Hadith #9074

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "مَنْ أكْثَرَ هُجِرَ۔" This can be translated as,

One who is loquacious is abandoned.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (akthara) "أكْثَرَ" in this Hadith refers to someone who excessively talks or is overly verbose. Such a person tends to speak without restraint, often indulging in idle chatter or engaging in unnecessary arguments. This behavior can lead to a lack of focus, wasted time, and even the alienation of others.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the characteristics of the believers, stating,

And who turn away from ill speech.

This verse emphasizes the importance of abstaining from vain and harmful speech. Excessive talking can lead to the utterance of falsehoods, backbiting, gossip, and other forms of harmful speech that are condemned in Islam.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:55), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises Prophet Musa (Moses) and his brother Harun (Aaron) to speak gently and kindly to Pharaoh. This verse highlights the significance of using speech wisely and purposefully. It encourages Muslims to choose their words carefully and to avoid unnecessary arguments or debates that may lead to discord and division.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith warns against excessive talking because it can lead to being abandoned. When one indulges in excessive speech, they may lose the attention and respect of others. People may distance themselves from someone who constantly talks without substance, as it can be tiresome and unproductive.

Moreover, excessive talking can lead to the neglect of important matters and the loss of focus. In Surah Al-Jathiya (45:23), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us,

Have you seen he who has taken as his god his [own] desire, and Allah has sent him astray due to knowledge and has set a seal upon his hearing and his heart and put over his vision a veil? So who will guide him after Allah? Then will you not be reminded?

This verse serves as a reminder that indulging in excessive speech can divert one's attention from seeking knowledge and guidance from Allah.

Additionally, excessive talking can lead to the spread of false information and misunderstandings. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us,

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.

This verse emphasizes the importance of verifying information before spreading it. Excessive talking without proper knowledge can lead to spreading rumors, false accusations, and causing harm to others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their speech. It encourages us to speak with purpose, wisdom, and moderation. By doing so, we can avoid wasting time, maintain the respect and attention of others, and uphold the principles of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns against excessive talking, as it can lead to being abandoned. This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of using speech wisely, avoiding harmful speech, and seeking knowledge from Allah. Muslims are encouraged to be mindful of their words, speak with purpose, and avoid excessive chatter that may lead to wasted time, misunderstandings, and the loss of respect. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in using our speech for beneficial purposes and grant us the wisdom to speak with moderation.