Deportment in Islam (ʿilmu ʾl-muʿāsharah)
Definition and Etymology
Deportment in Islam, referred to as ʿilmu ʾl-muʿāsharah (علم المعاشرة) in Arabic and nishast u barkhāst in Persian, relates to mannerisms, behavior, and social etiquette. The term ʿilmu ʾl-muʿāsharah translates to “the science of social interaction and etiquette.”
Significance in Islamic Tradition
Islamic tradition places a high emphasis on deportment, urging Muslims to embody modesty, humility, and proper conduct. The behavior and interpersonal relations of a Muslim are often modeled after the Prophet Muhammad, whose actions and manners (Sunnah) serve as a guiding example.
Qur’anic Guidance
- Sūrah Al-Isra (17:39): “Walk not proudly on the earth,” interpreted to mean that believers should not display arrogance or exaggerated gestures in their walk.
- Sūrah Al-Furqan (25:63): “The servants of the Merciful One are those who walk upon the earth lowly, and when the ignorant address them say, ‘Peace!’” stressing humility and composure in social behavior.
Prophetic Traditions on Deportment
The traditions (Ahadith) provide numerous insights into the Prophet Muhammad’s mannerisms. Examples include:
- Walking and Sitting: Prophetic traditions offer varying accounts. For instance, while ʿAbbād observed the Prophet sleeping on his back with one leg over the other, Jābir reported that this was forbidden by the Prophet.
- General Advice: Islamic scholars like Faqīr Jānī Muḥammad Asʿad, in his work, Akhlāq-i-Jalālī, give detailed instructions on proper deportment, emphasizing moderation, avoidance of ostentation, and respect in social interactions.
Directions on General Behavior
Excerpt from Akhlāq-i-Jalālī by Faqīr Jānī Muḥammad Asʿad:
- Walk neither too hastily nor too slowly, avoiding extremes in presentation.
- Maintain moderation in gestures, avoiding exaggerated movements.
- Proper conduct in sitting and riding; do not extend feet or rest head inappropriately.
- Maintain decency, avoiding exposure of private parts in public or private without necessity.
- Respect social hierarchy; let leaders take higher positions and avoid disturbing others.
- Behaviors like blowing the nose or spitting should be discreet, ensuring cleanliness and minimal disruption.
Further Studies
To delve deeper into the subject of deportment and Islamic ethics, consider the following books:
- Akhlāq-i-Jalālī translated by Thompson, which provides comprehensive ethical guidance.
- The Path of Muhammad: A Book on Islamic Morals & Ethics by Imam Birgivi.
- Adab al-Mufrad by Imam Bukhari, highlighting ethical teachings from the Prophet.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Deportment in Islam encapsulates a broad spectrum of behaviors, from walking to spitting. Emphasizing moderation, respect, and decency, Islamic teachings on deportment guide Muslims towards a balanced and respectful social demeanor, embodying the values of humility, modesty, and propriety.
Understanding and practicing ʿilmu ʾl-muʿāsharah fosters a harmonious and respectful interaction amongst individuals, reflecting the profound ethical and spiritual values embedded within Islamic tradition.
