God, Goats, and Government

Ahmed Deedat

Ahmed Deedat was a prominent South African Islamic preacher, writer, and public speaker known for his work in the field of comparative religion. Born on July 1, 1918, in Surat, India, Deedat moved to South Africa at a young age. He grew up in a challenging environment, and despite limited formal education, he became an influential figure in Islamic apologetics and interfaith dialogue. Deedat’s career in public speaking began in the early 1950s when he was inspired by Christian missionary activities in his region. He felt compelled to respond to what he perceived as attacks on Islam. He started delivering lectures and debates on Christianity and Islam, focusing on the Bible and the Quran. His engaging speaking style and deep knowledge of both religious texts attracted large audiences. One of Deedat’s most notable contributions was founding the Islamic Propagation Centre International (IPCI) in Durban, South Africa, in 1957. The IPCI aimed to disseminate Islamic teachings and promote understanding between Muslims and people of other faiths. Deedat wrote numerous booklets and books, including “The Choice: Islam and Christianity” and “Is the Bible God’s Word?”, which became widely popular. Deedat’s debates with Christian evangelists, such as Pastor Stanley Sjoberg, Dr. Anis Shorrosh, and Dr. Robert Douglas, gained international attention. His debates were often marked by their rigorous intellectual exchange and Deedat’s charismatic presentation style. These debates were recorded and distributed globally, further enhancing his influence. Despite facing health challenges later in life, including a severe stroke in 1996 that left him paralyzed and unable to speak, Deedat’s legacy continued through his writings, recorded debates, and the ongoing work of the IPCI. Ahmed Deedat passed away on August 8, 2005, but his impact on Islamic apologetics and interfaith dialogue remains significant. His efforts to promote understanding and defend Islam have left a lasting legacy in the Muslim world and beyond.