Part Three: General Etiquettes Regarding the Telephone
Etiquette 1: Avoiding Music for Ringtones
Some telephones have ringtones that resemble musical melodies. A Muslim should not use such ringtones, as singing, music, and their instruments are forbidden. Instead, one should choose a ringtone that is normal and not musical. It is also advisable to avoid using musical melodies for hold music; instead, opt for recitations from the Quran or beneficial topics so that the person on hold can listen to the sound of the Quran or similar content.
Etiquette 2: Using the Telephone in Obedience to Allah (SWT)
The telephone can be used for positive communication, such as calling relatives, religious brothers, and neighbors to ask about their well-being. The telephone serves as a substitute for in-person meetings and allows for meaningful connections, especially when physical visits are not possible. This form of kindness and communication does not burden anyone and exemplifies the proper use of the telephone.
Etiquette 3: Not Using the Telephone in Disobedience to Allah (SWT)
Muslims are obligated to avoid sin and disobedience to Allah. Using the blessings of Allah in disobedience is contrary to being grateful for them. Examples of misuse include:
1. Cursing People: Some individuals have the habit of calling random numbers, and when someone answers, they curse them for no reason. This behavior is strictly forbidden.
2. Saying Forbidden Romantic Words: Unfortunately, this behavior has become prevalent, especially among youth. Young men may call specific or random numbers, and upon hearing a woman’s voice, they start expressing emotional, affectionate, or tempting words with the aim of enticing her into forbidden actions. Similarly, some young women may engage in this behavior, unaware of the potential consequences. Additionally, some individuals make international calls purely to exchange vulgar words with prostitutes, often incurring significant costs.
Etiquette 4: Not Resorting to Trickery and Deception When Using the Telephone
Some people attempt to cheat when using public telephones, particularly pay phones. Methods include calling without putting a coin in the designated slot or using items like juice caps to simulate coins. Some may ask for permission to use a friend’s telephone, while secretly making unauthorized calls that incur charges to the owner. Such actions are not permissible, as they involve taking another’s property unjustly.
Etiquette 5: Not Placing the Phone Within Reach of Children
Many people leave phones within reach of children, who may pick them up and occupy the line for extended periods. Important calls may come in during this time, resulting in the line being busy with no conversation taking place. This practice can lead to missed opportunities and significant disruptions—it’s best to avoid it entirely.
Etiquette 6: A Woman Should Not Deliberately Soften Her Voice When Using the Telephone
Many women, whether they are calling or receiving calls, lower their voices to make them sound softer and more attractive. This is not permissible. Allah the Almighty says: «إِنِ اتَّقَيْتُنَّ فَلَا تَخْضَعْنَ بِالْقَوْلِ فَيَطْمَعَ الَّذِي فِي قَلْبِهِ مَرَضٌ وَقُلْنَ قَوْلًا مَعْرُوفًا» Translation: “If you are righteous, then do not speak in a lustful manner, lest the sick of hearts covet you, and speak what is proper.”
Therefore, it is impermissible for a Muslim woman to alter her voice when speaking on the telephone; she should avoid lowering her voice, as this can arouse inappropriate feelings in the other person and lead to negative outcomes.
Etiquette 7: Not Talking on the Telephone Except in Very Necessary Cases
Some individuals discuss highly personal matters over the telephone, such as private conversations between spouses or intimate discussions among friends. There is the risk that someone else may overhear these conversations or that another person will join the call and disrupt it with inappropriate comments. Thus, it is essential to refrain from using the telephone for anything other than very urgent matters, as doing otherwise can lead to the aforementioned problems. Remember, it is not necessary to communicate every issue via telephone—this mode of communication should be reserved for urgent cases only.
