Later, on July 20, 1962, I received back the writing I had sent to Maulana Maududi. Two days afterward, on July 23, 1962, I received an envelope with the following letter.

Lahore–July 14, 1962

Respected and honourable,

Assalamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullah

I received your letter dated July 9, but I have not yet received your June 25 letter. What I told Mr. Shams Peerzada was because I was not fully aware of your views at that time. In my previous letter, I offered a brief apology based on a preliminary impression I formed after a quick look at your article. Later, when I reviewed the entire article, I realized how much you have accomplished.

In my opinion, your study is seriously lacking. You have drawn incorrect conclusions and have not fully understood my position—in fact, you have misinterpreted it. What’s more concerning is that in this article, you write from a very high pedestal, as if anyone who does not share your view is both ignorant and misguided, as well as a source of misinformation. My challenge now is that I am not used to addressing someone who, despite lacking knowledge, is deeply deluded.

You have only two options: First, to present your perspective positively based on your understanding and avoid feeling obligated to refute others unnecessarily. If you choose this path, others will feel no need to confront you. The second is to start your work by refuting me, considering it your duty. If you choose this route, I will counter your arguments if necessary to protect people from the misunderstandings you create. You have reached the point where attempts to explain things to you are no longer effective. However, the public deserves protection from misunderstanding, and if others in India and Pakistan handle this matter, I will not need to speak. Otherwise, I will be forced to take on this unpleasant task.

I’m returning your article with this letter.

Yours humbly,

Abul A’la