What should I do regarding a person who speaks out of curiosity and idle chatter, which contains neither benefit nor sin, in order not to anger him nor to engage in idle chatter myself?
The Muslim should first and foremost refrain from speaking unnecessarily, even if the speech is permissible, as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent." This means that if no good for which one would be rewarded becomes apparent, then one should refrain from speaking. Permissible speech is commanded to be abandoned for fear that it might lead to what is unlawful or disliked.
If parents ask or address one with speech that has no benefit and no sin, it is obligatory to answer them out of dutifulness. As for relatives and friends, it is permissible to speak with them in order to foster good relations, but it is better to shift the conversation to what is beneficial in terms of goodness, knowledge, and religious matters. If possible, one should draw their attention to the importance of turning away from idle talk.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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