The Islamic tradition of gathering and sitting together stems from the broader consensus. An example regarding the importance of this tradition is found in the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ that he would gather with his companions for knowledge, companionship, and remembrance, and such is a teaching he left for the believers. Gatherings, in essence, are meant for discussing different topics on a greater canvas, as in a sitting or gathering; there can be people from different communities.
If not communities, there are always people with varying opinions and backgrounds. Instances like these are a communal opportunity to remember Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى and his blessings, as well as seek forgiveness and more of these blessings for the community at large. If a dua is made collectively by people at a sitting or gathering, it holds great significance as it reflects the values of a community as well as brings people closer in remembering Allah.
Good Etiquette Duas
Narrated by Ibn Umar and reported in Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3434, said that one could count on the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would recite this supplication before he would get up from the gathering. This hadith signifies that one should recite this supplication in abundance.
The manners of making dua at a sitting or gathering invite everyone to make the supplication so that nobody is left behind. When making dua, care must be taken that everyone is included in the supplication and that the dua is to be made at the start, middle, and even at the end of the gathering.
When one makes dua at a sitting or gathering, they understand a sense of social responsibility, and such instances inculcate in people the spirit of giving back to their community. Communal supplication uplifts the spirit of togetherness among people in times of celebration and grief.
Inclusivity in the community is fostered when one makes dua collectively at a gathering as such an act is representative of inviting others for the collective benefit. Praying or making supplication together promotes the spirit of tolerance among people, regardless of how one is different in their social positions or opinions.
Dua at a gathering is a perfect opportunity to make supplication collectively, so one should be inclusive and loud. Make sure that you start with Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى and salutation on the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
A group gathering is a perfect opportunity to talk about diverse topics. However, it is always better to choose a topic for healthy discourse and meaningful discussions and avoid any topic that is controversial.
In a group setting, it is important to hold space for others so that they feel included. If you are in a gathering, avoid making any statement or making a gesture that can come off as rude or harmful to others.