There are few who will disagree that the duty of Dawah, or calling, to Islam has been severely neglected in our times when the need for it is more pronounced than ever. It is either not undertaken altogether, or if it is performed, then it is undertaken without the knowledge of the etiquette, preconditions, and general teachings that the sacred sources of Islam have provided for it. Therefore, the Da'wah is many times bereft of the results and blessings that could be attained.
This simple statement is the most powerful declaration ever devised. For beyond the words themselves lies a powerful concept and a compelling ideology. Whole societies, cultures and empires have been elevated with its application or ruined by its rejection.
And yet, away from grandiose movements and campaigns, the lone spiritual wanderer can attain to the highest levels of wisdom and insight, in the contemplation of its mysteries. This declaration of faith, the Shahada, captures the essence of what Islam is all about: peaceful surrender to the will of the Divine.
Islam, however, is not a new religion that began in the seventh century with a great Prophet. Islam is, rather, the latest installment of a Message brought by all the previous Prophets.
If, over the course of time, a people came to forget, ignore or change the teachings bequeathed by their Messenger, Allah, in His Mercy, would renew His Message by sending fresh guidance. In this way, every age had access to Divine precepts. This process of revelation and correction went on unabated through human history.
Allah Almighty says in the Holy Quran (Chapter 3, Verse 104):
"And there may spring from you a nation who invite to goodness, and enjoin right conduct and forbid indecency. Such are they who are successful."
And (Chapter 103):
"By the declining day, Lo! man is a state of loss, Save those who believe and do good works, and exhort one another to truth and exhort one another to endurance."
Any community that fails to promote its values ceases to exist, That is universally recognized, and Muslims are no different. Our main concern is obedience to the commands of Allah and to follow the example of His Messenger.
What is the evidence from the Hadith that Dawah is really an essential part of our faith?
We find that The Blessed Prophet told us about da'wah:
"Convey this Message, even if only one sentence (ayah)." "Learn the required precepts of Islam and the Qur'an, then teach them to others, for I will not live forever."
(Bukhari)
There are few who will disagree that the duty of Dawah, or calling, to Islam has been severely neglected in our times when the need for it is more pronounced than ever. It is either not undertaken altogether, or if it is performed, then it is unde...
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