Interview conducted by Fattah Moeen – Freelance writer and novelist, who is currently pursuing a degree in software engineering
Mr. Raziuddin Syed has translated over 30 books, especially on Zionism, Christianity, women’s rights, and Dajjal. He started writing for periodicals from a very early age that later led him to become a research writer. Mr. Syed has worked professionally as finance and admin manager in various private companies, receiving five promotions in between. Currently, he is engaged in answering research-based queries from all over the world at Quora.
Why did you choose this particular academic line of questions and answers?
Being a Muslim, our basic duty is to promote Islam, which is the sole solution of modern day’s grave economic and social issues. As I pondered over the Quran and the Hadeeths for some years, I found myself competent enough to make the ailing society realize that the solutions to their problems are associated with Islam only.
Did your professional life help you as a Daee?
The routine I had adopted in my professional life of twenty years period included the involvement of administering the official finances. This experience plus the profound habit of my social interaction played an important role in my life as a Daee.
What is Quora? Can you describe your activities on Quora?
I came across Quora quite accidentally, while surfing through Google. I learnt that it is a nice platform, which could and should be used positively. People from all over the world of different religions and schools of thought seek answers to their questions related to the Quran, Prophet Muhammad (sa), women, world affairs, Niqab, Muslim caliphate, Quaid-e-Azam, and so on. Mostly they get satisfied with my responses and indicate that by up-voting me. Some, however, get aggressive, too.
What would you suggest to those, who are passionate about spreading the message of Islam?
First and foremost, a person needs to realize that spreading Islam is not about proving one’s point to be the correct one; rather, it is about telling the truth. Ahmed Deedat was a South African writer, who at first was not a well-educated person and was intercepted by the Christians living in South Africa. So, he started learning about the English language and Christianity himself. Through his studies, he got good grasp of the Biblical texts, which he used in the debates with the Christian missionaries and explained things in a justifiable manner. The first step is to make one’s own understanding strong. Then, personal practice of Deen is also essential. Additionally, one should have the skill to explain finely the pros and cons of any issue.
Is it obligatory on every Muslim to propogate Islam and be a preacher?
The Quran states that there must be a group among the Muslims, who remain engaged in spreading the message of Allah (swt). In fact, Islam understands the nature of humans. So this duty has been made mandatory for some of the Muslims only and excluded the rest. Daees working from different platforms should continue their struggle by strengthening the cause of Allah (swt).
How do you manage your time?
I have a clear vision of managing time. Our prayers and fasts do teach us the same. I attempt to have a balance in all spheres of life: friends, family, house chores, and Tahreeki duties – allocating each its due attention. Believe me, administration of time will give you surprising results.
What are your plans for the near future?
I still desire to do much in promoting correct knowledge and removing misconceptions about the Quran and Prophet Muhammad (sa). Therefore, I would appeal to the readers to extend their hands and make me strong enough to produce further books. The fact is that the books are, and remain, the principal source of authentic information and guidance even after the demise of the writer.
How many of your books still need publication? And in how many periodicals have you been published?
About four books are in queue but finances are the main impediment. As for your second question, I have to state that more or less in eight journals. I have also been appearing on various TV channels.
Here I wish to convey a message to the readers. Make Paradise your destination. This slogan will change your entire perception and will save you from going astray.
دھوپ بہت تھی مگرسایہ شجرمیں جمال“
“میں بیٹھتاتومیراہم سفرچلاجاتا