THE ETHICS OF SPEECH: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF ANNEMARIE SCHIMMEL’S SPIRITUAL DISCOURSE AND DEBORAH TANNEN’S CONVERSATIONAL STYLE

Abstract

Abstract: This article analyzes the ethics of speech by comparing Annemarie Schimmel's spiritual discourse analysis and Deborah Tannen's sociolinguistic approach to conversational style. Even though scholars' attitudes and research focus may differ in some points, they both emphasize moral reflection embedded in interpersonal communication. Schimmel's mindset of examining Islamic concepts of adab (etiquette), ikhsan (kindness), and akhlaq (social morals), and Tannen's relational empathy, indirectness, and conversational rituals could be a harmony in studying the spiritual and moral basis of conversational discourse. Examining their works and shared focus on “ethics of politeness,” this study argues for spiritual awareness and social compassion within speech.  This integrated perspective enhances theolinguistics by illustrating how faith-oriented and relational methodologies in language can cultivate respect, avert emotional distress, and reinforce harmonious family dynamics within Muslim settings.