This is one of the most ignored subjects in our lives. Most of us either think that this is too small a subject to pay attention to; or we are unaware of the importance given to this by Islam. But, if we read and understand Qur’an, we will come to know that Allah is very particular about this subject. In order to understand it clearly here are some of the quranic verses related to the ethics of conversation
Speak In Gentle Voice:Be modest in your walk and lower your voice. No doubt, harshest of all voices is the braying of the ass.(31:19)
Respond the evil with something far better:Repel evil with that which is better. We are best Aware of that which they say.(23:96)
Repelling evil with something best will convert enmity into fast friendship: The good deed and the evil deed are not alike. Repel the evil deed with one which is better, then notice how someone between whom and you there was enmity (will become) as though he was a bosom friend.(41:34). But none is granted it except those who are steadfast, and none is granted it except the luckiest.(41:35)
Ladies should not act too differential while talking to others to avoid inducing doubt of intimacy: In Quran (33:32) O you wives of the Prophet! You are not like any other women. If you keep your duty (to Allah), then be not soft of speech, lest some one whose heart contains malice may thereby be encouraged, but utter customary speech.
Polite conversation is better than any act of charity: A polite conversation with forgiveness is better than act of charity followed by scolding. Allah is Transcendent, Lenient.(2:263)
Try to intiate courtesy greetings otherwise reply it in even better terms saying”WAALAYKUM ALSALAM WA RAHAMA ALLAH WA BARAKATUH”(May the blessing, mercy and the grace of Allah be upon you) And when those who believe in our revelations come to you, say:Peace be upon you! Your Lord has Prescribed for Himself mercy,(6:54) When a (courteous) greeting is offered to you then answer back with still more courteous greetings or (at least) return it in equal manner Allah take careful count of all things.(4:86)
Use proper words of respect while talking with Allah’s Messenger: Use proper words of respect while addressing the venerable Make not the calling of the messenger among you as your calling one of other. Allah knows those of you who try to slip away, hiding themselves. And let those who conspire to evade orders beware lest grief or painful punishment befalls them.(24:63) Thus We do expound the revelations that the way of the unrighteous may be manifest.(6:55).
Private talking in gatherings: It was narrated that Abdullah Ibn Umar (RA)said: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “If you are three, two should not converse privately to the exclusion of the third, until some other people join you, because that will make him sad.” Book of The Greetings, Sahih Muslim, Vol. 6: Hadith No. 2184 (Book 26, 5422)
We should always talk truth. The conversation should be true, straight and without any deception. Refer to two ayath from the Qur’an given below:
“O you who believe! Keep your duty to Allah & fear Him, and speak (always) the truth.” Qur’an Surah Al-Ahzab (33:70) “And mix not the truth with falsehood, nor conceal the truth while you know.” Qur’an Surah Al-Baqarah, (2:42)