Sheikh Khaled El-Gendy, a member of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, explained that a subtle line separates how people behave from actual hostility, noting that failing to recognize this distinction is a major cause of conflicts in society, especially within marriages.

He clarified that many disputes arise from misinterpreting a partner’s behavior. A person may act in a stern or distant manner due to their upbringing in an environment that did not encourage expressive communication or social etiquette, leading others to perceive such behavior as hostility despite the absence of any ill intent.

He emphasized that this misunderstanding is a key factor behind the breakdown of many marital relationships, as each partner comes from a different background with distinct habits in expressing emotions and daily interactions, requiring awareness and understanding to prevent natural differences from turning into conflict.

He also pointed out that cultural differences are evident in everyday practices, such as how people invite others to meals, where approaches vary from one society to another. Such differences can lead to confusion if not properly understood and approached with flexibility.

He concluded that what may bother one person might not affect another, and vice versa, making it essential to understand others’ nature and respect differences. Distinguishing between genuine hostility and simple variation in behavior is, he noted, a key factor in reducing problems and improving human relationships.