Hadith #8585

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

From the signs of turning [to Allah] are: correctness of speech and kindness in actions.

Let us delve into the profound meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (saddadu) "سَدَادُ" in the Hadith refers to "correctness" or "truthfulness" in speech. It signifies the importance of speaking the truth and avoiding falsehood in all aspects of our lives. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the significance of truthfulness in the Quran, stating in Surah Al-Tawbah (9:119),

O you who have believed, fear Allah and be with those who are truthful.

This verse highlights the virtue of being truthful and encourages Muslims to associate themselves with those who speak the truth.

Additionally, the word (al-rifqu) "الرِّفْقُ" in the Hadith refers to "kindness" or "gentleness" in actions. It encompasses showing compassion, empathy, and tenderness towards others. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of kindness and gentle behavior. In Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 encourages Muslims to choose their words wisely and speak in a gentle and kind manner, even in times of disagreement or conflict.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that correctness of speech and kindness in actions are signs of turning towards Allah. When we speak the truth and choose our words carefully, we align ourselves with the values of honesty and integrity that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has prescribed for us. This not only strengthens our relationship with Allah but also fosters trust and harmony within our communities.

Similarly, when we exhibit kindness and gentleness in our actions, we reflect the mercy and compassion of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:107),

And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.

Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was sent as a mercy to all of humanity, and by emulating his example, we can manifest the qualities of kindness and compassion in our interactions with others.

The consequences of adhering to the signs mentioned in this Hadith are profound. When we speak the truth and act with kindness, we create an environment of trust, sincerity, and harmony. Our relationships become stronger, and our communities thrive. Moreover, by embodying these qualities, we become true representatives of Islam and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Our actions become a means of inviting others towards the beauty and truth of Islam.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of aligning our speech and actions with the teachings of Islam. It serves as a guide for us to continuously strive for truthfulness in our words and kindness in our actions. By doing so, we not only strengthen our relationship with Allah but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to speak the truth and act with kindness in all aspects of our lives. May He bless us with the strength to turn towards Him and embody the qualities mentioned in this Hadith. Ameen.