Islam Rediscovered
21. Islam in History
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could be practised and the invitation to people to
answer its call could be issued in an atmosphere of
freedom—a task which till that point had been
seriously hindered by the prevalent religious
oppression.
This divine edict became a reality, ostensibly as a
result of human intervention, but actually with the
succour of the Almighty. In consonance with this
divine plan, the Qur’an enjoined the believer to
“make war on them until persecution (
fitna
) shall
cease and Religion is only for God. If they desist,
God is cognizant of all their actions; but if they pay
no heed, know then that God will protect you. He is
the Noblest Helper and Protector.” (8:39-40)
Religious coercion through persecution was totally
against the Creation Plan of God. God created this
world for the purpose of putting mankind to the
test. For this purpose to be fulfilled, everyone in this
world had to enjoy full freedom of speech and
action. If people were divested of their freedom, the
very purpose of the test would be defeated.
Therefore, God granted special help to the believers,
so that they might put an end to a system which
