ABSTRACT
Islam encountered a second mishap at the hands of the Zindiks, the followers of Manl, like Ibn Almukaffa , "Abd-alkarim Ibn "Abi-al'anjft', and others, who, being the fathers of criticism, and declaring one thing as just, another as admissible, &c., raised doubts in weak-minded people as to the One and First, i.e. the Unique and Eternal God, and directed their sympathies towards dualism. A.t the same time they presented the biography of Mani to the people in such a beautiful garb that they were gained over to his side. Now this man did not confine himself to the trash of his sectarian theology, but also proclaimed his views about the form of the world, as may be seen from his books, which were intended for deliberate deception. His opinions were far-spread. Together with the inventions of the abovementioned Judaistic party, they formed a religious system which was declared to be the Islam, but with which God has nothing whatever to do. Whoso opposes it and firmly adheres to the orthodox faith in conformity with the Koran is stigmatised by them as an infidel and heretic and condemned to death, and they will not allow him to hear the word of the Koran. A.II these acts of theirs are more impious than even the words of Pharaoh, "I am your highest lord" (Sura, 79, 24), and "I do not know of any god for you save myself" (Sura, 28, 38). If party spirit of this kind will go on and rule for a long time, we may easily decline from the straight path of honour and duty. We, however, take our refuge with God, who renders firm the foot of every one who seeks Him, and who seeks the truth about Him.
