What Are the Rules of Debate in Islam?

Question

Concerning the rules of debate, is there a limit on the speaking time of each party? Should we allow the question or argument to develop, or can we constantly cut the argument to the point of having speaking time? Should I prevent a person from speaking and developing their argument?

What are the guidelines concerning debate, what are the things to do and not to do, reprehensible and recommended to maintain an exciting debate, and above all, what is the aim of the debate to be correct, to silence the adversary, or to demonstrate the truth?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.

May Allah alleviate our difficulties and guide us to what pleases Him. Amin.

In Islam, the principles of debate and discourse (as with other matters of life) are guided by the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace). While there may not be explicit Fiqh rules on speaking time or a specific format for debates, Islamic ethics and manners play a crucial role in guiding discussions.

Since there are few explicit and direct rules concerning debates and discourse, the relevant Islamic ethical principles would depend on the specific context and nature of the debate. Here are some general guidelines:

Respect and Courtesy

Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of respectful and courteous behavior in all interactions, including debates. Treating others with kindness and avoiding disrespectful language or behavior is essential.

Allah told the Prophets, Musa and Harun (Allah bless them and give them peace), in relation to their dialogue with Pharoah: “Speak to him gently, so perhaps he may be mindful (of Me) or fearful (of My punishment).” [Quran, 20:44]

Listening and Patience

A fundamental aspect of Islamic discourse is the emphasis on active listening. Allowing the other party to speak and present their arguments without constant interruption demonstrates patience and a willingness to engage in a meaningful discussion.

Avoiding Arrogance

Islam discourages arrogance and pride. Even if one possesses superior knowledge or debating skills, it is crucial to avoid belittling others. The focus should be on the pursuit of truth rather than personal triumph.

Allah says: “And do not turn your cheek (in contempt) toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone who is self-deluded and boastful.” [Quran, 31:18-19]

These verses emphasize the importance of avoiding arrogance, contempt, and boastfulness.

Fairness and Justice

The Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is oppressed.” [Bukhari]

When debating, it is crucial to uphold principles of justice and fairness. If you have a superior argument, it should prevail on its merits rather than suppressing the other party.

Objective

Seeking Truth, Not Victory: The primary aim of a debate in Islamic terms should be the pursuit of truth. It is not about silencing the adversary but discovering and conveying the most accurate understanding or solution to an issue.

Abu Nu‘aym reported that Imam Shafi‘i (may Allah have mercy on him) said, “I never debated anyone but that I would love for him to be guided, directed, helped, and for him to be under the care of Allah and His protection. And I never debated with anyone but that I did not mind whether Allah clarified the truth on my tongue or his tongue.” [Abu Nu‘aym al-Isfahani, Hilyat al-Awliya’]

Avoiding Personal Attacks

Criticizing ideas is acceptable, but attacking individuals personally is discouraged. The focus should remain on the topic rather than diverting to personal matters.

Allah says: “O believers! Do not let some (men) ridicule others, they may be better than them, nor let (some) women ridicule other women, they may be better than them. Do not defame one another, nor call each other by offensive nicknames. How evil it is to act rebelliously after having faith! And whoever does not repent, it is they who are the (true) wrongdoers.” [Quran, 49:11]

Humility

Islamic teachings emphasize humility, recognizing that one’s understanding may be incomplete or flawed. Approaching a debate with an open mind and a willingness to learn fosters a healthy and constructive discussion.

The Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) said: “Whoever humbles himself for the sake of Allah, Allah will elevate him.” [Muslim]

Rules of Disputation

According to some scholars, when the intention behind debate and disputation is to embarrass one’s opponents, it is unlawful or, at times, unbelief. If a person learns disputation intending to reveal the truth, it is permissible or even recommended. [Nahlawi, al-Durar al-Mubaha]

Allah Most High says, “Invite all to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and kind advice, and only debate with them in the best manner. Surely your Lord alone knows best who has strayed from His Way and who is rightly guided.” [Quran, 16:125]

In another verse, He says: “Do not argue with the People of the Book unless gracefully, except with those of them who act wrongfully.” [Quran, 29:46]

Intention

We advise you to seek advice from reliable, learned scholars who will guide you in seeking knowledge and always keep in mind your intention.

The following Hadiths discuss seeking knowledge to argue with others and prove one’s point:

Ka‘b ibn Malik (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him) said:

“Whoever seeks knowledge to compete with the ‘ulama (scholars), debate with the foolish, or draw people’s attention, Allah will put him into Jahannam.” [Tirmidhi – He has declared the Hadith weak (gharib)]

Other similar Hadiths corroborate the above Hadith:

Jabir (Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him) said: “Do not seek knowledge to be boastful over the ‘ulama, nor to debate the foolish nor (to choose the best seat/stand out in a gathering). Whomsoever does this, then the Fire, the Fire [i.e. He is deserving of Jahannam].” [Ibn Maja; Ibn Hibban]

Please consult this related answer.

I pray this is of benefit and that Allah guides us all.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan (Allah have mercy on him), where he taught.

Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Shaykh Muhammad Awama, Shaykh Muhammad Hasan Hitu, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.

He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has been the Director of the Discover Islam Centre, and for six years, he has been the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.

Shaykh Irshaad has fifteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic podcast, education, and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy Prophetic living and fitness.