In a world where everyone’s a “self-made expert” and information is a Google search away, we’re slowly losing something essential — respect for our teachers.
We don’t mean just school teachers. We’re talking about anyone who teaches us something valuable — a mentor, a scholar, a parent, or even a friend who guides us to something good.
The Prophet’s Example
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ wasn’t just the Messenger — he was also the greatest teacher. His companions didn’t just learn from him; they sat with adab. They lowered their voices, never interrupted him, and absorbed every word with full hearts.
He once said:
“He is not from us who does not respect our elders, show mercy to our young, and recognise the rights of our scholars.”
— Musnad Ahmad
That means respect isn’t optional — it’s part of our deen.
Why It Matters
- Knowledge needs humility
You can’t truly learn if you think you already know it all. Respecting your teacher is a form of humbling yourself before the process of learning. - Blessing in knowledge
Many of the scholars of the past believed that barakah in knowledge comes through adab. It’s not just about collecting facts, it’s about how you receive them. - Character development
How you treat those who teach you reflects your character. If we can’t even honour those who spend time and effort to guide us, what does that say about us?
Signs of Respect
Respect isn’t always dramatic. It shows in small, quiet ways:
- Not interrupting when they speak.
- Asking questions with sincerity, not to challenge.
- Giving them the benefit of the doubt.
- Speaking of them well, even when you disagree.
- Making du’a for them — often.
The Flip Side: Disrespect Kills Learning
If you treat your teacher like someone you can dismiss or “fact-check” every 5 minutes with an Instagram reel, you might still gain information — but you’ll lose understanding.
Disrespect closes the heart. And when the heart is closed, even the truth can’t get in.
In a Time of Algorithms, Honour Real Teachers
Today, “teachers” are often influencers, AI bots, and viral videos. But knowledge in Islam is something sacred. It’s passed heart to heart, not just screen to screen.
So when you find someone sincere who wants to teach you — Qur’an, hadith, a life lesson — don’t take it lightly. Honour them. Listen. Thank them. Learn from them.
That’s the path of our Prophet ﷺ.
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