One of the main characteristics of Islam is that it holds constructive dialogue and encourages high forms of address in high esteem. A Muslim is supposed to advise others using gentle approach in an attempt to attract thirsty hearts and souls to the path of Almighty Allah. Indeed, people nowadays are opting to follow an Islamic model and are thirsty to apply Islam than ever before but they lack the example to follow!
The late Saudi scholar, Sheikh `Abdul-`Aziz Ibn Baz, may Allah bless his soul, states the following: “I advise all my fellow brothers and sisters who are engaging in the filed of Da`wah to adopt the best way in disseminating Allah’s message to people. They should keep in mind that with their humble approach they will surely win the hearts of their audiences, who are all ears to listen to the voice of truth.
Under no circumstances should the Da`iyah (caller to Allah) be driven by personal motives when conducting dialogue with his audience. Rather, he should gather people together while keeping in mind that he will win their hearts, if he is sincere in his Da`wah and true to his word. A Da`iyah should, by and large, emulate the Prophetic model, profoundly explained in the following verse: “It was by the mercy of Allah that thou wast lenient with them (O Muhammad), for if thou hadst been stern and fierce of heart they would have dispersed from round about thee. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult with them upon the conduct of affairs. And when thou art resolved, then put thy trust in Allah. Lo! Allah loveth those who put their trust (in Him).” (Al `Imran: 159)
Also, Allah Almighty addresses His Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, saying: “Call unto the way of thy Lord with wisdom and fair exhortation, and reason with them in the better way. Lo! Thy Lord is best aware of him who strayeth from His way, and He is Best Aware of those who go aright.” (An-Nahl: 125).
The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, is reported to have said: “Indeed, gentleness adds more beauty to the atmosphere it reposes therein.”
He, peace and blessings be upon him, is also quoted to have said: “Whoever is bereaved of gentleness is really deprived of all that which is good.”
The Da`iyah should adopt gentle methods and employ mild approach while keeping in mind that with such a show of humbleness his concerted efforts will finally bear their fruitful results, even at long last.
The Da`iyah shouldn’t in no way stir barren differences and move stagnant waters as that will for sure do more harm than good.
He should strive hard to explain that which is right in a simple way. He himself should show keen interest in accepting, without showing either prejudice or pride.
Along the path of Da`wah, the Da`iyah should steer clear of Riyaa’ (showing off). He should not show any pomposity in doing righteous acts, but rather he should be humble keeping in mind that Allah is Omniscient.
In short, the main aim of the Da`iyah is to disseminate the pure message of Islam, and to shun all obstacles that might block its way.”