Section 18 – The dignified composure of the Prophet, his silence, contemplation, natural refinement and excellent disposition
Kharija, Zaid’s son was present at several gatherings in which the Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, attended and observed that he was the most dignified and composed of all people and hardly ever moved his limbs. Another observed that during such gatherings he was patient, modest, and caring. The Companions did not raise their voices before him, nor show disrespect. When he spoke his Companions bowed their heads in silence, just as if there were birds perched upon them.
Another Companion named Abu Sayeid Al Khudri also observed the posture of the Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, during meetings. He tells us that on
most occasions he would sit with his hands clasped around his legs which were pulled up to his stomach.
As for the speech of the Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, he avoided people who were crude and vulgar, and was more often silent, only speaking when necessary but when he did so he was easily understood. There are many reports about the way in which he would address those in his presence and is well known to have conducted himself in the most excellent manner. His speech was eloquent and flowed yet simple for the ordinary person to understand. When he was silent it was on account of four matters, patience, caution, evaluation or reflection. When asked about the speech of the Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, Lady Ayesha, may Allah be pleased with her, tells us that when he spoke he would say it in such a way that a person could count his words, if he so wished.
When the Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, laughed it was as a smile and when his Companions were in his company they too, out of respect for him, would smile rather than laugh.
His gait was that of inclining forward, similar to the way in which one walks when
going down a slope. It has also been reported that as he walked he
concentrated, his pace was moderate and he did not walk hastily neither did he tarry.
The Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, would perfume himself and was known to love fragrant aromas and perfume. He used them often and encouraged their use saying, “I have been made to love three things in this world of yours women, perfume, but the coolness of my eye is in the prayer.” –
Aal-e-Qutub Aal-e-Syed Abdullah Shah Ghazi 