7,9,11
We discover that those who are faithful to the end will also inherit the earth. The earth will be fully theirs, just as Allah had intended way back in the beginning of creation—an earth of beauty and harmony. But how can this be?
Today the earth has become corrupt. It has become saturated with the blood of tyranny and has witnessed an ever growing trend of wickedness. The earth has become sin-stained and cursed. How is it that righteous humanity will inherit such an earth? We will rejoice to know that the heavens and the earth will be gloriously restored and that the Kingdom will be enjoyed in a new heaven and a new earth!
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF JUSTICE
The Destruction of Darkness , by Ma’amoon Abdullah
There is no doubt that Allah will carry out His judgment upon humankind. But we wonder how such a judgment will occur and who will act as judge since Allah Himself is invisible Spirit. We have seen how Allah, in the past, has used His special Messengers to carry out His plans for the human race. And so once again, Allah has chosen a special person to act on His behalf. On divine authority, this person will ensure that justice is carried out throughout the earth. Almost 3,000 years ago, these words of prophecy were given in regard to the identity of this individual:
A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse (family line of Daud Khalifatullah); from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him, the Spirit of Wisdom, and of understanding; the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge
and of the fear of the LORD; and he will delight in the fear of the LORD. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked. Writings of the Prophets, Isaiah 11:1-4
As we take a closer look at this description of the one who is to come on behalf of Allah to judge the people of the world, we notice these particular points of interest. He is to descend from the family line of Nabi Daud Khalifatullah(a:); he is to be full of the Spirit of Allah; and he is to strike the earth with the “rod of his mouth.” If we carefully review some of the scriptural references that have been previously noted, we remember the following: First, when the angel Jibrail proclaimed the birth of Isa Ruhullah to Maryam(a:), he said:
You will be with child and give birth to a son…. …the Lord God will give him the throne of his father Daud, and he will reign… his kingdom will never end. Injil, Luke 1:31-33
Second, we read these words about Al-Masih who is commonly referred to as Isa Ruhullah:
For the one whom God has sent speaks the Words of God, for God gives (to him) the SPIRIT without limit. Injil, John 3:34
Finally, we read these words that were used to describe Isa Ruhullah when he returns to the earth as king:
His name is Word of God (Kalimatullah). The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. Injil, Revelation 19:13-15
As we see the ancient words of prophecy fulfilled in the description of Isa Ruhullah, is it possible that this judge will be Isa Ruhullah who is to return as king? Yes, it is possible and the Holy Scriptures bear sufficient evidence. He who is Kalimatullah will judge by the Word of Allah which separates light from darkness and purity from sin. Listen now to these verses of Scripture as they confirm the identity of the acting judge bringing justice to the world:
When the Son of Man (Al-Masih) comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people, one from another…the King will say to those on his Right, “Come, you who are blessed by my ‘Father;’ Take your inheritance, the Kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.” ….Then he will say to those on his Left, “Depart from me you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels (demons)…. Injil, Matthew 25:31-34,41
You know…how God anointed Isa of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil…. God raised him (Isa) from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen. He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen—by us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. He (Isa) commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as Judge of the living and the dead. Injil, Acts 10:37-42
He (God) commands all people everywhere to repent. For He has set a Day when He will judge the world with justice by the man He has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead. Acts 17:30,31
God’s judgment is right, and as a result you (who believe) will be counted worthy of the Kingdom of God,… God is just! He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you, and give relief to you who are troubled…. This will happen when the Lord Isa is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels. He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of the our Lord Isa. They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the majesty of his power on the day he comes to be glorified in his holy people. Injil, 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10
As we take a moment to consider the last reference above, we note that punishment will fall not only on those who have outrightly rejected Allah’s path, but also on those who reject the gospel or the message of Isa Ruhullah. Those who are hesitant about this message will find themselves in grave danger. The Holy Scriptures bear record of Isa Ruhullah’s own warning to those who refuse to fully acknowledge him:
If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man (Al-Masih) will be ashamed of him when he comes in his “Father’s” glory with the holy angels. Injil, Mark 8:38
Why is this so? Why is it so important to place our faith also in this one, the Anointed One, called Al-Masih, Isa Ruhullah, Kalimatullah?
The reason is clear if we remember that Isa Ruhullah is not only the Sign of the HOUR, but also the Sign of Allah’s mercy to all humankind. To reject any Sign of Allah’s mercy is the same as to reject Allah Himself. We cannot dictate to Allah what His Signs should be or should not be, or what is acceptable or not acceptable according to our own traditions and background. Nor have we the right to accept one universal Sign as valid and the other outdated. No, instead, what the Holy Scriptures declare, we are obligated to accept in utmost faith. For Allah’s Word is far superior to the word of any human being. May Allah be exalted!
