Hadith #8898

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

سامِعُ هُجْرِ القَوْلِ شَريكُ القائِلِ۔

This can be translated as,

The one who listens to obscene speech is a partner of the speaker.

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of being mindful of the words we listen to and the impact they can have on our character and actions.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (hujr) "هُجْرِ" refers to obscene or indecent speech, while (qawl) "قَوْلِ" means speech or words. The word (sharik) "شَرِيكُ" translates to partner or associate, indicating that the listener of obscene speech becomes a participant in the act of speaking such words.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of guarding our tongues and being mindful of the words we speak and listen to. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:53),

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qalam (68:10-11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against following every person who spreads rumors and engages in obscene speech, saying,

Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has gone astray from His way, and He is most knowing of the [rightly] guided. So do not obey the deniers.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of the company they keep and the conversations they engage in. By listening to obscene speech, one becomes complicit in promoting such behavior and contributing to a negative environment. This can have detrimental effects on one's character, leading to a decline in moral values and distancing oneself from the path of righteousness.

Moreover, this Hadith highlights the importance of actively choosing to surround ourselves with individuals who promote good speech and virtuous behavior. By doing so, we can create an environment that fosters positive growth and encourages the development of strong moral values.

The consequences of listening to obscene speech are not limited to the immediate impact on one's character. It can also lead to the normalization of such behavior within society. When individuals engage in or tolerate obscene speech, it becomes more prevalent and accepted, eroding the moral fabric of the community.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to be mindful of the words we listen to and the conversations we engage in. We should actively seek out environments that promote good speech and virtuous behavior, distancing ourselves from those that encourage obscenity. By doing so, we can protect our own character, contribute to a positive societal change, and ultimately seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to be mindful of our speech and to surround ourselves with those who promote goodness. May He protect us from the negative influences of obscene speech and guide us on the path of righteousness.