Reviving Dawah: A Pathway To Islamic Unity And Governance In The Contemporary World

Abstract

This article examines the interplay between Dawah and Islamic governance, focusing on the Rashidun Caliphate and its role in harmonizing spiritual and political leadership. The study explores how Dawah-centered governance, exemplified by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Umar ibn Khattab (RA), and Umar ibn Abdul Aziz (RA), laid the foundation for ethical statecraft and social cohesion. Insights from classical scholars such as Al-Mawardi, Al-Ghazali, and Ibn Khaldun, alongside modern thinkers like Ilyas Kandahlawi, Yusuf Kandahlawi, and Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi, further highlight the historical decline of Dawah-centric governance as a key factor in the political fragmentation of the Muslim Ummah and the rise of secular ideologies. The study hypothesizes that (1) Dawah-centric leadership is essential for sustaining spiritual unity and political authority in Islamic governance, (2) the absence of Dawah as a guiding force contributes to socio-political disintegration in Muslim societies, and (3) reviving Dawah, aligned with early Islamic principles, can address contemporary governance challenges. Employing a qualitative thematic analysis of Quranic verses, Hadith, and historical Islamic governance, the research systematically examines Dawah as a structured framework for faith, leadership, and societal justice. Using textual analysis and historical validation, the study identifies key governance principles derived from Dawah, ensuring methodological rigor through triangulation of Islamic sources.Findings reveal that Dawah was central to ethical and spiritually grounded governance during the Rashidun Caliphate, and its decline has significantly impacted Islamic political stability. The ethical leadership of Umar ibn Khattab (RA) and Umar ibn Abdul Aziz (RA) serves as a model for contemporary governance, demonstrating how integrating Dawah principles can restore ethical leadership, unity, and resilience in modern Muslim societies. By revisiting the Dawah-centric governance model, this study offers insights into addressing the socio-political challenges of the Muslim Ummah while preserving its spiritual and ideological coherence.