The More Correct Principle
Al-Risala (English), October 1991, p. 4
By Maulana Wahiduddin Khan
Maulana Wahiduddin Khan is named as the default author of the periodical; a piece that carries another writer’s byline is credited to that writer.
The More Correct Principle
1991 10 October 4 The More Correct Principle (304) Tipu Sultan was the ruler of Mysore from 1782 to 1799. This was the time when the British were trying to establish their rule over India. Tipu Sultan clashed with the British; though he was not in a position to face the British army all by himself. He tried to enter into a treaty with the French against the British. But France was unwilling. He then sent his emissaries to Arabia, Constantinople and Mauritius for help, but all in vain. He also tried to rally the other principalities of India, but they thought it was suicidal and declined to join against the British.
Ultimately Tipu Sultan confronted the British troops all by himself. The result was a foregone conclusion. He was killed by a British bullet on May 4, 1799 at Sringpatam. This was a futile battle, yet Tipu Sultan tried to justify it by saying: “One day’s life of a lion is better than 100 years of a jackal’s life.”
This phrase was immensely liked by the Muslim poets and preachers. There is bravado in this, indeed, but it is devoid of foresight and wisdom. If such a stand were really principled, the Prophet along with the companions would have preferred martyrdom in Mecca, and would not have opted for something which their adversaries would consider as a ‘flight’.
Contrary to this is the example of Nizam Ali Khan of Hyderabad. Considering the prevailing state of affairs, he entered into a treaty with the British in 1768, which permitted his state to remain intact. This enabled him to be of immense service to the Muslims and to Islamic institutions.
Contrary to the saying of Tipu Sultan, it is far more desirable to become a ‘jackal for a day’ to enable one later to live the life of a lion for a hundred years.
