Dubai: Prominent Muslim Scholar and Motivational Speaker from Zimbabwe, Ismail Ibn Musa Menk, launched his second book “Motivational Moments II” in Dubai on Saturday.
In a simple launch affair, Mufti Menk spoke about his motivational book and its contents. Mufti Menk decided to release a sequel regarding the hugely popular compilation of his own quotes “Motivational Moments” (500-quote compilation), which was first published in 2017.
The book was launched in association with BookKonceptz Dubai, the exclusive global distributor of both his books. The launch was a grand success and despite being a private gathering, the ballroom was packed and there was an overwhelming response by the well-wishers. People were also given the opportunity to meet and greet Mufti Menk during the book signing session. For easy access, the e-books are also available online for people to download.
Mufti Menk is a leader in a multi-faith country, who strives to create a better understanding between people of different faiths, cultures, races and inclinations. He has endeared himself to millions of people of all walks of life by keeping his quotes as real as possible “cutting across all faiths”. His much loved annual lecture series, a Mufti Menk trademark has also gained popularity. He travels the world spreading a simple but profound message: “Do good, help others while preparing for the Hereafter”.
He is active in the international arena and is a strong proponent of peace and justice, guiding people away from terrorism and extremism.
His personable style and down to earth approach has made him one of the most sought-after scholars in our time. A unique quality he possesses is his preparedness to embrace positive change and accept correction. Urging Muslims to tackle growing Islamophobia with positivity, Mufti says: “There is no quick fix for Islamophobia. We need to continuously and consistently promote the goodness, the tolerance, harmony and positive messages of Islam to prove that those small numbers who are perpetrating crimes in the name of Islam are actually not following the true teachings of Islam.”
Mufti Menk respects all sects of religion. He believes that for a peaceful world everyone should work together towards achieving it. Apart from differentiating people based on caste, one should focus more on coexistence for a better nation.
“I have read a lot of books by non-Muslims, but I realized that fewer non-Muslims read books written by Muslim. I thought this must change, and that there needs to be a topic of relevance, which is written in a way that takes into consideration all of humanity because people across the globe are brothers and sisters in humanity”
Mufti Menk uses Social Media consistently to guide people of all faiths towards great mannerisms and beautiful conduct, reaching out to one another, respect and tolerance and for a non-judgemental attitude. He has almost 9 million followers across social media. A quick search revealed that he has a large number of prominent non-Muslim followers. His retweets, likes, shares, and views usually go into the millions. Due to its huge success, Menk decided to compile his ideas and turn it into a book.
“I now have thousands of quotes, as I write three to four quotes on a daily basis. These are based on the work I do as a life coach and counsellor. And because I am involved in social guidance for many years now, it has given me a chance to meet innumerable people with different issues. 95 to 98 per cent of the quotes are relevant to people of all faiths, inclinations and races.”
The content of the book includes quotes based on the happenings of any day or week in Mufti’s life. He then divided the quotes based on various themes. In the first book, the themes included patience, tackling sadness, forgiveness, love, loyalty, repentance, career, kindness and self-worth. In accordance with the first part, the second book also reflects similar themes, such as hope, patience, forgiveness, sincerity and repentance. The second book also includes a small section of quotes from Mufti Menk’s followers on social media.
Some of the famous quotes by Mufti Menk are:
“Stop judging and questioning someone’s intention. So much goodwill is lost when we do that. Instead, be honest and try to empathise with people. Always think good thoughts and follow through with good actions. It makes for a much more pleasant life all around!”
“When you want to correct others, you have to do it gently without being distasteful. Sometimes when you give advice, people become more aggressive & even worse off than they were before you gave them advice because of the way you did it. Choose the kindest words and be sincere!”
“There’s no room for arrogance in your heart. Don’t ever feel the need to look down on someone, not for anything that the Almighty has bestowed on you; wealth, status, power, children, good looks etc. Remember the Lord of the Worlds can change your fortune in the blink of an eye”
“At times, we condemn good people because we disagree with them over a few issues. We refuse to see the good they’re doing. Disagreements do not automatically make a person extreme, bad or evil. Learn to distinguish between the one who respectfully disagrees & the one who is evil!”
“Don’t let past mistakes make you lose hope of achieving good. Some of those with the worst past have made a great future for themselves.”
“Obstacles on our path are some of the tests of life. They make us stronger, better people and open up doors we had never imagined.”
According to Mufti, both his books are a must read because he believes that all the themes in the book are needed by humanity today. One is in search of contentment, happiness, motivation constantly. We want solutions to our issues, and to get rid of our sadness. For such inspirational rejuvenation, Motivational Moments (I and II) are a must read.
Mufti Menk’s witty comments and open-minded and friendly approach makes him very popular among his students. Many young scholars have been inspired by his style, approach and way of delivering messages which are always consistent and presented in a very approachable manner.
The online hashtag #lovepreacher brings up most of Mufti Menk’s teachings. This speaks volumes about his concerted effort and dedication to combatting hate and whatever is associated with it.
Mufti Menk has played a pivotal role in the global war on extremism by maintaining a very balanced approach and educating the Muslims who look up to him regarding their duty to respect people of other faiths and inclinations.
Mufti Menk says humanity has more in common than differences and there is a need to focus more on its common heritage.
Mufti Menk is named as one of the ‘Top 500 Most Influential Muslims’ in the World by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre based in Jordan.
Mufti Menk holds a Doctorate degree in Social Guidance from Aldersgate University which was awarded to him in lieu of achievements in his professional journey, exceptional intellectual and artistic achievements and his extraordinary contributions to the society.