Page 46 - Demo

42As no chronological order is observed in the Book of Genesis, we are told that after the birth of Isaac (pbuh), Ishmael (pbuh) and his mother are turned out and sentaway by Abraham (pbuh) in a most cruel manner, simplybecause Sáráh so wished. Ishmael (pbuh) and his mother disappear in the desert, a fountain bursts out when the youth is on the point of death from thirst; he drinks and is saved. Nothing more is heard of Ishmael (pbuh) in the Book of Genesis except that he married an Egyptian woman, and when Abraham (pbuh) died he was present together with Isaac (pbuh) to bury their dead father.Then the Book of Genesis continues the story of Isaac (pbuh), his two sons, and the descent of Jacob (pbuh) into Egypt, and ends with the death of Joseph (pbuh). The next important event in the history of Abraham (pbuh) as recorded in Genesis (xxii.) is the offering of “his only son” a sacrifice to God, but he was ransomed with a ram which was presented by an angel. As the Quran says, “this was a manifest trial” for Abraham (pbuh). (Quran, 37:102.), [1] but his love for God surpassed every other affection; and for this reason he is surnamed “the Friend of Allah””(Quran, 4:125) [2] .Thus runs the brief account of Abraham (pbuh) in connection with our subject of the Birthright and the Covenant.There are three distinct points, which every true believer in God must accept as truths. The first point is that Ishmael (pbuh)is the legitimate son of Abraham (pbuh), his firstborn, and therefore his claim[1] Quran,37:102 . Then, when (the son) reached (the age of) (serious) work with him, he said: «O my son! I see in vision that I offer thee in sacrifice: Now see what is thy view!» (The son) said: «O my father! Do as thou art commanded: thou will find me, if Allah so wills one of the steadfast!» . (Editors).[2] Quran,4:125 . Who can be better in religion than one who submits his whole self to Allah, does good, and follows the way of Abraham the true in Faith? For Allah did take Abraham for a friend.(Editors).