Teaching on Communication Skills of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the Light of the Quran and the Sunnah
Communication is a vital skill for any human being, especially for those who want to convey the message of Islam to others. Communication involves not only words, but also body language, facial expressions, tone of voice, and other non-verbal cues that can enhance or hinder the understanding of the listener. How can we learn to communicate effectively and eloquently, as our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did?
The Quran and the Sunnah are the best sources of guidance for us in this matter, as they show us how the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) communicated with different people in different situations, with wisdom, clarity, compassion, and authority. He was the best example of a speaker, a listener, a teacher, a leader, and a friend. He used various methods and styles of communication to suit the needs and levels of his audience, whether they were his companions, his enemies, his family, or his followers.
Some of the communication skills that we can learn from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) are:
- Courtesy: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was always polite and respectful to everyone he met, regardless of their status, religion, or background. He greeted them with peace, smiled at them, called them by their names or titles, and asked about their well-being. He never interrupted anyone who was speaking, nor did he raise his voice or use harsh words. He also respected the opinions and feelings of others, even if he disagreed with them. He said:
"The most beloved to me among you is the one who has the best manners and character." (Bukhari)
- Clarity: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was very clear and concise in his speech. He used simple and eloquent words that were easy to understand and remember. He avoided ambiguity and confusion by repeating important points three times, giving examples and parables, and asking questions to check the comprehension of his listeners. He also used gestures and eye contact to emphasize his message and to connect with his audience. He said:
"I have been sent with concise speech." (Bukhari)
- Consideration: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was very considerate and empathetic to his listeners. He knew their backgrounds, their needs, their interests, and their challenges. He tailored his message according to their level of knowledge, their mood, their situation, and their expectations. He also gave them time and space to express themselves, to ask questions, to share their opinions, and to seek advice. He never forced anyone to accept his message, nor did he ridicule or humiliate anyone who disagreed with him. He said:
"Make things easy for people and do not make them difficult. Give them good news and do not frighten them away." (Bukhari)
- Concreteness: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was very concrete and practical in his communication. He did not speak in abstract or theoretical terms, but rather in terms that were relevant and applicable to his listeners. He used examples from their daily lives, from nature, from history, and from the Quran to illustrate his points. He also demonstrated what he taught by his own actions and behavior. He was not a mere preacher, but a doer. He said:
"The best among you are those who learn the Quran and teach it." (Bukhari)
- Conciseness: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was very concise and brief in his communication. He did not speak too much or too little, but just enough to convey his message effectively. He did not waste time or words on irrelevant or unnecessary matters, nor did he bore or tire his listeners with lengthy or repetitive speech. He also knew when to speak and when to remain silent. He said:
"Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak good or keep silent." (Bukhari)
These are some of the communication skills that we can learn from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the light of the Quran and the Sunnah. By applying these skills in our own communication, we can improve our relationships with others, spread the message of Islam with wisdom and beauty, and follow the footsteps of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).