Introduction
Inviting others to the way of Allah ﷻ is one of the noblest acts a Muslim can undertake in pursuit of His eternal rewards. It is a responsibility that brings immense spiritual value, as guiding someone to Islam is more precious than the greatest worldly treasures. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ highlighted this when he said to Ali (may Allah ﷻ be pleased with him):
“For by Allah, if one man is guided on the right path (i.e., converted to Islam) through you, it would be better for you than a great number of red camels.”
[Sahih al-Bukhari 3701]
This sacred mission was the primary occupation of all Prophets and Messengers of Allah ﷻ, as well as those who followed in their footsteps—scholars, reformers, and devoted Muslims (Al- ’Abdah, n.d., p. 9). However, effective Da’wah requires not only knowledge, but also wisdom and compassion. By adopting these qualities, one not only fulfils a divine command, but also reflects the timeless legacy of truth, mercy, and guidance shared by these noble individuals.
Building on this understanding of Da’wah’s noble status, let us explore why inviting others to Islam is such a vital act in a Muslim’s life.
The Importance of Inviting Others to Islam (Da’wah)
The importance of inviting people to Islam (Da’wah) is emphasized in several verses of the Qur’an and the Hadiths of our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Allah ﷻ describes those who invite others to Islam as having the best speech:
“And who is better in speech than one who invites to Allah and does righteousness and says, ‘Indeed, I am of the Muslims.’”
[Qur’an 41:33].
● Fulfilling a Divine Command:
Allah ﷻ commands Muslims to call others to the path of Islam. In Surah Ale- ‘Imran, Allah ﷻsays:
“And let there arise out of you a group of people inviting to all that is good (Islam), enjoining Al-Ma’ruf (all that Islam orders), and forbidding Al-Munkar (all that Islam has forbidden). And it is they who will be successful.”
[Qur’an 3:104].
The objective of this verse is to establish a group within the Muslim Ummah dedicated to this task. However, Da’wah is also an individual obligation, with each Muslim participating according to their ability (Tafsir Ibn Kathir, 2003, pp. 232-233). Thus, engaging in Da’wah is one of the noblest ways to fulfil this divine command.
● Promoting Understanding and Addressing Misconceptions
In today’s world, where Islam is often misunderstood, Da’wah serves as a means to educate others and dispel misconceptions. Through sincere and open dialogue, Muslims can present the true teachings of Islam, challenge stereotypes, and foster mutual understanding across diverse communities.
● A Shared Responsibility
While scholars, imams, and community leaders play significant roles in Da’wah, it is not limited to them. Every Muslim has a responsibility to contribute, whether through words, actions, or simply answering questions from non-Muslims.
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Convey (my teachings) to the people even if it were a single sentence…”
[Sahih al-Bukhari 3461].
This emphasizes that Da’wah is a collective effort and can be performed by anyone with the Islamic knowledge.
The Role of Wisdom in Sharing Islam
For someone to be successful in their Da’wah, possessing Hikmah (wisdom) is essential.
While one may have something valuable to share, if it is not conveyed wisely, it may not be accepted.
Allah ﷻ says: “He gives wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been given wisdom has certainly been given much good. And none will remember except those of understanding.”
[Qur’an 2:269].
Hikmah is the art of knowing what to say, when to say it, and how to say it. A person who embodies these qualities is more likely to see their message resonate with others (Yahya, n.d. p. 10). Allah ﷻ commands His Messenger Muhammad ﷺ, and Muslims in general, to invite others to Islam with wisdom and tact:
“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best.”
[Qur’an 16:125].
● The Prophet’s Wisdom with the Bedouin
An example of the Prophet ﷺ demonstrating Hikmah is the incident of the Bedouin urinating in the mosque. When the companions rushed to stop and punish him, the Prophet ﷺ intervened, asking them to pour a bucket of water over the area. He then gently taught the Bedouin that such an act was inappropriate in the mosque. This approach showcased the Prophet’s wisdom and compassion, as stopping the Bedouin mid-act could have caused harm and embarrassment, potentially deterring him from accepting the faith. Interrupting the Bedouin could have caused a greater negative impact on his well-being.
[Sahih al-Bukhari 6025].
● Understanding the Audience
Knowing the background of those being invited to Islam is crucial for tailoring the approach and strategy. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ exemplified this when he sent Mu’adh ibn Jabal (may Allah be pleased with him) to Yemen. The Prophet ﷺ informed Mu’adh about the people he would encounter, advising him to address their beliefs first.
Mu’adh (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ sent me as a governor to Yemen, and (at the time of departure) he instructed me: ‘You will go to people of the Scripture (i.e., the Jews and the Christians). First, invite them to testify that La ilaha ill Allah (There is no true god except Allah) and that Muhammad ﷺ is His slave and Messenger…’”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Doing Da’wah through actions and good characters
When inviting others to Islam, one may encounter debates, particularly with the People of the Book. In such situations, Allah ﷻ instructs us to engage in discussions with kindness and gentleness, presenting the principles of Islam clearly and sincerely. These conversations should reflect a spirit of respect and compassion, avoiding any form of force or harshness.
“And do not argue with the People of the Scripture except in a way that is best, except for those who commit injustice among them…”
[Qur’an 29:46]
Conclusion
In conclusion, inviting others to Islam (Da’wah) is a noble act rooted in wisdom, compassion, and sincerity. By embodying these qualities, Muslims can effectively fulfil this divine duty while fostering understanding and respect. Following the example of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who demonstrated kindness and tact in his Da’wah, ensures that the message of Islam connects with others in the most impactful and respectful manner.
Written by: Isatou Ceesay
Edited by: The Editorial Team
© The Islamic Reflections Blog
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