Page 154 - Communication and Argument in the Qur'an

152 COMMUNICATION AND ARGUMENT IN THE QUR’AN

Using a moderate tone of voice
Some people do not use the right tone of voice during
a conversation. They practically shout while making their
point, thereby intimidating, persuading, or silencing all oth-
ers in order to get the upper hand. But Muslims use a mod-
erate tone of voice:
Be moderate in your tread and lower your voice. The
most hateful of voices is the donkey’s bray. (Surah
Luqman: 19)

Speaking in a measured, polite, and
respectful manner

As befits their fine moral character, Muslims speak in a
measured, polite, and respectful manner. The other per-
son’s age, cultural level, intelligence, wealth, or poverty do
not matter, for a Muslim’s manner of speaking is not affect-
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e edge is a Knower” (Surah Yusuf: 76). In their modesty,
believers value what other people think.
Speaking about religion and sacred things
Making jokes or ironic statements about religion and
sacred things must be avoided at all costs. Those who
indulge in such practices must be interrupted, informed of
their mistake, and be warned of their grave error. Even
laughing in such instances is just as serious, and Muslims
must protest and clearly express their uneasiness if such
things occur.