Page 18 - The Struggle of the Messengers

16 The Struggle of the Messengers

the greatest ignorance and gradually become dependent on other
powerless servants like themselves, follow their examples, and
accept their words and actions as the truth.
Finally, the society of ignorance adopts a system that gradually
blinds it to reality and blocks its intelligence and conscience. As a
result, this superstitious system cannot be freed by itself. Its

members cannot understand that Allah exists and will hold them
accountable on the Day of Judgment. This closed system will last
until Allah sends a guide to lead them to the truth:
The People of the Book who do not believe and the idolaters
will not be cut off until the Clear Sign came to them: A
messenger from Allah reciting purified texts. (Surat al-
Bayyina, 1-2)

SELECTING A MESSENGER

As we stated earlier, someone whose understanding is
embroiled by the false values of the society of ignorance cannot
recognize Allah or see the truth unaided. But in His merciful
compassion, Allah sends these people envoys to warn them about
their mistakes and to teach them the truth about Himself, the
hereafter, and the true meaning of life. In the Qur'an, these envoys
are called "Messengers" (sing.: rasul; pl. rusul [one who is sent]).
We are told in the Qur'an that every community will be warned by
means of a Messenger:

We sent a messenger to every people, saying: "Worship Allah
and keep clear of all false deities." Among them were some
whom Allah guided; others received the misguidance they
deserved. Travel throughout the land and see the final fate of
the unbelievers. (Surat an-Nahl, 36)