Etiquettes of criticizing in Islam

Source: Scribd

It should be remembered that there are some etiquettes of giving input and feedback in Islam. Some of these are:

• Check your motives (Niyyah) first before opening your mouth. You should be giving constructive criticism only to help someone, not to make yourself feel better than others.

• Make Dua for yourself and the person you are approaching before you actually do it.

• Think beforehand and choose appropriate words.

• Don’t sound critical, or judgmental.

• Timing is important: don’t do it when the fight is on.

• Criticism is best received when done one on one.

• Remember the Prophet SAW said “A Mu’min (believer) is a mirror to another Mu’min.” So just state what you see. Don’t exaggerate.

• Keep in mind that your information or even your conclusions may be wrong.

• Listen to the explanation attentively and accept it even if it is partially correct in your view.

• Avoid debating the point.

• Know when to stop. Don’t drag out the discussion if it’s not going anywhere.