15. The adversaries

(15. The Adversaries)

After having given the definition of the "people of order," I shall proceed to the description of the adversaries. hey are divided into two classes: the unbelievers and the hypocrites (dissemblers).

The hypocrites [Fol. 16v.] are worse than unbelievers, because the last-mentioned are called the men who preserve the same attitude in the presence as well as the absence (of the believers), and do not make an appearance of accepting the instruction of the teacher of this community, denying it, however, in secret.

The believers thus may keep themselves safe from their intrigues, being warned by the statements which they (the unbelievers) make in the presence of the instructor. They will not fail in practicing all sort of hostile actions in their power, but at the same time they will not keep their real intentions secret so that the believers can take their precautions. A poet says:-

A faithful dog is much better than a brother who is a dissembler.

In another poem it is said:-

Be either a plain unbeliever or a faithful believer.

In another place it is said:-

Rather be a (complete) unbeliever, than a dissembler.

Another verse:-

Be either a Negro from Zanzibar, or a pure believer,
Be either quite hard as a stone or as absolutely soft as wax.

This is the exposition of the (real) properties of the Imam, the "people of unity," the "people of order" and the adversaries, explained in a language understood by everybody in order that the common people may more easily learn about it and not remain without their share in its benefit.

By the golry of His Essence!
A dog which is trained, becomes alert and swift,
And when it acquires a (mystic) knowledge,
shares the company of the Seven Ephesians.
The dog that is trained, abandons mischief
And chases in the groves only lawful game.