Speaking in tongues is indeed a gift of the Spirit, and contrary to what some claim, it is still valid today as it was at Pentecost. But when speaking in tongues becomes a condition to be a Christian or be saved, it becomes a abomination before God and is not biblical.

numbah you are right, it has nothing to do with salvation but the Holy Spirit (not speaking in tongues) does draw people to the Lord. Speaking in tongues is a gift from God (read Acts Chapter 2); the problem comes though where many Christians seek the gift and not the giver.

I had some crazy people tell me I couldn't be saved if I didn't speak in tongues. I told them that God controls that kind of stuff and walked out.