Hadith #2641

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, and his noble companions.

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

مَنْ تَعَدَّى الحَقَّ، ضاقَ مَذْهَبُهُ۔

This wise utterance highlights the consequences of transgressing the truth. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith.

The word (ta'adda) "تَعَدَّى" means to exceed the limits or boundaries. In the context of this Hadith, it refers to going beyond the boundaries of truth and righteousness. It implies a deliberate act of crossing the line, disregarding the principles of honesty and integrity.

The word (al-haqq) "الحَقَّ" translates to "the truth." In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of adhering to the truth. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:42), Allah says,

And do not mix the truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know [it].

Now, let us explore the significance of this Hadith in light of the Quranic teachings. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and warns against falsehood. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:81),

And say: 'Truth has come, and falsehood has departed. Indeed is falsehood, [by nature], ever bound to depart.'

When a person transgresses the truth, they deviate from the path of righteousness and integrity. Their actions become narrow and restricted, both in this world and the hereafter. This narrowing of the path refers to the consequences that one faces when they abandon the truth.

For example, imagine a person who lies to deceive others for personal gain. Initially, they may feel a sense of freedom and success. However, as time passes, their lies become entangled, and they find themselves caught in a web of deceit. Their path becomes narrow and restricted, as they constantly fear being exposed and face the consequences of their actions.

In another scenario, consider a person who spreads false rumors about others, causing harm and discord in society. Their actions not only harm the individuals they target but also tarnish their own reputation. They lose the trust and respect of others, and their path becomes narrow as they face isolation and the consequences of their malicious behavior.

The consequences of transgressing the truth are not limited to this world alone. In the hereafter, those who have deviated from the path of truth will face severe consequences. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns in Surah Al-Ghashiyah (88:26),

Then it is Our job to call them to account.

Those who have transgressed the truth will be held accountable for their actions and will face the consequences of their choices.

As Muslims, it is our duty to uphold the truth in all aspects of our lives. We should strive to be honest, sincere, and truthful in our words and actions. The path of truth may sometimes be difficult, but it is the path that leads to success and contentment in this world and the hereafter.

Let us reflect on the words of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to avoid transgressing the truth. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to the straight path and grant us the strength to uphold the truth in all aspects of our lives.