The Prophet’s Gentle Manner of Speaking

📖Sahih al-Bukhari 6031
Narrated Anas bin Malik: The Prophet (ﷺ) was not one who would abuse (others) or say obscene words, or curse (others), and if he wanted to admonish anyone of us, he used to say: “What is wrong with him, his forehead be dusted!”

Explanation:

This hadith presents the noble character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The Prophet (ﷺ) refrained from using harsh language, abuse, or cursing, even when he needed to correct or admonish someone. His words were always gentle, and he would never humiliate others by insulting them, When he needed to address someone’s behavior or provide a correction, he would do so in a way that maintained the dignity of the individual. The phrase “What is wrong with him, his forehead be dusted!” was a gentle expression used to indicate disapproval without resorting to harshness. This was a way of admonishing without belittling. It shows that correction should always be accompanied by compassion, and it’s important to avoid verbal abuse or any form of insult.

1. No Abuse or Obscenity: The Prophet (ﷺ) never resorted to abusive language, obscenities, or cursing others. This shows us the importance of maintaining respect even when faced with difficult situations.

2. Gentle Admonishment: The phrase “What is wrong with him, his forehead be dusted!” is a gentle way of pointing out someone’s mistake. It’s a form of correction that doesn’t degrade the individual.

3. Dignity in Correction: Instead of humiliating people, the Prophet (ﷺ) would correct them in a manner that preserved their dignity. This is a reminder that admonishment should be done with kindness and not with the intention to shame.

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Quranic Context:

📖Quran 16:125
“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best.”
This verse emphasizes the need for wisdom and good instruction when addressing others, aligning with the Prophet’s (ﷺ) way of admonishing gently, without resorting to harsh words or insults.

📖Quran 41:34
“Good and evil are not equal. Repel [evil] by that which is better, and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity will be as though he was a devoted friend.”
This verse shows the power of responding with kindness in the face of hostility, turning enemies into friends. It aligns with the Prophet’s (ﷺ) approach of responding to wrongdoers with gentleness, avoiding harsh language and insults.

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What We Learn:

1. Kindness: The Prophet (ﷺ) demonstrated that gentleness is more effective than harshness in guiding others. Correcting others with kindness is more likely to inspire positive change.
2. Avoiding Harmful Language: The hadith teaches us that words have power. We should be cautious of how we speak, ensuring that we avoid harmful or abusive language, even when offering advice or corrections.
3. Dignity and Respect: Whether in correction or interaction, maintaining the dignity of others is paramount. The Prophet (ﷺ) was a role model in this, showing us how to treat others with respect at all times.
4. Promoting Good Over Evil: The Qur’an aligns with the Prophet’s example by urging us to respond to evil with what is better, emphasizing the importance of kindness over harshness.