With a heavy heart, we share the passing of Umar Abdullah, (real name Tobias Taitt) whose unwaverin dedication to dawah left an inerasable mark on countless lives. His legacy, marked by his pioneering work in street dawah and his commitment spreading Islam, will continue to resonate for years to come.
Umar’s Journey to Islam
Umar didn’t begin life as a Muslim. His real name was as Tobias Taitt, he had a challenging early life, but like so many who find Islam, those trials became the stepping stones to his personal transformation. After accepting Islam in the early 1990s, he took the name Umar Abdullah and embarked on a lifelong mission to serve Allah and spread the message of tawheed (the oneness of Allah).
For those who have had the privilege of spending time with Umar, can clearly give testimony that – his passion for Islam was palpable. His early experiences shaped his character, but rather than letting those difficulties weigh him down, he used them to fuel his drive for da’wah. He wanted others to experience the same transformative power of Islam that he had found.
A Pioneer of Street Dawah
One of Umar’s most notable contributions was the establishment of the IPO dawah stalls. These stalls became the blueprint for what we now know as da’wah tables, which have become a familiar and effective tool for spreading Islam across the UK. Through these simple setups, thousands of people were introduced to the message of Islam, and many accepted the faith.
His street da’wah was characterized by his firm adherence to tawheed and the Sunnah. Many people might not know him or may have never heard of him but he was a giant, literally (he was a big guy) and figuratively. The loss of any Muslim is a disaster: That’s part of why we say إِنَّا لِلّهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعونَ
When discussing what approach we should take since their potential needs could be almost endless he said,
“They don’t need mollycoddling. If you educate them properly in the foundations of the Deen, that’s everything they need.”
This became a cornerstone of how we approach new Muslims to this day.
Umar’s street presence was legendary. Known for his infectious smile and captivating storytelling, he had a way of engaging people that left a lasting impression. Whether it was through heartfelt conversations or humorous anecdotes, Umar had a gift for making people feel at ease, while also delivering the message of Islam with sincerity and conviction.
What We Can Learn from Umar Abdullah
There are countless lessons to be learned from Umar’s life. His dedication to da’wah, despite the challenges he faced, teaches us the importance of perseverance. He didn’t seek recognition or fame; he simply wanted to spread the truth. His work reminds us that each one of us has the power to make an impact, no matter where we come from or what our past looks like.
Umar also taught us the value of focusing on the basics. In an age where people are often overwhelmed by the many aspects of Islamic knowledge, his reminder that the foundations of the Deen – belief in one God, prayer, and the basic tenets of faith – are what matter most, is a lesson we should all carry forward.
For new Muslims especially, Umar’s approach was refreshing. He believed that if someone is taught Islam correctly from the beginning, they will have everything they need to thrive in their new faith. It’s a principle that has shaped how many of us continue to support new Muslims today.
A Strong Believer in Dawah and iERA’s Mission
Umar was a true believer in the power of da’wah. He not only set the standard for street da’wah through the IPO Dawah stalls but also supported most of our Dawah work at iERA. His passion for spreading Islam was unwavering, and he understood that da’wah wasn’t just about setting up stalls or handing out leaflets – it was about building meaningful connections and guiding people to the truth.
Over the years, Umar has worked alongside many organizations in the cause of da’wah, always giving his time, energy, and wisdom to ensure the message of Islam was being conveyed in the most effective way possible. He supported iERA’s efforts to streamline da’wah initiatives, and his contributions continue to influence the way we approach outreach work today.
A Legacy That Will Live On
Umar Abdullah, or Tobias Taitt, as he was once known, may no longer be with us, but his legacy will continue to inspire those who seek to spread the message of Islam. While we mourn his loss, we take comfort in knowing that every soul that accepted Islam through his work, every heart that was touched by his words, is a testament to the reward he will continue to receive, even in the grave.
As we say our final goodbyes, we remember that this life is temporary, and true success lies in what we leave behind for the hereafter. Umar’s legacy is one of dedication, perseverance, and unwavering faith. May Allah fill his grave with light, forgive his shortcomings, and grant him the highest ranks of Jannah.
May we all strive to follow in his footsteps, continuing the work he began and ensuring that the message of Islam reaches every corner of the world. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un – to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return.
Rest in peace, our dear brother. We will continue to honor your memory and grow your legacy. May Allah reward you for all your efforts. Ameen.
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