Page 28 - Signs of the End Times in Surat Al-Kahf

SIGNS OF THE END TIMES IN SURAT AL-KAHF

Every Prophet was greeted by his nation with similar mockery and
often was subjected to various forms of oppression. For instance, Prophet
Nuh (as) used all methods to call his people to faith, but they responded
negatively, as follows:
He said: "My Lord, I have called my people night and day, but
my calling has only made them more evasive. Indeed, every time
I called them to Your forgiveness, they put their fingers in their
ears, wrapped themselves up in their clothes, and were over-
weeningly arrogant. Then I called them openly. Then I ad-
dressed them publicly and privately." I said: "Ask forgiveness of

your Lord. Truly He is Endlessly Forgiving." (Surah Nuh, 5-10)
As we can understand from these verses, most people, regardless of
time or place, respond negatively to the calls to true religion. However, it
must not be forgotten that such reactions never demoralize the believers,
for they know that only Allah can bestow faith. No matter how well they
speak, how moving and wise their words are, the believers cannot put
faith into someone's heart unless Allah wills it. Other verses also reveal
this truth:
We sent a Messenger among every people saying: "Worship
Allah and keep clear of all false deities." Among them were some
whom Allah guided, but others received the misguidance they
deserved. Travel about the land and see the final fate of the un-
believers. However eager you are for them to be guided, Allah
will not guide those whom He misguides. They will have no

helpers. (Surat an-Nahl, 36-37)
As these verses reveal, no one can make anyone else believe.
Therefore, the believers are responsible only for calling to faith. After
they have fulfilled this obligation, they must leave it to Allah to give
faith. Trusting Allah, being patient, and inviting to His religion in the
most pleasant manner will have a great effect upon people's hearts. Allah
says:

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