Page 130 - Communication and Argument in the Qur'an

128 COMMUNICATION AND ARGUMENT IN THE QUR’AN

pany of the believers since the very first beginning. Given
that the believers’ condemnation of the unbelievers is
willed by Allah, it is, therefore, an act of worship.
Here is an answer that believers give to these individu-
als:
... Allah is our Lord and your Lord. We have our actions
and you have your actions. There is no debate
between us and you. Allah will gather us all together.
He is our final destination. (Surat ash-Shura: 15)
This clear and effective advice is the best and most
practical method available for communicators of religion to
use. Indeed, these are the key answers that Allah desires
for every possible question. The verse below shows the
kind of answer that may be given:
If they argue with you, say: “I have submitted myself
completely to Allah, and so have all who follow me.”
Say to those given the Book and those who have no
Book: “Have you become Muslim?” If they become
Muslim, they have been guided. If they turn away, you
are only responsible for transmission. Allah sees His
servants. (Surah Al ‘Imran: 20)
Say: “Do you argue with us about Allah when He is our
Lord and your Lord? We have our actions and you have
your actions. We act for Him alone.” (Surat al Baqara:
139)
The unbelievers and those who argue with the believers
all deny the existence of the Hereafter. Allah reveals the
answer that must be given to such people: