Hadith #9528

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "اللِّسانُ جَمُوحٌ بِصاحِبِهِ۔" This can be translated as,

The tongue is recalcitrant to its owner.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the power and influence of the tongue, which often acts independently and without restraint.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. The word (jamūh) "جَمُوحٌ" refers to something that is rebellious, disobedient, or difficult to control. It implies that the tongue has a tendency to act in a way that is contrary to the wishes and intentions of its owner. The word (biṣāḥibihi) "بِصاحِبِهِ" means "to its owner," emphasizing the fact that the tongue is under the control and responsibility of the individual.

This Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) finds support in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the consequences of uncontrolled speech in Surah Al-Qalam (68:10), where He says,

Indeed, your Lord knows, [O Muhammad], that you stand [in prayer] almost two-thirds of the night or half of it or a third of it, and [so do] a group of those with you. And Allah determines [the extent of] the night and the day. He has known that you [Muslims] will not be able to do it and has turned to you in forgiveness, so recite what is easy [for you] of the Qur'an. He has known that there will be among you those who are ill and others traveling throughout the land seeking [something] of the bounty of Allah and others fighting for the cause of Allah. So recite what is easy from it and establish prayer and give zakah and loan Allah a goodly loan. And whatever good you put forward for yourselves - you will find it with Allah. It is better and greater in reward. And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This ayat highlights the importance of reciting what is easy from the Quran, indicating that we should choose our words wisely and not burden ourselves with excessive speech.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:36), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.

This ayat reminds us to be cautious with our words and not speak about matters without proper knowledge. It emphasizes the importance of using our tongues responsibly and not engaging in idle talk or spreading rumors.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their speech and to exercise control over their tongues. The tongue, if left unchecked, can cause great harm and damage to individuals and society as a whole. It has the power to spread rumors, incite hatred, and destroy relationships. Therefore, it is crucial for Muslims to reflect on their words before uttering them.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his wisdom and knowledge, understood the significance of controlling one's tongue. He himself was a paragon of eloquence and restraint in speech. His words were measured, precise, and filled with wisdom. He recognized that the tongue can either be a source of good or a means of destruction. By reminding us of the rebellious nature of the tongue, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to be vigilant and mindful of our speech.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we must strive to control our tongues and use them for positive purposes. We should refrain from engaging in gossip, backbiting, and spreading falsehoods. Instead, we should use our tongues to promote unity, spread knowledge, and speak words of kindness and encouragement. By doing so, we can contribute to a harmonious society and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to exercise control over their tongues. It emphasizes the importance of using our words wisely and responsibly. By reflecting on the rebellious nature of the tongue, we can strive to be mindful of our speech and ensure that our words are a source of goodness and benefit. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to control our tongues and speak in a manner that pleases Him.