GOD-FEARING SPEECH
Prophetic Model of Speaking
THE Prophet Muhammad used to be very clear in his speech. He would utter words slowly, in a careful and considered tone. He spoke distinctly, clearly and in a way that everyone could understand. This is how the Prophet’s widow Aisha described her late husband’s manner of speech to those who had not heard him: “The Prophet would not speak fast as you people do. He used to pause in between sentences, giving people time to memorize what he had said.” (Zad al-Ma’ad by Ibn al-Qayyim)
She also said that the Prophet used to talk in such a way that one could have counted his words had one so desired. The Prophet never uttered any vulgar expressions. He never attempted to do so. He also avoided speaking loudly in marketplaces so as not to disturb the people. When he had to speak about the unpleasant aspect of something, he used to express it with an allegory. When it was necessary, he would repeat the important sentences three times during his speech.
A believer is restrained in his speech; he thinks before he speaks; he weighs his words carefully before presenting his ideas to his listeners. Fear of God takes away his loquacity
The Prophet’s manner of speech should act as a model for all believers. Who is a believer? He is one who fears God, knows that the angels are recording his every word. Aware of the fact that he will have to answer to God for everything he says, he assumes a deep sense of responsibility. When he speaks, it is as if he is addressing a divine and angelic company. He is restrained in his speech; he thinks before he speaks; he weighs his words carefully before presenting his ideas to his listeners. Fear of God takes away his loquacity. Fear of the Hereafter, and of being answerable to God for his words, dampen his oratorical zeal.
A person beset by intense feelings of this nature adopts a serious, sober manner of address, like that of the Prophet as described by his wife Aisha.