Action 3: Give respect and do not insult others whether Non-Muslim or Muslims
1. Quranic Guidance
Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11)
"O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them..." (Qur’an 49:11)
This verse directly forbids mocking or ridiculing others. It warns that the person you look down on might actually be better in the sight of Allah.
Surah Al-An’am (6:108)
"Do not insult those they invoke besides Allah, lest they insult Allah in enmity without knowledge..." (Qur’an 6:108)
Here, Allah commands Muslims not to even insult the false gods of non-Muslims — not because those gods are sacred, but to prevent a chain reaction of hatred and disrespect. This shows how Islam teaches wisdom, manners, and restraint in speech.
2. Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
Insulting a Muslim is a sin
“Abusing a Muslim is Fusuq (evil doing) and killing him is Kufr (disbelief).” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 48)
Even among Muslims, using abusive language is considered a major sin. Imagine how much worse it is if done to non-Muslims unjustly.
Prophet ﷺ Never Insulted Others
The Prophet ﷺ never returned insults with insults. He even showed respect and kindness to his enemies.
"Verily, I have been sent to perfect good character." (Musnad Ahmad, Sahih)
He taught that nobility lies in humble speech, good behavior, and controlling the tongue.
3. Wisdom Behind Respecting Others
(a) It Prevents Conflict: Insults ignite ego and hate. Respect diffuses tension.
(b) It Opens Hearts: When people are treated with dignity, they become more open to truth.
(c) It Reflects Islam's Beauty: The character of Muslims reflects the image of Islam.
Respect in Islam is for All – Whether Muslim or Non-Muslim
Islam sees every human being as a creation of Allah. Whether a person is Muslim or not, their dignity should be preserved. The Prophet ﷺ respected the rights of non-Muslims living under Muslim rule (Ahl al-Dhimmah), and any harm to them was strictly forbidden.
"Whoever harms a non-Muslim under covenant, I will be his opponent on the Day of Judgment." (Abu Dawood, Sahih)
Practical Application Today
(a) Disagree respectfully, without mockery.
(b) If you can’t agree with someone’s opinion, stay silent rather than insulting.
(c) On social media, hold back from harsh comments and remember you’re accountable to Allah.
Conclusion
In a world full of quick judgments and insults, a true Muslim stands out with character, humility, and calm speech. Respecting others, whether Muslim or Non-Muslim isn’t just good behavior, it’s an obligation in Islam.