Language Approaches in Da’wah: A Review from an Islamic Perspective

Abstract

Language is a fundamental determinant of effectiveness in Islamic da‘wah, functioning not only as a means of conveying religious messages but also as a strategic instrument that shapes understanding, emotional response, and behavioural change among da‘wah recipients (mad‘u). This paper examines the phenomenon of da‘wah failure resulting from preachers’ inadequate mastery of language, emphasizing that ineffective da‘wah often stems not from weaknesses in religious content but from inappropriate linguistic approaches. Drawing on Qur’anic principles, Prophetic traditions, and relevant empirical studies, the discussion highlights how the use of overly technical terminology, uncontextualized Arabic expressions, harsh or judgmental language, and culturally insensitive communication can create language barriers, distort meaning, and lead to rejection of da‘wah messages. The paper further demonstrates that such linguistic challenges are particularly significant in multicultural, multilingual, and digital contexts, where audiences possess diverse educational, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds. In contrast, effective da‘wah language is grounded in Qur’anic and Prophetic values of wisdom (ḥikmah), gentleness (rifq), clarity, and contextual adaptation. Language that is simple, persuasive, relatable, and culturally responsive is shown to foster trust, enhance comprehension, and strengthen the acceptance of Islamic teachings. In the contemporary era, the study underscores the need for preachers to adapt da‘wah language to modern communication platforms, including digital and social media, to reach younger and global audiences effectively. Ultimately, this paper argues that mastery of da‘wah language is a core competency for preachers and a crucial factor in ensuring that Islamic da‘wah remains relevant, inclusive, and impactful in addressing contemporary societal challenges.