# Al-Daie

Al-Daie (Arabic: الداعي) is a monthly Arabic magazine that began as a biweekly newspaper in 1976, succeeding Da'watul Haq from Darul Uloom Deoband. It was initially edited by Wahiduzzaman Kairanawi under the supervision of Qari Muhammad Tayyib. In 1993, during the tenure of Noor Alam Khalil Amini as editor, it transitioned into a monthly magazine, with Amini's nearly four-decade-long leadership shaping its expanded scope. The magazine primarily serves to highlight the role of Deoband's scholars and graduates, reflecting the perspectives of the Deobandi movement. Arif Jameel Mubarakpuri is the current editor, with Abul Qasim Nomani overseeing its publication.

## Birth and rise

Darul Uloom Deoband launched this magazine on 10 July 1976 (11 Rajab 1396 AH) following the cessation of the institution's first Arabic magazine, Da'watul Haq. Initially edited by Wahiduzzaman Kairanawi, who had also served as the editor of Da'watul Haq, his tenure was brief, and he was succeeded by his student Badrul Hasan Qasmi. Under Qasmi, the magazine published special editions, including one commemorating the centenary of Darul Uloom Deoband. The magazine faced a temporary suspension after the 1980 celebrations due to disruptions within the institution. In 1982, Noor Alam Khalil Amini, a former student of Kairanawi and a journalist from Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama, was appointed as editor-in-chief. Under Amini, the magazine transitioned from an 8-page biweekly newspaper to a 50-page monthly magazine by August 1993, adopting the Quranic verse from An-Nahl (16:125) as its slogan. Amini's editorship included changes in content, style, and printing quality. After Amini's passing, the advisory committee appointed Arif Jameel Mubarakpuri as the new editor in October 2021, and Al-Daie continues to be available online via the institution's official website.

## Focus and framework

The magazine focuses on raising awareness of Islamic principles, addressing challenges faced by Muslims worldwide, and promoting mutual understanding between Arab and non-Arab communities. It emphasizes the promotion of the Arabic language, the dissemination of Islamic teachings, and discussions on religious texts while addressing misconceptions and contemporary issues. The magazine also highlights the relevance of Islamic traditions and their continuity through early generations of Muslims. Its content includes sections such as the Editor's Note, which covers current issues affecting Muslim societies, and the Feature Article, which discusses Islamic values and ethics. Other sections include Islamic Thought and Islamic Studies, which present translations, theology, and Islamic beliefs, while Islamic Literature focuses on efforts to Islamic literary traditions. Additionally, the magazine features reflective articles in Spotlight and provides updates on local events and activities in Islamic educational institutions.

## Researchers' views

Researchers from various academic institutions have commented on the magazine. Zikrullah Arabi from Maulana Azad National Urdu University referred to it as a significant publication in the Indian subcontinent and noted its focus on addressing intellectual challenges. Habib Shahidul Islam and Hafizur Rahman from Gauhati University discussed its role in promoting the Arabic language, with Rahman mentioning its continuation of work previously undertaken by Da'watul Haq. Farid Uddin Ahmed of Cotton University commented on its role in Islamic and literary fields, while Obaidur Rahman from Banaras Hindu University observed its adherence to the legacy of Wahiduzzaman Kairanawi. Muhammadullah Khalili Qasmi, historiographer of Darul Uloom Deoband, and Nayab Hasan Qasmi, author of Darul Uloom Deoband Ka Sahafati Manzarnama, noted its position among Arabic magazines, with Hasan referencing its engagement with media discourse and its connection between Arab and non-Arab Muslim communities. Qamruzzaman from Aligarh Muslim University described it as a reflection of Darul Uloom Deoband's outlook. Anees Alangadan from Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala, highlighted its content's focus on Islamic themes. Sarwar Alam Nadwi from Aligarh Muslim University remarked on its writing style and its reception in different communities. Abdur Rahman from Jawaharlal Nehru University referred to its style, objectives, and coverage of Arab issues.

## Worldwide reach

It has been acknowledged across the Muslim world for its focus on Islamic scholarship, cultural exchange, and developing connections among Muslim communities. Ziyauddinkhan ibn Ishan Babakhan, former president of the Spiritual Administration of the Muslims of Central Asia and Kazakhstan, recognized its efforts in promoting understanding and solidarity among Muslims globally. Ahmed Abdul Qadir, Dean at King Abdulaziz University, noted its focus on Islamic principles and its analysis of issues within the Muslim world. Abd al-Fattah Sa'id of Manar al-Islam, published by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, highlighted its role in Islamic propagation and the promotion of the Arabic language in the Indian subcontinent. Abdulaziz Bin Abdullah Al-Khwaiter [ar], a member of Saudi Arabia's Council of Ministers, referred to its quality and the presence of esteemed writers. Bahraini scholar Qasim Yusuf al-Shaykh observed its engagement with the spirit of Islam and intellectual discussions.