The People od Jungle 2.

(3-78)(7-86)(26-185-186-187)(7-92)(29-37)(11-94-95)(11-91-92)

            According to the Quran, nobody has the right to regulate the life of other human beings.  This right is exclusively reserved for God.  God’s greatest gifts such as scripture, wisdom, and even the prophet hood cannot bestow this right on any human.  The only thing those who receive these gifts should do to mankind is to tell them, “Be dutiful human beings by virtue of the scripture which you constantly study and teach.”

            The system Shu’eyb taught was a comprehensive single unit, encompassing all spheres of life.  The leaders of his nation wanted a system which had no control on the worldly affairs.  Shu’eyb explained to them, “My nation, do you not see that God has given me illuminating reason?  Moreover, He has given me abundant sustenance (rizk).  After all these favors I am obliged to tell you the truth.  However, I am not telling you anything to do which I am not doing myself.  My intention is honorable; I want to improve your conditions.  I am not asking any reward or remuneration for it.  My God will reward me for my work. I always put my trust in Him, and seek guidance from Him. ”

            The leaders of the nation fully understood what Shu’eyb was saying and wanted to do, but they were not willing to admit it in public. In order to undermine his mission they portrayed him as a liar and conceited person in the society.  “You are just a mortal like us.  How are you claiming to be a messenger of God?   You are nothing but a liar in our opinion.   Make a fragment of sky fall on us, so we know that you are truthful.”

            Shu’eyb was not a stranger; he was living in their society and many individuals knew his character.  This attempt to paint his character black miserably failed.  The leaders started another scheme; they declared him to be under a magic spell talking nonsense.

            The proud, rich leaders told Shu’eyb, “We cannot understand most of the things you say.  We know you are a weak person in the society.  Moreover, your existence has no value for us; we would have killed you by stoning if the members of your community were not with you.”

            “Oh my nation,” said Shu’eyb. “You are not afraid of God, but are in fear of my community.  The reality is that you don’t care for Him.  You are only using Him as extra.”  It was a custom in the business class to take an extra camel with them when they ventured for trade.  This camel was only used in times of emergency.

            All the good advice of Shu’eyb bore no result.  The nation stubbornly stuck to its previous ways.  Moreover, his nation ridiculed him and demanded doom to prove his truth.  An earthquake seized them, and morning found them prostrate in their dwelling places.  Those who refused to listen became as if they had never lived in the valley.  God saved Shu’eyb and his followers.  Shu’eyb said, “Oh my nation, you refused to accept my help and advice.  How can I be sorry for those who reject the truth?”