Adab — Islamic Etiquette and Manners

Adab (etiquette, manners, and propriety) is a comprehensive concept in Islam covering every aspect of daily life. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent not only to teach theology and law but to perfect character: "I was sent to perfect noble character" (Muwatta Malik). His personal conduct was the living embodiment of adab. Aishah was asked about the Prophet's character and replied: "His character was the Quran" (Sahih Muslim), meaning he lived every Quranic principle in his daily interactions. Good adab transforms mundane activities into acts of worship.

Etiquettes of Eating and Drinking

The Prophet taught specific manners for meals: say Bismillah before eating; eat with the right hand; eat from what is nearest to you on the plate; do not criticize food (if you like it, eat it; if not, leave it); do not blow on hot food; do not eat while reclining; drink in three sips rather than one gulp; do not breathe into the drinking vessel; and say Alhamdulillah after finishing. He said: "The son of Adam fills no vessel worse than his stomach. It is sufficient for the son of Adam to eat a few morsels to keep his back straight. If he must fill his stomach, then one-third for food, one-third for drink, and one-third for air" (Sunan al-Tirmidhi).

Etiquettes of Greeting and Social Interaction

Islam places great emphasis on the greeting of peace (salam). The Prophet said: "You will not enter Paradise until you believe, and you will not believe until you love one another. Shall I not tell you of something that, if you do it, you will love one another? Spread the salam among yourselves" (Sahih Muslim). The one who initiates the greeting receives more reward. The younger greets the older, the walker greets the seated, and the smaller group greets the larger group. Other social etiquettes include: asking permission before entering someone's home (three times; if not answered, leave); not looking into someone's house without permission; sitting wherever there is room in a gathering; and making space for newcomers.

Etiquettes of Speech

The Prophet taught careful speech: speak the truth; avoid backbiting, slander, and gossip; keep secrets; fulfill promises; avoid arguing; speak gently; use appropriate volume; and say good or remain silent. "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent" (Sahih al-Bukhari). He prohibited using foul language: "The believer is not one who curses, insults, speaks obscenely, or is vulgar" (Sunan al-Tirmidhi). When correcting someone, the Prophet would say: "What is the matter with people who do such-and-such?" rather than naming the individual, protecting their dignity while addressing the issue.

Etiquettes of Sleep, Travel, and Daily Life

For sleeping: perform wudu before bed; sleep on the right side; recite the prescribed adhkar (Ayat al-Kursi, the last two verses of al-Baqarah, the three Quls); dust the bed three times before lying down; and say the dua before sleeping. For travel: make the dua of travel; say Bismillah when mounting; travel in groups; and the travelers appoint a leader. For using the bathroom: enter with the left foot saying the dua of entry; do not face or turn one's back toward the Qiblah; use the left hand for cleaning; exit with the right foot saying the dua of exit. For sneezing: say Alhamdulillah; the one who hears says Yarhamukallah; the sneezer responds Yahdikumullah. These etiquettes, while seemingly small, infuse the entire day with consciousness of Allah and the prophetic example.