This book chronicles the fascinating story of South African Muslim preacher Ahmad Deedat, from his days working in a remote rural grocery shop to become a figure of great renown in many parts of the Muslim world. By the 1980’s, crowds in their thousands were cramming into lecture halls to hear him speak. Always eager to challenge and debate, Deedat confronted leading evangelical Christians on their interpretations of biblical teachings, often on their own turf. Hundreds of thousands of his pamphlets, books, videos and audio recordings have circulated globally.
In the pages of this book, the life’s work of one of South Africa’s most well known and controversial Muslims is recounted in detail. It explains how, in the Muslim world, Deedat became a highly revered figure. Offering new insights to anyone whose life has already been touched by Deedat, this book also provides a wealth of information for anyone interested in the message of Islam, in interfaith dialogue, in religious polemics, or in the less documented aspects of South African and anti-colonial history.
About Sheikh Ahmad Deedat
Sheikh Ahmed Hoosen Deedat passed away on the morning of Monday 8th August 2005. He was a remarkable individual who was responsible for inspiring so many people to become better, confident and stronger Muslims. He had been bedridden since suffering a double stroke in May 1996, and was also left speechless as a result. He endured suffering with patience and gratitude to Allah and whilst in this state, still continued his efforts to further the cause of Islam. His career in the field of Comparative Religion took him across five continents where he engaged in constructive dialogue with the heads of the Protestant world and even the late Pope John Paul II.
His fearless courage, aptitude and determination are just some of the many qualities he leaves behind in his legacy. He was 88 years old and is survived by his wife, son and grandchildren. May Allah (swt) bless his soul, accept his efforts for the cause of da’wah, grant patience to his loved ones and reward him with the highest station in Paradise, Al-Firdaws.