gives reasons why the Prophet did not work miracles. When they asked for a
sign he was told to say, 'Thou art a warner only.' The unbelievers said they
would not believe unless a sign were sent to him by God. No sign was given but
the message came:
Say, God truly will mislead whom He will and He will guide to Himself him who
turneth to Him. 27.
Whom God causeth. to err, no guide shall there be for him.
Chastisement awaiteth them in this present life and more grievous shall be the
chastisement of the next. 3-4.
The words 'withdraw from them who join other gods with Him' [Sura Al-An'am
(vi)106 are said to be a command to leave Mecca.
Thus, with words of warning, and threatening of eternal fire and everlasting
punishment on those who rejected his claims, the Prophet left the city in which
for thirteen long years he had preached and pleaded in vain.
A few days after this, Muhammad gave the command to his followers saying,
'Depart unto Madina for the Lord hath verily given you brethren in that city,
and a home in which ye may find refuge.' In the course of two months nearly all
had emigrated. The Quraish were very much concerned at all this and, as Muhammad
still remained behind, were much perplexed at the state of affairs and wondered
what would come next. They determined that a deputation should wait on him, but
he, fearing some plot, stole away from his house, joined Abu Bakr and, as night
drew on, left the city. The