What are the Etiquette of Gatherings in Islam?
Islam has established a set of etiquettes that Muslims should be aware of and embody during their gatherings. Below is a summary of some of these important practices:
Greeting Others Upon Entering and Leaving a Gathering
According to a narration by Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him), the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: “When one of you arrives at a gathering, let him greet [those present]. And when he wishes to leave, let him greet [them]. The first greeting is not more deserving than the latter.” It is considered polite for a person to seek permission to enter a gathering and to greet those present; this is equally important when departing.
Sitting Where the Gathering Concludes
It is a matter of etiquette for a Muslim to sit where the gathering ends rather than making someone vacate their spot for them. The Prophet (peace be upon him) prohibited such behavior, saying: “Let none of you remove another from his seat in order to sit in it.” It was also reported that Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) refrained from occupying the spot of anyone who stood up, emphasizing that the one already seated has more right to remain there.
Maintaining Confidentiality of the Gathering
Those who attend a gathering carry an obligation to keep the discussions private and not disclose them outside unless it serves a good purpose. Additionally, individuals must protect the dignity and confidentiality of others through their words and actions, as they are entrusted with this responsibility. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized this by stating: “If a man speaks in private and then turns away, it is a trust.” It is essential to ensure that discussions remain positive, refraining from any unbecoming speech while also denouncing wrongful acts when witnessed.
Offering Ample Space in the Gathering
Muslims should strive to allow sufficient space within gatherings as much as possible. This etiquette aligns with the principles outlined in the Quran, which states: “O you who have believed, when you are told, ‘Make space’ in the assemblies, then make space; Allah will make space for you. And when you are told, ‘Arise,’ then arise; Allah will elevate those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees. And Allah is Acquainted with what you do.” Offering space is preferable to navigating through crowded areas or compressing others.
Reciting the Supplication for Clearing the Gathering at its Conclusion
As narrated by Abu Barzah Al-Aslami, the Prophet (peace be upon him) would say towards the end of a gathering: “Subhanaka Allahumma wa bihamdiKa, ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Anta, astaghfiruka wa atubu ilayK.” A man remarked that he had never heard him say such a thing before. The Prophet replied, “It is an expiation for what may have occurred in the gathering.” Given that gatherings can often lead to trivial chit-chat, it is important to recite this supplication.
Prohibition Against Eavesdropping
Eavesdropping is unequivocally prohibited in Islam and is associated with severe consequences in the hereafter. Abdullah ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: “Whoever pretends to have a dream he did not see will be made to tie two grains of barley together on the Day of Resurrection. And whoever listens in on a conversation while the participants dislike it, hot lead will be poured into his ears on the Day of Resurrection.”