Listening Attentively and Not Interrupting in Islam

Suyuti1 · Jun 07, 2025, 02:30 PM

Listening is a noble Islamic etiquette that reflects humility, respect, and good manners. Islam teaches us to be attentive and silent when others speak, especially in gatherings, seeking knowledge, or during the Qur'an's recitation.

Allah says:

وَإِذَا قُرِئَ الْقُرْآنُ فَاسْتَمِعُوا لَهُ وَأَنْصِتُوا لَعَلَّكُمْ تُرْحَمُونَ
"And when the Qur'an is recited, listen to it and be silent that you may receive mercy."
— Surah Al-A'raf (7:204)

Interrupting, cutting others off, or raising the voice out of turn is discouraged. The Prophet ﷺ was a perfect listener — patient, never interrupting, and showing full attention even to children.

He ﷺ said:

"لَيْسَ مِنَّا مَنْ لَمْ يُوَقِّرْ كَبِيرَنَا، وَيَرْحَمْ صَغِيرَنَا، وَيَعْرِفْ لِعَالِمِنَا حَقَّهُ"
"He is not of us who does not respect our elder, have mercy on our young, and recognize the right of our scholar."
— Musnad Ahmad (21992)

The Sahaba were known for listening in silence to the Prophet ﷺ. Abu Hurairah (RA) once said, "We would sit as if birds were perched on our heads."

True listening builds love, reduces arguments, and promotes understanding — it is a form of adab (manners) and a path to wisdom.

Listening Attentively and Not Interrupting in Islam

Suyuti1

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