Hadith #9572

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

This tongue is recalcitrant to its owner.

Let us delve into the meaning and implications of this thought-provoking saying in light of the Quran.

The word "lisan" in Arabic refers to the tongue, which is a powerful tool of communication. It is through our tongues that we express our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes the tongue as "jamuh," which can be translated as recalcitrant, rebellious, or disobedient. This description highlights the potential dangers and challenges associated with the use of our tongues.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of controlling our tongues and using them wisely. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qalam (68:10),

Indeed, your Lord knows, [O Muhammad], that you stand [in prayer] almost two-thirds of the night or half of it or a third of it, and [so do] a group of those with you. And Allah determines [the extent of] the night and the day. He has known that you [Muslims] will not be able to do it and has turned to you in forgiveness, so recite what is easy [for you] of the Qur'an. He has known that there will be among you those who are ill and others traveling throughout the land seeking [something] of the bounty of Allah and others fighting for the cause of Allah. So recite what is easy from it and establish prayer and give zakah and loan Allah a goodly loan. And whatever good you put forward for yourselves - you will find it with Allah. It is better and greater in reward. And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse highlights the importance of reciting the Quran and establishing prayer. However, it also acknowledges that not everyone is able to fulfill these obligations to the same extent. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) understands our limitations and encourages us to do what is within our capacity. This verse serves as a reminder that we should not burden ourselves with excessive religious practices beyond our capabilities.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement about the tongue being recalcitrant to its owner can be understood in the context of this verse. Our tongues have the potential to lead us astray if we allow them to speak without restraint. They can cause harm to ourselves and others through gossip, slander, lies, and hurtful words. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise control over our tongues and use them in a manner that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Another verse that sheds light on the importance of controlling our tongues is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse emphasizes the prohibition of backbiting and negative assumptions about others. It compares the act of backbiting to eating the flesh of a dead person, highlighting its repugnance. It serves as a reminder that our tongues have the power to cause immense harm and damage to our relationships with others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement about the tongue being recalcitrant to its owner reminds us of the importance of guarding our tongues against such harmful behaviors. We must strive to speak only what is true, beneficial, and kind. We should refrain from engaging in gossip, spreading rumors, or speaking ill of others. Instead, we should use our tongues to promote unity, understanding, and compassion among Muslims.

Furthermore, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder of the importance of self-discipline and self-control. It is not enough to simply know what is right and wrong; we must actively strive to implement these principles in our daily lives. By exercising restraint over our tongues, we can avoid unnecessary conflicts, maintain harmonious relationships, and promote a positive and peaceful environment within the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the potential dangers associated with the uncontrolled use of our tongues. It urges us to exercise self-discipline and use our tongues wisely, in accordance with the teachings of the Quran. By doing so, we can avoid causing harm to ourselves and others, and instead contribute to the unity and well-being of the Muslim ummah. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to control our tongues and use them for good.