Page 46 - Communication and Argument in the Qur'an

44 COMMUNICATION AND ARGUMENT IN THE QUR’AN

That is why most people avoid Muslims who are morally
upright and sincere but have no power; but instead admire
and try to emulate coarse, immoral people just because of
their wealth. But this “psychological” advantage of the
unbelievers may benefit the believers when they are seen
to be richer and more splendid than the unbelievers.
This is one of the reasons why the Qur’an emphasizes
Sulayman’s (as) power and wealth and how he used them
to communicate the faith. The Qur’an describes the Queen
of Sheba’s submission and how greatly she was affected
by his wealth:
She was told: “Enter the courtyard.” But when she saw
it, she supposed it to be a pool and bared her legs. He
said: “It is a courtyard paved with glass.” She said: “O
my Lord, I have wronged myself, but I have submitted
with Sulayman to the Lord of all the worlds.” (Surat an-
Naml: 44)
To use the blessings that Allah has given as a means to
familiarize people with the Qur’an’s moral teachings is an
act of worship. This was the purpose of several works of
art commissioned by Sulayman (as). Following in his path,
other believers may also use their power and wealth as
effective means to acquaint people with religion.

6. Asking the people for their opinions
Remember that communication is not just “giving infor-
mation.” Those who seek to communicate the message
must know other people’s ideas, answer their questions,
and provide proof to remove any mental reservations. For