Hadith #1286

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,

المؤمن صدوق اللسان، بذول الإحسان

which translates to

A believer is very truthful in [his] speech and generous in [his] benevolence.

This impactful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights two important qualities that a believer should possess: truthfulness in speech and generosity in benevolence.

The word (saduq) "صَدُوقُ" means "truthful" or "honest," and it refers to the sincerity and integrity of a believer's speech. This implies that a true believer should always speak the truth and avoid falsehood in all circumstances. The importance of truthfulness in Islam is emphasized in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Tawbah (9:119),

O you who have believed, fear Allah and be with those who are true.

This verse encourages Muslims to be in the company of those who are truthful, highlighting the significance of truthfulness in the faith.

Furthermore, the word (bathul) "بَذُولُ" means "generous" or "liberal," and it refers to the act of being benevolent and kind towards others. A believer should not only be truthful in speech but also generous in their actions and dealings with others. The Quran emphasizes the importance of generosity in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.

This verse highlights the immense reward and blessings that come with being generous and selfless.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to embody these qualities in their daily lives. By being truthful in speech, we uphold the principles of honesty and integrity, which are essential for maintaining trust and fostering healthy relationships within society. Truthfulness also aligns with the teachings of the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8),

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

Similarly, being generous in benevolence allows us to fulfill the rights of others and contribute to the well-being of society. Generosity is not limited to material possessions; it also encompasses acts of kindness, compassion, and support. The Quran encourages Muslims to be generous and selfless in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking sustenance from Allah and being grateful for His blessings, which can be expressed through acts of generosity towards others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith serves as a guiding principle for Muslims, reminding us to be truthful in our speech and generous in our actions. By embodying these qualities, we not only strengthen our faith but also contribute to the betterment of society. Let us strive to be believers who are known for their truthfulness and generosity, following the example set by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the teachings of the Quran. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these qualities and earn His pleasure.