Sunnats and Aadaab of Speech – Part 14

1. Do not enter into arguments with people. In a discussion, if people disagree with your viewpoint, then do not argue with them in trying to prove your viewpoint.

عن أنس رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: من ترك الكذب وهو باطل بني له في ربض الجنة ومن ترك المراء وهو محق بني له في وسطها ومن حسن خلقه بني له في أعلاها (سنن الترمذي، الرقم: 1993)

Hazrat Anas (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said, “The one who refrains from speaking lies (for the sake of Allah Ta‘ala) while he is on baatil (i.e. he is on the wrong), Allah Ta‘ala will bless him with a palace in the side of Jannah. The one who leaves out disputing and arguing for the sake of Allah Ta‘ala while he is on Haqq, Allah Ta‘ala will bless him with a palace in the centre of Jannah. The one who improves his character (with people for the sake of Allah Ta‘ala),  Allah Ta‘ala will bless him with a palace in the upper portion of Jannah (highest rank of Jannah).”

Imaam Maalik (rahimahullah) said, “Arguing and quarrelling while discussing the masaail of deen causes the light of ilm to be lost from the heart of a servant. Imaam Maalik (rahimahullah) was then asked that if a person has the knowledge of the sunnah, can he debate and argue with people in trying to protect the sunnah. Imaam Maalik (rahimahullah) replied, “No, he should not debate and argue. Rather, he should inform the people of the sunnah (and explain it to them in a clear manner). If they accept what he says, then well and good, otherwise he should remain silent.” (Awjazul Masaalik vol.1 pg. 15)