Islam’s precepts prioritize manners over intellect and character over position. A Muslim’s meaningful, God-conscious life is greatly influenced by Adab, or Islamic etiquette and manners, from the moment they get up to the way they speak, interact with people, and even eat.
Islam is a comprehensive way of life that teaches us how to be the greatest people we can be, not only to Allah but also to His creation. It is not merely a religion of rituals. Adab is where it all begins.
In Islam, what is Adab?
Adab is more than merely being courteous or acting well. It is the moral and spiritual code of conduct that the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught via his words, deeds, and way of life.
It consists of:
courtesy toward neighbors, parents, teachers, and elders
Speaking calmly and honestly
Being modest in both speech and attire
Being kind even when you disagree
Keeping your word and refraining from lying
“Those with the best character will, in fact, be the ones I love the most and who are closest to me in the Hereafter.”
(Tirmidhi, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)
Adab alongside Allah
The first step of a Muslim’s Adab is to worship Allah (SWT) with sincerity, express appreciation, fear His wrath, and have faith in His wisdom.
Basic examples consist of:
Timely prayer
Expressing gratitude for benefits
Patience in accepting Qadr (divine decree)
Steer clear of hubris and conceit
Because respecting the Creator is reflected in how you treat His creation, it is the foundation of all other manners. Adab with Humans
Islam tells us that being polite is half of having faith. In Islam, adab is a constant act of kindness and decency, ranging from smiling at a complete stranger to lending a helping hand to someone in need. Daily Adab examples include:
Saying “Salaam” first and giving a cordial response
Bringing the eyes down modestly
Not interjecting when someone else is speaking
concealing flaws rather than bringing them to light
allowing room at events without violating people’s privacy
Being tactful even when giving correction.
Adab in the Pursuit of Knowledge
Islamic wisdom is revered. Adab with academics and instructors is therefore prioritized. Before even starting in-depth study, students in traditional Islamic circles would spend years honing their manners.
This comprises:
Paying close attention
Keeping your voice down in social situations
Having patience when asking questions
Putting what you’ve learned into practice
Without ADAB, knowledge is like a flower without scent: it may be lovely, but it won’t make an impression.
