Basic Principles of Effective Public Speaking in Islâm

From: www.wefound.org

By Dr. M. Omar Mababaya and Dr. Norlain Dindang Mababaya
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The Qur’ân and the Sunnah give us absolutely practical principles on how to become effective public speakers for the pleasure of Allâh the Almighty. The following are the Qur’ânic Ayât and the authentic Ahâdîth on effective public speaking:

1. Sincerely intend to dedicate your speech to Allâh so that He will accept it as a good deed,
worthy of supreme rewards especially in the Life Hereafter:
“And they have been commanded no more than this: to worship Allâh, offering Him sincere devotion, being True (in Faith); establish regular prayer; and to give Zakat. And that is the Religion Right and Straight.” (Qur’ân 98:5)
‘Umar ibn Al-Khattab t said: I heard Allâh’s Messenger r saying, “The reward of deeds depends upon the intentions and every person will get the reward according to what he has intended. Thus he whose migration was for Allâh and His Messenger r, his migration had been for Allâh and His Messenger r, and he whose migration was to achieve some worldly benefit or take some woman in marriage, his migration had been for that for which he migrated.” (Bukhâri 1/1 and Muslim 3/ 4692)

2. Pray and aspire for knowledge, wisdom and eloquent speech:
Allâh I is the One who gives knowledge (Qur’ân 12:22, 17:107, 18:65 and 58:11), wisdom (Qur’ân2: 269 and 38:20) and eloquent speech (41:21 and 55:4) to whom He pleases. We should pray to Him for knowledge, wisdom and eloquent speech so we can effectively convey Islâm to others. The Prophet r stresses the effect of eloquent speech in influencing people when he compares it to magic:
‘Abdullah Ibn Umar t narrated that two men came from the East and addressed the people who wondered at their eloquent speeches. On that Allâh’s Messenger r said, "Some eloquent speech is as effective as magic.” (Bukhâri 7/662)
As much as possible we must aspire for effective public speaking or eloquent speech. We should remember that by His Will, His Messengers, especially Prophet Muhammad r, and other Muslim Du‘ât succeeded in conveying Islâm:
“Truly, Allâh will admit those who believe and work righteous deeds, to Gardens beneath which rivers flow. They shall be adorned therein with bracelets of gold and pearls; and their garments there will be of silk. For they have been guided (in this life) to the purest of speeches; they have been guided to the Path of Him Who is Worthy of (all) Praise.” (22:23-24)
Abû Hurairah t narrated that the Prophet r said, “I have been given the keys of eloquent speech and given victory with awe (cast into the hearts of the enemy)...” (Bukhâri 9/127)
In our invocations especially in the Tahajjud (midnight) prayers and before our public speaking we should include the following supplications:
“O my Rabb! Increase me in knowledge.” (Qur’ân20:114)
“...O my Rabb! Expand me my breast. Ease My task for me; and remove the impediment from my speech, so they may understand what I say.” (Qur’ân 20:25-28)
“O my Rabb! Bestow wisdom on me, and join me with the righteous; grant me honorable mention on the tongue of truth among the latest (generations); make me one of the inheritors of the Garden of Bliss.” (Qur’ân26:83-84)
Umm Salamah narrated that the Prophet r used to say after the dawn prayer, “O Allâh, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, acceptable action, and good provision.” (Tirmidhî 2487, Ahmad and Ibn Mâjah)
When Allâh blesses us by His Grace with a developed personality, gifted with knowledge, wisdom and eloquence of speech we can easily convey Islâm to the non-Muslims, who will, Insha Allâh, accept our invitation.

3. Plan and prepare what to say and how to say it.
Effective public speaking requires effective planning and preparation. We should never deliver public speech hastily. We have to plan it with great deliberation and care:
Abdullah Bin Sarjis t narrated that the Prophet r said, “A good manner of conduct, deliberation and moderation are a twenty-fourth part of prophecy.” (Tirmidhî 5059)
Al Wazi bin Zari’ t narrated that “…The Prophet r said to him (al-Mundhir al-Ashajj): “You have two characteristics which Allâh likes: gentleness and deliberation.” He asked, Have I acquired them or has Allâh created (them in) my nature? He replied, No, Allâh has created (them) in your nature. He then said: "Praise be to Allâh Who has created in my nature two characteristics which Allâh and His Messenger like." (Abu Dawud 5206)
As speakers, we need more time to plan out what to say and how to deliver our speech/lecture. We must see to it that we organize our speech in scholarly manner by quoting relevant sources especially from the Qur’ân and the Sunnah. We have to let the words of Allâh I and His Messenger r strike the hearts and minds of the audience. We must organize our speech in such a way that the audience will find it interesting as it gives guidance, glad tidings/inspirations and/or admonitions to them. This is in accordance with the Sunnah of the Prophet r:
“... and We sent you (O Muhammad) but to give Glad Tidings (to the Believers) and to warn (sinners).” (Qur’ân 17:105)
“... Yet you (O Muhammad) were sent as a Mercy from your Rabb to give warning to a people to whom no Warner had come before you in order that they may receive admonition.” (Qur’ân 28:46)
After the organization, see to it that you will have a good mastery of the subject matter. Read, study or remember what to say so that you will speak with confidence before the audience. Indeed, it is imperative for us to plan but we have to acknowledge that Allâh’s the best of planners (3:54 and 8:30). Thus, we have to pray for His help to bless our plan because “when He has decreed a plan He but say to it ‘Be’ and it is!” (3:47) and that, He does command according to His Will and plan (Qur’ân 5:1).

4. Have a good pleasing personality by being neat and wearing modest cloth that is appropriate for the occasion:
“O children of Adam! Wear your beautiful apparel at every time and place of prayer: eat and drink: but waste not by excess, for Allâh loves not the wasters.” (Qur’ân 7:31)
Abdullah ibn Abbas t narrated that when the Haruriyyah made a revolt, I came to Ali t. He t said: “Go to these people. I then put on the best suit of the Yemen.” AbuZumayl (a transmitter) said: “Ibn Abbas was handsome and of imposing countenance.” Ibn Abbas t said: “I then came to them and they said: ‘Welcome to you, Ibn Abbas! What is this suit of clothes?’” I said: “Why are you objecting to me? I saw over the Messenger of Allâh the best suit of clothes.” (Abu Dawud, 4026)
Jabir ibn Abdullah t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r paid visit to us, and saw a disheveled man whose hair was disordered. He said: “Could this man not find something to make his hair lie down? He saw another man wearing dirty clothes and said: Could this man not find something to wash his garments with.” (Abu Dawud, 4051, Tirmidhî 4351, Ahmad and Nasa'i)
Sahl Ibn al-Hanzaliyyah t .... narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said: “You are coming to your brethren; so tidy your mounts and tidy your dress, until you are like a mole among the people. Allâh does not like obscene words or deeds, or do intentional committing of obscenity..” (Abu Dawud, 4078)
Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-'As t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, "Eat, drink, give sadaqah and wear clothes so long as neither prodigality nor pride is mixed up with it." (Tirmidhî 4381, Ahmad, Nasa'i and Ibn Mâjah)

5. Start your speech with the mention of Allâh’s Name and Glory.
We should remember Allâh I by praising Him before, during and after our Da’wah/public speech. This will make us more closer to Him and thus, be successful in our public speech. It is Sunnah to start our lecture/speech with praises to Allâh I as narrated in the following Hâdîth:
Abdullah Bin Mas`ud t narrated that Allâh’s Messengerr taught us the address in case of some need: “Praise be to Allâh from Whom we ask help and pardon, and in Whom we take refuge from the evils within ourselves. He whom Allâh guides has no one who can lead him astray, and he whom He leads astray has no one to guide him. I testify that there is no god but Allâh, and I testify that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger.” “You who believe! Fear Allâh by Whom you ask your mutual rights, and reverence the wombs. Allâh has been watching you...." "You who believe, fear Allâh as He should be feared, and die only as Muslims…" "You who believe, fear Allâh and say what is true. He will make your deeds sound, and forgive your sins. He who obeys Allâh and His Messenger has achieved a mighty success." (Abû Dâwûd 2113)
The following Ahâdîth are admonitions to those who do not remember Allâh I before starting their public speech:
Abu Hurairah t narrated that the Prophet r said: “People who get up from an assembly in which they did not remember Allâh will be just as if they had got up from an ass's corpse, and it will be a cause of grief to them.” (Abu Dawud 4837)

6. Speak with confidence.
We Muslims should have self-confidence in ourselves. As long as we know the subject matter in Islâm that we are going to discuss with a certain degree of knowledge (in other words, we have the mastery of subject matter); and then turn to Allâh I, pray for His help, we can successfully convey the message of Islâm to others. We should have trust in Allâh that by His Grace, we can speak with confidence in public no matter how large the audience is. The following Qur’ânic verses should inspire us to have self-confidence in ourselves:
“You are the best of peoples, evolved for mankind. You enjoin what is right, forbid what is wrong, and believe in Allâh...” (3:110)
“Who is better in speech than one who calls (men) to Allâh, works righteousness, and says, ‘I am of those who bow in Islâm (i.e. Muslims)?” (41:33)

7. Speak with certain knowledge. Be scholarly in your talk by giving proofs from the Qur’ân and authentic Ahâdîth:
Tariqt narrated that the Prophet r said, “The best talk is Allâh’s Book (Qur’ân), and the best guidance is the guidance of Muhammad.” (Bukhâri 8/120)
Abdullah t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “The best talk (speech) is Allâh’s Book (Qur’ân and the best way is the way of Muhammad. And the worst matters are the heresies (those new things which are introduced into the religion). And whatever you have been promised will surely come to pass, and you cannot escape (it).” (Bukhâri 9/382)
Abdullah bin Mas'ud t narrated that Allâh’s Messengerr said, “Do not wish to be like anybody except in two cases: The case of a man whom Allâh has given wealth and he spends it in the right way; and that of a man whom Allâh has given religious wisdom (i.e., Qur’ân and Sunnah) and he gives his verdicts according to it and teaches it. (to others i.e., religious knowledge of Qur’ân and the Sunnah).” (Bukhâri 1/73, 9/419 and 9/255)
‘Abdullâh ibn ‘Amr t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “Knowledge consists of three things: the decisive Verses (Qur’ân), authentic Ahâdîth and prescriptions rightly deduced from the two. What is beside them is superfluous.” (Ibn Mâjah 1/54)
‘Abdullâh ibn Amir ibn Al-Ast narrated that the Prophet r said, “Knowledge has three categories; anything else is extra; a precise Verse, or an established Sunnah (practice), or a firm obligatory duty.” (Abu Dawud 2879)

8. Always speak the Truth and refrain from falsehood or lies:
“And he who brings the Truth and he who confirms (and supports) it—such are the men who do right. They shall have all that they wish for, with their Rabb. Such is the reward of those who do good: so that Allâh will remit from them (even) the worst in their deeds and give them their reward according to the best of what they have done.” (39:33-35)
“That Allâh may reward the people of Truth for their Truth, and punish the Hypocrites if He wills, or turn to them in Mercy; for Allâh is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (33:24)
“Shall I inform you (o people) on whom it is that the evil ones descend? They descend on every lying wicked person (into whose ears) they pour hearsay vanities and most of them are liars.” (26:221-223)
“O you who believe! Keep your duty to Allâh and fear Him, and speak (always) the Truth, He will direct you to do righteous good deeds and will forgive you your sins. And whosoever obeys Allâh and His Messenger, he has indeed achieved a great success.” (33:70-71)
Kuraym ibn Fâtik t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r offered the Fajr (early morning) prayer. When he finished it, he stood up and said three times: “False witness has been made equivalent to attributing a partner to Allâh.” He then recited: “So avoid the abomination of idols and avoid speaking falsehood as people pure of faith to Allâh, not associating anything with Him.” (Abû Daud 3592)
Abû Umamah Sa‘d ibn Abi Waqqâs t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “A believer is stamped with all the characteristics except treachery and falsehood.” (Tirmidhî 4860 and Ahmad)
‘Abdullâh ibn ‘Amrt narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “If you have four characteristics, whatever worldly advantage passes you by does not matter to you: keeping a trust, speaking the truth, a good character, and abstemiousness in food.” (Tirmidhî 5222, Ahmad and Bayhaqi)
‘Abdur Rahman ibn Abi Quradt narrated that the Prophetr performed ablution one day and his Companions began to wipe themselves with the water he had used. The Prophet r asked them what induced them to do that. And when they replied that it was love for Allâh and His Messenger, he r said, “If anyone is pleased to love Allâh and His Messenger, or rather to have Allâh and His Messenger love him, he should speak the truth when he tells anything; fulfill his trust when he is put in a position of trust; and be a good neighbor.” (Tirmidhî 4990 and Bayhaqi)
Abû Dharr t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “He has been successful whose heart Allâh has made sincere towards faith, whose heart He has made free from unbelief, his tongue truthful, his soul calm, his nature straight, whose ear He has made attentive and his eye observant. The ear is a funnel and the eye is a repository for what the heart learns. He is successful whose heart is made retentive. ” (Tirmidhî 5200, Ahmad and Bayhaqi)
Ubadah ibn as-Samit t narrated that the Prophet r said, “If you guarantee me six things on your part I shall guarantee you Paradise. Speak the truth when you talk, keep a promise when you make it, when you are trusted with something fulfil your trust, avoid sexual immorality, lower your eyes, and restrain your hands from injustice.” (Tirmidhî 4870, Ahmad and Bayhaqi)

9. Be friendly in your approach:
Abû Hurairah t narrated that the Prophet r said, “A believer is friendly, and there is no good in one who is neither friendly nor is treated in a friendly way.” (Tirmidhî 4995 and Ahmad)
‘Âishah narrated that a man asked permission to see the Prophet r, and the Prophet r said, “He is a bad member of the tribe.” When he entered, Allâh’s Messenger r treated in a frank and friendly way and spoke to him. When he departed, I said, “Allâh’s Messenger! When he asked permission, you said, “He is a bad member of the tribe; but when he entered, you treated him in a frank and friendly way.” Allâh’s Messenger r replied, “Âishah! Allâh does not like the one who is unseemly and lewd in his language.” (Abû Dâwûd 4774)
Yazîd bin Na‘mah t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “When a man makes another his brother, he should ask him his name, his father’s name and the stock from which he comes, for it binds friendship more closely.” (Tirmidhî 5020)

10. In the course of your talk, always remember Allâh I the Almighty. Mention His Name and praise Him:
“Then do you remember Me, I will remember you. Be grateful to Me and reject not faith.” (2:152)
Abu Musa t narrated that the Prophetr said, “The example of the one who celebrates the Praises of his Rabb (Allâh) in comparison to the one who does not celebrate the Praises of his Rabb, is that of a living creature compared to a dead one.” (Bukhâri 8/416)
Abu Hurairah t narrated that the Prophetr said, “Allâh will give shade to seven (types of people) under His Shade (on the Day of Resurrection). One of them will be a person who remembers Allâh and his eyes are then flooded with tears.” (Bukhâri 8/486)
“Abu Hurairah t narrated that Allâh’s Messengerr as saying that “Allâh, the Exalted and Glorious, says: `I am near to the thought of My servant as he thinks about Me, and I am with him as he remembers Me. And if he remembers Me in his heart, I also remember him in My Heart. And if he remembers Me in assembly I remember him in assembly, better than his (remembrance). And if he draws near Me by the span of a palm, I draw near him by the cubit, and if he draws near Me by the cubit I draw near him by the space (covered by) two hands. And if he walks towards Me, I rush towards him.’” (Muslim 4/ 6471)
Samurah Bin Jundabt narrated that Allâh’s Messengerr said, “The most beloved words to Allâh are the following four phrases, SubhnAllâh, Alhamdu lillah, La_ ila ha illa Allâh, Allâhu Akbar. (Glory be to Allâh, All Praises be to Allâh. There is no deity but Allâh, Allâh’s the greatest.)... it does not matter which of them you start with.” (Muslim 5329)
Abdullah ibn Umar t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “Do not speak much without mentioning Allâh, for much talk without mention of Allâh produces hardness of heart, and the one who is farthest from Allâh’s he who has a hard heart." (Tirmidhî 2274)

11. Every time you mention the Prophet’s name and/or title, invoke salam to him.
It is a must that every time we hear the Prophet’s name, we should say: r “Salâllâhu ‘alayhi wasalam” (“May the peace and blessings of Allâh be upon him.”). Allâh, the Exalted, commands:
“Verily, Allâh sends blessings upon the Prophet, and His angels ask Allâh to bless him. O you who have believed, ask Allâh to send blessings upon him, and (you) greet him with peace.” (33:56)
The following Ahâdîth should inspire us to supplicate to Allâh to send peace and blessings to His Messenger r:
Abdullah Bin Amr Bin Al Ast narrated: Allâh’s Messenger r said, “ When you hear the Mu'adhdhin, repeat what he says. Then invoke a blessing on me, for everyone who invokes a blessing on me will receive ten blessings from Allâh. Then beg from Allâh al-Wasilah for me, which is a rank in Paradise fitting for only one of Allâh’s Servants, and I hope that I may be that one. If anyone who asks that I be given the Wasilah, he will be assured of my intercession.” (Muslim 747)
Abu Humaid As -Saidi t narrated that the people asked, “O Allâh’s Messenger! How shall we (ask Allâh to) send blessings on you?" Allâh’s Messenger replied, "Say: Allâhumma salli `ala Muhammadin wa azwajihi wa dhurriyatihi kama sallaita `ala Ali Ibrahima wa barik `ala Muhammadin wa azwajihi wa dhurriyatihi kama barakta `ala Ali-Ibrahima, innaka Hamidun Majid (O Allâh! Send Your Mercy on Muhammad and on his wives and on his offspring, as You sent Your Mercy on Abraham's family; and send Your Blessings on Muhammad and on his offspring, as You sent Your Blessings on Abraham's family, for You are the Most Praiseworthy, the Most Glorious)” (Bukhâri 4/588)
Anas Bin Malikt narrated: Allâh’s Messengerr said, “He who invokes one blessings upon me, Allâh will shower ten blessings upon him and obliterate ten (of his) sins and elevate him by ten ranks.” (Tirmidhî 922 and Nasa'i)
Abdullah Bin Amr t narrated: He who invokes blessings upon Allâh’s Messenger once, Allâh and His Angels shower seventy blessings upon him.” (Tirmidhî 935 and Ahmad)

12. Be humble in your speech and avoid boasting:
“For Muslim men and women, for believing men and women, for devout men and women, for true men and women, for men and women who are patient and constant, for men and women who humble themselves, for men and women who give in charity, for men and women who fast (and deny themselves), for men and women who guard their chastity, and for men and women who engage much in Allâh’s praise for them has Allâh prepared forgiveness and great reward.” (33:35)
Haritha bin Wahb t narrated that according to Al-Khuzai the Prophetr said, “Shall I inform you about the people of Paradise? They comprise every obscure unimportant humble person, and if he takes Allâh’s Oath that he will do that thing, Allâh will fulfill his oath (by doing that). Shall I inform you about the people of the Fire? They comprise every cruel, violent, proud and conceited person." (Bukhâri 8/97 and 8/651)
Iyad ibn Himar (al-Mujashi'i) t narrated that the Prophet r said: Allâh has revealed to me that you must be humble, so that no one oppresses another and boasts over another.” (Abû Dâwûd 4877)
Jabir ibn Abdullah t narrated that the Prophet r said: “On the Day of Judgment the dearest and closest to me, as regards my company, will be those persons who will bear the best moral character. Those among you, who talk with affectation and are given to boasting, will be the most repugnant to me and farthest from me on the Day of Judgment. The Companions submitted: “O Messenger of Allâh! What is meant by the word ‘Mutafayhiqun’"? The Prophet r said: “Those given to boasting.” (Tirmidhî 631)

13. Speak good words and do not insult:
“O you who believe! Be not like those who hurt Moses but Allâh cleared him of the (calumnies) they had uttered; and he was honorable in Allâh’s sight. O you who believe! Fear Allâh and (always) say a word directed to the Right. That He may make your conduct whole and sound and forgive you your sins. And whoever obeys Allâh and His Messenger has already attained a great achievement (Paradise).” (33:69-71)
‘Abdullâh bin ‘Amr t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r neither talked in an insulting manner nor did he ever speak evil intentionally. He used to say, “The most beloved to me amongst you is the one who has the best character and manners.” (Bukhâri 5/104)
Abu Hurairah t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “Anybody who believes in Allâh and the Last Day should not harm his neighbor. Anybody who believes in Allâh and the Last Day should entertain his guest generously. And anybody who believes in Allâh and the Last Day should talk what is good or keep quiet (i.e. abstain from all kinds of evil and dirty talk). (Bukhâri 8/47 and 8/482)
Abu Hurairah t narrated that the Prophet said, “Beware of suspicion (about others), as suspicion is the falsest talk. Do not spy upon each other, and do not listen to the evil talk of the people about others' affairs. And do not have enmity with one another, but be brothers...” (Bukhâri 7/74)
Bilâl bin Al-Hârith t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “A man speaks a good word, not realising its worth, for which Allâh records for him His good pleasure till the day he meets Him. A man also speaks an evil word not realising its importance for which Allâh records for him His displeasure till the day he meets Him.” (Tirmidhî 4833 and Ibn Mâjah)
Abdul Malik Al-Ash'ari t and Ali ibn AbuTalib t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said: “There is in the Paradise an apartment, the exterior of which can be seen from its interior, and the interior of which can be seen from its exterior. Such apartments have been prepared for those who are polite in talk, provide food (to the needy), fast frequently and observe the Tahajjud prayer when the people are asleep.” (Tirmidhî 1232, Ahmad, Bayhaqi transmitted it in Shu'ab al-Iman. Tirmidhî transmitted something similar from Ali. In his version the words are: He who is sweet in talk.)
Abdullâh bin Mas‘ûd t narrated that the Prophetr said, “A believer does not taunt, curse, abuse or talk indecently.” (Tirmidhî 1740)
The following Hadîth shows how the Prophet r used Hikmah by not insulting or hurting the feeling of someone:
Anas bin Mâlik t reported that a person said, “O Allâh’s Messenger r! Where is my father?” He (the Prophet r) said, “(He) is in the Fire.” When he turned away, he (the Prophet r) called him and said, “Verily, my father and your father are in the Fire.” (Muslim 1/398)

14. Avoid useless talk, discussion, argumentation and debate:
“The Believers must (eventually) win through those who humble themselves in their prayers; who avoid vain talk...” (23:1-3)
“And do not argue with the People of the Book (the Jews and the Christians) unless it be in a way that is better, save with such of them as do wrong. But say (to them), ‘We believe in the Revelation which has been sent down to us and in that which has been sent down to you. Our God and your God is One; and it is to Him we submit (in Islâm).’” (29:46)
“And (ask) of the Sinners: ‘What led you into Hell-Fire?’ They will say: ‘We were not of those who prayed, nor were we of those who fed the indigent; but we used to talk vanities with vain talkers; And we used to deny the Day of Judgment until there came to us (the Hour) that is certain.’" (74:41-47)
Abû ’Umâmah t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “No one who has once found the right way, ever goes astray except through dispute.” Then Allâh’s Messenger r recited this verse, “They set it forth to you only by way of disputation. Nay! But, they are contentious people (43:58).” (Tirmidhî 180 and Ibn Mâjah)
Mughîrah bin Shu’bah t narrated that the Prophet r said, “...Allâh has hated for you (1) vain, useless talk, or that you talk too much about others, (2) to ask too many questions, (in disputed religious matters) and (3) to waste the wealth (by extravagance).” (Bukhâri 3/591)
‘Abdullâh bin ‘Umar t narrated, “I went to Allâh’s Messenger r in the morning and he heard the voice of two persons who had an argument with each other about a verse. Allâh’s Messenger r came to us (and) the (signs of) anger could be seen on his face. He said, “Verily, the (people) before you were ruined because of their disputation in the Book.” (Muslim 6443)
Abû Namlah Al-Ansâri t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “Whatever the People of the Book tell you, do not verify them, nor falsify them, but say: We believe in Allâh and His Messenger. If it is false, do not confirm it, and if it is right, do not falsify it.” (Abû Dâwûd 3637)
We should go for lectures and seminars where Muslims and non-Muslims are invited in a friendly atmosphere. We should convey to the audience especially the non-Muslims that the Glorious Qur’ân is the Only Book of Truth from Allâh (32:2-3; 22:54) that has been preserved in a Tablet or in a Book well guarded (85:21-22). No one can ever change it (6:115). Allâh I has promised to protect it from any form of human manipulation (15:9). The most varied and complete subjects of the Qur’ân, beyond man’s ability to produce, makes it miraculously unique and inimitable. It is the only Book wherein Allâh instructs mankind to follow it for guidance (6:155; 39:18). Part of Allâh’s guidance is His commandment to all mankind to obey His Messenger r (47:33). The Prophet r is the best example for mankind to follow (33:21). To be successful, we should confine our topics and discussions on Islâmic teachings by making use of the Qur’ân and the Sunnah as the Sources of Divine Truth. We should invite the non-Muslims to Islâm with beautiful preaching instead of argumentation and debate. In this kind of presentation of Islâm or Da’wah, we allow the angels, instead of the Satan, to be surrounding us. They will be happy with us and help us pray to Allâh that we succeed in our Da’wah.

15. Explain the meaning and excellence of Islâm: its rationality, completeness, practicality, and other excellent qualities in the most logical and simple way. Always stress that indeed, Islâm is easy.
“...Allâh intends every facility for you; He does not want to put you to difficulties...” (2:185)
“But whoever believes and works righteousness he shall have a goodly reward and easy will be his task as We order it by Our command.” (18:88)
Anas bin Malik t narrated that the Prophet r said, "Make things easy for the people, and do not make it difficult for them, and make them calm (with glad tidings) and do not repulse (them)." (Bukhâri 8/146)
Abu Hurairaht narrated that the Prophet r said, "Religion is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded; and gain strength by worshipping in the mornings, the nights.” (Bukhâri 1/38)

16. If the non-Muslims try to counter-argue by claiming that their religion also teaches the same or even better, ask for concrete proof or evidence:
“And they say: ‘None shall enter Paradise unless he be a Jew or a Christian.’ Those are their (vain) desires. Say: ‘Produce your proof if you are truthful.’” (2:111)
“...Say: ‘Produce the Torah and recite it, if you are truthful.’ If any, after this invent a lie and attribute it to Allâh, they are indeed unjust wrong-doers.” (3:93-94)
“Or have they taken for worship (other) gods besides Him? Say: ‘Bring your convincing proof, this is the Reminder for those with me and the Reminder for those before me.’ But most of them know not the Truth, so they turn away.’” (21:24)

17. Make use of parables and similitude that may give admonition:
“See you not how Allâh sets forth a parable? A goodly Word like a goodly tree, whose root is firmly fixed, and its branches (reach) to the sky. It brings forth its fruit at all times, by the leave of its Rabb and Allâh sets forth parables for men, in order that they may receive admonition. And the parable of an evil Word is that of an evil tree. It is torn up by the root from the surface of the earth. It has no stability. Allâh will establish in strength those who believe, with the Word that stands firm, in this world and in the Hereafter; but Allâh will leave to stray those who do wrong. Allâh does what He wills.” (14:24-27)
“We have put forth for men, in the Qur’ân every kind of parable, in order that they may receive admonition.” (39:27)

18. Refrain from making people bored:
‘Abdullâh bin Mas‘ûd t narrated that the Prophet r used to take care of us in preaching by selecting a suitable time, so that we might not get bored.” (Bukhâri 1/68)
Abû Wa‘il Shaqîq bin Salamah t narrated that ‘Abdullâh bin Mas‘ûd t used to give a religious talk to the people on every Thursday. Once a man said, “O Aba ‘Abdar-Rahman! (By Allâh) I wish if you could preach us daily.” He replied, “The only thing which prevents me from doing so, is that I have to bore you, and I take care of you in preaching by selecting a suitable time just as the Prophet r used to do with us, for fear of making us bored.” (Bukhâri 1/70 and Muslim)
‘Ikrimah bin Abî Jahl t narrated that ‘Abdullâh bin ‘Abbâst said, “Preach to the people once a week, and if you won’t, then preach them twice; but if you want to preach more, then let it be three times (a week only) and do not make the people fed-up with this Qur’ân. If you come to some people who are engaged in a talk, don't start interrupting their talk by preaching, lest you should cause them to be bored. You should rather keep quiet, and if they ask you, then preach to them at the time when they are eager to hear what you say. And avoid the use of rhymed prose in invocation for I noticed that Allâh’s Messenger r and his Companions always avoided it.” (Bukhâri 8/349)

19. Deliver the lecture briefly but precisely with eloquence in order to arouse the listeners’ interest:
‘Abdullah bin Umart narrated that two men came from the East and addressed the people who wondered at their eloquent speeches. On that Allâh’s Messenger r said, "Some eloquent speech is as effective as magic." (Bukhâri 7/622)
Abû Wâ‘il Shaqîq bin Salamah t narrated that ‘Ammâr delivered to us (the audience) the sermon. It was short and eloquent. When he (‘Ammâr) descended (from the pulpit) we said to him, “O Abul Yaqzân, you have delivered a short and eloquent sermon. Would that you had lengthened (the sermon).” He said, “I have heard Allâh’s Messenger r as saying: “The lengthening of prayer by a man and the shortness of the sermon is the sign of his understanding (of faith). So lengthen the prayer and shorten the sermon, for there is charm (in precise) expression.” (Muslim 1889)
‘Amr bin al-As t narrated that one day when a man got up and spoke at length he (Amr bin al-'As) said, “If he had been moderate in what he said: It would have been better for him. I heard the Messenger of Allâh r said: ‘I think (or, I have been commanded) that I should be brief in what I say, for brevity is better.’” (Abû Dâwûd 4990)

20. Talk with a sense of feeling or emotion:
Anas bin Mâlik t narrated that the Prophet r said, “What is wrong with those people who look towards the sky during the prayer?” His talk grew stern while delivering this speech and he said, “They should stop (looking towards the sky during the prayer); otherwise their eye-sight would be taken away.” (Bukhâri 1/717)
‘Abdullâh bin Mas‘ûd t narrated that the Prophet r said, “I know the person who will be the last to come out of the (Hell) Fire, and the last to enter Paradise. He will be a man who will come out of the (Hell) Fire crawling, and Allâh will say to him, ‘Go and enter Paradise.’ He will go to it, but he will imagine that it had been filled, and then he will return and say, ‘O my Rabb, I have found it full.’ Allâh will say, ‘Go and enter Paradise, and you will have what equals the world and ten times as much (or you will have as much as ten times the like of the world).’ On that, the man will say, ‘Do you mock at me (or laugh at me) though You are the King?’” I saw Allâh’s Messenger r (while saying that) smiling that his premolar teeth became visible. It is said that he will be the lowest in degree amongst the people of Paradise. (Bukhâri 8/575)
Jâbir bin ‘Abdullâh t narrated that whenever Allâh’s Messenger r delivered a sermon, his eyes would turn red. His voice would become loud. And his wrath would enhance as if he was warning (the people) against an enemy troop, saying, “It will surely attack you in the morning; it will surely attack you in the evening...” (Ibn Mâjah 1/45)

21. Explain things very clearly. Repeat important points (if necessary), and speak in a clear voice loud enough for the last person at the back to hear. And never talk so quickly and vaguely:
“And be moderate in your pace, and lower your voice; for the harshest of sounds without doubt is the braying of the ass.” (31:19)
“Obey Allâh and obey the Messenger and beware (of evil): if you do turn back, know you that it is Our Messenger’s duty to convey (the Message) in the clearest manner.” (5:92)
“(We sent the Messengers) with Clear Signs and Scriptures and We have also sent down unto you (O, Muhammad) the Message; that you may explain clearly to men what is sent for them, and that they may give thought.” (16:44)
“How should they have the reminder. Seeing that a Messenger explaining things clearly has (already) come to them.” (44:13)
Anas bin Mâlik t, narrated that whenever the Prophet r spoke a sentence (said a thing), he used to repeat it thrice so that the people could understand it properly from him and whenever he asked permission to enter, (he knocked the door) thrice with greeting.” (Bukhâri 1/95)
‘Âishah narrated that the Prophet r used to talk so clearly that if somebody wanted to count the number of his words, he could do so.” (Bukhâri 4/768 and Muslim)
‘Abdullâh bin ‘Amr t narrated that once Allâh’s Messenger r remained behind us in a journey. He joined us while we were performing ablution for the ‘Asr (afternoon) prayer which was over-due. We were just passing wet hands over our feet (not washing them properly) so the Prophet r addressed us in a loud voice and said twice or thrice, “Save your heels from the Fire.” (Bukhâri 1/96)
‘Âishah narrated that the Prophet r used to talk so clearly that if somebody wanted to count the number of his words, he could do so. Narrated Urwa bin Az-Zubair: ‘Âishah said (to me), “Don't you wonder at Abu so-and-so who came and sat by my dwelling and started relating the traditions of Allâh’s Messenger intending to let me hear that, while I was performing an optional prayer. He left before I finished my optional prayer. Had I found him still there. I would have said to him, “Allâh’s Messenger never talked so quickly and vaguely as you do.’” (Bukhâri 4/768)

22. Make appropriate gestures to facilitate better understanding:
Abu Uthman t narrated that while we were at Adharbijan, 'Umar wrote to us: ‘Allâh 's Messenger r forbade wearing silk except this much. Then the Prophet r approximated his two fingers (index and middle fingers) (to illustrate that) to us.’ Zuhair (the sub-narrator) raised up his middle and index fingers.” (Bukhâri 7/719)
Abu Hurairah t narrated that Abu-l-Qasim (the Prophet r) said, "On Friday there is a particular time. If a Muslim happens to be praying and invoking Allâh for something good during that time, Allâh will surely fulfill his request." The Prophet r pointed out with his hand. We thought that he wanted to illustrate how short that time was. (Bukhâri 8/409)
‘Abdullah bin Mas’ud t narrated that the Prophet r said, “The Adhan pronounced by Bilalt should not stop you from taking Suhur, for he pronounces the Adhan at night, so that the one offering the late night prayer (Tahajjud) from among you might hurry up and the sleeping from among you might wake up. It does not mean that dawn or morning has started.” Then he (the Prophet r) pointed with his fingers and raised them up (towards the sky) and then lowered them (towards the earth) like this (Ibn Mas'ud t imitated the gesture of the Prophet r). Az-Zuhri gestured with his two index fingers, which he put on each other and then stretched them to the right and left. These gestures illustrate the way real dawn appears. It spreads left and right horizontally. The dawn that appears in the high sky and lowers down is not the real dawn). (Bukhâri 1/595)

23. Use visual aids for easy comprehension:
‘Abdullâh bin Mas‘ûd t narrated that (once) Allâh’s Messenger r drew a line for us and then said, “That is the path shown by Allâh.” Then he drew several other lines on his right and left sides and said, “These are the paths on every side of which there is a devil calling towards it.” He then recited this verse, ‘And verily, this is My Straight Path, so follow it.’” (Tirmidhî 166, Ahmad, Nasâ’i and Darimî)
Jâbir bin ‘Abdullâh t narrated , “We were sitting in the company of the Prophet r. He drew a (straight) line and drew two (other) lines on its right side and two lines on its left side. He then placed his hand on the middle line and remarked, “This is Allâh’s Path.” Then, he recited this verse: ‘And verily, it is My Straight Path; so follow not the (other) paths. They will separate you away from His Path.’ (6:153).’” (Ibn Mâjah 1/11)
Anas bin Malikt narrated that the Prophet r drew a few lines and said, "This is (man's) hope, and this is the instant of his death, and while he is in this state (of hope), the nearer line (death) comes to Him." (Bukhâri 8/427)
‘Abdullaht narrated that the Prophetr drew a square and then drew a line in the middle of it and let it extend outside the square. Then he drew several small lines attached to that central line, and said, "This is the human being, and this, (the square) in his lease of life, encircles him from all sides (or has encircled him), and this (line), which is outside (the square), is his hope. And these small lines are the calamities and troubles (which may befall him), and if one misses him, another will snap (i.e. overtake) him. And if the other misses him, a third will snap (i.e. overtake) him.” (Bukhâri 8/426)

24. If anyone from the audience causes annoyance or insults you, be patient, control your anger and refrain from disputes or quarrels:
“Let not their speech grieve you: for all power and honor belong to Allâh: He Who hears and knows (all things).” (10:65)
“And argue not with the People of the Book (the Jews and the Christians), except in the best way, unless it be with those of them who do wrong. But say (to them), ‘We believe in the Revelation which has been sent down to us and in that which has been sent down to you; our God and your God is One; and to Him we submit (in Islâm).’” (29:46)
Abû Hurairah t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “The strong is not the one who overcomes the people by his strength, but the strong is the one who controls himself while in anger.” (Bukhâri 8/ 135 and Muslim 4/6311-6314)
Abû Hurairah t narrated that a man said to the Prophet r “Advise me.” The Prophet r said, “Do not be angry and furious.” The man asked (the same) again and again, and the Prophet r said in each case, “Do not be angry and furious.” (Bukhâri 8/137)
‘Âishah narrated that the Prophet r said, “The most hated person in the sight of Allâh is the most quarrelsome person.” (Bukhâri 3/637)
Sahl Bin Sad t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “…Be patient till you face them (i.e., the infidels) and invite them to Islâm and inform them of what Allâh has enjoined upon them. By Allâh! If a single person embraces Islâm at your hands (i.e., through you) that will be better for you than the red camels.” (Bukhâri 4/192 and 5/51)
Abû ’Umâmah t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, “No people strayed from the right path after the (divine) guidance on which they were, but those who, indulged in disputation.” He then recited the verse: ‘Nay, but they are a contentious people (43:58).’” (Ibn Mâjah 1/48)

25. Distribute the written copy of the lecture to the audience:
Abû Hurairah t narrated that when Allâh gave victory to His Messenger r over the people of Makkah, Allâh’s Messenger r stood up among the people. After glorifying Allâh, he said, “Allâh has prohibited fighting in Makkah and has given authority to His Messenger and the believers over it. So, fighting was illegal for anyone before me and was made legal for me for a part of a day, and it will not be legal for anyone after me.” Abû Shâh, a Yemenite, stood up and said, “O Allâh’s Messenger r! Get it written for me.” Allâh’s Messenger r said, “Write it down for Abâ Shâh.” (The sub-narrator asked Al-Auzâ‘î), “What did he mean by saying, Get it written, O Allâh’s Messenger?” He replied, “The speech which he had heard from Allâh’s Messenger.” (Bukhâri 3/613)

26. Ask if they understood properly the Islâmic lecture that was conveyed to them. Also be ready to entertain questions but not too many:
Abû Bakrah t narrated that the Prophet r said, “No doubt your blood, property”; the sub-narrator Muhammad thought that Abu Bakrah had also mentioned “and your honor (chastity) are sacred to one another as is the sanctity of this day of yours in this month of yours. It is incumbent on those who are present to inform those who are absent.” Muhammad, the sub-narrator, used to say, “Allâh’s Messenger r told the truth.” The Prophet r repeated twice: “No doubt! Haven’t I conveyed Allâh’s Message to you?” (Bukhâri 1/105)
Anas bin Mâlik t, narrated that while we were in the mosque, a man came riding on a camel. The man said to the Prophet r, “I want to ask you something and will be hard on questioning. So do not be angry.” The Prophet r said, ‘Ask whatever you want.’” (Bukhâri 1/63)
Anas bin Mâlik t, narrated that once the people started asking Allâh’s Messenger r questions, and they asked so many questions that he became angry and ascended the pulpit and said, “I will answer whatever questions you may ask me today...” (Bukhâri 8/373)
Mughîrah bin Sh‘ubah t narrated that the Prophet r said, “Allâh has forbidden you to be undutiful to your mothers, to withhold (what you should give) or demand (what you do not deserve), and to bury your daughters alive. And Allâh has disliked that you talk too much about others, ask too many questions (in religion), or waste your property.” (Bukhâri 8/6)

27. Invite people to Islâm with kind words, wisdom and beautiful preaching instead of evil words or bad language:
“Invite (all) to the Way of your Rabb with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious: for your Rabb knows best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance.” (16:125)
“Kind words and forgiving of faults are better than charity followed by injury. And Allâh is Rich (Free of all wants) and He is most Forbearing.” (2:263)
“Allâh does not like the utterance of evil words in public except by one who has been wronged. Allâh is He Who hears and knows all things.” (4:148)
‘Abdullâh bin ‘Amir t narrated that the Prophet r never used bad language. He used to say, “The best amongst you are those who have the best manners and character.” (Bukhâri 4/759; 8/56)
Abdullah ibn Mas'ud narrated that the Prophet r said: “A believer does not taunt, curse, abuse or talk indecently.” (Tirmidhî 1740)
Anas ibn Malikt narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said, "Coarse talk does not come into anything without disgracing it, and modesty does not come into anything without adorning it.” (Tirmidhî 4854)
Abu Darda t narrated that the Prophet r said: “Nothing is weightier in the scales of a believer on the Day of Judgment than his good behavior. Allâh treats with displeasure a person who is given to loose and vulgar talk.” (Tirmidhî 626)

28. After the speech or Da’wah is over, invite the non-Muslims to open their minds and hearts to Islâm with selected Qur’ânic verses:
"Truly the Religion before Allâh is Islâm (submission to His Will). Those who were given the Scripture (the Jews and the Christians) did not differ except out of mutual jealousy, after knowledge had come to them. But if any denies the Signs of Allâh, Allâh is swift in calling to account.” (3:19)
“And whoever desires a religion other than Islâm (submission to Allâh), never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (all spiritual good).” (3:85)
“Who can be better in religion than one who submits his whole self to Allâh...?” (4:125)
“...This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islâm as your religion…” (5:3)
“Whatever you worship apart from Him is nothing but names which you have named, you and your fathers, for which Allâh has sent down no authority. The command is for none but Allâh. He has commanded that you worship none but Him. That is the right religion, but most men do not know.” (12:40)
Ask the non-Muslims to ponder upon the veracity of the above Qur’ânic verses. They should be rational and see how powerful and strong the categorical statements of Allâh. Indeed, only the True God and Creator of all has the divine power and authority to say them to us.

29. Advise them to pray to the One and Only True God for guidance. f they ignore your invitation, then advise them to pray to the One and Only True God ¾ to supplicate to Him to guide them to the Truth. Verily, He is the One Who guides those whom He wills to Islâm:
“Those to whom Allâh wills to guide, He opens their breast to Islâm. Those whom He wills to leave straying, He makes their breast close and constricted, as if they had to climb up to the sky; thus does Allâh lay abomination on those who believe not.” (6:125)
“Whom Allâh does guide, he is on the right path. Whom He rejects from His guidance, such are the persons who lose.” (7:178)
Abû Hurairah t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said to his uncle (at the time of his death), “Make a profession of it that there is no god but Allâh and I will bear testimony (of your being a Muslim) on the Day of Judgment.” He (Abû Talib) said, “Were it not the fear of the Quraish blaming me (and) saying that it was the fear of (approaching death) that induced me to do so, I would have certainly delighted your eyes.” It was then that Allâh revealed, “Verily, you (O Muhammad) can not guide to the right path whom you love. And it is Allâh Who guides whom He will and He knows best who are the guided (28:56).” (Muslim 38)
Make it very clear to the non-Muslims that Allâh, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, is the Only One Who really guides people to the Right Path. Allâh I gives guidance to those who ask His guidance. He gives pardon to those who sincerely seek His forgiveness. It is for their benefit that they must ask Allâh’s guidance and forgiveness:
“Race one another in asking forgiveness from your Rabb, and towards Paradise, the width whereof is as the width of Heaven and earth, prepared for those who believe in Allâh and His messengers. That is the Grace of Allâh, which He bestows on whom He pleases: and Allâh is the Owner of Great Bounty.” (57:21)
Abû Dharr t narrated that Allâh’s Messenger r said that Allâh, the Most High, says, “My servants. All of you are astray except him whom I have guided, but if you ask Me for guidance I will guide you. All of you are poor except him whom I have enriched, but if you ask of Me, I will give you provision. All of you are sinners except him whom I have preserved (from sin), but if any of you knows that I have power to pardon and asks my pardon, I will pardon him, and I do not care.... My giving is speech and my punishment is speech. My command to a thing when I want it is just to say to it ‘Be’ and it comes into being.” (Tirmidhî 2344, Ahmad and Ibn Mâjah)
For those who embrace Islâm, it is Sunnah that after their sincere declaration of the Shahadah, we should instruct them to supplicate to Allâh for His forgiveness, mercy, guidance and sustenance:
Abu Malik Ashja`i t narrated that whenever a person embraced Islâm, Allâh’s Messengerr instructed him to recite: "O Allâh, grant me pardon, have mercy upon me, direct me to the path of righteousness and provide me sustenance.” (Muslim 6514)

30. When the lecture or program is over, it is Sunnah to conclude it with supplication. When we finish our Da’wah session (or gathering), it is a Sunnah to conclude it with the following supplication:
“Subhannaka Allâhumma wa bihamdik. Ashado a la_ ilaha illa_ ant. Astaghfiruka wa atowbo ilaik.” (How perfect you are O Allâh and I praise You. None has the right to be worshipped except You. I seek Your forgiveness and turn in repentance to You.)” (Tirmidhî 3/153)
Concluding Remarks
It is worth pointing out that public speaking is an art, and its success depends on the individual’s knowledge and mastery of the subject. Being an art, it can be rendered in any way suitable to the given occasion but it must be done in conformity with the Qur’ân and the Sunnah. All the principles of effective public speaking cited in this paper prove that indeed Islâm is the complete and perfect religion. We need not look for any ideal effective public speaker because Prophet Muhammad r is the best model for us. It is true that some individuals rose to fame and power because of their eloquent speeches. However, their speeches are not necessarily acceptable to Allâh I. For one thing a public speaker will succeed only if he does it for the pleasure of Allâh I, and not for Riah (showing off). Let us not emulate those people who speak eloquently only to impress people and receive punishment in the Hell-Fire. Let us take warning from the following divine admonitions:
“There is the type of man whose speech about this world's life may dazzle you and he calls Allâh to witness about what is in his heart; yet is he the most contentious of enemies. When he turns his back his aim everywhere is to spread mischief through the earth and destroy crops and cattle. But Allâh loves not mischief. When it is said to him ‘Fear Allâh’ he is led by arrogance to (more) crime. Enough for him is Hell; an evil bed indeed (to lie on)!” (2: 204-206)
Abu Hurairah narrated that the Prophet r said: “On the Day of resurrection Allâh will not accept repentance or ransom from him who learns excellence of speech to captivate thereby the hearts of men, or of people.” (Abu Dawud 4988)
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