Hadith #4872

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 righteous companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of lying, specifically in the context of an envoy or messenger. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his wisdom and knowledge, warns us about the destructive nature of falsehood in this particular role.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (kizb) "كِذْبُ" refers to lies or falsehood. (as-safir) "السَّفيرِ" refers to an envoy or messenger who is entrusted with delivering a message on behalf of someone else. (yuwalidu) "يُوَلِّدُ" means to give rise to or bring about. (al-fasad) "الفَسادَ" refers to corruption or mischief. (yufawwitu) "يُفَوِّتُ" means to cause the failure or loss of. (al-murad) "المُرادَ" refers to the intended objective or purpose. (yubtilu) "يُبْطِلُ" means to nullify or invalidate. (al-hazm) "الحَزْمَ" refers to judiciousness or determination. (yanqudu) "يَنْقُضُ" means to undermine or weaken. (al-azm) "العَزْمَ" refers to firm resolution or determination.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and warns against the consequences of lying. In Surah Az-Zumar (39:3), Allah says,

Indeed, We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth. So worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion.

This verse highlights the importance of sincerity and truthfulness in worshiping Allah.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:32), Allah says,

Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.

This verse demonstrates the severity of corruption and the importance of preserving life and avoiding harm.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. The lies of an envoy can give rise to corruption, as falsehood breeds mistrust and undermines the integrity of the message being delivered. When an envoy is not truthful, the intended objective of the message is likely to fail, as people may question its authenticity and disregard its content. This can lead to chaos and confusion, hindering any positive outcome that was initially intended.

Moreover, the lies of an envoy nullify judiciousness and invalidate firm resolution. When an envoy is dishonest, their credibility is compromised, and their ability to make sound judgments and decisions is undermined. This can have far-reaching consequences, as it erodes trust and weakens the effectiveness of any actions or plans that were based on the envoy's counsel.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to uphold the values of truthfulness and integrity in all aspects of life. Whether in the role of an envoy or in any other capacity, it is crucial to be honest and sincere in our words and actions. By doing so, we contribute to the establishment of a just and righteous society, where trust and harmony prevail.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to always speak the truth and protect us from the destructive consequences of falsehood. May we strive to follow the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in seeking knowledge and embodying the values of honesty and integrity. Ameen.