In the Name of Allāh.
It is critically important for us to follow the guidance of our beloved Prophet (ﷺ), particularly in today’s world of social media, where disputes and arguments seem to escalate rapidly. With everyone striving to prove their point, many arguments are often accompanied by insults, defamation, and falsehoods, merely to achieve fleeting victories.
Why should we engage in these needless back-and-forth disputes that only drive us apart? Once an issue has been addressed, what is the purpose of revisiting it? Remember that Allāh’s Messenger (ﷺ) has promised rewards for those who choose to refrain from arguments and concentrate on improving their character instead.
Abū Umāmah reported: The Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ) said, “I guarantee a house on the outskirts of Paradise for one who leaves arguments even if he is right, and a house in the middle of Paradise for one who abandons lies even when joking, and a house in the highest part of Paradise for one who makes his character excellent.” [Sunan Abī Dāwūd 4800]
Individuals lacking proper manners regarding knowledge often engage in unproductive arguments that breed sectarianism and transgression against their fellow Muslims. Typically, disagreements arise when a person believes they are right while claiming others are wrong, thinking themselves more guided. What is the value of one’s faith if one’s focus is on disputing about the truth rather than practicing it? If a point needs to be made, it should be articulated clearly, wisely, and humbly, without resorting to argumentation.
The Prophet (ﷺ), with his great wisdom, warned against debates in matters of religion, as they can lead to animosity and misguidance. Abū Umāmah (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “No people are led astray after being guided but that they indulged in arguments.” He then recited the verse, “They strike an example for you only to argue. Rather, they are a quarrelsome people.” (Sūrah Az-Zukhruf (43): 58). [Sunan At-Tirmidhī 3253]
The true hallmark of a believer lies not in the ability to win arguments but in the capacity to win hearts through humility, compassion, and mercy. Let us aspire to embody these virtues in our interactions with others. Let us heed the wisdom of our Prophet (ﷺ) and strive to refrain from arguments and disputes, especially in matters of faith. Instead, let us work towards embracing his teachings and developing a character that is pleasing to Allāh, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
I beseech Allāh to aid us in abandoning baseless and unproductive arguments and to help us embody noble qualities. Aameen.
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