"A daughter asked her father, 'Dad, what question can never be answered by 'Yes'?'Thinking momentarily, her daddy had no idea, 'I don't know honey!''Are you asleep?' replied his beloved daughter. Then, they both laughed out loud.""Dawah is like a flourishing garden, full of vibrant and diverse flowers representing the beauty and diversity of Islamic teachings. The act of Dawah is like tending to a garden in full bloom, where each teaching of Islam is a unique and fragrant flower that enhances the overall beauty.Islamic Dawah builds bridges of understanding between cultures and communities, bringing people together in a shared quest for knowledge and peace. It connects people from different backgrounds and beliefs, fostering understanding and unity. Dawah opens up a path to peace, guiding individuals towards a life of harmony and fulfilment through the teachings of Islam. It is a peaceful path that leads to tranquillity, both in this world and in the hereafter.Dawah is a fountain of wisdom, offering an endless stream of insights and guidance for those thirsty for spiritual and moral clarity. It continually flows with wisdom and knowledge, nourishing those who seek to learn and grow.Dawah is a journey towards the light, guiding each step with wisdom and illuminating the way to spiritual fulfilment. As a journey, individuals move from ignorance or uncertainty towards the light of faith and clarity. Dawah serves as a beacon of light, illuminating the path to righteousness and guiding souls towards the eternal truth of Islam. It guides people out of darkness into the light of truth and knowledge. It symbolizes enlightenment and hope. Dawah can be also compared to a candle that lights other candles, symbolizing the spreading of knowledge and faith without diminishing the source. Each act of Dawah is like a candle lighting other candles, spreading the light of Islam to new hearts without ever losing its own flame. Dawah is compared to a star as well, that guides travellers through the darkness, providing direction and purpose. Just like a guiding star that leads the way through the night, Dawah provides a clear direction towards spiritual awakening and truth," said Cananga after performing Tawaf al-Wada and offering a du'a at Multazam—the place or distance between the corner of the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad) and the door of the Kaaba—for humanity, "O Allah, increase us in beneficial knowledge and understanding, show us the truth as truth and grant us the ability to follow it," then got ready to leave Mecca to the Luminous City, Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah."Dawah is a fundamental concept in Islam, representing the obligation of Muslims to spread the message of Islam and share its teachings with others. The primary aim is spiritual guidance for individuals towards the worship of Allah and adherence to Islamic principles. Dawah helps reinforce the Muslim community by educating and engaging its members in religious and social activities. It seeks to address and clarify misconceptions about Islam.Dawah should be conducted with wisdom, kindness, and respect for the audience’s beliefs and cultural backgrounds. Dawah should be an invitation rather than coercion because the Qur'an emphasizes that there is no compulsion in religion. Persistence and patience are essential, as changing someone’s beliefs can be a gradual process.Dawah is a communal obligation involving both men and women. It highlights the unique roles that women can play in Dawah, particularly within family and community settings. It can advocate for the empowerment of women through education and knowledge, enabling them to effectively participate in Dawah activities and spread the message of Islam.Effective Dawah relies on understanding the audience and tailoring the message appropriately. It emphasizes the principle of non-compulsion in religion, ensuring that Dawah respects individuals’ freedom to choose and does not pressure them into accepting Islam. It also encourages treating those being invited with respect and patience, recognizing that understanding and accepting Islam is a process that may take time.There is great wisdom in the Quran where Allah says, 'And We did not send any messenger except [speaking] in the language of his people to state clearly for them ....' In general, the best person to talk to people is someone who shares a similar background with them. As common people, we should know our limitations. In a certain country, although it is good to give da‘wah to any and everybody, some people would only feel comfortable listening to certain things from somebody of the same background. Someone from the Philippines or one who has visited the Philippines and has intimate knowledge of their culture can make their talks more effective and relevant to a Filipino audience by giving local examples. Similarly, someone from England, Germany, etc. will likely have a greater impact on Brits and Germans, respectively. Their impact may be far greater than a very knowledgeable foreigner. It is also better to get a reverted Muslim from America to go give certain talks in America.Getting to know the culture and building relationships becomes important to get someone from the same background as the person being called. To build a relationship with somebody, you have to have some common background. Perhaps you do not come from the same culture, but you speak their language or you work in the same profession. Wisdom becomes manifest when you can link your knowledge to eloquence in speech and your ability to build relationships. That is true wisdom.Talking to somebody who is a university graduate is different from talking to someone who is a common labourer. Many things to a university graduate that the average labourer would not normally understand. Complicated ideas and philosophical concepts like the trinity, and discrepancies in Bible manuscripts are not suitable for discussion with people of limited education. A perfect example of that is Dhul-Qarnayn mentioned in Surah al-Kahf. He went to three groups of people. One group of people who were a strong nation, according to the scholars, conquered and made very clear statements regarding them. He said, 'I will punish whoever does wrong and is unjust, and I will give a reward to whoever believes in and does righteous deeds.' He talked to them in a precise law-giving manner, because they were a civilized nation and a strong community. But when he went to the other side of the world, he met a group of people who couldn’t understand what Dhul-Qarnayn was saying, and he could barely understand what they were saying; a completely different group of people. Did he tell them to either believe or suffer punishment? No. He saw that these people were a mild people. Some scholars said that they were lazy, because they were not able to build a wall to prevent the Gog and Magog and they had to ask Dhul-Qarnayn to do it. Perhaps they were a materialistic people as they offered Dhul- Qarnayn money. Or perhaps, they were ignorant of advanced methods of construction and were not educated in the ways of great civilizations. They were used to paying other people to do jobs for them. So what did he do with them? He told them that he did not want their money. Instead, he instructed them to help him do the job. This was not because he needed their help as he had an army with him, but because he wanted to educate them about hard work. He wanted to teach them about what it means to take matters into your own hands, to defend yourselves. So he dealt with them in a different manner than he dealt with the first nation. Consequently, you have to look at the level of education and understanding of the people you’re talking to and deal with them accordingly.The next issue we have to look at is preconceived ideas and misconceptions those being called to Islaam may have. Never mind preaching to non-Muslims, sometimes even in Islah, we still encounter preconceived ideas and misconceptions in Islamic society. Of course, that can only be determined if we allow them to express their thoughts, and if we listen first, before trying to teach them. Once we have heard a misconception, we have to decide whether to spend a lot of time trying to correct the misconception or to choose another tactic, or another topic.We also need to keep in mind when approaching others is our method of delivery. We have to decide how we are going to communicate our message. Are we going to use an emotional approach? Although, emotional arguments are to be avoided in general because they tend to cloud the issues and the facts, sometimes in a certain time and place, they are the best method.Where possible, visual aids should be employed in conveying the message as it helps get the message across. People today are very much visually oriented. YouTube and other social media, videos, computers, etc. have become the most popular media for communication. Consequently, using presentations are great aid in conveying the message to today’s audiences.Everyone likes to hear information relayed in the form of a story. The human mind seems to relax and be comfortable in the psychological environment created by narratives. Consequently, stories from the bards and storytellers of the past to the authors of fiction of the present are held in high esteem by societies throughout the world. Oftentimes, social criticisms have found their widest audiences through the vehicle of the story. For example, in David Copperfield, Charles Dickens attacked the exploitation of children by Victorian society; likewise, in 1984, George Orwell commented on state interference in the lives of its citizens. Or 2017 American techno-thriller film 'The Circle' directed by James Ponsoldt, stars Emma Watson and Tom Hanks, and criticizes social life. It is a dystopian science fiction film that explores themes of surveillance capitalism, social media influence, and the loss of privacy in a hyper-connected world. The film delves into how technology and social media can shape and control human behaviour, highlighting the darker aspects of our increasingly digital lives.Stories about people and civilizations of the past are especially interesting because they represent mysteries to the people of the present. Hence the Quran and the Sunnah have, in many instances, employed the narrative (qissah) format to convey its message to human beings in a most intriguing manner. It should be noted, however, that while many of the most popular narratives are made up by their authors, the Quranic and Hadithic stories are all true. They are not made up by Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) to convey His message but are true historical examples of the message.Figurative speech is generally a more moving and effective method of communication than direct commands and detailed explanations. It is a linguistic tool that writers and speakers use to create more vivid, engaging, and effective communication by deviating from the literal meanings of words. It encompasses a variety of techniques that involve creative and imaginative expression. Unlike literal language, which means exactly what it says, figurative language uses words or phrases in a way that conveys meanings beyond their usual definitions. Figurative speech often paints vivid images in the mind of the reader or listener, helping to convey complex ideas, emotions, or atmospheres in a more relatable or striking manner.There are some common types of figurative speech, such as a comparison using 'like' or 'as' (simile); direct comparison without using ]like' or 'as' (metaphor); attributing human characteristics to non-human entities )personification); using symbols to signify ideas and qualities by giving them symbolic meanings different from their literal sense (symbolism); and many more. Figurative speech is important to enhance creativity. It allows writers and speakers to express ideas in creative and engaging ways that resonate on an emotional and intellectual level. It can also distil complex or abstract concepts into more understandable and relatable terms. It can improve memorability because creative language is more likely to be remembered and have a lasting impact on the audience. By tapping into the reader's or listener's imagination and emotions, figurative speech makes communication more compelling. Figurative speech is a fundamental aspect of literature, poetry, rhetoric, and everyday communication, enhancing the effectiveness and aesthetic appeal of language.In various contexts to critique, entertain, and provoke thought, you can use Satire. It is a powerful tool for social commentary and can be applied in literature, art, media, and everyday conversation. Satire often includes figurative speech as one of its key techniques. Satire is a literary genre or a mode of expression that uses humour, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize or expose flaws in individuals, societies, institutions, or ideologies. The use of figurative language within satire enhances its impact by making the critique more vivid, engaging, and thought-provoking. George Orwell’s 'Animal Farm', employs allegory (a form of extended metaphor) to satirize the Russian Revolution and subsequent totalitarian regime. Mark Twain’s 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn', uses irony and satire to critique the hypocrisy and racism of society.When do we use Satire? In social and political commentary, Satire is used to highlight and criticize social, political, and cultural issues. Satire is often used in editorial cartoons, political columns, TV shows, and social media to critique policies, politicians, societal norms, and current events. To expose the flaws, hypocrisy, or corruption within institutions and those in power, Satirical works can be directed at governments, corporations, and other entities of power to hold them accountable. In terms of addressing social inequities and injustices, Satire is used to bring attention to and criticize social inequalities, prejudices, and injustices. Satire can highlight issues such as racism, sexism, classism, and other forms of discrimination. To examine and critique cultural norms, trends, and behaviours, Satire can target everything from fashion and entertainment to social media and consumerism. To mock human weaknesses, foolishness, or immorality, Satire can address a wide range of human behaviours, from greed and vanity to ignorance and hypocrisy. To encourage change by highlighting the need for reform in various aspects of society, Satirical works can be influential in sparking discussions and prompting societal or political reforms. To entertain audiences while also imparting critical perspectives or knowledge, Satirical content is often found in comedy, entertainment media, and literature, where it both amuses and informs. To make people aware of important issues and encourage them to think critically, Satire can be an effective way to present serious issues in a way that is thought-provoking and engaging.Satire is effective because it engages audiences by combining humour with serious content, making it more likely to capture attention and provoke thought. It makes complex issues more accessible and understandable through humour and relatable scenarios. Satire subverts expectations and norms, challenging audiences to question and reflect on the status quo. By presenting issues in a humorous light, satire can have a lasting impact, making the critique more memorable and influential. It opens up dialogue and discussion, encouraging people to think critically about societal issues and to question authority. Satire is a versatile and powerful tool used across various contexts to critique, entertain, and provoke thought about important societal issues. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to combine humour with critique, making serious commentary more engaging and impactful.Generally, the technic of Satire is seldom used in dawah, but in a concept of 'enjoining good and forbidding wrong'. Dawah and 'enjoining good and forbidding wrong' are included in jihad activities. These activities means inviting all human beings to do good and forbidding vices which are prohibited by Allah, so that humans can obtain happiness in this world and the hereafter.Dawah is a tree of knowledge, with its roots deeply planted in divine wisdom, and its branches offering the sweet fruits of enlightenment to all. It is a tree that bears fruits of knowledge, each teaching of Islam being a nourishing fruit that benefits all who partake. In the stormy seas of life's uncertainties, Dawah stands as a shelter, offering protection and solace from the challenges and confusions of life, providing a safe harbour and comfort through the wisdom of Islam.Dawah is likened to a soothing balm that heals spiritual wounds and brings comfort to troubled souls. Like a healing balm, Dawah soothes the wounds of doubt and despair, offering the comfort and peace found in the embrace of faith.Dawah is the careful sowing of seeds in the hearts of people, leading to a rich harvest of good deeds and spiritual growth. Dawah is the sowing and reaping of a harvest, where the seeds of faith and knowledge planted through Dawah result in a bountiful harvest of good deeds.Dawah is compared to a gentle stream that flows with mercy and compassion, reaching out to nourish and uplift those it touches. The stream of Dawah flows with mercy, bringing life and renewal to the hearts it touches with its message of love and compassion. Through Dawah, we weave a tapestry of faith, each thread contributing to a beautiful and diverse expression of devotion and belief. We can see Dawah as the weaving of a beautiful tapestry, where each individual’s journey and understanding of Islam adds to the intricate and colourful design. Dawah should highlight the beauty, compassion, and wisdom inherent in the act of inviting others to explore and go back to Islam. And Allah knows best.The door of Haramain Express had been closed, Cananga said, "I think we've ended our long enough discussion here. And my bestie 'Chrysanth' will accompany you on our next dialogue, Insha Allah."And as the Haramain Express started moving, Cananga burst into song,One day, I'm gonna fly awayOne day when heaven calls my nameI lay down, I close my eyes at nightI can see mornin' light *)
Citations & References:
- Dr. Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips, Dawah Training Course, 2014, Amazon
- Jamal Malik & Itzchak Weismann (Eds.), Culture of Daʿwah: Islamic Preaching in the Modern World, 2020, The University of Utah Press
- Fouad Moughrabi, Islamic Da'wah in the West, The International Journal for the Psychology of Religion, 2009, Routledge
- Shaykh Muhammad Al-'Abdah, On Contemporary Da'wah, 1998, Eden Books
- Sam Glucksberg, Understanding Figurative Language: From Metaphors to Idioms, 2001, Oxford University Press
- Mark Forsyth, The Elements of Eloquence: How to Turn the Perfect English Phrase, 2013, Icon Books
- Dustin Griffin, Satire: A Critical Reintroduction, 1994, The University Press of Kentucky
- Jessica Milner Davis, Satire and Politics: The Interplay of Heritage and Practice, 2017, Palgrave
*) "One Day" written by Robert Uhlmann, Alex Labaf & Johan Bejerholm
