By Mohammed Kazim (@MAKazim)
On a recent rafting excursion in Nepal, my friend and I met two flight attendants who had remembered us from our flight the day before. What surprised me though is that the reason they remembered us is because we were of the few UAE Nationals they had met who actually said “please” and “thank you”.
Although this did not come as a surprise, it did however stir resentment, given that the region was known for its hospitality and good conduct. I could not help but think why is it that we have lost our good manners and esteemed moral conduct. Is it because of a language barrier or is it simply a result of negligence and lack of importance?
Why does it matter? Well, manners are the set of guidelines that determine the methodology of communication. They are usually the first line of interaction and consequently the first base of judgment on individuals as well as societies. Through manners a society’s dynamics are greatly affected. For example, politeness and tolerance can harvest creativity, whereas rudeness and disrespect can bring out negativity. In addition, relationships, whether between companies or people, are also governed by manners. Families are built on relationships and societies are built on families. Therefore, manners, to an extent, could influence a country’s success or failure.
After a lot of observation and understanding the driving forces of the UAE’s society, I came to the conclusion that good manners may have slowly eroded due to a lack of emphasis by members of the society. However, I believe that they can be restored if the following 3 dimensions are properly understood.
First of all, it must be known that good manners and moral conduct are from Islam’s main objectives for mankind.
“And indeed, you are upon a noble conduct, an exemplary manner” -The Holy Quran (68:4)
“I have been sent to perfect righteous and honorable manners (noble virtues)” -The Prophet Muhammad (Al Bukhari, Al-Adab Al-Mufrad, No.273)
Islam has supported good manners as well as pleasant qualities and described those who are characterized by them as being of the highest caliber of believers. Islam has reiterated, in multiple divine commands, the use of ease and politeness in preaching, acts of kindness towards the young, and respect towards elders. It has also promoted uttering the truth, showing appreciation, serving a neighbor, and even simply smiling at a fellow citizen.
“The best among you are those who have the best manners and character” -The Prophet Muhammad (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 8, Book 73, Number 56)
Not only has Islam encouraged good character and manners but it has also condemned the opposite (rude and immoral behavior). It has prohibited cursing and foul language, cheating, hypocrisy, backbiting, acting in anger, lying, and causing any form of inconvenience to a fellow citizen.
“ Those who avoid vain talk” (speaking of traits of the believers) -The Holy Quran (23:3)
“… And surely Allah hates one who utters foul or coarse language.” -The Prophet Muhammad [Tirmidhi]
Second, being characterized by good manners and noble virtues should be seen as a social responsibility and duty towards the nation and the religion. The UAE has over 202 nationalities living and working in different sectors that make up above 80% of the nation’s population. This consequently makes every UAE national an ambassador to his/her culture and nation. Given the high level of Emiratis’ patriotism, it is important that the effect of bad manners on people’s perceptions of them and their country is vividly understood. I believe that this will instill a sense of representation that will drive people to better conduct and nobler virtues.
Last but not least, I trust that none of the above can be achieved if it is not supported at a family level. Many good traits and noble virtues are engrossed in one’s character at a personality development stage in one’s life (usually early years and upbringing). At this stage, an individual’s observations can influence his/her values and as a result their manners. Parents should be mindful of how their conduct is portrayed. In other words, parents should lead by example and take a proactive approach in shaping their children’s moral awareness.
Although there are many variables that can affect the manners of an individual from the region, I believe the main reason for the absence of good manners is a lack of importance and interest towards a proactive approach. However, with understanding the Islamic significance of good manners, viewing it as a social responsibility, and making sure it is carefully taught to our children, there may be hope to bring back what once made us the best of nations.
“….Verily never will Allah change the condition of a people until they change it themselves…” -The Holy Quran (13:11)
Here We Start – Just Another Undergrad – Living Through The Eyes of Art
Microscopic Me – Society of Tomorrow – To The Point – Spotlight
Through my observations I think that bad manners come from 2 roots:
1. the feeling that he/she is entitled to whatever service he is getting, entitled to the greatest sense.
2. misunderstanding the situation and being defensive as he/she think they are a victim.
maybe people go on their whole lives thinking that way which makes them lose even the basics of manners such as 'please' and 'thank you'
great thought provoking exploration!
I wish more people would read this article. Bad manners often stem from a false sense of pride. We should instead take pride in being good human beings and having a reputation of treating others with respect, regardless of their nationality, religion, occupation, etc.
In the past eight weeks I was allocated to two family physicians in different clinics in Sydney (c1 and c2) consisting of entirely dissimilar patients. Their reaction to a Muslim Arab medical student was very heterogenous and it cannot be summarised in these few lines, but certain things I would like to share.
In Sydney, I have observed the 'closeness' of the individuals from the Gulf, which could be interpreted in many aspects. Multicultural societies have the tendency to accept other cultures whilst keeping close to ones own culture, especially if your culture is a minority. I truly believe that manners do affect persons of societies and societies do affect manners of persons.
Many patients accepted me as a second doctor; whether in c1 or c2. Overall, it seems that age was the major contributer to great manners. The elderly smiled, shook hands, and greeted warmly. The kids/teenagers did not speak a lot; shy. The businessmen were social but straight to the point. So on.
Patients from the Gulf seemed so easy to interact with, which could be because I see them in every Friday prayer. I do believe that my experience does not reflect the manners of the entire Arabic/Gulf society, but if those who lack manners could see the reason and the outcome of such good manner then closeness and brotherhood will be felt, once again!
Thanks for the article. An important subject, indeed!
Gallery Vetri D’Arte Kinkiet – Bolero P 2 (205246014309) Czerwony ,