Hadith #8918

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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,

Speaking less conceals shameful flaws and keeps one safe from missteps.

This impactful Hadith emphasizes the importance of controlling our speech and the benefits that come with speaking less.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (qillatu) "قِلَّةُ" means "few" or "less," while (al-kalam) "الكَلامِ" refers to "speech" or "words." The phrase (yasturu al-'awar) "يَسْتُرُ العَوارَ" can be translated as "conceals shameful flaws," and (yu'minu al-'ithar) "يُؤْمِنُ العِثارَ" means

keeps one safe from missteps.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. 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.

This verse highlights the importance of speaking only that which is good and beneficial. By speaking less, we reduce the chances of falling into the trap of Satan and engaging in harmful speech that may lead to discord and division among Muslims.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qalam (68:10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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.

This verse highlights the importance of moderation in our actions and speech. Just as Allah recognizes the limitations of our physical abilities, we should also recognize the limits of our speech and strive for moderation.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement encourages us to reflect upon the consequences of our words. Speaking less not only conceals our own shameful flaws but also prevents us from causing harm to others through our speech. It allows us to maintain our integrity and protect our reputation. By speaking less, we avoid unnecessary arguments, gossip, and backbiting, which are all condemned in Islam.

Moreover, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us of the importance of self-control and mindfulness in our speech. It urges us to think before we speak and consider the potential consequences of our words. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasizes the significance of using our tongues wisely. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6),

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to exercise restraint in their speech. By speaking less, we protect ourselves from exposing our flaws and avoid causing harm to others. This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of speaking only that which is good and beneficial. Let us strive to follow the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the Quran, and may Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to control our tongues and speak with righteousness.