An Example of Noble Character

THE LIFE OF A BELIEVER decided to use the flyer to undermine Maulana Sanaullah during the debate. When the debate began, the opponent rose from his seat, holding the flyer, and addressed the audience: “I came here to debate a scholar who represents Islam. But Maulana Sanaullah Amritsari cannot be considered a true Muslim. I say this with respect to him as a person. But according to this flyer—written by a member of his own community—even Muslims question his faith. So how can I accept him as a representative of Islam, let alone engage him in a debate on its principles?” Maulana Sanaullah responded not with anger or defensiveness. Smiling calmly, he stood up and said: “My friend is right. But all of you know that to enter Islam, all that is required is to recite the testimony of faith (shahada). So I now declare before all of you—as witnesses—that I testify: Ashhadu an lā ilāha illa Allāh, waḥdahu lā sharīka lahu, wa ashhadu anna Muḥammadan ʿabduhu wa rasūluh. I bear witness that there is no god but God, alone without partner, and that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger.