The Christian missionaries have always impressed me. Come rain or shine, health or death, they are always going door to door, pushing their pamphlets. Yesterday’s Surah Saff really made me wonder, the followers of Esa (a.s) started off as only 12 people and now they have taken over the entire world. They have reached every valley and mountain pass, every desert and city with a Bible, food and clothing. Where are Muslims?
Although the true message of Esa (a.s) is lost to them but their missionary spirit still exists. Muslims should actively give Da’wah, not to compete with the Christians but to correct them. To ensure that truth reaches people not misguidance, that people get a chance to study Allah’s revelation not human fabrications.

We must take Da'wah as a job, a mission, a life-time obligation and responsibility. Just as with any job, there are certain qualities of a good Da'i which can be derived from Surah Saff:

1. سَبَّحَ لِلَّهِ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الْأَرْضِ - Faith-based living - Strong belief and appreciation of Allah. Constantly remembers and thanks Allah in the best of praises. Calls people to Allah out of sincere love, respect and deep attachment with Allah.

2. كَبُرَ مَقْتًا عِندَ اللَّهِ أَن تَقُولُوا مَا لَا تَفْعَلُونَ Qur’an is reflected in his attitude, behaviour, commitment. Every aspect of his life promotes the Qur’an, invites other people to read the Qur'an.

3. فِي سَبِيلِهِ صَفًّا كَأَنَّهُم بُنْيَانٌ مَّرْصُوصٌ - He is a team player with a goal in mind. He is kind and tenderhearted. He compromises and contributes. Is flexible and humble. Genuinely likes people, does not hold anyone in contempt. Demonstrates limitless self-control, able to restrain temper, appetite and tiredness. He works to achieve his goal, has no interest in money, popularity or authority. Works even if it is inconvenient.

It is also very important to remember وَاللَّهُ لَا يَهْدِي الْقَوْمَ الْفَاسِقِينَ and
وَاللَّهُ لَا يَهْدِي الْقَوْمَ الظَّالِمِينَ Sin and disobedience of Allah, injustice and oppression are of those great crimes that can deprive us from the guidance of Allah. We need guidance before we can guide ourselves. So a Da'i from all sinful acts and treat people fairly, giving them their rights in order to receive guidance from Allah with which He can guide others inshaAllah.

By: Asfiya Irfan