Tabligh Movement
1. MAULANA ILYAS
~ 55 ~
in emergencies, something quite different is called
for. The first method is that of the prophets—to
train and educate in general; otherwise it is the
situation and circumstances which dictate the
method. It is self evident that the first method is
unvarying in value, while the second is subject to
change from situation to situation. The Maulana did
not underestimate the importance of literature. The
issues that confront us on an academic level can
only be properly presented and countered by the
same weapon. In the Abbasid period, the
publication of Greek literature aroused many new
intellectual problems, which were adequately
countered by the writings of the scholars of the
time. Consequently, theology came into existence.
Similarly, today, Islam is being challenged at
various points by thoughts and issues that have to
be countered on its behalf. The Maulana was fully
aware of this necessity, but felt that this was a
secondary matter and, as such, should be treated as
a temporary emergency, and should not form part
of the substance of religious teaching in general.
