Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon
A few days ago, I read an article on digital dawah in one of the leading newspapers, written by a student pursuing a Master’s in Islamic Studies at Kashmir University. The article beautifully described the modern evolution of dawah. While my intention is not to critique, I felt compelled to reflect on the topic from a broader perspective. This reflection inspired me to explore the foundational principles of dawah, which form the bedrock of any successful outreach effort.
Aggressive thinking: A dangerous weapon
Aggressive thinking, especially when met with peace, often stems from a negative mindset. Whether individual or collective, it is a reflection of weakness. Islam has no place for such thinking. When we resort to aggression as the final response, it signifies a failure to engage in meaningful dialogue and understanding. If we lack the knowledge and skill to communicate thoughtfully, we may fall back on ignorance, misrepresentation, or verbal violence—none of which lead to positive change.
I once engaged in a conversation with a gentleman who claimed that Allah would destroy the disbelievers. I objected, pointing out that such a statement was made without wisdom or understanding. I reminded him that, just a few centuries ago, our ancestors were also disbelievers, and it was through the dawah of others that we became Muslims. If the early callers to Islam had viewed us as “infidels” and rejected us, how would we, as Muslims today, have ever found the truth?
Allah, in His infinite wisdom, instructs Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to invite others to the path of righteousness with patience, wisdom, and beautiful words:
“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good advice, and argue with them in a way that is most beautiful. Verily, your Lord knows best who has strayed from His path and who is rightly guided” (Surah An-Nahl 16:125).
The qualities of selfishness, narrow-mindedness, and hard-heartedness have no place in a society built on Islam’s values of kindness and compassion. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “I have been sent to perfect good manners.” This teaching underscores that Islam is not about rigidly proving others wrong; it’s about rising above the desire for personal victory and engaging with others in a manner that nurtures understanding, respect, and empathy.
In the Qur’an, over 6,000 verses speak to the importance of moral conduct—both positive and negative values are addressed throughout. The ethics of the Prophets and the righteous are fundamental in guiding our behavior. To be truly moral is not to retaliate under negative influences but to act with wisdom and kindness, regardless of the other party’s actions.
The legacy of Shah Hamdan: A model of Dawah
A powerful example of dawah in Kashmir is Mir Syed Ali Hamdani (RA), also known as Shah Hamdani . He came to the subcontinent, particularly Kashmir, where he spread Islam for over seven centuries. Formerly the son of the King of Hamdan in Iran, he was known by the title of Amir Kabir. Among the famous mosques he built during his preaching is the renowned ‘Khankahi Moula,’ located on the banks of the Jhelum River, along with the Dargah Shah Hamdan in Srinagar. His personal character stood out in his preaching.
Shah Hamdani’s teachings were not focused on a glowing exterior or aggressive tactics, but rather on his integration of dawah with practical life. He promoted the flourishing of industries in Kashmir, such as carpet making and pashmina weaving, alongside religious preaching. The industrialization that occurred was not the real goal, but rather a means to facilitate dawah. His methods were grounded in a deep understanding of the people’s needs, making dawah relevant and embedded in their daily lives.
This approach sharply contrasts with the modern tendency to view dawah as an academic or ideological contest, where the goal becomes proving others wrong. Such a mindset harms not only dawah but also the well-being of the nation. Dawah must transcend personal vendettas and negative thinking—it is about creating an atmosphere of peace, understanding, and acceptance.
The core message of dawah is simple: we invite others to the path of truth not by condemning them, but by showing them the beauty and wisdom of Islam. As the poet says:
“Mita de apni hasti ko agar kuch martabah chahiye, ki danah khaak mai mil kar gulo gulzaar hota hai.”
Meaning: Erase your being if you want honor, for like a seed that mingles with the dust, it is through humility that the flower blooms. True honor and change come when we rise above ego and strive for the greater good.
You are the best of Nations: A reflection on Quran 3:110
“You are the best of nations produced for mankind: You enjoin what is right, forbid what is wrong, and believe in Allah.” (Quran 3:110)
This profound verse highlights the unique honor and responsibility bestowed upon the Muslim Ummah. It not only establishes the status of this nation but also defines its role as a moral and spiritual guide for humanity. The Muslim Ummah’s excellence is not a privilege but a responsibility. This divine designation aligns with the principles of dawah, urging Muslims to embody the core values of faith, morality, and unity. the status of the Muslim Ummah is eternal, grounded in its collective commitment to enjoining good, forbidding evil, and maintaining unwavering faith in Allah. This highlights the responsibility of Muslims to guide others with wisdom and righteousness, a key element of dawah.
The role of digital platforms in Dawah
As we move into the digital age, technology has radically transformed how we approach dawah. Digital platforms have become indispensable tools for spreading the message of Islam. Social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram offer Muslims an unprecedented opportunity to connect with a global audience, share knowledge, answer questions, and address misconceptions about Islam. These platforms have removed geographical barriers, allowing dawah to reach every corner of the world.
However, with this power comes responsibility. Digital platforms can be powerful servants but dangerous masters. They can facilitate meaningful discussions, create awareness, and build understanding, but they also have the potential to spread misinformation, hatred, and divisiveness. It is crucial for us to use these platforms with caution and wisdom, ensuring that we uphold the values of Islam while engaging with the digital community.
The potential of digital dawah is vast, but we must remember that it is not the platform itself that carries the message; it is how we choose to use it. The real challenge lies in ensuring that the message remains true to the core values of Islam: wisdom, compassion, and respect. Digital tools should serve as bridges, not barriers.
The importance of unity
The unity of the Muslim Ummah holds a special place in Islam. Allah warns against straying from the collective path in the Quran:
“Whoever opposes the Messenger after guidance has been made clear to him and follows a path other than that of the believers, We will turn him to what he has chosen and cast him into Hell.” (Quran 4:115)
Similarly, the Prophet (PBUH) emphasized:
“Allah’s mercy is with the congregation. Whoever separates from the group has gone astray.” (Tirmidhi)
This unity is foundational for the Ummah’s role as a guide for humanity. Through collective adherence to the principles of dawah, we embody the Quranic verse: “You are the best of nations.” Our unity as Muslims strengthens our ability to enjoin good and forbid evil, fulfilling our divine responsibility.
Tailpiece
In conclusion, while digital dawah is a valuable tool for spreading the message of Islam, it is important to remember that technology itself is neutral. It is up to us to use it responsibly. The principles of dawah—wisdom, kindness, and sincerity—must guide our actions, whether in personal interactions or online spaces. As we continue to navigate the digital age, let us remain mindful of the power we wield and use it to spread the message of Islam with the same compassion, understanding, and wisdom that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) exemplified.
“To change the world, we need to combine Ancient Wisdom with new technologies.” — Paulo Coelho
Technology plays a climacteric role in our lives, making it pivotal for us to be aware of both its boons and banes.
(The author is columnist, motivational speaker. He is presently working as Sr. EDP Head at SKIE Classes Khanyar/Soura branch and can be reached at [email protected])
