THE FLASHES

The Twenty-Eighth Flash

Paradise, too, which belongs to the eternal world and the everlasting abode, possesses, despite its immeasurable distance, an influence within that sphere of governance and disposal which extends luminously everywhere, as though from behind the veil of the visible world.

Through the wisdom and power of Sāni-i Hakīm-i Dhul-Jalāl, the centres of the human faculties have been placed in different parts of the head, yet each exercises an influence over the whole body and brings it within its sphere of activity.

In the same way, this great human being—the universe—encompasses thousands of worlds, like circles nested within one another.

The conditions and events occurring within these worlds become objects of attention according to their general or particular nature, their distinctiveness or magnitude. Minor and particular events are observed within limited and nearby spheres, while general and momentous events become visible at great and exalted levels.

Sometimes a minor and particular event can stir an entire great world. Wherever one turns to listen, tidings of that event may be heard. And sometimes a great display of force is made, not to counter the strength of an enemy, but to demonstrate majesty.

For example, the prophethood of Muhammad (saw) and the sacred revelation of the Qur’an are events of the greatest importance throughout the entire heavenly realm, reaching into every corner of it.

Therefore, it is depicted as though guards were stationed upon the towers of the distant and exalted heavens, driving away and expelling the spying devils with stars used as missiles.

Through this Divine sign, the majesty of the revelation of the Qur’an, the splendour of its sovereignty, and its indisputable truth are proclaimed. Thus, at that time and in that age, stars were hurled and meteors shot forth with greater frequency.

The Miraculous Qur’an also gives expression to that cosmic proclamation, thereby drawing attention to this heavenly sign.

Indeed, although the spying devils could be blown away by the mere breath of a single angel, they are nevertheless confronted and driven away through so great a heavenly sign and by the angels themselves. This is undoubtedly intended to display the majesty of the sovereignty of the Qur’anic revelation.

Yet this majestic declaration of the Qur’an, announcing such a momentous heavenly event, does not mean that the jinn and devils possess sufficient power to compel the inhabitants of the heavens to engage in battle or defence.

Rather, it indicates that along the entire path extending from the heart of Muhammad (saw) to the heavenly realm — even as far as the Arsh-i Azam — there is no possibility whatsoever of interference by jinn or devils.

Thus, the devils are depicted as though compelled to ascend as far as the heavens in order to overhear something. But they achieve nothing and are driven away by the stars

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