dissimulation; from Mohammed that He will appear with signs like unto the Koran." Notwithstanding such a sound tradition which mentions all the events just as they have transpired, no one hath became mindful, nor do We suppose they will henceforth become so, excepting those whom thy Lord wisheth. "Verily, God shall cause him to hear whom He pleaseth; but I shall not make those to hear who are in graves."
It hath been evident to your Honor that the Birds of Divinity and Doves of Eternity have two utterances. One they reveal according to the outward, without allegory, covering or veil, that it may be a guiding lamp and beckoning light by which wayfarers may reach the summits of holiness, and seekers be led to the court of Union. Such are the clear records and evident verses already mentioned. The other utterance they reveal in veil and covering to expose that which the malicious have concealed in their hearts and disclose their innermost beings. Therefore it is said by Sadek-Ibn-Mohammed, "God will purge them and sift them." This is the Divine balance and the eternal touchstone wherewith He tests His servants. No one comprehendeth the meanings of these utterances except tranquil hearts, approved souls and abstracted minds. In similar utterances the literal meaning understood by people is not intended. Thus it is said: "Every knowledge hath seventy senses, of which one only is known among the people; but when the Gha'im shall arise, He will spread the remaining senses among
