The initial optimism induced in the people's mind by the...

The initial optimism induced in the people's mind by the victories of man's intellect over the forces of nature abandoned its place, after the two catastrophes, to feel- ings of indignation and utter disgust. The crystal-clear evidence points to the fact that the monopoliser of knowledge turned out to be devoid of such human qualities as mag- nanimity, sense of justice and equity, care for humanity, in short all values that serve to distinguish men from beasts.

Mistakes of the past filled people's minds with distrust and added to their disunity and enmity. Under the prevailing circumstances the prospect of world peace, to be realistic, is not at hand, nor have we any reason to believe that those responsible for the present chaos and misery are in quest of world peace and happiness. On the contrary, all that the big powers of the world hanker after is supremacy over the rest of the world. Modern society is sick and bewildered.

It should be noted that this is not the first time that man has stumbled into the same pitfall created by the absence of true guidance; one that takes into full con- sideration man's weaknesses as well as his virtues. No one in his right senses can suppose human intellect to be capable of formulating a way of life which, if followed strictly, would save him from falling into error. Many present-day ideologies claim to have the goodwill and qualities that will lead man to prosperity and happiness.

However, in prac- tice they have been seen to be insincere as well as incompetent to provide man with what they have promised him - rather than solving our problems they have added to them by creating a world torn by dissensions and social ailments. " In our opinion the world is in desperate need of Islam - the religion of peace and submission to the Creator of the universe - the religion of Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Muhammad, upon all of whom be peace.

Having witnessed the bankruptcy of all too many "isms" once again we feel the-urge to refer to the Last Prophet of Islam as the last hope for the salvation of us all. In reply to a request of an old student seeking his advice al-Ghazali wrote: "My dear and beloved son, may Allah number you among His obedient servants and lead you along the path of His friends. Know that the source of the best of advices is the Messenger- ship of the Prophet upon whom be the peace and blessings of Allah.

If by now you have acquired some enlightenment out of this source what would you need my advice for?