Hadith #9081

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the grave consequences of lying. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes that lying brings disgrace and humiliation in this world, and leads one to the torment of the Hellfire in the Hereafter.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and their significance. The word (lying) "كِذْب" refers to intentionally distorting or concealing the truth. It is an act that contradicts the principles of honesty and integrity. The word (this world) "عاجِلَةِ" refers to the temporal life we are currently living, while (Hereafter) "آجِلَةِ" refers to the eternal life that awaits us after death. The word (disgrace) "عار" signifies the loss of honor and respect, while (hellfire) "عَذَابُ النّارِ" refers to the punishment that awaits those who commit sins in the Hereafter.

To further understand the gravity of lying, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11) that

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 avoiding any form of deceit or mockery towards others. Lying not only brings disgrace upon oneself, but it also leads to the degradation of society as a whole. It undermines trust and fosters an environment of suspicion and animosity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'arij (70:42-44), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the severe consequences of lying:

Indeed, the Day of Judgement is an appointed time - the Day the Horn is blown and you will come forth in multitudes and the heaven is opened and will become gateways and the mountains are removed and will be [but] a mirage. Indeed, Hell has been lying in wait.

These verses remind us that the Day of Judgement is inevitable, and on that day, the truth will be revealed. Lying will be exposed, and the consequences will be severe. The imagery of the mountains being removed and Hell awaiting the liars emphasizes the magnitude of the punishment that awaits those who engage in falsehood.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to uphold the values of honesty and integrity in all aspects of life. Lying not only tarnishes our reputation in this world but also leads to eternal damnation in the Hereafter. It is crucial for us to reflect on our words and actions, ensuring that we always speak the truth and avoid any form of deceit.

Let us strive to follow the teachings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the guidance of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble family, particularly Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). By doing so, we can attain success in this world and the Hereafter, and protect ourselves from the disgrace and punishment associated with lying. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of truth and righteousness.