Before speaking
Clear good, or silence
Ask whether the words are true, useful and appropriate in timing and manner. When harm is likely to outweigh benefit, silence is safer.
This includes messages, comments and reposts. Writing is communication whose effects may remain.
﴿مَا يَلْفِظُ مِنْ قَوْلٍ إِلَّا لَدَيْهِ رَقِيبٌ عَتِيدٌ﴾
Quran 50:18Read the English meaning ↗Faith in relationships
Neighbours and guests
Begin by avoiding harm to neighbours, then offer kindness according to ability and sound custom. Honour guests without extravagance or burdensome display.
Different personalities do not cancel rights. Hospitality does not require allowing exploitation or harm.
Read carefully
Boundaries of understanding and application
Silence is not always rightSpeech may be required to protect a right or teach an obligation.
Hospitality within meansGive without borrowing for display or competing in extravagance.
Boundaries are permittedPreventing harm does not contradict good neighbourliness.
Lesson summary
What to remember
- 1Weigh words before sharing.
- 2Writing is included.
- 3Avoiding harm comes first.
- 4Combine kindness with sound boundaries.
Quick questions
What three questions help before speaking?+
Is it true, useful and appropriate?
What is the first duty towards a neighbour?+
Avoid causing harm.