The way to unity

The biggest threat to Islam is neither secularism nor Christianity but preachers like Dr Zakir Naik, who argue without knowing the basic principles of the religion ("Secularism a threat to Islam, Naik says", Gulf News, August 23). According to him, "if you know just one word" you preach and no further qualification is needed. Strangely enough he suggests the sole solution for Muslim unity is to go directly to the Quran and the Hadith. The way to unity is to follow the rich traditions of Islam. The Quran and Sunnah need sound and profound scholarship to understand and interpret correctly. It is shocking to hear him say: "Every Muslim should be a terrorist to the anti-Muslim racist." It is not Islamic at all and goes against the teachings of the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). None should be terrified to see a Muslim. But everyone should be captivated and attracted by their noble character. Islam has spread across the world by the sublime qualities of its followers and not by hateful words or dreadful swords.

From Mr Mohammad Baqavi Maniyour, Ajman

Spread the word

I do not believe that being qualified makes a preacher more reliable. At least not in the case of Islam where spreading the word of the religion is everyone’s responsibility. Dr Zakir Naik is straightforward and refers to the two main authentic sources of Islam — the Quran and Sunnah, the practices of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). As a Muslim, listening to his lectures has always made me proud of my religion and wanting to learn more!

From Ms Haifa Hydrose, Dubai

Being united

I completely support and appreciate Dr Zakir Naik’s preaching and work towards Islam. He is one of the finest and knowledgeable men in today’s world, and is looked upon with tremendous respect. He is a great preacher and sets an example that preaching is not confined to any formal education. His work and research prove that he is immensely dedicated towards his work. Unity holds its importance in every
aspect and thus I feel that Muslims should be united, too. According to me “blind belief”, without knowing or trying to know the actual truth between people, is the biggest hurdle in unity — be it blind belief of religion, faith or community. There are many other factors that affect unity. Being united in whatever situation or condition is the key to success and I wish that every Muslim would be a part of it.

From Ms Asma, Dubai

Do not mock them

Whatever the case and however passionately he [Dr Zakir Naik] speaks, the fact remains that all the good that is said can be eradicated by making one offensive comment. It goes against the very basis of Islam. To state that the product of Christianity is “zero” is a contradiction of what Islam is about.

To state this is to defame pre-existing religions and deny their relevance.

All religions are relevant to their followers. The products of religion, as I know it, are to honour, love and obey the Almighty. I would not call this, in any way, a “zero” product. Dr Naik’s teachings may have gone down a much longer and successful path among non-Muslims had he reached out to them instead of [employing] mockery.

From Ms Umm Ali, Dubai


Freedom of speech

I believe Dr Zakir Naik is not a scholar but just a crowd-puller. He has no right to disgrace or offend any other religion. Mother Teresa and Father Damien are Christians, did their faith contribute nothing? And what is Dr Naik doing for society? I am a Hindu and his comments are offensive to me, too. Secularism is what gives you freedom to deliver speech in India.

From Mr Vinod, Dubai

Don’t be afraid

I simply request all the readers who have commented on this article [on the Gulf News website], to attend one of Dr Zakir Naik’s lectures. It is an open platform to ask your questions, rather than posting comments and hiding your identity — many of the
comments are anonymous. What are you scared of ? Ask him directly and don’t be scared.

From Mr Syed Nadeem, Dubai

Clear picture

I think Dr Zakir Naik is doing nothing but a media stunt to convert people to Islam. Rather than telling them the truth about a religion as wonderful as Islam, he derogates other religions and makes fake references to the Bible or Vedas. He doesn’t know the depth of other religions. He never leaves a clear picture.

From Ms Sahaj Bisaria, Sharjah

Avid follower

Dr Zakir Naik is a straightforward person and always tries to bring people on the right track with great evidence. I have been listening to and watching his speeches on the internet. Many non-Muslims have also heard about him and asked about his personality. We thank Gulf News for conducting and publishing an interview with him, which will provide a chance to non- Muslims worldwide to know more about the person who is facing a ban in the UK.

From Mr Syed Ali, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia