Calling with Wisdom: Reviving Suhrawardi’s Legacy in Modern Times

Introduction

The 8^th of Mordad (30^th July) commemorates the life and thought of Shihab al-Din Suhrawardi, a pivotal figure in Islamic philosophy who introduced the profound school of Illuminationism. Philosophy, in the Islamic tradition, is not merely abstract thought, it is a disciplined way of seeking understanding through structured reasoning and respectful dialogue. This Qur’anic worldview is beautifully encapsulated in Surah Al-Nahl, verse 125, which outlines the core principles of persuasive and ethical communication: wisdom (ḥikmah), gentle counsel, and the best form of argumentation:

ادْعُ إِلَىٰ سَبِيلِ رَبِّكَ بِالْحِكْمَةِ وَالْمَوْعِظَةِ الْحَسَنَةِ وَجَادِلْهُم بِالَّتِي هِيَ أَحْسَنُ

“Call to the path of your Lord with wisdom and good advice, and argue with them in the best manner.”

Educational messages of the Ayah for teenagers and youth

1. Speak with Wisdom, Not Just Emotion

Being right is not enough, how you express your truth matters just as much.

Challenge: The next time you feel misunderstood, take a moment to express your view calmly and clearly, without sarcasm or anger.

2. Debating with Dignity

Your Islamic identity is not weakened by hearing opposing views, it is strengthened by responding with logic and grace.

Challenge: Participate in a respectful discussion this week with someone who disagrees with you and practise listening before answering.

3. The Power of Gentle Words

A calm and kind tone in speech softens hearts and builds bridges in difficult conversations.

Challenge: Choose one tense conversation this week and practise lowering your voice and softening your words throughout.

4. Revive the Art of Meaningful Advice

Calling others towards goodness requires sincere counsel that inspires, not shames.

Challenge: Offer one piece of heartfelt advice this week that focuses on someone’s potential, not their failure.

5. Think, Reason, Explain

Islamic discourse should not rely on authority alone; sound reasoning strengthens both faith and persuasion.

Challenge: Pick one Islamic belief or practice and try to explain it rationally in your own words to someone interested.

Educational messages of the Ayah for parents

1. Nurture Reasoning, Not Just Obedience

Raising children with ḥikmah means explaining the wisdom behind Islamic values, not just enforcing rules.

Challenge: Choose one Islamic value this week (e.g., honesty) and explain its long-term benefit to your child in an open conversation.

2. Create a Culture of Calm Dialogue at Home

A peaceful home is built when parents practise the same respectful tone they want to see in their children.

Challenge: When faced with disobedience, model calm reasoning instead of frustration.

3. Empower Critical Thinking in Children

Let your child ask questions about religion, life, and ethics, and guide them through thoughtful responses rooted in Islamic principles.

Challenge: This week, ask your child if there’s something in religion, they find confusing or difficult, and explore the answer together.

Educational messages of the Ayah for imams and religious leaders

1. Teach the Method, Not Just the Message

Equip your communities with the how of dialogue: using logic, compassion, and beauty in expressing Islamic beliefs.

Challenge: Prepare a sermon or study session that focuses on the Qur’anic method of reasoning and engagement.

2. Integrate Philosophy into Public Understanding of Islam

Like Suhrawardi, make space for reflective, philosophical thinking within your Islamic teaching.

Challenge: Introduce one philosophical question into your next class or khutbah to stimulate deeper understanding.

3. Be a Model of Polite Disagreement

Your approach in interfaith or intra-Muslim dialogue should demonstrate the Qur’an’s instruction to argue in the best way.

Challenge: In your next interaction with a differing viewpoint, consciously avoid polemics and emphasise common values.