Hadith #8958

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Speak and you will be known, for indeed a man is concealed under his tongue.

This impactful Hadith emphasizes the power and significance of our words. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (speak) "تَكَلَّمُوا". This word implies the act of expressing oneself through words and communication. It highlights the importance of using our tongues wisely and effectively. Our speech has the ability to reveal our true character and intentions, as well as influence and impact those around us.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran of the power of speech in Surah Al-Qalam, verse 4:

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining good character and integrity in our speech. Our words should reflect our inner selves and align with the teachings of Islam.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Isra, verse 36:

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 verse reminds us to be cautious and mindful of what we say. We should refrain from speaking about matters we have no knowledge of, as it can lead to spreading falsehood and causing harm.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that

a man is concealed under his tongue.

This statement highlights the fact that our words have the power to reveal our true nature and intentions. Our speech can either elevate us or expose our flaws and weaknesses. It is a reflection of our inner selves and the state of our hearts.

In Surah Al-Qasas, verse 55, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And when they hear ill speech, they turn away from it and say, 'For us are our deeds, and for you are your deeds. Peace will be upon you; we seek not the ignorant.'

This verse teaches us the importance of avoiding engaging in negative and harmful speech. Instead, we should distance ourselves from it and focus on our own actions and deeds.

Our words can have profound consequences. They can either bring people closer together or create division and animosity. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us to be mindful of our speech and to use it as a means of building bridges and fostering understanding among people.

In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 11, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 reminds us to avoid mocking, insulting, or belittling others through our words. It encourages us to treat one another with respect and dignity, recognizing that everyone has inherent worth and value.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of our speech. Our words have the power to reveal our true character, impact those around us, and shape our relationships. Let us strive to use our tongues wisely, speaking with kindness, truth, and wisdom. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to use our words in a manner that pleases Him and benefits humanity.