Hadith #9586

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

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

إعادَةُ التَّقْريعِ أشَدُّ مِنْ مَضَضِ الضَّرْبِ

which translates to,

Repetition of [the] reprimand is more severe than the pain of a beating.

This Hadith highlights the profound impact of repetitive admonishment and its consequences on an individual's psyche and well-being.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The term (repetition) "إعادَةُ" emphasizes the continuous nature of the reprimand, indicating that it is not a one-time occurrence but rather an ongoing process. (reprimand) "التَّقْريعِ" refers to the act of scolding or reproaching someone for their actions or behavior. It signifies the verbal expression of disapproval or criticism.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 263,

Kind speech and forgiveness are better than charity followed by injury. And Allah is Free of need and Forbearing.

This verse highlights the importance of using gentle and kind words when addressing others, as it is more effective and beneficial than harshness or reproach.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 11, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

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.

This verse emphasizes the importance of refraining from belittling or reproaching others, as it can lead to animosity and division among people.

Now, let us reflect on the profound wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. Repetitive reprimands can have a detrimental effect on an individual's self-esteem, mental well-being, and overall morale. When someone is constantly subjected to criticism or harsh words, it can lead to feelings of worthlessness, anxiety, and even depression. This is why Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares the pain of repetitive reprimands to the physical pain of a beating.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, understood the power of words and their impact on individuals. He recognized the importance of fostering an environment of kindness, understanding, and forgiveness. By highlighting the severity of repetitive reprimands, he reminds us of the need to be mindful of our words and the potential harm they can cause.

As Muslims, we are encouraged to follow the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt. We should strive to cultivate a culture of compassion, empathy, and constructive criticism. Instead of repeatedly reprimanding others, we should seek to guide and advise them in a gentle and respectful manner. This approach not only preserves the dignity and self-esteem of others but also promotes a harmonious and supportive community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the profound impact of repetitive reprimands on an individual's well-being. It urges us to be mindful of our words and to adopt a compassionate and understanding approach when addressing others. By doing so, we can contribute to the creation of a nurturing and supportive environment within our communities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in our interactions and grant us the wisdom to use our words for the betterment of humanity.