DA’WAH CORNER

Financial Support Guidelines

This document is intended to serve following objectives:

• Will assist Da’wah Corner in offering financial help for new Muslims.
• Will serve as a knowledge snippet to the rest of Da’wah community. As an organization which introduces innovative solutions, we are obliged to share our learning experiences with other Da’wah organizations and help them grow. In turn serve as a guideline for other organizations when offering financial support for new Muslims.

Introduction

Many who embrace Islam do not have sound financial backgrounds. Except for fortunate few, new Muslims usually face various problems after embracing Islam. Some are driven from home, hated by relatives and/or distanced by friends. Some others lose their jobs thus find no means of living and face severe economic hardship.

Da’wah is not only inviting people to Islam. In times like these where there is no proper Islamic social framework to support new Muslims, the responsibility of looking after reverts is on us, the Da’ees. We have to be sensitive of these issues and strive our best to help revert brothers and sisters. It is our obligation to uplift them both in terms of spiritual, social and economic aspects.  This was a unique feature of Prophet’s society in Madeenah. The society we all are trying to achieve.

When a person embraces Islam, he or she should been as an example to rest of the community in particular his/her pre Islamic society. The person should be seen as financially capable and competent not as loser because of embracing Islam.

What we do when a person needs financial support

Many visit DC seeking help of financial nature. Some are genuine while some are not. Being a Da’wah organization which is concerned about how the funds are utilized effectively, we have the responsibility of verifying every case for its genuineness before committing on any financial help.

DA’WAH CORNER adopts the following strategy to analyze every case to ensure its authenticity:

• Speak to the person who is need by questioning why they need, have they made any other effort to raise that amount before, have they reached any organization for support, if so, what are the places and people contacted and what their responses.
• Keeping records of the person (Name, contacts etc.), in order to cross check with other organizations.
• Checking the Islamic knowledge of the person in relation to the history of that person being a Muslim (ex: A person being a Muslim for the last four months but do not know the Suraah Fathihah, we probe further).
• When a person comes with the problem and the solution, we dig the history of the efforts the person has made to come out the problem, how practical the solution have been. In the case of the solution is impractical, we advice the person with our alternative. (ex: If a person comes for financial support to start a new business and the history of his business ability proves unhealthy, we support him in every way to find him a job and further ask him to make Du’a to Allah to make things easy for him because every thing lies with Allah and we cannot do anything without will)
• When a person comes with debt and interest (riba), we make the best of efforts to talk to the financial institutions to reduce the interest rates. If the person taken loans from relatives, we request the lenders to ease the person concerned from debt and interest. We never encourage anyone with debt to invest more in business. We advice them to settle the loans first.
• After the person presented case we make the visit to his/her place without prior notice and also we make visit to the local masjid and get further details on his relationship with the Masjid, any history of financial help provided my the Masjid or by the people of jaamaah in that area.
• If the case is proved authentic (based on the verified information), we do the best we can and if further support needed we request from donors for further support.
• If a situation arises where we cannot offer help because the case is not genuine, we explain them the reason to decline, making every effort not to hurt the person’s feelings.
• As a policy we don’t offer loans. But whenever we offer financial support, we offer that as a “loan” to give them a sense of accountability. But if the person succeeds in the effort, we write off the “loan”.
• After the financial help is given (ex: Investment made to buy equipments for a new Muslim), we make the visit to see how effective the solution has been.

If you are a person willing to contribute or support us:

• As a potential donor (individual or organization), you have every right to get as much information as needed prior to making any donation or extending any other support.
• Once the donation is done, the donor can request any report from DA’WAH CORNER to know how the funds are being utilized.
• If any needy case was initiated and handled through DA’WAH CORNER, the related contribution or donation should be done through DA’WAH CORNER only.

On the other hand DA’WAH CORNER will maintain total transparency of handling all donations and funding with its donors.

How can you contribute?

You can contribute to this noble cause by:

• Sadaqa

Helping a new Muslim leads to continues Sadaqa even after the death of a person (Sadaqathu Jaariyah). You can contribute your Sadaqa through Da’wah Corner.

• Zakaath

Muallafathul Quloob (New Muslims) is a category that deserves Zakaah. If you are a person who would like to contribute this portion to this category, you can always do through Da’wah Corner.

• Donations

These are the donations in Allah’s cause.

You can direct all your contributions to Da’wah Corner bank account

Account name:           DAWAH CORNER

Account number:      8930016456

Bank name:                   Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC.

Bank Address:              “Commercial House”

No. 21, Bristol Street,

P.O. Box 856, Colombo 1,

Sri Lanka.

Swift code:                     CCEYLKLX

“Invite (all) to the way of your Lord with wisdom and beautiful preachings and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious.”

[Al Qur'an 16:125]

Da’wah

‘Da’wah’ means an invitation. In the Islamic context it means ‘an invitation to Islam’. Thus Da’wah means conveying the message of Islam to Non-Muslims and inviting them to Islam.A person who does Da’wah is called a ‘Da’ee‘.

Allaah, the Glorified says in the Noble Qur’an in Surah Aal-e-Imran, Chapter number 03, Verse number 104:

“Let there arise out of you a group of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong, and it is they who are succesful.”

Allaah, the Praiseworthy further says in Surah Qasas, Chapter number 28, Verse number 87:

“Let no one turn you away from the revelations of Allaah after they have been revealed to thee: and invite (men) to thy Lord, and be not of the company of those who join gods with Allaah.”

Allaah, the Most High further says in Surah Fussilat, Chapter number 41, Verse number 33:

“And who is better in speech than he who invites (all) to Allaah and does righteous deeds and says,’I am one of the Muslims’.”

And Allaah, the Exhalted further says in Surah Al-Asr, Chapter number 103:

Verse number 01: “By the Time.”

Verse number 02: “Indeed! man is in a loss.”

Verse number 03: “Except those who have faith and do good works and encourage one another to Truth and encourage one another to patience.”

Question: I would like you to give me your opinion about the issues and challenges in Islamic missionary work today.

Answer: Your question is very general and I’m not sure exactly what you’re looking for. First of all, we Muslims do not usually use the words “missionary” or “missionary work” to refer to a da`i andda`wah. We prefer to keep our own Islamic terms, which come from the verb meaning to call or invite.

As for who should makeda`wah, each and every one of us Muslims should invite others to Islam by setting an example of good behavior so that people can see that our faith is a living faith that means more to us than praying five times a day.

But da`wah in such forms as preaching, debating, and writing requires training, not only in Islamic knowledge but also in communication skills. This, obviously, is not the duty of all of us. But we all should financially support the efforts of da`is(those who work inda`wah; Arabic plural :du`ah).

The issues and challenges facing da`isvary from country to country and from one situation to another. Are they makingda`wah to Muslims who know little about Islam and who have added to their religion in their ignorance? Is their audience literate? Are they trying to convince others to become Muslim? Are those others People of the Book who have some background in the concepts of God, revelation, and prophethood? Or are they pagans who have no such background, and so different arguments and approaches must be made? Are theda`is working in a poor developing country where they might not even have a microphone and loudspeakers to talk to a large audience? Are they speaking in person to one or a few people, or even to a crowd? Or are they using radio, TV, CDs, or the Internet to reach a distant impersonal audience? All of these and other factors will make a difference to their approach, soda`is must be trained in the methods they will use.

In addition,da`is should know the language, culture, and customs of the audience well. The traditions of the audience that do not conflict with Islam should be respected.

The choice of which language to use might be important in some situations. For example, in West Africa (according to my Nigerian editor) the Christian missionaries usually speak in English and use a translator when necessary to convey their message. For sociolinguistic reasons that do not apply everywhere. This gives the missionaries a high status in the eyes of the people. The Muslim da`isthere usually address the people in the African languages, but they are now beginning to change their tactics and address them in English in order to raise their status and the status of their message.

Furthermore (according to my same informant), Christian missionaries often become very emotional in their speech and so they enter people’s hearts. The Muslim da`is, on the other hand, tend to focus on facts and reasoning—and often wrongly assume that the audience knows and accepts the basics of faith. Thus, their message does not reach people’s hearts. The challenge there—and elsewhere—is for da`is to learn to touch people’s hearts without making Islam a blindly accepted faith.

Another problem in da`wah in many places is that the da`is lead ascetic lives, often leaving behind their families and work for months at a time. Or they may simply be under funded. In both cases, this makes Islam unattractive because people want to live comfortable lives. If they feel that they have to give up even basic needs or simple wants to be Muslim, they will turn away.

Question: From your own experience of talking about Islam all over the world, can you give some hints and good ideas about how to makeda`wah in a way that suits the people of the West who are not Muslim?

Answer: Thank you for this question, which is asked by so many Muslims. It is a wonderful sign that so many Muslims love Islam so much that they want to tell others about it. So many, though, are full of good intentions, but are not quite sure just where to begin.

What Is Da’wah?

Da`wah is one of those religious words we use which often takes on something of a mysterious meaning. Its meaning is really very simple. It means calling others to Islam.

Now what does that “calling others” really mean? Does it mean going out into the streets and persuading people to become Muslim? Does it mean standing on a box in the middle of the High Street and shouting about Islam to those who are passing by?

In my opinion, certainly not!

Calling others to Islam simply means telling them what Islam is really like, and then leaving them to make up their own minds.

In Cairo, where I live, you can walk along a busy street in the centre of the city and you will find young boys selling socks. “Three pairs for ten Egyptian pounds,” they will shout, in Arabic. Passers by then have the chance to look at the socks.

If they are going to make a sale, the boys do not just dump the socks in a heap by the side of the road. They arrange them very carefully, perhaps in order of colour. The dark ones at one end and the light ones at the other.

Because the roads are very dusty, the boys selling the socks will dust them down and rearrange them from time to time. Similarly, they do not just hope that the passers-by will take a look, but they actively call out to attract their attention.

Telling people about Islam is something like this. We make what we have to say very attractive and we call people by our cheerful words and attractive countenance. A translation of what we read in the Qur’an says:

*{Invite all to the Way of your God with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious.}* (An-Nahl 16:125)

A Book by Its Cover

First of all, then, if we are to talk to others about Islam, we must be presentable ourselves. This might sound obvious, but not everyone observes such a rule. By being presentable, I mean we should be clean and well dressed.

The ambassador of any country speaks on behalf of his country, so he should present a good image of his country. Muslims who talk about Islam to others are ambassadors of Islam and they should present themselves in such a way to others.
There is no excuse for being in untidy clothes or with an untidy appearance. You might be the only Muslim someone has ever met, so show them that Islam is very beautiful.

We also need to recognize that as Muslims we have different gifts and talents. Some people are good at Maths, others are good at sports and others can speak well in public. Just because we want to talk to others about Islam, it does not mean that we will be good at speaking in public.

Be honest, and work from your own strengths. If you are good at speaking, then speak in a clear, confident voice. If you are not a good public speaker, use other methods to tell others about Islam, and leave others to be the public face. The Internet, for example, is one way you can talk to others.

What to Say

What should you say when people ask about Islam? Well, first of all, if they ask you a question and you do not know the answer, apologize to them and admit as much. Do not make up an answer, to make yourself look clever. Explain that you will get back to them with a full answer to their question.

Islam is perfect and it has the answer to every question in the minds and hearts of men and women. The problem is that, because we do not read and study enough, we do not always know what that answer is, so we make Islam seem inadequate, when we are really the ones who do not know.

Never imagine that you have to persuade anyone to become Muslim. This is not da`wah. Our duty is simply to proclaim the message, and we then leave others to make up their own minds.

What a terrible thing if we were to persuade someone to become Muslim, in the heat of the moment, and then leave them without any support so that they quickly gave up their good intentions.

Millions of pounds, in fact, are spent in calling others to Islam, but hardly a penny is spent in looking after the new Muslims once they have declared Shahadah. If anything, we should actually make people hesitate, take their time, before embracing Islam. Make sure they know what they are accepting.

One very useful way of talking to others about Islam, especially if they have misconceptions about different aspects of it, is to talk about things from our own experience.

For example, if someone brings up the whole thorny issue of Muslims being terrorists, you can tell them that you are not a terrorist and that you do not know any. No one can argue with your personal experience without calling you a liar.

It is important, too, to speak to people in a language they understand. There is no need to go into special religious jargon just because you talk about Islam. Chances are that the one you are talking to will not know what you are talking about. No, use the language and the things people are familiar with.

Similarly, do not expect to prove a point by quoting them chunks from the Qur’an. The Qur’an will not have a value for non-Muslims until it has been proved to have a value. Do not expect them to be bowled over with your quotes.

Finally, always be very courteous and very cheerful. Show people that being Muslim does not mean you have to stop being human. A cheerful expression and a very polite manner will go a long way to give a very image of Islam.

And if, in the end, the ones you are talking to choose not to accept your words, then just as cheerfully and courteously wish them goodbye. You certainly do not need to lose any sleep on their account and, who knows, your words might have an effect at a later date.

I hope that these ideas are helpful.

How to Perform Dawah

Question: I have a question that deals with performingdawah (by which I mean giving lectures). I am sure Islam gives some approaches. I am particularly interested in dawah in the Netherlands for Muslim youth, students at High School and Universities and also for the non-Muslims. May Allah bless your fantastic work. Give my greetings from Holland to the whole staff. Salam.

Answer: First of all, I would like to start with an explanation of what dawah is, for knowing the nature of a task helps in accomplishing it. Dawah is to invite people to Allah, to call them to know the truth and to follow it. This can be done both by word and by action.

Your words are usedwhen you give lectures, sermons or circulate books, pamphlets, etc., that help people understand Islam. Your actions are used when making dawah through your manners, i.e. being a role model and bringing into practice the noble teachings of Islam.
Both methods (dawah by words and actions) were applied by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) setting for his Ummah (community of Muslims) a distinguished example to emulate.

Once asked about the Prophet’s manners, Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) replied that his actions were the living example of all the noble teachings and principles imbedded in the glorious Quran. (At-Tirmidhi)

Consequently, a Muslim is supposed to advise others using a gentle approach in an attempt to attract thirsty hearts and souls to the path of Allah. Indeed, people nowadays are keen to apply Islam more than ever, but they lack the example to follow.
Brother, the problem is not in making dawah; the problem is in the way we present it to people. It is sad to say that many people who call to Islam have ruined the image ofdawah itself, through the rigid methods which they apply, thus giving a bad impression about Islam and its followers.

Thus, in the light of all the propaganda that is going on against Islam and Muslims these days, Muslims have to exert efforts in applying wisdom, good preaching and sound arguments.
When calling people to Islam, especially in the West, part of the approach you need is to make a clear the distinction between “Islam” and “Muslims”. You may ask why this is so important.

The more the non-Muslims get attracted towards Islam, through its noble teachings and humane precepts, the more the bad manners of some Muslims scare off those non-Muslims. So you need to make them realize that as there are non-practicing Christians, whose acts run in sharp contrast to the dictates of Jesus Christ, there are also some people who have call themselves “Muslim” while not actually practicing what it means.

Many non-Muslims wrongly identify Islam as being simply “what Muslims do” and this is a big problem when we have non-practicing Muslims.
So all in all, you need to adopt gentleness and politeness in presenting your arguments. Allah the Almighty addresses His Prophet, saying:
*{Invite (all) to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious: for your Lord knows best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance.}* (An-Nahl 16:125)
The Prophet is reported to have said:

“Indeed, gentleness adds more beauty to the atmosphere it reposes therein.” (Muslim)
Actually, nothing is more needed now, in makingdawah, than gentleness and wisdom. The reason for this is to dispel all the superstitions and lies spread against Islam. All this needs wisdom, patience and perseverance, and such polite methods bring quick results and have rapid effect on the audience.
This reminds us how the Prophet’s gentle manners and wise approach softened the hearts of the Quraishi idolaters, such as Hind (Abu-Sufyan’s wife). She was the one who chewed Hamza’s liver and fought Islam vigorously until the 8th year of Hijrah. She did not really know the Prophet. However, when she knew him and saw his lenient manners, she told him “I never wished someone on the face of this earth to be abased more than you and your family. Now, I do not see someone on the face of this earth more honored than you and your family.”
You see how the Prophet’s kindness and sympathy changed the hearts of the people around him? Thus, the callers to Islam of today need to learn from the noble Prophet in order to draw people to Islam, instead of driving them away.

There is also a need to change the language ofdawah itself. Observing many Friday sermons nowadays, will give one a quick impression that the majority of attendants do not follow the speaker.

Actually some take Friday sermons as a suitable time to take a nap or read a newspaper, for the speaker fails to attract their attention as the audience. The Friday sermon, as a form ofdawah, needs to be presented in a very compelling way and must serve the purpose of educating people and conveying the true message of Islam to them.
It is also important for you to consider your audience. You should always know what type of message they would easily grasp. Addressing the youth in a university campus actually demands extraordinary accuracy in presenting arguments, more than what will be needed when addressing another forum.

Each situation calls for a certain approach. Always try to choose a suitable time for preaching. Not all the time will you find attentive ears.

The Muslim Is Wise And Eloquent In His Da’wah

Dr. Muhammad Ali Al-Hashimi

The da’ee (caller) is intelligent and eloquent in his preaching, wise in the way he calls people to the truth, and gentle in the way he teaches them the rules of Islam. In all of this, he is following the words of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala):

Invite [all] to the Way of your Rabb with wisdom and beautiful preaching … (Qur’an 16:125)

One of the most important qualities of those who call others to Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) is that they should know how to reach people’s hearts and endear faith to them, without saying anything that may turn them away, hurt them or offend them. So the da`ee does not impart all his knowledge in one go; rather, he presents his knowledge in stages, and avoids overwhelming his audience or boring them. This is what the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) used to do in his own preaching, as the great Sahabi `Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (radhiallahu `anhu) tells us. He used to preach a little at a time to the people, every Thursday. A man said to him, “I wish that you would teach us everyday.” He said, “What prevents me from doing so is the fact that I would hate to bore you. I show consideration towards you by choosing a suitable time to teach you, just as the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) used to do with us, for fear of making us bored.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

One of the Prophet’s effective methods in dawah was not to make his khuthah too long, especially when he was addressing a large crowd which included elderly and sick people. Keeping the khuthah short is an indication of the khatib’s understanding both of his message and of the psychology of his audience. This is the teaching of the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) which ‘Ammar ibn Yasir (radhiallahu `anhu) told us about:

I heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) say: “A man’s making the prayer long and keeping his khutbah short is a sign of his understanding, so make your prayers long and your khutbah short.” (Muslim)

One of the methods of wise, intelligent dawah is to be gentle with the people one is calling, and to show patience towards their ignorance, mistakes and many tedious questions, and their slowness in understanding. This is the way of the supreme da`ee, the Seal of the Prophets, who used to open his heart to those who asked questions, and was always gentle in his answers to them. He approached them with an attitude of love and an earnest desire to guide them, correct them and teach them, so he would keep explaining a matter to them until they understood it and dispersed content with the lesson they had learned.

An example of this gentle approach is the account of the Sahabi Mu`awiyah ibn al-Hakam al-Salami who said: “Whilst I was praying with the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), one of the men in the congregation sneezed, so I said, ‘Yarhamuk Allah (may Allah have mercy on you).’ The people glared at me, so I said, ‘May my mother be bereft of me! What are you staring at me like that for?’ They began to strike their thighs with their hands, and when I realized that they were telling me to be quiet, I fell silent. The Prophet may my father and mother be sacrificed for him, finished the prayer, and I have never seen a better teacher than he, before or since. By Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala), he did not rebuke me or strike me or insult me. He merely said, ‘This prayer should contain nothing of the everyday speech of men; it is just tasbih, takbir and the recitation of Qur’an,’ or words to that effect. I said, ‘O Messenger of Allah (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), I am still very close to the time of Jahliyyah (i.e., I am very new in Islam). Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) has brought us Islam, yet there are some among us who still go to soothsayers.’ He said, ‘Never go to them.’ I said, ‘And there are some who are superstitious.’ He said, ‘That is just something that they imagine; it should not stop them from going ahead with their plans.”‘ (Muslim)

The Prophet’s gentle approach in his calling people to the truth reached such an extent that he did not directly confront a wrong-doer with his deeds, so that he would not hurt his feelings or cause him to lose face. Instead, he would denounce the wrong deed indirectly, and gently draw the person’s attention to it. This method is more successful in reaching people’s hearts and dealing with errors and faults.

`A’ishah said,

“When the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) heard that someone had done something wrong, he did not say, ‘What is wrong with so-and-so that he says (such-and-such)?’ Rather, he would say, ‘What is wrong with some people that they say such-and-such?’…” [Hayat al-Sahabah 3/129]

Another feature of the successful da`ee is that he speaks clearly to his audiene and repeats his words, as Anas (radhiallahu `anhu) said:

“The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) used to repeat things three times when he spoke, so that they would be understood. When he came to a people, he would greet them with salam three times.” (Bukhari)

`A’ishah said:

“The speech of the Prophet was very clear. Everyone who heard it understood it.” [Reported by Abu Dawud and al-Tirmidhi with a sahih isnad]

PROVING THE EXISTENCE OF ALLAH (SWT) TO AN ATHEIST

by Dr. Zakir Naik

CONGRATULATING AN ATHEIST

Normally, when I meet an atheist, the first thing I like to do is to congratulate him and say, ” My special congratulations to you”, because most of the people who believe in God are doing blind belief – he is a Christian, because his father is a Christian; he is a Hindu, because his father is a Hindu; the majority of the people in the world are blindly following the religion of their fathers. An atheist, on the other hand, even though e may belong to a religious family, uses his intellect to deny the existence of God; what ever concept or qualities of God he may have learnt in his religion may not seem to be logical to him.

My Muslim brothers may question me, “Zakir, why are you congratulating an atheist?” The reason that I am congratulating an atheist is because he agrees with the first part of the Shahada i.e. the Islamic Creed, ‘La ilaaha’ – meaning ‘there is no God’. So half my job is already done; now the only part left is ‘il lallah’ i.e. ‘BUT ALLAH’ which I shall do Insha Allah. With others (who are not atheists) I have to first remove from their minds the wrong concept of God they may have and then put the correct concept of one true God.

LOGICAL CONCEPT OF GOD

My first question to the atheist will be: “What is the definition of God?” For a person to say there is no God, he should know what is the meaning of God. If I hold a book and say that ‘this is a pen’, for the opposite person to say, ‘it is not a pen’, he should know what is the definition of a pen, even if he does not know nor is able to recognise or identify the object I am holding in my hand. For him to say this is not a pen, he should at least know what a pen means. Similarly for an atheist to say ‘there is no God’, he should at least know the concept of God. His concept of God would be derived from the surroundings in which he lives. The god that a large number of people worship has got human qualities – therefore he does not believe in such a god. Similarly a Muslim too does not and should not believe in such false gods.

If a non-Muslim believes that Islam is a merciless religion with something to do with terrorism; a religion which does not give rights to women; a religion which contradicts science; in his limited sense that non-Muslim is correct to reject such Islam. The problem is he has a wrong picture of Islam. Even I reject such a false picture of Islam, but at the same time, it becomes my duty as a Muslim to present the correct picture of Islam to that non-Muslim i.e. Islam is a merciful religion, it gives equal rights to the women, it is not incompatible with logic, reason and science; if I present the correct facts about Islam, that non-Muslim may Inshallah accept Islam.

Similarly the atheist rejects the false gods and the duty of every Muslim is to present the correct concept of God which he shall Insha Allah not refuse.

(You may refer to my article, ‘Concept of God in Islam’, for more details)

QUR’AN AND MODERN SCIENCE

The methods of proving the existence of God with usage of the material provided in the ‘Concept of God in Islam’ to an atheist may satisfy some but not all.

Many atheists demand a scientific proof for the existence of God. I agree that today is the age of science and technology. Let us use scientific knowledge to kill two birds with one stone, i.e. to prove the existence of God and simultaneously prove that the Qur’an is a revelation of God.

If a new object or a machine, which no one in the world has ever seen or heard of before, is shown to an atheist or any person and then a question is asked, ” Who is the first person who will be able to provide details of the mechanism of this unknown object? After little bit of thinking, he will reply, ‘the creator of that object.’ Some may say ‘the producer’ while others may say ‘the manufacturer.’ Whatever answer the person gives, keep it in your mind, the answer will always be either the creator, the producer, the manufacturer or somewhat of the same meaning, i.e. the person who has made it or created it. Don’t grapple with words, whatever answer he gives, the meaning will be same, therefore accept it.

SCIENTIFIC FACTS MENTIONED IN THE QUR’AN: for details on this subject please refer to my book, ‘THE QUR’AN AND MODERN SCIENCE – COMPATIBLE OR INCOMPATIBLE?

THEORY F PROBABILITY

In mathematics there is a theory known as ‘Theory of Probability’. If you have two options, out of which one is right, and one is wrong, the chances that you will chose the right one is half, i.e. one out of the two will be correct. You have 50% chances of being correct. Similarly if you toss a coin the chances that your guess will be correct is 50% (1 out of 2) i.e. 1/2. If you toss a coin the second time, the chances that you will be correct in the second toss is again 50% i.e. half. But the chances that you will be correct in both the tosses is half multiplied by half (1/2 x 1/2) which is equal to 1/4 i.e. 50% of 50% which is equal to 25%. If you toss a coin the third time, chances that you will be correct all three times is (1/2 x 1/2 x 1/2) that is 1/8 or 50% of 50% of 50% that is 12½%.

A dice has got six sides. If you throw a dice and guess any number between 1 to 6, the chances that your guess will be correct are 1/6. If you throw the dice the second time, the chances that your guess will be correct in both the throws is (1/6 x 1/6) which is equal to 1/36. If you throw the dice the third time, the chances that all your three guesses are correct is (1/6 x 1/6 x 1/6) is equal to 1/216 that is less than 0.5 %.

Let us apply this theory of probability to the Qur’an, and assume that a person has guessed all the information that is mentioned in the Qur’an which was unknown at that time. Let us discuss the probability of all the guesses being simultaneously correct.

At the time when the Qur’an was revealed, people thought the world was flat, there are several other options for the shape of the earth. It could be triangular, it could be quadrangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, spherical, etc. Lets assume there are about 30 different options for the shape of the earth. The Qur’an rightly says it is spherical, if it was a guess the chances of the guess being correct is 1/30.

The light of the moon can be its own light or a reflected light. The Qur’an rightly says it is a reflected light. If it is a guess, the chances that it will be correct is 1/2 and the probability that both the guesses i.e the earth is spherical and the light of the moon is reflected light is 1/30 x 1/2 = 1/60.

Further, the Qur’an also mentions every living thing is made of water. Every living thing can be made up of either wood, stone, copper, aluminium, steel, silver, gold, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, oil, water, cement, concrete, etc. The options are say about 10,000. The Qur’an rightly says that everything is made up of water. If it is a guess, the chances that it will be correct is 1/10,000 and the probability of all the three guesses i.e. the earth is spherical, light of moon is reflected light and everything is created from water being correct is 1/30 x 1/2 x 1/10,000 = 1/60,000 which is equal to about .0017%.

The Qur’an speaks about hundreds of things that were not known to men at the time of its revelation. Only in three options the result is .0017%. I leave it up to you, to work out the probability if all the hundreds of the unknown facts were guesses, the chances of all of them being correct guesses simultaneously and there being not a single wrong guess. It is beyond human capacity to make all correct guesses without a single mistake, which itself is sufficient to prove to a logical person that the origin of the Qur’an is Divine.

CREATOR IS THE AUTHOR OF THE QUR’AN

The only logical answer to the question as to who could have mentioned all these scientific facts 1400 years ago before they were discovered, is exactly the same answer initially given by the atheist or any person, to the question who will be the first person who will be able to tell the mechanism of the unknown object. It is the ‘CREATOR’, the producer, the Manufacturer of the whole universe and its contents. In the English language He is ‘God’, or more appropriate in the Arabic language, ‘ALLAH’.

QUR’AN IS A BOOK OF SIGNS AND NOT SCIENCE

Let me remind you that the Qur’an is not a book of Science, ‘S-C-I-E-N-C-E’ but a book of Signs ‘S-I-G-N-S’ i.e. a book of ayaats. The Qur’an contains more than 6,000 ayaats, i.e. ‘signs’, out of which more than a thousand speak about Science. I am not trying to prove that the Qur’an is the word of God using scientific knowledge as a yard stick because any yardstick is supposed to be more superior than what is being checked or verified. For us Muslims the Qur’an is the Furqan i.e. criteria to judge right from wrong and the ultimate yardstick which is more superior to scientific knowledge.

But for an educated man who is an atheist, scientific knowledge is the ultimate test which he believes in. We do know that science many a times takes ‘U’ turns, therefore I have restricted the examples only to scientific facts which have sufficient proof and evidence and not scientific theories based on assumptions. Using the ultimate yardstick of the atheist, I am trying to prove to him that the Qur’an is the word of God and it contains the scientific knowledge which is his yardstick which was discovered recently, while the Qur’an was revealed 1400 year ago. At the end of the discussion, we both come to the same conclusion that God though superior to science, is not incompatible with it.

SCIENCE IS ELIMINATING MODELS OF GOD BUT NOT GOD

Francis Bacon, the famous philosopher, has rightly said that a little knowledge of science makes man an atheist, but an in-depth study of science makes him a believer in God. Scientists today are eliminating models of God, but they are not eliminating God. If you translate this into Arabic, it is La illaha illal la, There is no god, (god with a small ‘g’ that is fake god) but God (with a capital ‘G’).

Surah Fussilat:

“Soon We will show them our signs in the (farthest) regions (of the earth), and in their own souls, until it becomes manifest to them that this is the Truth. Is it not enough that thy Lord doth witness all things?”

[Al-Quran 41:53]

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Question: What else should we do as Muslims after fulfilling the five pillars of Islam and treating our fellow humans justly and kindly? What is the importance of da`wah, and how should it be practiced nowadays? May Allah reward you.

Answer: Dear brother in Islam, we would like to thank you for your question and we appreciate the confidence you have in us. We hope our efforts meet your expectations. 

Actually your question is quite interesting and very important to every Muslim, though it is hard to cover in one page or even an essay. However, we will try stick to the points you have raised in your question.

First of all, you should know that Islam is not just prayer, fasting, paying Zakah, and going for Hajj. These are the foundations of Islam; however Islam is a very comprehensive and all-encompassing religion that covers all aspects of life. In that sense, Islam is a way of life and a code of teachings and rules that makes life better. Da`wah means conveying the message of Islam to Muslims and non-Muslims alike. It is to help all people be always on the right track and guide those who have gone astray to return to the path of Allah the Almighty.

Sheikh Hamed Al-Ali, instructor of Islamic Heritage at the Faculty of Education, Kuwait and Imam of Dahiat As-Sabahiyya Mosque, says:

“In addition to performing Salah, fasting and other pillars of Islam, we need to have thetaqwa (consciousness of Allah the Almighty) in our hearts, be this in public or in private life. That means we are required to follow the commands of Almighty Allah and avoid all what He has forbidden. The Qur’an and the Sunnah are the sources of guidance and knowledge for us, and as such, we need to resort to the Qur’an and refer to the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) in all of our actions and read them regularly to seek guidance. If sometimes we fail to find the guidance in the Qur’an and Sunnah to a particular problem or situation in our life, then we need to approach the Muslim scholars and ask them about things we do not know. This way we will make sure that we are on the right path of Allah Most High.

As far as the issue of da`wah in the sense of preaching is concerned, it is regarded as fard kifayah (collective obligation) on Muslims. But da`wah in the sense of setting a good example is fard `ayan (individual obligation) on Muslims to safeguard their religion and convey its message to Muslims and non-Muslims as well. With regard to the methods of giving da`wah, they are many: wise and gentle approach, giving speeches and sermons, setting good example for others to follow, etc.”

Dr. Su`aad Salih, professor of Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) at Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt, adds:

“`Ibadah(worship) in Islam is not restricted to the performance of the five daily prayers, fasting, Zakah, Hajj, and others rituals. The real meaning of `ibadah is very comprehensive and goes beyond these acts mentioned above. Literally, `ibadah stands for submission and showing humility to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds, as He is the One Who has given us bounties and favours. Therefore, any act of goodness that is classified under righteousness and piety is considered to be an act of worship in Islam.

It is reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) asked Mu`adh Ibn Jabal (may Allah be pleased with him): “Do you know what right Allah Most High has on His servants and what right they have on Him?” He said: “No, Allah and His Messenger know best.” Thereupon the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) replied: “The right people owe to Allah is to worship Him alone and associate no partner with Him. And the right people deserve from Allah is not to be punished if they do not associate any partner with Him.”

This Hadith indicates the broad concept of `ibadah in Islam, and that Allah the Almighty can forgive any sin except taking other partners with Him, Exalted be He.

People are required to strive against themselves and overcome their desires and not to respond to their evil-whispering soul. Allah Most High says:

“And those who strive in Our (cause), We will certainly guide them to our Paths: For verily Allah is with those who do right.”(Al-`Ankabut: 69)

In addition to this, people should spend in the cause of Allah, give charity to their relatives and others, avoid evils such as backbiting, slander, suspicion, spying, etc. They should abide by truth, honesty, keeping promises, and all Islamic manners that have been stated in the ever-lasting and all-encompassing book, the Qur’an. Allah Almighty says:“We have not neglected anything in the Book.” (Al-An`am: 38)

As for da`wah, it means to enjoin and call to what is good and forbid and warn against what is evil. It is the obligation of people who are qualified, have profound understanding of the Deen, have good character and manners, and have a broad knowledge of Islam.

Concerning the best method of giving da`wah, it is by wisdom and gentle approach, as Allah (Glorified be He) taught His noble Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) in the Qur’an:

“Invite (all) to the Way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious.” (An-Nahl: 125)

And He says in another verse:

“Thus it is due to mercy from Allah that you deal with them gently, and had you been rough, hard hearted, they would certainly have dispersed from around you; pardon them therefore and ask pardon for them, and take counsel with them in the affair.” (Al `Imran: 159)

And He says elsewhere:

“Keep to forgiveness (O Muhammad), and enjoin kindness, and turn away from the ignorant.” (Al-`Araf: 199)

Highlighting the importance and obligation of da`wah, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, former head of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) and member of the Fiqh Council of North America, says:

“We should first understand what da`wah is. Da`wah means to invite people to the way of Allah the Almighty, to call unto them to know the truth and follow it.

Da`wah is done in two ways. The first one is through example, through being a role model. In the Qur’anic terminology it is called“being witnesses towards mankind”(Shuhada’ ‘ala an-nasi). It is the duty of every Muslim, male or female, young or old, to be a witness of Almighty Allah among the people. When people see a Muslim, they should see a good person, a person of truth, of sincerity and of virtue. A Muslim’s life should be an open invitation through which people see the beauty of Islam and find it an interesting code of ethics and teachings to follow. Allah Most High says in the Qur’an:“Thus we have appointed you a middle community in order that you may be witnesses towards humankind and that the Messenger may be a witness towards you…(Al-Baqarah:143). All Muslims must giveda`wah through their good Islamic life as individuals, as families and as communities. People who come into contact with them should see Islam as a living and practical faith that makes the life of human beings better.

Another way of giving da`wahis through teaching, preaching, communication, engaging in dialogues, discussions and debates, writing books and articles, giving lectures, etc. Almighty Allah says:“Invite (all) to the Way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious. “(An-Nahl: 125) Of course this requires deep knowledge, preparation and training. Muslims should use the most effective and appropriate methods ofda`wah in every place and time. Nowadays, for example,da`wahrequires modern ways such as the use of radio, television, Internet in addition to the person-to-person preaching and teaching.

I know that every Muslim would not have time to go through this kind of training and giveda`wah in this way. But some people must prepare themselves and engage in this field, as Allah the Exalted says:“And the believers should not all go out to fight. Of every troop of them, a party only should go forth, that they (who are left behind) may gain sound knowledge in religion, and that they may warn their folk when they return to them, so that they may beware.” (At-Tawbah 9:122)

Thus, givingda`wah with proper training and specialization is regarded asfard kifayah(collective obligation). That means in every community some people must take the proper da`wahtraining and should do this work in a systematic and methodical way on behalf of all other members of the community. If some people do this work, then there is no blame on others, but if no one does it, all Muslims of the community are considered sinners. It is the duty of all Muslims to support this work by providing facilities and funds so that it can be done in a proper manner.”

A story of Lady Da’ee – Sister: Khadheeja Sudarshani

She is a lady from a remote village from down south. She is sixth member of the strong Buddhist family of ten. She did her Advance Level examination is science stream. She missed by few marks to enter the university although she was already got through her Buddhist Dharmacharya (Master Theosophical) exam. And she was teacher of Buddhist philosophy and Pali language in Sunday school of the temple.

She came to Colombo for the employment. Though she lived in a Sinhala Buddhist environment, she happend to know about Muslims after she visited Colombo. Her first employment was in an office of strong Muslim political party.

While she was working here she had an interest about Islam. At this juncture she moved to Malaysia to per sue a course there. Here she embraced Islam and followed a course in Islam (Al Muslimah) at Regional Islamic Da’wah Council of South East Asia and the Pacific (RISEAP – Malaysia). After completing her course she return back home. Everybody in the family aware of her conversion except her father.

Then occurred a turning point in her life. One day she was offering her salah at her place her father happened to noticed it and he questioned “what was she did” then she replied “I was offering  prayer to Almighty ALLAH.” Since he is a strong Buddhist he could not take it up the matter he severely beaten her. Father insist her revert back to Buddhism. She told “even if you kill me I would not.” So he chased her from the house so she came to Colombo. Fortunately she got an employment in a Islamic centre in Colombo. She taught Islam for new Muslims.

While she was working here she tried to visit home. Though her father agreed to her wish to see her family members with one condition that is to she should visit without her head scarf. Due to this she could not visit her sick mother for more than four years.

She got a break to follow a course in Quran in Malaysia (RISEAP). She was a only person in Sri Lanka who had followed this course. After her return Malaysia she married to a Da’ee. She thought could continue the same path once you marry such a person. Now she is a mother of a baby girl.

She is the one of the most experience lady Da’ee in Sri Lanka. She had been appointed as Secretary by Brother: Anver Manatunga, DAWAH CORNER – SRI LANKA and YAHAMAGA Islamic monthly news paper.

Her immediate wish is to inaugurate a ladies Da’wah wing. We hope you will extend your fullest co-operation for her future Da’wah activities in Sri Lanka.

Office equipments for DA’WAH CORNER

In earlier occasions you have tendered a helping on various matter of DA’WAH CORNER – SRI LANKA. We are very much great full to you.

As you know we have establish an new office for Tharbiah centre for new Muslims, Ladies da’wah unite and YAHAMAGA monthly Islamic news paper.

Once again we request you all equipments for the office. We need the following items at the moment to function office.

3 nos office tables, 3 nos office chairs, Reception table, 15 nos class room chairs, Photocopy machine, Computer, Laser printer, Scanner,  Telephone (CDMA), Fax machine,  Multimedia projector, Mega CD writer, Book racks and Refrigerator.

P.S: We welcome even the used ones in good working condition.

May Allah bless you.

Happy news for you

Though we engaged in so many Dawah activities we were bundled in to a 5’x5’ place. Alhamdullillah! We would like to express our happiness for Allah (SWT) gave us a more spacious place to carry out other activities in No: 10, Fonseka road, Off Sumanarama road, Mount lavinia, Sri Lanka.

Existing premises (in the world market – Colombo) continued to be the centre of Dawah for non Muslims.

Ladies wing, Tharbiya section for new Muslims and YAHAMAGA news paper office will be function in this new premises.

We make this opportunity to thank the gentlemen who helped us to make this good act, May Allah bless them and their family in every way!!!

Da’wah through mails.

In span of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) life he had sent around three hundred letters to non Muslims. From the inception DA’WAH CORNER – SRI LANKA adopted this method.

We used to mail pamphlet containing brief account of prophets life story.  Some respond with bouquets some with brick bats. The latter’s request why did you mail this to me? I respond them. We know about Lord Buddha and Jesus Christ. Do you know about Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)?

There answers are negative. So this is the reason I mailed this to you.

A three – wheeled vehicle through sadaka from a good Samaritan. Alhamdulillah! a gentlemen requested me what I need for da’wah purpose. Needs were plenty so out of them I requested a vehicle. He readily obliged with some money Masha Allah!

This is how we purchased this three – wheeled vehicle. So this vehicle belongs to Allah. We utilised this for da’wah purpose. We decided display message of dawah right around the three – wheeler.

It is a risk to mention the propagation of Islam on the vehicle. Instead we exhibit about the Islamic information, Islamic books and the contact telephone number. Alhamdulillah! we got a tremendous responds specially from rural areas.

Dear Brothers: Asslamu Allaikum

I have received this presentation. It is good one. Please go through it and forward to our christian brothers.

jazakhllah khair.

Anver Manatunga,

Happy Christmas

We welcome you all by this paper monthly to encourage the da’wah field as well as our institute.

You may also subscribe the paper. A single copy is priced Rupees 40.00

In Sri Lanka subscription per year                                                               Rupees   630.00

For India   subscription per year                                                                    Rupees 1100.00

For Middle east  subscription per year                                                       Rupees 1100.00

For Europe and western countries subscription per year                            Rupees 1350.00

Most of the Libraries, Schools, Institute, Hospitals etc need this news paper. We invite you all subscribe to those Institutes as a help towards da’wah.

May Allah bless you all!!!!

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH MOST GRACIOUS MOST MERCIFUL

A Muslim brother among you

Six years ago I embraced Islam either not in a Mosque or any Da’wah centre but secretly in a Muslim brother’s residence. Unfortunately the said brother is no more. (Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un) Now I feel the struggle which he underwent to the cause of dawah. (dawah to non Muslims) Unlike today there were problems in the field. But he could not do anything since he was a powerful member one of Islamic movement in Sri Lanka. This may due to misunderstanding. (Allah knows best) Though I really appreciate the work that movement among the Sri Lankan Muslims.

The days when I embraced Islam I found the status of Islamic dawah (dawah to non Muslims) in Sri Lanka was in infant level. This mainly because they do dawah for the people only those who are approach them. But these organizations do not dawah voluntarily. But I like to mention happily here there are few individuals who had done this sort of dawah.

When I was doing this dawah all alone for some time I happened to meet some dawah organizations then I work with. I got an opportunity to express my fresh thoughts to them. We both parties saw a success in that matter. Though on practical ground we had differences implementing matters but I appreciate those organizations for their efforts to work with me.

A result of this amongst lot of challengers I decided to go solo. Actually this not a one man organization idea is gathering the persons who in the same ideas approached me like saying goes “same feathers of birds flock together”.

As a beginning we advertised in the national news papers “A call for Islam” we had very good response for this call and we have been continuing through out. Followed with

• Sticker campaign
• Dharmagaweshana (Research of Religions) book project

• Islamicare
• Mobile Islamic bookstalls
• Awareness programs
• Research of Religions Sinhala website
• You tube channel
• One to one da’wah
• Dawah through mails

and many more. This made change in Sri Lankan da’wah field.

This effort wouldn’t have been successful up to this juncture if not for a handful of good hearted brothers of Islam contributed financially. So we feel for their contributions they heap the harvest in the Akhira.

May Allah bless them all!

Unfortunately the good hearted people used to contribute or donate only during the month of Ramazan.

So dear Muslim Brothers and Sisters, we invite for those who wish to tread on the path of Allah by way of sacrifice their skills, time and finance to carry out this mission.

So we make an opportunity to invite you all for a meeting

DA’WAH CORNER – SRI LANKA

Cordially invite you

For the meeting of

The future of Sri Lankan Da’wah

(Insha Allah)

On

21^st November  2009

Soon After Asar Prayer

At

The theosophical society centre,

No: 49, Peterson lane, Off Fedrica road,

Wellawattha, Colombo 6.

All are welcome

May Allah bless you all!

Your Brother in Islam,

Ahmed Anver Manatunga

Tel: 0774 840544, Email: dawahcorner@gmail.com,

Web: www.dawahcorner.org

Awareness Program

We commenced our program after eid ul fithr in Rathmalana are divisional secretariat.  It was held at the secretariat auditorium. Among the particulars for this program are Divisional secretary, Grama niladhari administrator, Ayurvedict Doctors of the area, Members of the settlement committee and staff of the Divisional secretary office. (One hundred and thirteen people)

Main objective for this program was awareness of eid ul fithr with the background of touch of Islam. Audience was very appreciative and attentive and come out with questions to clear their doubts.

At the end of the function served tea with Islamic delicacy of Wattalappam.

Da’wah Corner bored the cost of this function Insha Allah we hope to conduct such programs in all Divisional secretary offices throughout of the Island hope you all bear the cost for such events.

May Allah bless you all.

Indirect Da’wah

Sticker campaign of DA’WAH CORNER

When we look at the seera of prophet Muhammad (PBUH) we find He (PBUH) had used so many various da’wah methods. Even at present we could apply the same. According to this as a first step we adopt a method of find a path to the people who are in thirst to find what is Islam. Although in Sri Lanka it is a bit difficult task to do da’wah in public. So we found as an alternative method. It is the sticker campaign.

While we delivering a fruit full message to the public we mentioned our contact details bottom of the sticker. Already we have been placing 4 stickers in a public transport busses.

The book project of Dharmgaweshana

Published books:

1. Dharmagaweshana 1 Buddhism and Islam.
2. Dharmagaweshana 2 Christianity and Islam.
3. Dharmagaweshana 3 Woman in Buddhism and Islam

Ready to publish:

1. Critical analysis about Evolution
2. Eating Non vegetarian food in Buddhism and Islam
3. Life of the world in Buddhism and Islam

In February 2009 Brother: Anver Manatunga has decided to launch a Dharmagaweshana (Series of books about Research of Religions) project in order to give his valuable Comparative Research of Religions findings a wider distribution. This undertaking was done with a sincere intention of making the message of Allah (SWT) acceptable to all. Under this project, We are happy to mention 30% of the total copies of each books to selected Islamic centres and dawah organizations will be given free of charge.

We cordially invite our friends and well-wishers to participate in this meritorious undertaking by making donations towards the Dharmagaweshana project. Such donations will help us to extend the range of our distribution scheme wider. If you would like to contribute towards this Dharmagaweshana book project, please send whatever amount you wish to the address bellow, ear-marked “Dawah Corner”. We particularly welcome grants to Bro. Anver Manatunga under the last will, which will give you the assurance (Insha Allah) that your precious legacy is being used for the noblest purpose of all: the spread of the message of Allah (SWT).

For special information about sending monies: Remittances may be made by cheque, money order or bank draft. All remittance should be made payable to: Dawah Corner. Please mark all cheques, etc.: A/C Payee Only. Registration is recommended for extra security.

INWARD REMIT DETAILS

Intermediate Bank       :       Deutsche Bank Trust Company,

New York, NY, US

SWIFT CODE                     :       BKTRUS33XXX

Beneficiary Bank           :      MCB Bank Limited

Islamic Banking Division,

No. 496, 1^st Floor, Galle Road,

Colombo 06.

Swift Code                           :       MUCBLKLC

Beneficiary Name          :       DAWAH CORNER

Account No.                       :       004125015690

Though it is a noble vision to make people embraced Islam it is a duty of the society to look after them. DA’WAH CORNER is happy to mention to fulfil this activity in the month of Ramadan.  Especially the month of Ramadan is for charity. Hence all the Islamic organisations have done this but we did it in deferent way.

We thought issuing token cards, queuing up for charity purpose is a damaging the poor’s of their self respect.

If somebody embraces Christianity the following day itself missionaries will be at their door steps. But in our Dawah field it is not so. DA’WAH CORNER has decided to commit their services to these people in the month of Ramadan.

We provided dry ration pack for the value of Rs. 1500/= and Rs. 500/= for each for every family member to buy new cloths for new festival. Rs. 500/= is not sufficient to buy a new cloth and our aim was to share for this purpose them self as it is their festival.

While we provide this packs to 51 families at the cost of Rs. 198,500/= we were able to revert (Shahada) two brothers and three sisters.

Alhamdullillah Dawah Corner is thanking Allah to achieve this meritorious act. And thank all the brothers and sisters who helped us to happened this.

May Allah Blessings on them.

Mobile Islamic bookstall kit

Mobile Islamic book stall DC

Mobile Islamic book stall has been pioneered to the Sri Lankan dawah field by Bro: Anver Manatunga. Unfortunately leaders of the past era not been identify the value of this method of dawah.

No sooner the inception of the DA’WAH CORNER – SRI LANKA we were able to commence this activity since there were lot of freedom to do so.

We formed a kit by utilizing a garden table under a garden umbrella. Alhamdulillah! With the help of Allah (SWT) our first mobile book stall was erected in front of a public library in an urban area. We purchased a three wheeler vehicle to transport the mobile book stall kit, since we found it difficult to carry them in hands. We have been functioning this mobile Islamic book stalls in front of the Mosques on Fridays and front of libraries on weekends.

Future plan

We found this project very much successful in urban areas. But it is not so in rural areas. In country like Sri Lanka if we shift this activity in rural fare we would face a unsuccessful problems.

So we decided ones a exhibition or any other educational programs held in those areas we will be able to open up our stall there. In this kind of exhibition or book fare we want be able to use our mobile Islamic book stall kit so are complied to use a make shift deferent kind of stall. (Marquee – tent)

Although it is not possible run these shows by one man its need a team. Also we are not expecting a profit by this venture. It is solely aimed at da’wah purpose. Unlike the mobile Islamic book stall this has to be carrying out for days, at times 8,9,10 days.

The articles need for this purpose:

10’x10’ Marquee (tent)                                  Rs. 40,000/=

Branding outside                                               Rs.  2,250/=

Inside digital banners 10’x7 3 nos            Rs. 15,750/=

Hood rack carrier for three wheeler         Rs. 18,000/=

Folding tables 2 nos                                         Rs. 13,000/=

Folding chairs 3 nos                                         Rs.   9,000/=

Total Rs. 98,000/= (950 US Dollars)

Cost for to participate for an exhibition:

Rental for five days                                          Rs. 10,000/=

Food and salary for 2 persons                     Rs.   9,000/=

Lodging for 5 days                                            Rs.   7,500/=

Fuel expenses                                                     Rs,   2,500/=

Total                                                                       Rs. 29,000/= (260 US Dollars)

We hope to participate at least one exhibition for a month.

Those who have mind for Sri Lankan da’wah has on opportunity contribute to this meritorious activity. We invite you all help us carry out this project.

May Allah bless you all!

Ulhiya distribution to poor and new Muslims in Sri Lanka

As you know Ulhiya is a ritual of Muslims perform on Eid ul alha. A share of Ulhiya should reach almost every Muslim specially too poor one, also new Muslims.

Generally we experienced in past occasions share of Ulhiya does not properly reach either of above mentioned categories. Some get one or two share some not at all. This time we intend to distribute equally in our level best.

We hope to distribute this trough the mosques where Muslims majority, other areas through selected centres. This program will be carried out throughout the Island.

Method of distribution

Since Hajj festival is approaching us the price of the cattle has gone up in the market. So we decided to the Ulhiya in following method.

In Colombo (Capitol of Sri Lanka) present cattle market is between Rupees 45,000/= (450 US Dollars) to 50,000/= (500 US Dollars) If anybody wishes to contribute a potion (1/7) He may do so by contribution of the above mentioned amount.

The person who willing to give Ulhiya in outside of Colombo (Rural areas) could do so according to their market price of Rupees 35,000/= (350 US Dollars) to 45,000/= (450 US Dollars) If anybody wishes to contribute a potion (1/7) He may do so by contribution of the above mentioned amount.

This Ulhiya will be distributing out 51 centres in 17 districts.

Acknowledgment

Insha Allah! Immediately after fulfill the Ulhiya distribution, we will acknowledge you by photographs and complete details.

We make this opportunity invite you all to contribute for this meritorious sacrifice.

May Allah bless you all.

In the Name of Allah Most Beneficent & Most Merciful

Assalamualaikum!

Dear Brothers & Sisters in Islam,

It is our great pleasure to make the following brief about the da’wah news paper publication planning meeting held at our brother Mr.M.S.M.Niyaz’ residence on the 4^th of Wednesday Nov-2009, at about 6.45 pm as scheduled.

The meeting commenced with “Surah Fathiha” recital and Brother Mr. Niyaz requested the participants to make themselves introduced with their briefing about their name, home town, career, educational background etc… This in turn paved the path way to work with the team spirit and as one family under the roof of brotherhood in Islam. The unity in diversity in Islam was one of the themes that was elaborated at great length with solidarity with a view to foreseeing our mission a success. Fortunately, we were able to recognize the fact that our team has strong ambition and greater degree of commitment coupled with the enthusiasm to drive towards this sacred mission of making Sinhala reading and speaking both Muslims & Non-Muslims understand the “Correct Path” (we have titled this proposed news paper in Sinhala as “Yahamaga”) which is the fundamental phenomenon in Da’wah in Islam.

It is noteworthy that we observe in Sri Lanka that lack of periodic publications in Sinhala about Islam notwithstanding the fact we are living in this country for decades and decades over generations and generations mingled with Sinhala speaking majority communalities in unity and harmony.  Unfortunately our new generations who pass out in Sinhala or English language understand very little of the preaching about Islam conducted even at the Jummah bayan simply because of the fact such preaching are conducted in Tamil language which is neither the first nor second language to some of the Muslims. Although this would have been very fascinating amongst our diminishing old generations, it is not the case for our new generation as well as for those who have embraced Islam. They are in fact well conversant mostly in Sinhala & English languages. If we fail to recognize this fact even at this late juncture and take corrective measures to remedy this unfortunate situation, there will be very little opportunities for the present and future Muslim youths to establish a sound knowledge about our religion.

While we are attentive about the above stated dilemma our long term vision of this Sinhala news paper publication is far-sighted. We are planning to capture attention of vast majority of Sinhala speaking Non-Muslims towards Da’wah “Hidayath / Yahamaga”. Although we did not discuss this matter in greater detail at this meeting, this will however be a key topic that we are hoping to take up in the forthcoming agenda at greater length.

Finally we were able to emphasize on the followings:

1. Vision

• Make an Islamic voice to Sinhala media.
• To build a sound understanding with Sinhala community.
• To make an awareness of Islamic culture.

2. Mission

• According to the Holy Qur’an 16: 125- By defending, facing and overcome the issues arising from other communities.
• Clearing the misconceptions.
• Providing the Islamic solutions for current issues.
• To familiarise Muslim writers in Sinhala by contributing and make an opportunity for Sinhala writers and make a way to interact between them.

3. Contents and No: of Pages

About Islam and the way of life Holy Prophet Mohammed Rasool Sallalahu Alaihiwasalaam (PBUH) and his followers, Answers to the Questions raised by the readers, Commercial Advertisements (non controversial to Islamic “Shareeya”), Employment Opportunities, Marriage Proposals, Trade & Finance, Socio Economics & Political Developments, etc.

Minimum of 20 (Twenty) pages.

4. Frequency of Publication

On 1^st of every month. – Insha Allah

5. Price

Rs. 40/= (Rupees Forty).

7. Registered Office

DA’WAH CORNER – SRI LANKA,

44/251, World Market,

Olcott Mawatha,

Colombo-11,

Sri Lanka.

8. First Publication

On 1^st of December 2009. . – Insha Allah

Insha Allah we are planning to have the next meeting on Saturday the 21^st of November 2009 soon after the “ASAR” Prayers.

Please await our invitation.

Your kind participation in this regard is solicited and all the contribution you render to make our mission a success will be rewarded by Almighty Allah (SWT) both in this world and the world hereafter.

May Allah Bless You and Your Family. ( Aameen ).

Please pass this message to all Brothers and Sisters in Islam.

Sincerely yours,

Khadheeja Anver

Secretary,

Yahamaga Islamic news paper

Presentation of DA’WAH CORNER SRI LANKA

Ulhiya distribution to poor and new Muslims in Sri Lanka

As you know Ulhiya is a ritual of Muslims perform on Eid ul alha. A share of Ulhiya should reach almost every Muslim specially too poor one, also new Muslims.

Generally we experienced in past occasions share of Ulhiya does not properly reach either of above mentioned categories. Some get one or two share some not at all. This time we intend to distribute equally in our level best.

We hope to distribute this trough the mosques where Muslims majority, other areas through selected centres. This program will be carried out throughout the Island.

Method of distribution

Since Hajj festival is approaching us the price of the cattle has gone up in the market. So we decided to the Ulhiya in following method.

In Colombo (Capitol of Sri Lanka) present cattle market is between Rupees 45,000/= (450 US Dollars) to 50,000/= (500 US Dollars) If anybody wishes to contribute a potion (1/7) He may do so by contribution of the above mentioned amount.

The person who willing to give Ulhiya in outside of Colombo (Rural areas) could do so according to their market price of Rupees 35,000/= (350 US Dollars) to 45,000/= (450 US Dollars) If anybody wishes to contribute a potion (1/7) He may do so by contribution of the above mentioned amount.

This Ulhiya will be distributing out 51 centres in 17 districts.

Acknowledgment

Insha Allah! Immediately after fulfill the Ulhiya distribution, we will acknowledge you by photographs and complete details.

We make this opportunity invite you all to contribute for this meritorious sacrifice.

May Allah bless you all.