Hadith #8880

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 noble companions.

In this profound Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to be cautious of excessive speech, as it leads to an increase in errors and weariness. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith.

The word (kathrata) "كَثْرَةَ" refers to an abundance or excessiveness. It implies an overindulgence in speech, where one speaks excessively without purpose or wisdom. The word (alkalam) "الكَلامِ" refers to speech or words. It encompasses both verbal and written communication.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the negative consequences of excessive speech. He highlights that it leads to an increase in errors or (az-zalal) "الزَّلَلَ". This refers to mistakes, slips, or deviations from the right path. When we speak excessively, we are more prone to making errors in our speech, which can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and even sins.

To support this advice, we find guidance in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:36),

And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.

This verse emphasizes the importance of speaking only when we have knowledge and understanding. Excessive speech without knowledge can lead to spreading falsehoods, causing harm to others, and being held accountable for our words on the Day of Judgment.

Furthermore, excessive speech can bring about weariness or (al-malal) "المَلَلَ". This refers to a state of fatigue, boredom, or apathy that arises from constant talking without purpose. When we engage in excessive speech, we waste our energy and time on trivial matters, leaving us drained and unproductive. This weariness can also extend to those around us, as they may become disinterested or overwhelmed by our constant chatter.

The Quran also advises us to be mindful of our speech and to choose our words wisely. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:205), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And remember your Lord within yourself in humility and in fear without being apparent in speech - in the mornings and the evenings. And do not be among the heedless.

This verse encourages us to remember Allah silently and reflectively, rather than engaging in excessive speech. It reminds us to prioritize our connection with Allah and to be mindful of our words.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice regarding excessive speech carries profound wisdom. When we speak less and choose our words carefully, we are more likely to avoid errors and misunderstandings. Our speech becomes more purposeful, meaningful, and impactful. By restraining our tongues, we can conserve our energy and focus on more productive endeavors. This practice also cultivates patience, humility, and self-control within us.

In conclusion, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of guarding our speech and avoiding excessive talk. By doing so, we protect ourselves from errors and weariness. Let us strive to follow this advice in our daily lives, speaking only when necessary and ensuring that our words are beneficial, truthful, and in accordance with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to control our speech and the ability to use our words for good.