After his death i read ,watched every things about him (his biography moonwalk was surprised me it amazing ). I am still in grief its very pain full for me and really don’t know why. Allah bless him. ameen

Karachi / Pakistan

There have indeed been general public misconceptions over the years that my writings (in particular my spiritual hymns) were done as acts of religious propagation or as “alternatives” to “mainstream music”. It has been my ongoing effort for a decade or more to quell these misconceptions in my lectures, in forums such as these, and in some cases by actually revamping my poetry and song lyrics. I write poetry to express and sort out my own feelings/thoughts, only deciding to share my work when I suspect that others may be able to identify with the sentiments I have expressed… then, God willing, be inspired to further their own personal spiritual journies.

To my understanding the Arabic word “dawa” is about “invitation” – an invitation not simply to a spiritual community or religious institution, but an invitation (aimed at individuals) towards a fundamental higher consciousness of humankind’s relationship to/with The Creator. Hence, we read that Muhammad, upon whom be peace, “invited” others to better understand the oneness of God, and not simply to join a specific religious community. Communities based on similar or like-minded goals and action are, in my opinion, a bonus blessing to the positivity that comes from individuals who take social and spiritual responsibility in their own lives.

Most certainly my songs and poetry are often the result of my personal reflections about God and my life – in turn becoming “invitations” to help others reflect in like fashion. But, they are in no way intended to be overt or covert “hooks” of conversion, aiming to have listeners join the path of spirituality I stumble upon in my own simple life.

“Invitation” or “dawa” is what I do every second that I am awake. My whole life and career are about inviting others towards “entering into peace” (the literal meaning of the Arabic gerund “islam”) through personal assessment, mediation, prayer and service to God through serving humanity.

If the public has misunderstood this about me or my work…well, I guess that is testimony to my imperfection as a human being or weakness as a writer. It is also testimony to perhaps why it is stated in the Qur’an that, it is the “misguided” who follow “the poets” and not The Creator.

Zakir Naik has been the gracious backer of a 30 part television series for children that my good friend Zain Bhikha and I have produced for his Peace TV channel in Mumbai. If I am able, I will review the lecture you have suggested or speak to Mr. Naik personally about your thoughts when he and I are next in conversation.

- DW

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I’m sorry if i have misunderstood your comments but I find this statement of yours rather ironic :

“My approach to faith does not include concepts of “conversion/reversion” or “propagation”, so the very idea that I would have even tried to “convert” Mr. Jackson (or anyone else for that mater) to my spiritual perspective, is silly.”

Because I think you are actually propagating religion through your nasheeds, and inviting people to Islam.

I really admire your work but it is disappointing to read that you don’t believe in the concept of Dawah, which is obligatory on all Muslims. I suggest you listen to Dr. Zakir Naik’s ‘Daa’wah or Destruction’ for more knowledge in this matter.

May Allah guide us all..

Wassalam.

Thank you for your question.

Though I cannot speak for Yusuf Islam, I personally did not release a public statement about the false November 2008 article (originally published in the Sun and subsequently appearing in numerous other major international papers) simply because tabloid papers, known for their poor journalism, cheap gossip and sensationalization of people’s lives, are of no interest to me.

Secondly – last year’s article appeared in the news only days before Mr. Jackson was to resolve sensitive legal matters with one of his previous financial backers. Publicly refuting the article may have only drawn more attention to the rumors surrounding Mr. Jackson’s faith – at a sensitive time for him – and been a cheap way of using his name/persona as a means of drawing attention to my own work.

Lastly – Mr. Jackson’s lawyer went on the record shortly after last year’s rumors spread and clearly stated that the initial article in the UK Sun was false. There was no need for me to say or do more. It is the responsibility of educated consumers to verify what they read – especially in poorly written tabloid papers.

With Mr. Jackson’s passing, religious communities have now shamelessly joined the media in a circus of sensationalizing his death. Out of respect to the Jackson family, and out of a desire to mourn his loss, I published this blog which I hope “clears the air” surrounding rumors of my involvement in Mr. Jackson’s religious choices.

My approach to faith does not include concepts of “conversion/reversion” or “propagation”, so the very idea that I would have even tried to “convert” Mr. Jackson (or anyone else for that mater) to my spiritual perspective, is silly. Nor is my faith validated by others who may adhere to scriptures, practices or traditions I may follow – regardless of who they are or how high profile they may be. Michael Jackson’s faith is quite plainly none of my business. I judge individuals by their actions and not by their places of worship.

My meditations, prayers and thoughts of good will go out to all of humanity – regardless of culture, creed or religious practice. As I respected Michael Jackson for his artistic abilities, positive writings and charity work – naturally he and his family are in my prayers.

- DW