Hadith #6161

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

اَلاِسْتِطالَةُ لِسانُ الغِوايَةِ والجَهالَةِ۔

which translates to,

Haughtiness is the language of error and ignorance.

In this beautiful saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of arrogance and ignorance.

The word (al-istitalah) "اَلاِسْتِطالَةُ" refers to the act of stretching or extending something beyond its limits. In this context, it signifies the act of extending one's tongue in a metaphorical sense, which represents speaking arrogantly or boastfully. The term (lisan) "لِسانُ" means tongue, and it symbolizes speech or language. Therefore, (lisan al-ghiwati wal jahalati) "لِسانُ الغِوايَةِ والجَهالَةِ" refers to the language or speech of error and ignorance.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of humility and warns against arrogance and ignorance. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse highlights the importance of treating others with respect and refraining from arrogance or mockery. It reminds us that we should not belittle or ridicule others, as they may be better than us in the sight of Allah. Arrogance and haughtiness only lead to discord and animosity among people.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:76), Allah says,

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

This verse narrates the story of Qarun, who was blessed with immense wealth and resources. However, he became arrogant and tyrannical, causing harm to his own people. Allah reminds us through this story that arrogance and pride are detested by Him. True success lies in humility and gratitude, not in material possessions or worldly achievements.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to avoid arrogance and ignorance in their speech and interactions. It teaches us that arrogance is a language of error and ignorance, leading to division and discord among people. When we speak with humility and wisdom, we foster unity and understanding.

Arrogance blinds us to our own faults and prevents us from seeking knowledge and guidance. It hinders our ability to learn from others and grow as individuals. Conversely, humility opens our hearts and minds to new perspectives, enabling us to gain wisdom and insight.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his teachings continue to guide and inspire Muslims today. His emphasis on humility and the dangers of arrogance serves as a timeless reminder for us to strive for humility in our words and actions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the negative consequences of arrogance and ignorance. It urges us to be mindful of our speech and to avoid haughtiness, as it is a language of error and ignorance. By embodying humility and seeking knowledge, we can foster unity and understanding among Muslims and strive for personal growth and spiritual development. May Allah guide us all on the path of humility and wisdom.