Theme: Equipping the Da’i – The Necessity of Da’wah, Ethical Foundations, and the Role of Comparative Knowledge
The Muslim Professionals in Da’wah (MPD) successfully held a pre-mega outing workshop on Saturday, 28th December 2024 (26/06/1446H) at the Multipurpose Hall, National Mosque, Abuja. The event, organized by the national body, served as a preparatory platform for participants to gain essential knowledge, strategies, and tools required for effective da’wah activities.
The workshop aimed to:
Equip participants with the necessary techniques and ethical principles for successful da’wah.
Address challenges likely to arise during outreach activities and propose solutions.
Provide practical guidance on engaging diverse audiences and fostering understanding of Islam.
The program featured four comprehensive presentations, interactive Q&A sessions, and an engaging discussion on the upcoming da’wah action plan.
Paper 1: “The Attitude, Character, and Conduct of a Good Da’i”
Presented by Imam Umar Rufa’i (English):
The session focused on the personal and ethical attributes essential for a da’i. Key qualities discussed included patience, wisdom, receptiveness, sincerity, and endurance. The speaker drew lessons from Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh), emphasizing tolerance and adaptability when engaging with diverse cultures. Participants were encouraged to maintain sincerity of intention as the cornerstone of their mission.
Presented by Imam Shehu Ibrahim (Hausa):
Reinforcing the points from the English version, this session added references to Qur’anic verses and examples from the life of Sayyidina Ali (pbuh). It stressed the importance of trustworthiness, resilience, and obedience to leaders, highlighting how these traits ensure effective and ethical da’wah.
Paper 2: “How Best to Seek the Attention and Acceptance of the Da’wah Host Community”
Presented by the National Ameer, Alh. Umar Faruk Bello:
This presentation focused on strategies for engaging host communities, emphasizing respect for their norms, values, and culture. Examples from Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) interactions with non-Muslims were cited, including instances where his compassion and tactful handling of situations led to conversions. Participants were urged to adopt a welcoming attitude, avoid hostility, and rely on sincere supplication (du’a) for success.
Paper 3: “Comparative Studies: An Effective Tool for Addressing Criticisms, Engaging Non-Muslim Audiences, and Conveying the Message of Islam”
Presented by Engr. A. Y. Zakariyya:
This session explored the use of comparative religion as a method to convey Islam effectively. It emphasized starting with shared values, establishing Tauhid, and avoiding arguments. Respectful engagement and mutual understanding were highlighted as tools to address criticisms and foster dialogue with non-Muslims. The speaker stressed that da’wah should be a gradual and respectful process, focused on creating positive impressions of Islam.
Each presentation was followed by Q&A sessions, allowing participants to seek clarifications and discuss practical scenarios. The interactive discussions provided deeper insights into the challenges and opportunities in da’wah work.
Key Takeaways:
Patience and Wisdom: Essential for navigating diverse cultural contexts and overcoming challenges.
Sincerity of Intention: Ensures Allah’s blessings and fosters genuine connections with audiences.
Engaging Communities: Strategies include building relationships with local leaders and leveraging shared values for effective communication.
Comparative Knowledge: A powerful tool for addressing criticisms and fostering mutual respect.
The workshop concluded with the presentation of a detailed action plan for the upcoming mega da’wah outing. Participants were encouraged to implement the strategies discussed during the workshop to achieve the event’s objectives.
The workshop demonstrated MPD’s dedication to professional and ethical excellence in da’wah. It empowered participants to approach their mission with confidence, compassion, and competence, laying a strong foundation for the upcoming outreach activities.
This initiative highlights MPD’s role as a leading organization in advancing da’wah, fostering mutual understanding, and promoting the universal message of Islam.
