Delhi–February 21, 1963

Dear Brother, Assalamu Alaykum,

I received your letter several days ago. During Ramadan, my heart isn’t inclined towards debates and discussions. For some reason, I repeatedly feel that if we were to have an open and sincere conversation, perhaps neither of us would wish to part ways so easily. As I have mentioned before, I wanted to have a direct conversation with you in the end, so instead of addressing the contents of your letter, I suggest we meet once more for a face-to-face discussion before making any final decision. A significant reason for the distance and disagreement between us may be that we have never had an open, in-person dialogue. Furthermore, it seems that after your move to Azamgarh, a few misunderstandings have also crept in, contributing to the increasing gap and discord. Therefore, before making a final decision, we must take the opportunity to have a frank and straightforward conversation.

During our last meeting in Azamgarh, I had intended to discuss some of these matters. However, this did not take place because you confined the discussion solely to the literature, and I, too, had hoped that our disagreement might be resolved on that basis. Unfortunately, this hope proved unfounded. Nevertheless, I am not yet disheartened and believe that if we clear our misunderstandings and have an open discussion on the points of contention, we will not only better understand each other’s perspectives on the literature but, Insha’Allah, we may even resolve all differences.

I currently don’t have a chance to visit Azamgarh. After Ramadan, I plan to go on a tour of South India and expect to return in early April, right before the Shura’s meeting schedule begins. Ideally, you could attend the Shura meeting, and we could discuss things then. However, if you want to settle this matter sooner, you’re welcome to come in early April. I hope you also see the need for this conversation.

I will be going to Aligarh on March 3, and the board meeting might be held before March 8; otherwise, this interim period would be more suitable for our discussion.

Wassalam,

Abul Lais