But if the teacher begins with harsh or improper words, this will only drive the learner away. Hence it is incumbent upon the instructor, upon anyone who calls people to Allah, and upon whoever enjoins what is right and forbids what is wrong, to treat those he addresses with gentleness—supplicating for them, praising them, and speaking to them softly—for such an approach is more likely to be accepted.

By contrast, the obstinate and arrogant person requires a different tone. Allah, exalted is He, says: “Do not dispute with the People of the Scripture except in the best manner—unless it be with those among them who commit injustice—and say, ‘We believe in what has been sent down to us and what has been sent down to you; our God and your God is One, and to Him we submit.’” (al-‘Ankabūt 29:46).

Those among the People of the Scripture who have wronged, shown obstinacy, and behaved arrogantly are not addressed with what is best; rather, they are spoken to in a way that restrains them. The Almighty says: “O Prophet, strive against the disbelievers and the hypocrites and be harsh with them; their abode is Hell, an evil destination indeed.” (al-Tawbah 9:73). The hypocrites are not fought with weapons, but with proofs, arguments, and a stern rebuttal—so as to curb them and to dissuade the people from them. Concerning them He also says: “And admonish them with penetrating words.” (al-Nisāʾ 4:63). Such people are addressed in a special manner, for they are given to stubbornness and defiance and do not