Hadith #9543

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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:

عَوِّدْ لِسانَكَ حُسْنَ الكَلامِ تَأْمَنِ المَلامَ۔

This can be translated as:

Accustom your tongue to polite speech and you will remain safe from reproach.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word (accustom) "عَوِّدْ" in this Hadith refers to the act of training or habituating oneself to a particular behavior. It implies a continuous effort to make something a part of one's character. In this context, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises Muslims to continuously train their tongues to speak with kindness and politeness.

The phrase (polite speech) "حُسْنَ الكَلامِ" emphasizes the importance of using beautiful and respectful words when communicating with others. It encompasses not only the choice of words but also the tone and manner of speech. Polite speech reflects a person's character and shows respect for others, fostering harmony and understanding in society.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of this practice by stating that by accustoming our tongues to polite speech, we will (remain safe from reproach) "تَأْمَنِ المَلامَ". This means that by speaking politely, we can avoid falling into the trap of engaging in offensive or hurtful speech, which can lead to blame, criticism, and negative consequences.

The Quranic teachings also emphasize the importance of polite speech. 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 encourages Muslims to choose their words wisely and speak in a manner that is pleasing and beneficial. By doing so, we can protect ourselves from the whisperings of Satan and maintain unity among believers.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises Muslims:

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the prohibition of insulting and ridiculing others, highlighting the importance of respectful and dignified speech.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice to accustom our tongues to polite speech has profound implications. Polite speech fosters positive relationships, promotes understanding, and creates a harmonious atmosphere in society. It reflects the noble character of a believer and serves as a means of spreading love, compassion, and empathy.

By speaking politely, we can avoid hurting others, damaging relationships, and causing divisions within the Muslim community. Polite speech also helps us to control our anger and respond to conflicts with wisdom and patience. It allows us to express our opinions and concerns in a respectful manner, promoting healthy dialogue and constructive discussions.

Moreover, accustoming our tongues to polite speech is not limited to our interactions with others, but it also extends to our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we engage in supplications and remembrance of Allah, it is essential to use beautiful and respectful words, expressing our gratitude, humility, and devotion.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith advises Muslims to accustom their tongues to polite speech. This practice aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the importance of choosing our words wisely and speaking in a respectful and dignified manner. By doing so, we can avoid reproach, foster positive relationships, and create a harmonious society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to follow this advice and become individuals who speak with kindness and respect.