Q: I want to ask regarding the adab of not calling a person's elders using the word 'you' , but rather repeating their title e.g. moulana
1) What are the origins of this and which kitaabs is this mentioned in?
2) In Arabic when addressing Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in madinah munawwarah, the word ka / you is used. Also when making dua to Allah Ta'ala both in English and Arabic, does this not then become much more disrespectful than using the same word you for some elder?
A:
1. Adab and respect is an integral part of our deen. Look at Surah Hujuraat in the first ruku; just deliberate and contemplate over the aspects of adab. Also, look at the last ruku of Surah Noor as well.
2. Respect revolves around usage and urf. What the righteous and understanding people consider as respect will be the standard to apply.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
عن عمرو بن شعيب عن أبيه عن جده قال : قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم ليس منا من لم يرحم صغيرنا ويعرف شرف كبيرنا ( جامع الترمذي #1919 )
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