page 100
and is astray in his own ignorance, groping after
the mirage of his desires.
Judge this aright: which one of these modern developments,
whether in themselves or in their application,
is contrary to the Divine commandments? If they mean
the establishment of parliaments, these are enjoined by
the very text of the holy verse: "and whose affairs are
guided by mutual counsel." (62) And again, addressing
the Dayspring of all knowledge, the Source of perfection
(Muhammad), in spite of His being in possession
of universal wisdom, the words are: "and consult them
in the affair." (63) In view of this how can the question
of mutual consultation be in conflict with the religious
Law? The great advantages of consultation can be established
by logical arguments as well.
Can they say that it would be contrary to the laws of
God to make a death sentence conditional on the most
careful investigations, on the sanction of numerous
bodies, on legal proof and the royal order? Can they
claim that what went on under the previous government
was in conformity with the Qur'án? For example,
in the days when Hájí Mírzá Aqásí was Prime Minister,
it was heard from many sources that the governor
of Gulpaygán seized thirteen defenseless bailiffs of
that region, all of them of holy lineage, all of them
guiltless, and without a trial, and without obtaining
any higher sanction, beheaded them in a single hour.
62. Qur'án 42:36.
63. Qur'án 3:153.
Previous Next
unframe page
frame page