Hadith #2661

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

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

لا يَجْتَمِعُ الباطِلُ والحَقُّ۔

This powerful statement translates to

Falsehood and truth do not go together.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (batil) "باطِلُ" refers to falsehood, deceit, or anything that is devoid of truth and righteousness. It encompasses lies, deception, and all forms of dishonesty. On the other hand, the word (haqq) "حَقُّ" signifies truth, righteousness, and authenticity. It embodies honesty, sincerity, and adherence to the divine guidance.

The Quran emphasizes the dichotomy between falsehood and truth in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:81),

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

This verse highlights the inherent incompatibility between falsehood and truth. They are like two opposing forces that cannot coexist.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:68), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And who is more unjust than one who invents a lie about Allah or denies the truth when it has come to him? Is there not in Hell a residence for the disbelievers?

This verse underscores the gravity of falsehood and its consequences. It emphasizes that those who propagate lies and deny the truth will face severe punishment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that falsehood and truth cannot coexist within a person or a society. It is impossible for a person to be simultaneously truthful and deceitful, honest and dishonest. One must choose between these two paths, as they lead to vastly different outcomes.

When falsehood and truth are mixed, confusion and chaos ensue. Society becomes plagued with corruption, injustice, and moral decay. Conversely, when truth prevails, it brings about harmony, justice, and righteousness. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions exemplified the embodiment of truth in their lives, actions, and teachings.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds profound implications for our personal lives as well. It urges us to be vigilant in distinguishing between truth and falsehood in our thoughts, words, and actions. We must strive to align ourselves with the truth, seeking knowledge and understanding to discern between right and wrong.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to stand firmly on the path of truth, even in the face of adversity. It reminds us that falsehood may appear enticing and alluring, but it is ultimately fleeting and devoid of any real substance. On the other hand, truth may be challenging to uphold at times, but it is the only path that leads to eternal success and fulfillment.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Falsehood and truth do not go together

highlights the inherent incompatibility between falsehood and truth. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for truthfulness in all aspects of their lives and to reject falsehood in all its forms. By adhering to the path of truth, we can contribute to the establishment of a just and righteous society, both individually and collectively. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to the truth and protect us from falsehood.