Alhassanain(p) Network for Heritage and Islamic Thought

Chapter 6

Upon Ahmad's return from his business trip, he hastened to his fiancée’s home.

“How happy I am with you”, he told Sumayah.

Sumayah replied, “I fear something may spoil our happiness. I wish it could last forever.

Ahmad assured her, “Real happiness can overcome anything. Neither the passage of time nor any incident can harm true love. The angelic brightness of your face overwhelms me. Love that changes like the weather is not real love. It is only an illusion, which vanishes in the end.

Happiness that stems from materialistic pleasures is sure to disappear. It is just a dream, after which one awakes to reality.

Be sure, my dear, that our marriage will be wonderful. Our souls are mingled and our hearts are close. Our ideas and beliefs are in harmony. Nothing can spoil our relationship.”

After Ahmad left her, Sumayah felt comforted by his words and dreamt of a joyful future.

Meanwhile, Fitnah's house was ablaze with colored lights. She had invited a special group of close friends to celebrate her husband's birthday. She dressed carefully, in the latest fashion, and precious stones encircled her neck and wrists. Fitnah looked quite beautiful as she smiled and welcomed her guests, who arrived one after the other.

Salah, a young photographer, was one of her guests and was in love with her. Fitnah had given up all other lovers for his sake. He tried to keep as near as possible to her throughout the evening, however, among the guests there was a new face who was attracted to the beautiful hostess, but was too embarrassed to begin a conversation with her.

A friend of Fitnah joked, “Imagine Fitnah, my friend was reluctant to come to your party.”

Fitnah asked, “Really? Why?”

The friend said, “He feared you might ignore him!”

Fitnah, in order to arouse her lover's jeolousy, said flirtingly, “Oh, how could I ignore such a well-known engineer?”

Sami, the new friend, expressed words of thanks and Fitnah found it easy to make him attracted to her. She decided to use him as a threat if her lover, Salah, even threatened to leave her. She continued to chat with the young man until she was certain of his interest in her. Then she left Sami and went in search of Salah, who had left the group.

Fitnah knew he was annoyed by her conduct. She looked everywhere, and finally discovered him in the arms of one of her close friends in a secluded corner of the garden. She was quite upset at having lost him so quickly.

She came near the couple and exclaimed, “How wonderful! You have left the party to hide here and enjoy yourselves.”

Salah was taken by surprise and the girl was very embarrassed.

Fitnah remarked, “I knew that you were occasionally unfaithful to me, but not to such a degree in my own home!”

“Fitnah please...” Salah began to say.

“Stop your nonsense, you, who change your partners like you change clothes.”

Salah said, “But, it is you who...”

“I know what you want to say, so don't bother to explain yourself,” Fitnah told him angrily. “It is my own mistake. I trusted you. Now I see you are no better than any other playboy.”

Salah pleaded, “Oh, Fitnah, you never thought about my feelings. You lavished all your attention on that engineer.”

Fitnah said, “What has that to do with you? Have you ever tried to behave, at least in my house? Go, you mean nothing to me!”

“Please, be fair to me, let me...”

She turned away before he could finish his sentence. Salah was very unhappy, although his companion tried to cheer him up. He rejoined the party and begged for Fitnah's forgiveness.

In fact, Fitnah had planned to enjoy the evening with her lover, but she found that her husband was missing.

She went to his room and saw him sprawled on his bed, quite drunk. Her maid was sitting near the bed.

Fitnah asked, “Why has he come here?” Nadia told her, “I brought him.”

“How could you have dragged him along?”

Nadia replied, “He was not drunk at that time.”

Fitnah exclaimed, “You gave him too much to drink. How dare you? You tricky...”

Nadia interrupted, “Please, my lady, I am not a tricky person. I am the same as you are, no less or more. At least I am satisfied with one, while you...”

Fitnah began, “Shut your mouth you stupid little...”

“I am not as stupid as you think I am,” Nadia defiantly said, standing up.

Fearing that her guests would notice her absence, Fitnah ordered Nadia to wake up Hamid, since it was a matter of politeness to say good-bye to his guests.

Feeling hatred and disgrace, she joined the others: Her lover tried to speak to her, but she gave him no chance. Hamid was too intoxicated to wake up, so the guests left with only Fitnah to bid them good night. Salah alone remained. He knelt in front of Fitnah and swore that he didn't care for anyone but her. He was clever enough to articulate words of love and she finally forgave him. After he left, she went to her husband's room to find him in a deep sleep, so she went to her own room.

Fitnah could not sleep, and thought of Ahmad, and how she would get her revenge. She again thought of how to drag her cousin into her corrupt way of life. She felt sure that many men would be attracted to Sumayah's beauty and reasoned that no woman can resist temptation. She finally fell asleep, and awoke to see the sun high in the sky. She did not call her maid to assist her in having a bath. Fitnah bathed, dressed and tried to leave her home without attracting the attention of Nadia, but the maid surprised her by saying,

“What? are you leaving without breakfast?”

Fitnah did not answer, while Nadia continued, “Why haven't you called me to assist you this morning? Are you still angry with me?”

Fitnah replied, “Oh, no, I am not.”

Nadia then said, “Have you seen my master?”

“No, how is he?”

“He is not feeling well, and plans to stay at home,” her maid replied.

Fitnah felt a surge of jealousy, but managed to control herself.

“Take care of him,” she told Nadia. “I have an important appointment and I must leave now.”

Fitnah hurried out and drew a deep breath, as if she had escaped from a prison. Her house was like a hateful cage of trouble and pain.

Chapter 7

Three weeks later, speaking over the telephone, Fitnah told her cousin, “I have missed you, Sumayah. Are we not cousins? Why haven't you called?”

Sumayah replied, “I am sorry. I have been busy with my fiancé, who is about to leave. In any case, I hope you are well.”

“Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. I'll try to visit you soon. Why not now?” Fitnah asked.

Sumayah replied, “Oh, no. I cannot.”

“Then I will come to see you this afternoon.”

When Fitnah arrived, Sumayah greeted her warmly and apologized for not visiting her.

Fitnah began talking about her life, “I have mentioned you to my husband, He is anxious to meet you. I also told him about Ahmad. He could not believe his ears. He wondered if such men still existed in this modern age. I also told him you are happy with your future husband.”

Sumayah remained silent. She felt that it was better not to discuss personal matters with her cousin.

“Does Ahmad allow you to attend parties?” her cousin asked.

“Yes, of course. But only decent ones.”

“Then will you come to my birthday party next month?”

Sumayah replied, “Yes, with pleasure.”

“You will see scores of men round you.” Sumayah became angry,

“Oh, then I won't come. I had forgotten that you invite both sexes. You want to make a show of me. How dare you say such a thing?”

“I never meant that, I just want you to stop sanctuary. I feel sorry for you and I want you to have a good time!”

“I am quite happy, so don't take the trouble”, Sumayah answered.

Fitnah remarked, “Strange! Are you really happy to remain within these four walls?”

Sumayah told her cousin, “I am happy whether I go out or stay home.”

Fitnah argued, “Your freedom is limited. What is this scarf around your head and neck? What is this black loose coat that hides your beautiful figure? You look like a shapeless sack. It is a crime that you wear old women 's clothes. Why should Ahmad wear the latest fashion while you are deprived of that pleasure? It is a real injustice and a crime that a modern girl like you should obey a man; any man. What kind of a religion is it that makes a woman subservient to a man?”

Sumayah disagreed, “Islam does not make a man exploit a woman. This is a groundless claim. Muslim women, in fact, have privileges that no other women in other religions have. Muslim women's rights are protected in Islam.”

“What are these privileges? Are they nothing more than cooking, cleaning and serving a husband and kids?” Fitnah asked.

“Islam does not impose these forms of work on a woman, but Islamic concepts do illustrate the benefits and blessings of caring for her husband and children. She has the choice of doing these services. She is never forced to do them. As for hijab, it is a decent dress that can protect a woman from devilish desires. I am proud to observe my hijab and I will always stick to it. Anyway you should admit that I am much happier than you are,”

Sumayah concluded.

“Well, I don't mean you only. Perhaps Ahmad has made you close your eyes to reality. I am against any ideas which are reactionary and which control the future of young girls. It is like destroying their best years of life.”

“What you brand reactionary is a concept concerning social reform, with which women acquire a respectable status. In fact, nakedness is actually a reactionary idea, since it moves woman backward, back to the Age of Ignorance.”

Fitnah replied, “You are misled. You have merely learnt a few words and phrases from Ahmad. If you think carefully, you will realize the truth. This is a modern age and modern society is all around us.”

Sumayah protested, “I don't agree with you at all. I have great faith in Islam. I don't repeat Ahmad's words, but Islamic norms and ethics.”

Fitnah realized it was useless to continue. She talked of other things and soon left her cousin. Sumayah decided to tell her fiancé about their disagreement.

Chapter 8

The next day, Sumayah told Ahmad about her relatives and mentioned Fitnah, saying, “She is my cousin. She is very beautiful; but I don't like her life- style.”

Ahmad was surprised, since he knew that his fiancée’s relatives were believers with good reputations.

Sumayah explained, “She grew up an orphan. Her father died when she was a child and my aunt spoiled her. She is carefree and careless. Fitnah married at a young age and went to Europe with her husband. They stayed there for three years and then returned home. Her husband failed to get his degree, but he is quite rich and can afford a luxurious life. My cousin has been misled by Western values and European civilization.”

“Who is her husband?” Ahmad asked.

Sumayah replied, “I don't know him, but they say he is very rich.”

“Wealth, ignorance and idleness are all dangerous factors, which can destroy a person” Ahmad said.

Sumayah agreed, and added, “Beauty too. My cousin is very beautiful. I will show you her picture.”

Sumayah brought out her photo album and selected one of the pictures. “This is Fitnah before she traveled to Europe.”

Sumayah did not look at Ahmad's face, so she did not notice his surprise and dismay as he recognized the playgirl who, years ago, had tried to trap him. He wondered how such a girl could be in contact with, much less related to, his fiancée. He reflected that Fitnah probably remembered her failure and might harbour feelings of resentment. Ahmad was about to warn Sumayah to avoid her, but he hesitated, since Fitnah was now a married woman and was possibly leading a decent life.

He did not comment on the picture, and gave it back to Sumayah, who said, “See how attractive she is? I wish she had better morals.”

Ahmad said, “She is beautiful. But I don't like such artificial beauty under which lies devilish motivations. Real beauty is pure and natural; not a beauty which is created by cosmetics.”

“You are right”, his future bride agreed.

Chapter 9

Meanwhile, Fitnah was still scheming about how to get revenge. She felt that her husband did not deeply care for her, but just enjoys himself, yet she knew that she could handle him when she decided what role he would play in her little drama. Finally Fitnah devised a plan in which Hamid could help her achieve her aim. She slept soundly that night and woke up feeling quite happy. She rang the bell to summon her maid, who helped her to bath and dress. Fitnah put on her best silk robe, perfumed herself and walked out of her room.

Her maid was surprised, “Are you expecting visitors, mistress?”

Fitnah replied, “Oh, no. How could I greet anyone while I'm wearing these house garments?”

Nadia then asked, “Where are you going?”

Fitnah answered, “To see my husband”.

The maid was vexed and Fitnah felt great humiliation when she reflected that her rival was her maid. Yet she considered the great wealth of her husband and knew it was best for her to endure the odd situation.

She knocked at Hamid's door and entered, saying, “May I come in?”

Hamid was just about to leave the home, but he changed his mind upon seeing Fitnah.

“Am I disturbing you?” Fitnah smiled.

Hamid replied, “Not at all. You are always welcome.”

“It looks as if you have an important engagement”, she told him.

“You are more important than anyone else”, Hamid said, embracing her.

“Oh, thank you! You are such a good-hearted man”, Fitnah flattered her husband.

In fact, Fitnah was well-aware of his good nature and that she could easily influence him.

They sat down and she began talking about some friends.

She was saying, “There is a great struggle going on between the rich man and the artist. Both are determined to get a beautiful girl that I know. Yet I think neither of them will succeed.”

“Why not?” Hamid asked.

Fitnah explained, “Years ago there was a similar situation, and she chose someone else.”

“Then she is married.”

“Oh, no” Fitnah said. “He was her boyfriend for some time, and she gave him up a few months ago.”

His curiosity aroused, Hamid asked why.

Fitnah surmised, “Perhaps she is looking for someone more rich, even richer than her present suitor.”

“Where do they meet her?” her husband asked.

“Well, at several places. She is clever enough at attracting men to her. Sometimes she claims she is married or engaged. She also often pretends to be a decent girl and a pious Muslim.”

Hamid was intrigued by the description of this girl.

Fitnah left his room without saying anything more about her. She returned to her room and thought to herself, 'I can lose nothing in this game. It makes no difference to me whom Hamid has affairs with. In any case, his other mistresses are of no use to me, while this one will help me achieve my revenge.

Yes, I will get back at Ahmad, his belief and his morals. This proud beauty, my cousin, can be trapped by Hamid's immense wealth and charm. All women adore money. Since I cannot bring Sumayah to my group, I'll at least show Hamid the way to her. I don't care whether Sumayah or Nadia is his lover. As long as his wealth is under my control, I won't feel jealous. Hamid is nothing to me. Sumayah is a simple-hearted girl, and she has never heard words of love from a stranger.

It will be very flattering to her and surely she will soon give in to Hamid's declarations of love. I think she may soon regret her engagement. The last time I spoke with her, she was very quiet. My words have affected her. I'll go on talking until I take off the mask that Ahmad has covered her with. Now I must know where she spends her free time. It's best that I wait until Ahmad leaves again for Europe. If he is nearby, he will spoil my plans.'

Chapter 10

Ahmad's next trip was drawing near. He enjoyed the few days that remained with his fiancée. He took her to a public park near a mosque. They sat and watched the people walking by and were pleased to see several worshippers enter the mosque.

“How wonderful Islamic prayer is,” Sumayah said. “It causes one to feel security and happiness.”

Ahmad agreed, “That is quite true. Mosques are the best places for Muslims to meet and to manage the affairs of an Islamic state, as it was at the advent of Islam. Decisions were reached in the mosque and the laws were created which ruled half of this globe. The eternal call of Allahu Akhar to prayer echoed throughout dozens of Islamic countries.”

Sumayah mused, “How wonderful those days must have been.”

“Yes, and it is useful to study them. Since we are committed Muslims, and we live according to Islamic instructions, we are happy. Our happiness is to be derived from our firm stand against all deviated ideologies. It means a lot when we defeat the evil intentions of the self.” The Prophet (S.A.W.) says, 'Whoever adheres to my Sunnah when the ummah is corrupted, has the reward of a hundred martyrs.' “

“The early Muslims were the masters of the world”, Sumayah remarked.

Ahmad corrected her, “Actually they were leaders, since Islam considers all people as free human beings. There are no masters or slaves in Islam. A Muslim is evaluated only with regard to his piety and righteousness. The early Muslims did not want to dominate and exploit others. They wanted to guide people to the right path, to purify their thinking. Islam is a universal doctrine, and is beneficial for all ages and all countries. Dominating or enslaving others cannot result in a nation's progress. With such ideas, the Muslims reached the Persian Court and the Roman Imperial fortresses.”

“Did any women play significant roles in the early days of Islam?” Sumayah inquired.

Ahmad told her, “Of course they did. Woman participated in shaping Islamic history. She proved her ability and personality as a human being entrusted with a mission. She was no less active or less brave than a man.”

“What is the difference between the Muslim woman of those days and the Muslim woman of our time?” Sumayah asked.

Ahamd said, “Woman today is misled. Man has fooled her and deprived her of all her innate dignity. She has been pulled down to the bottom of society. Our duty is to awaken her from her slumber. We should save her from this pitiful situation into which she has fallen.”

“I am afraid it is difficult to reform the Muslim women who have decided to follow Western ways,” she said, thinking about her cousin.

Ahmad said, “A real Muslim woman cannot be fooled easily. She knows the true nature of her religion and is secure in the knowledge that Islam has given her all her rights. Anyway, it is not too late to reform the misled ones. Even a misguided Muslim woman still has good qualities within herself, which can remove her blindness one day.”

“When and how?” Sumayah asked.

Ahmad said, “1 think the time is drawing near. Women who imitate the West suffer terribly in the end. The breaking up of Muslim marriages has increased due to this blind imitation. Such marriages, if they are unIslamic, cannot be happy ones, or survive for long.”

Sumayah said, “Some of the misled women claim that hijab is imposed on woman by man and it undermines her status.”

Her fiancé replied, “This is mere nonsense and an echo of foreign propaganda. The obligation to dress modestly is not confined to women only. However women are more attractive and can have a stronger influence than men; therefore, her hijab is more significance. Hijab acts as a sort of protection for women. Islam wants women to cover the source of their beauty, as a means of increasing their dignity. Muslim women at the advent of Islam participated in battles, attended the wounded and encouraged the Muslim combatants. The Islamic modest dress they wore did not hinder them from having an effective role in their society.”

Sumayah sighed, “How I wish we were like them.”

Ahmad told her, “Every woman can be like them.”

Sumayah asked, “How?”

Ahmad said, “Struggling for the sake of a belief has many degrees. A Muslim woman can achieve this any time. The struggle against temptation and corruption and enjoining the good and forbidding the evil can all be forms of struggle for belief. In tact, the struggle against selfish desires is of more use than all other struggles. Imam Ali (A.S.) said, 'To purify the self of corruption is more difficult than any actual struggle'.”

The call to prayer could be heard, so Sumayah and Ahmad arose and entered the mosque to perform their prayers.

Chapter 11

Fitnah found out the exact day and time that Ahmad was leaving for Europe, and she was ready to put her plan into action. She began a conversation with her husband, saying,

“Do, you remember that beautiful girl I told you about?” It seems she has found a new lover, an older, rich man,”

“How do you know this?” asked Hamid.

“I haven't seen such a girl in the clubs we frequent or at any of the parties of our friends,”

Fitnah quickly told him, “Oh, you wouldn't recognize her. Sometimes she covers herself completely in a large black coat and scarf. On other occasion she looks like a model from the cover of Vogue magazine. She's unpredictable.”

Fitnah hoped that such a description would intrigue and interest her husband. She continued, “This young woman is seeing a friend off at the airport tomorrow morning. I might go to the airport myself to see her and introduce myself.”

“How will you find her? The airport will be filled with young women”, Hamid asked.

His wife said, “Well, I know she is fair-skinned, has large brown eyes and is slender. Her clothing will guide me to her.”

Fitnah returned to her bedroom. She thought to herself, 'I'll pretend to feel unwell tomorrow. Knowing Hamid and his interest in mysteries, I will stir him to go instead of me. He will see Sumayah and be captivated by her beautiful face.'

The next morning, Fitnah's plan succeeded, as she complained of a severe headache and she soon saw Hamid backing his car out of the driveway.

Meanwhile, Sumayah, her father and Ahmad waited in the airport lounge for his flight to be announced. Sumayah was saddened by her fiancé’s imminent departure, and Ahmad told her, “It's difficult to leave you, my dear. I shall return as soon as possible. It's only a matter of a few months' separation. Be strong in faith.”

Ahmad's flight was called and they bid each other farewell. Sumayah was almost overcome by tears; she leaned on her father's arm for support as they walked back to their car.

Sumayah's father tried to distract his daughter's attention, telling her, “There was a strange man who jus stood and stared at you in the airport.”

She replied, “The world is filled with people like that. Don't let it bother you. We should feel sorry for those who waste their time and energy.”

They reached their car and soon arrived at their home.

Chapter 12

Two days later, Fitnah visited Sumayah and they sat in the garden talking. Fitnah told her cousin, “I usually have a walk in the morning. Does Ahmad allow you to do such a thing?”

Sumayah was annoyed by the question, but she acted indifferently, replying, “Sometimes I take walks in the public park near the mosque.”

“You do not go to other places?” Fitnah inquired.

“No.”

“Do you go alone?” she then asked.

“Usually, but sometimes I go with my father.” Sumayah said, wondering why Fitnah was asking her.

“I thought you didn't go to public places due to religious traditions”, Fitnah told her.

“Religious traditions do not contradict polite behaviour. Any action or practice should be in conformity with Islamic ethics,” Sumayah replied.

Fitnah sighed, “Oh, what injustice. How can a pretty girl like you have such a meaningless role in life? Your beauty is hidden under this long coat and scarf. Your ideas are buried in the pages of books. You are worthy of the title “Miss Universe”, but you do not know your real importance. A teenager cannot understand the influence of her beauty on others until someone whispers words of love to her. Then she will see love all around her. Why should you spend all of your time alone while Ahmad enjoys himself in Europe? You avoid the friendship of men in your homeland while he enjoys his time with European girls.”

“Fitnah, be serious! What sort of life can a girl have when she becomes the object of men's desires? Most men think that the physical beauty of a girl is the most important aspect, whereas it is only temporary and superficial. Hence a girl's role is determined by men and her development is limited as a result. A girl with sound thinking and wisdom can develop without the influence of men. Religion guides girls and teaches them the meaning of life. A Muslim girl is not deprived of her freedom and she submits to Allah only. A girl who does not respect her feminism and who has no dignity becomes a mere commodity.”

She continued, “As a matter of fact, I pity you for having such a life. I think you are a slave to fashion and cosmetic sellers. I don't know how to reform you; perhaps my mother can influence you. I shall call her to talk with you.”

Fitnah stood up, saying, “Oh, no. I am leaving now. I expect some guests tonight.”

Sumayah also stood up and walked her cousin to her car, glad that their conversation had ended.

Fitnah went straight home and told Hamid he could sometimes find Sumayah at the park. As she had predicted, Hamid thought her cousin was very beautiful, and he assumed that the man who had been with her at the airport was her boyfriend.

Chapter 13

Sumayah and Ahmad exchanged letters regularly throughout their separation. He wrote of his love for her and his longing to see her. She wrote to him about how she spent her time reading or taking walks.

One day Sumayah went to the public park and sat on a bench in a quiet corner. As she was reading a book, she felt that someone was standing near her, but she paid no attention.

A stranger sat next to her on the bench and said, “Good afternoon.”

Sumayah frowned and did not reply. She resumed her reading.

“What book are you reading?” asked Hamid.

Not wishing to be rude, Sumayah told him, “A novel”

Hamid remarked, “I'm certain it is a love story. Love is the most wonderful and sacred thing in life.”

“I do not agree. Religion and faith are the sacred things in life,” Sumayah said.

Hamid disagreed, smiling, “Love and wealth are essential elements. Love without money is tragic, and money without love has no value.”

Sumayah decided to find another bench to sit on, but first she told the stranger, “You are quite mistaken. Money, which you consider to be so important, misleads people and causes regret in the end. Human dignity cannot be found with wealth and a person without dignity is deprived of all things.”

She then got up and left the park. Hamid was surprised by her stance. He expected her to be easy prey, and he became more determined to win her.

Hamid told himself, 'How stubborn she is! Nevertheless, I know how to seduce her.'

He also left the park and drove his car up to the gate. Sumayah was standing at the bus stop. Hamid saw her and decided to follow her home.

'I must learn where she lives,' he told himself.

Sumayah boarded a bus and Hamid followed it at a distance. She soon got off the bus and entered a tailor's shop. Hamid was disappointed, but he felt sure that he would get her one day.

Chapter 14

At home, Sumayah found a letter from Ahmad awaiting her and she eagerly read it. She forgot about the strange young man at the park. That night, she wrote a reply to Ahmad's long letter.

The next day was warm and sunny. So Sumayah decided to take a walk in the public park.

Before long, she heard someone say, “How nice to meet you again.”Sumayah turned and saw Hamid.

“I beg your pardon! You are mistaken.” she said.

She tried to ignore him but he insisted, “I don't think you have such a poor memory. As for me, since I saw you last, I have not stopped thinking of you. An of my wealth, which is in the millions, is at your service.”

Sumayah looked at him and said indifferently, “Oh, yes. Now I do remember you! You are the man who lives for money.”

Hamid replied, “That's correct. Wealth, as you know, brands the fortunate.”

“It is a pity that such men lack any other significant qualifications,” she remarked.

“Money can bring other qualifications,” said Hamid.

Sumayah said, “None but of fashion, which is very unimportant for a man.”

Then Hamid said, “Your style is strange compared to your personality.”

Surprised, Sumayah said, “What do you know of my personality?! My style, as you call it, is not strange. I don't know why I should answer you. In any case, I have tried to advise you. You may realize one day that money is not everything. If you think that with money you will succeed in life, you are quite wrong.”

Sumayah was annoyed to have seen the young man again, and she left as soon as she finished speaking without the least intention of waiting to hear his reply.

Chapter 15

Fitnah was eager to know how well Hamid had succeeded in his efforts to attract Sumayah, yet she was afraid to ask him lest he should suspect her game. Hamid spent most of his time outside the home and the maid, Nadia, was vexed. She assumed he had found another lover.

Fitnah decided to visit Sumayah in the hope that her cousin would talk to her about Hamid. Sumayah and Fitnah once again sat in the garden. Fitnah noticed that her cousin was not at ease and she accounted for it according to her imagination. She was certain that her husband had managed to contact Sumayah. Fitnah spoke again about men in general and how they love beautiful ladies. Sumayah remained silent, thinking that there was no use in advising her cousin.

At home, Fitnah noticed that her maid was out and she thought that Nadia might have gone out to look for Hamid. In fact, Nadia had seen Hamid talking with Sumayah at the park, but she was sure that their meeting had been by chance. She continued to spy on him.

Chapter 16

Sumayah decided to stop going to that particular park for some time and visited other public gardens instead. As she was strolling through a garden one day, she saw a woman begging for money and Sumayah gave her a substantial amount of money. The woman was quite happy and uttered words of gratitude as she walked away.

At that moment Sumayah heard someone say, “How generous you are, Miss...? You should not have given the beggar that much money.”

Sumayah was shocked and dismayed to see the same man who had spoken to her on previous occasions standing nearby. She became pale and looked around. On seeing lot of people nearby, she felt safe and said in a loud voice, “How dare you speak to me? Why are you following me?”

Hamid stuttered, “In fact, I ...”

Sumayah told him, “You are a stranger to me, and I don't even know your name. You are very impolite to address me.”

The woman beggar was standing nearby and Hamid found it difficult to explain his behaviour. Sumayah's anger confounded him, and he didn't reply.

“Why don't you answer?” Sumayah asked. “I swear by Allah I would have called the police, had not it been for this wedding ring on your finger. I pity your wife.”

Sumayah left the park, and Hamid saw the woman beggar pick something up off the ground.

He grabbed her hand and shouted, “Thief!”

Then he quickly asked the waiter to follow Sumayah, since the beggar had picked up a gold coin near where she had been sitting.

Sumayah returned and confirmed in front of everyone that she herself had given the coin to the destitute woman.

Hamid was very embarrassed and surprised by Sumayah's behaviour.

He thought deeply about her and said to himself, 'In fact, I am not a good person. How worthy it is to do good for others! I never thought such virtuous girls existed.''

Chapter 17

Sumayah returned home and wrote along letter to her fiancé. A few days later Sumayah and her father went to the public park where her father met some of his friends. Not long after Sumayah sat down, she was addressed by Hamid, who quickly said, “Please Miss, may I speak with you?”

Sumayah tried to discourage him with a look of annoyance and disapproval, but he persisted saying, “You are like an angel; you have done me a lot of good. Please do not hold back this light that has removed the darkness around me.”

Surprised by his words, Sumayah asked, “What has made you speak like this?”

“I have behaved badly towards you. I ask your forgiveness for my rudeness.”

Sumayah was aware of the changed tone of his voice. She looked at him for a moment and felt that he was being honest.

She said, “I do forgive you. Actually, I feel sorry for men like you.”

Chapter 18

Hamid returned home feeling the joy of an awakened conscience. He felt deep regret for all his past actions regarding Sumayah. In the past three weeks Hamid ceased all his indecent behaviour. It seemed as if he had awakened from a deep sleep. He kept thinking about the things Sumayah had said. He felt he owed her a lot. She had inspired him. Hamid asked himself if he was in love with her, but he was not. His feelings were based on respect and high esteem. He wished he could see her often in order to learn from her strength and good will. He decided to continue visiting the public park in order to see her again.

The next morning, Hamid stayed in his room. He did not allow anyone to disturb him. As he recalled his past life, he was shocked to realize that he had gained nothing from life but the wealth he inherited from his father. He had wasted nearly half of his fortune. What would happen to him in the next ten years, when his money came to an end? He thought about how important it was for a person to have a decent life and a faithful wife. He knew his friends would give him up as soon as his money was exhausted. Even his wife would leave him if he was not rich. He knew Fitnah loved his wealth and never valued his love. Hamid wished he could escape from his corrupt life and go back ten years in time to when he was quite innocent and pure.

Sumayah's ideas dominated his thinking. He never thought he would meet such an ideal girl who would bring him to such a reality. Since he had met her, he looked with open eyes and realized much more than before. In fact, he had recovered from blindness.

He turned his thoughts to his wife and wondered why she had misled him. He could not justify her behaviour. Could it be from malice? But Sumayah was not her type. In any case, there must be a reason, He was sure she longed to hear from him about his adventures, but he would never satisfy her curiosity. He was sure she would not ask him herself. Fitnah tried often to begin a conversation to make him mention Sumayah, but he was clever enough to disappoint her. In fact, he was surprised at his firm stand. He used to think he would never have enough courage to resist his wife.

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Chapter 19

Sumayah felt satisfied by the thought that she had done her best to guide Hamid.

Ahmad approved of her efforts. He wrote to her, “...remember that struggle does not only mean war. You have managed to guide a deviated person.”

One day, Sumayah visited Ahmad's mother and Hamid happened to see her enter the house.

He waited at the roadside until she came out, and he said, “Excuse me. I don't want to annoy you, but I must talk with you.”

“What do you want to talk about and why do you follow me?” demanded Sumayah.

Hamid said, “In fact, I would like you to talk and I will listen to you. I have found great comfort in your previous words.”

Sumayah then asked, “What does your conscience tell you?”

“It tells me to reform; to give up vices and stick to the right path,” was Hamid's reply.

“That is what I had expected would happen. Your inner goodness has been awakened”, Sumayah confirmed.

Hamid complained, “Yet, I still feel as if I am lost.”

Sumayah answered, “Why do you have such doubt? You based your worth on money. Now your money can serve you. It won't control your life.” She then suggested him to read a few books. The bus arrived and Sumayah began to board it.

Hamid begged her to stay a bit longer to talk more.

Sumayah shook her head saying, “You should start reading those books, and you will learn a lot.”

“Can I have your address to contact you when I face a difficulty?” Hamid asked.

“Oh no. That's not possible,” she replied.

“But I feel as if you are my saviour. You are the light that illuminated my inner soul. I have much to tell you.” Hamid pleaded.

Sumayah looked at him questioningly, “Such as...?”

“Well, private matters that I can't speak about at the roadside”, Hamid said.

Sumayah boarded the bus and advised him, “I suggest you keep on reading worthy books. I am sure you shall learn a great deal.”

Hamid stood at the bus stop for a moment, deep in thought. He wondered why he didn't follow her in order to learn where her house was. Was it dignity or honesty that stopped him? He went into a nearby bookshop, bought some books and returned home.

Looking through the window, Fitnah saw Hamid enter carrying a package. She thought the parcel was clothing. She never imagined that her husband would buy books one day. In the past few weeks Fitnah had noticed a change in her husband's behaviour. He stayed alone in his room more often than usual and seemed to have given up attending clubs, parties and theaters. She was at a loss to explain his new conduct. Fitnah reasoned that even his failure to get Sumayah could not have caused such a change.

Fitnah also noticed that her maid, Nadia, had become pale and quiet. She was glad to see Nadia suffering from jealousy.

She called her to get some information. “Now Nadia, I want you to be frank. Tell me what are you hiding from me?”

Nadia looked surprised but said nothing.

“I have noticed that Hamid has been acting strangely recently,” Fitnah remarked.

“What do you mean?” asked Nadia.

Fitnah said, “Oh don't play the fool. I know about the affair between you two. You know that I want to know everything about my husband. Now tell me what is the matter with him.”

Nadia remained silent.

Fitnah persisted, “I won't tell him anything. I won't tell him you spy on him because it is in my interests that you do so.”

Nadia began, “I only saw him by chance...”

Fitnah interrupted, “I know it was not by chance. Now tell me what you have seen.”

“Well, I saw him in a park with a young lady. I could not believe my eyes. She looked decent and respectable, but...” Nadia hesitated.

“But what,” Fitnah said with excitement.

Nadia told her, “I saw them again and he was listening to her talk.”

Fitnah demanded to know, “What did they say?”

“How do I know,” Nadia replied, “I was outside the park. Then I saw him once again with her at a bus stop.”

“Did he give her a lift?” Fitnah questioned.

Nadia replied, “I didn't see since I left for fear he might see me.”

“Thank you Nadia. Go now, and tell me everything about him that you learn in the future.”

Fitnah was pleased at the news. She imagined that her revenge plan had succeeded. She anxiously awaited Ahmad's return so that she could congratulate him on his choice. She decided to leave her husband unquestioned until Ahmad returned. She then turned her thoughts to her new lover, the young engineer.

Chapter 20

Hamid continued to read the books he had bought. Slowly he acquired spiritual and religious knowledge. He enjoyed reading the books Sumayah had recommended, and he hoped to meet her again. Wherever Hamid went, he took a book along with him.

The next time he visited the park he saw Sumayah again and greeted her politely. Hamid asked her to allow him to sit next to her and she did not object. Hamid began the conversation by saying, “I have read the books you advised me to read. They have given me much to think about.”

“That is wonderful,” Sumayah replied, “How do you feel now?”

“I feel as if I were newly born. All my ideals have changed,” he said with passion.

Sumayah nodded approvingly, “That is good. Forget your past and think of the future.”

“I am trying to rid myself of the past, but...” Hamid looked down.

“What is it?” Sumayah asked.

“My wife, whose ring saved me from a scandal when you refused to call the police. Her lifestyle reflects my past.” Hamid replied slowly.

Sumayah inquired, “Can't you reform her?”

Hamid sighed, “I can hardly do that. She is quite deviated. She...”

Sumayah guessed, “Is she an unfaithful wife?”

“Yes. She is like a butterfly, always chasing her wishes and desires,” Hamid confessed.

Sumayah thought for a moment and said, “An unfaithful wife is harmful for you. Why don't you give her up?”

Hamid said, “As a matter of fact. I love her.”

Sumayah disagreed, “You are mistaken. If you truly loved her, you would not let her behave in such a way. You only feel the powerful influence of her physical beauty. You love your house, yet do you allow strangers access to it? You love your money, do you allow other to share it with you? This feeling towards her is not of love. Love is something sacred that overwhelms a pure, innocent soul. If you think carefully you will find that you actually dislike her because of how she is.”

Hamid confessed, “I fear her.”

Sumayah explained, “That means you do not love her. A lover does not fear his beloved. The weak fear the strong. Now you are no longer weak, because faith and virtue are stronger than vice and indecency. You are now a believer. Try to free yourself of her influence.”

Hamid said, “As long as I am with her, I can't get rid of my past. I must leave her.”

“I advise you to try to reform her,” Sumayah said.

Hamid replied mournfully, “It is impossible.”

Hamid changed the subject, “Can I ask who the old man was who was with you in the airport?”

“You saw me there?” Sumayah was surprised, “That was my father. We had gone to see off Ahmad.”

“Who is this Ahmad you have just mentioned?” Hamid inquired.

“He is my fiancé. We are engaged,” she answered.

Hamid was very amazed by this information and had much to think about as he slowly drove home.