The Silent Language of Dakwah: Exploring Non-Verbal Elements in Badiuzzaman Said Nursi’s Preaching

In Islamic dakwah, the spoken message is essential, but the unspoken elements, what can be called the “silent language†are just as important in conveying meaning and influencing audiences. This study aims to explore Badiuzzaman Said Nursi’s mastery of non-verbal communication, focusing on three key elements: chronemic, paralinguistic, and artifactual communication, and how these elements enhance the effectiveness of his dakwah. Using a qualitative content analysis method, the study examines primary sources, such as Badiuzzaman Said Nursi’s Rasail an-Nur, alongside secondary sources, including seminar reports and studies on Islamic communication. The results show that Badiuzzaman Said Nursi’s use of silent language significantly contributed to his success in conveying complex spiritual messages and resonating with diverse audiences. This research offers practical insights into how modern-day preachers can employ these non-verbal strategies to increase their impact, particularly in multicultural societies like Malaysia.