Quranic Answer
The Holy Quran pays special attention to the topic of silence and calmness in speech. In Surah Hud, verse 113, Allah tells the believers, 'And do not incline toward those who do wrong.' (Hud: 113). Silence in necessary moments can be one of the best approaches. In fact, silence is not just about not speaking; it can also involve thinking and meditating. In another verse, Allah states, 'And when the Quran is recited, listen to it and pay attention,' (Al-A'raf: 204). This verse emphasizes that during the recitation of the Quran, we should be silent to better understand its divine messages. Furthermore, silence can be regarded as a sign of respect and reverence towards God. Throughout many passages in the Quran, the importance of silence in the presence of God and when interacting with others is highlighted. Silence allows us to better analyze situations and avoid unwarranted or futile remarks. In our daily lives too, silence can be a force for contemplating our thoughts and emotions. Followers of the Quran can utilize silence as part of their worship and in pursuit of closeness to Allah.
Related Verses
وَلَا تَمِيلُوا إِلَى الَّذِينَ ظَلَمُوا فَتَمَسَّكُمُ النَّارُ وَمَا لَكُمْ مِن دُونِ اللَّهِ مِنْ أَوْلِيَاءَ ثُمَّ لَا تُنصَرُونَ
And do not incline toward those who do wrong, lest the Fire should touch you, and you would not have besides Allah any protector; then you would not be aided.
Hud : 113
وَإِذَا قُرِئَ الْقُرْآنُ فَاسْتَمِعُوا لَهُ وَأَنْصِتُوا لَعَلَّكُمْ تُرْحَمُونَ
And when the Qur'an is recited, listen to it and pay attention that you may receive mercy.
Al-A'raf : 204
Short Story
Saadi in Golestan says: "My son, when you listen to others, you must be silent to truly understand their words." One day, a young man came to him and spoke a lot, waiting to hear his judgment. Saadi replied, "Be silent to better comprehend God's wisdom and be more successful in your life."