Modernists And Hadith Rejecters by Sajid A. Kayum

could encounter Imam Ahmad. Imam Ahmad was then returned to
prison. The Caliphate passed on to Mu'tasim, who was instructed by
Ma'moon to keep close to Ibn Abu Dawood and continue the
persecution. Mu'tasim summoned Imam Ahmad and arranged a
gathering with Ibn Abee Dawood and his companions on the issue of
Khalq al-Qur'aan. Despite many arguments and efforts by the
Mu'tazilah, they were unable to overcome Imam Ahmad, and the
gathering dragged on for two days.
On the third day, the gathering continued and Imam Ahmad
was asked, "What do you say about the Qur'aan?" to which he replied,
"The Speech of Allah is not a creation. Allah says, "And if anyone of the
polytheist seeks your protection then grant him protection, so that he
may hear the Word of Allah."
[Soorah at-Tawbah (9): 6]
He was asked to present more proof to which Imam Ahmad
replied with the following verse, "The Most Beneficent! Has taught
the Qur'aan." [Soorah ar-Rahman (55): 6] Imam Ahmad argued that Allah
has nowhere referred to the Qur'aan as Khalq al-Qur'aan.
Imam Ahmad was summoned once more in front of
Mu'tasim, but this time the swords were unsheathed and the spears
were pointing at him. Mu'tasim questioned Imam Ahmad about his
position only to receive the same reply. Mu'tasim threatened Imam
Ahmad with murder upon which Imam Ahmad said, "O Ameerul-
Mu'mineen, Allah's Messenger r said, "The blood of a
Muslim who testifies La ilaha illa Allah is not
Halaal to be spilled except in three cases…" So
what is that which makes my blood
permissible to be spilled while I have not
done any of the three? O Ameerul-
Mu'mineen, remember your standing
- 23 -