اسلام اور خاموشی کا تصور

Silence & Mindfulness in Islam

Abstract

The concept of silence in Islam transcends mere absence of speech, embodying wisdom, self-discipline, and spiritual elevation. Rooted in Quranic verses and Prophetic traditions, silence is portrayed as a means of worship, contemplation, and connection with the Divine. Examples such as Maryam’s vow of silence and Zakariya’s gesture-based communication highlight obedience to divine commands and spiritual focus. The Quran emphasizes reflection (tadabbur) and mindfulness, achievable through silence, as seen in verses urging believers to contemplate creation. Prophetic sayings, such as “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak good or remain silent,” underscore silence as a path to salvation and wisdom, guarding against harmful speech like gossip or falsehood. In Sufi traditions, silence is integral to practices like muraqaba (meditation) and dhikr-e-khafi (silent remembrance), fostering spiritual purification and divine proximity. Modern psychological research aligns with these teachings, confirming that silence and mindfulness reduce stress, enhance emotional regulation, and improve focus by balancing brain functions like the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. Islamic practices such as prayer and dhikr further promote mental tranquility. Thus, silence and meditation, deeply embedded in Islamic spirituality, offer profound psychological and spiritual benefits, resonating with contemporary scientific insights.