Page:The Mohammedan system of theology (IA mohammedansyste00neal).pdf/103

 together, from the ignorance in which the Moslems are kept, from the difficulties opposed to discussion, and the severities practised on those who renounce the errors of Islamism. But however second causes operated, so that at length the great apostasy acquired "a local habitation and a name," and now rears its presumptuous front to heaven, as if in the attitude of stern defiance, we may be allowed here to acknowledge the finger of Omnipotence, working by the use of the means, allowing them to effect their legitimate objects, but overruling and restraining them within suitable boundaries. The Christian regards Mohammedanism as a branch of Anti-Christ, of which it clearly possesses the marks and properties: he considers its predominance as a judicial infliction by reason of transgression, and agreeably with prophecy, the righteous recom-