The Arabic word Da'wah means a call or an invitation

The Arabic word Da'wah means a call or an invitation. In Islamic context, it means to strive for the propagation of Islam.The obligation of Dawah has been made clear in the Qur'an.

Allah (glorified and exalted be He) says in the Qur'an, "Let there arise out of you a band of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right, and forbidding what is wrong: they are the ones to attain felicity." (Al-Qur'an 3:104)

Most Muslims know that Islam is a universal religion, meant for all mankind.Allah (glorified and exalted be He) is the Lord of the entire Universe, and Muslims have been entrusted with the duty of conveying His message to all mankind. Alas, most today have become callous towards this duty! while accepting Islam as the best way of life for ourselves, most of us are unwilling to share this knowledge with those to whom the message has not yet been conveyed.

Allah (glorified and exalted be He) says in the Qur'an "Ah! Who is more unjust than those who conceal the testimony they have from Allah? But Allah is not unmindful of what ye do!" [Al-Qur'an 2:140]

In order to convey the message of Islam, dialogue and debate become inevitable.

Allah (glorified and exalted be He) says 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!" [Al-Qur'an 16:125]

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said,"Convey from me, even (if it is) one verse." (Bukhari)

The Qur'an also tells us that not conveying the message amounts to disobedience to Allah (glorified and exalted be He),"Those who conceal the clear (signs) We have sent down, and the guidance, after We have made it clear for the people in the Book -on them shall be Allah's curse, and the curse of those entitled to curse." (Al-Qur'an 2:159)

Conveying the message of Islam also means completing our own worship, the primary reason for which we were created. Dawah is one of the most noblest acts any Muslim can do and its rewards are immense.

Allah (glorified and exalted be He) says in the Qur'an,"Who is better in speech than one who calls (men) to Allah, works righteousness, and says, "I am of those who bow in Islam"?" (Al-Qur'an 41:33)

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Whoever guides (another) to a good deed will get a reward similar to the one who performs it." (Muslim).

He (peace be upon him) also said, "By Allah, if Allah were to guide one man through you it would be better for you than the best type of camels." (Bukhari and Muslim)

Da'wah is an obligation upon us all - Bring the light of Islam into someone's life