Hadith #8928

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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who speaks that which he ought not to, hears that which he does not like.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of guarding our tongues and being mindful of our words. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (one who speaks) "مَنْ قَالَ" and (that which he ought not to) "ما لايَنْبَغي". The word (speaks) "قَالَ" refers to verbal expression, encompassing both speech and conversation. (that which he ought not to) "ما لايَنْبَغي" implies speaking inappropriately or saying things that are not suitable or beneficial. This includes spreading falsehoods, engaging in gossip, backbiting, slander, and any form of harmful speech.

The second part of the Hadith states, (hears that which he does not like) "سَمِعَ ما لايَشْتَهي". This indicates that one who indulges in speaking inappropriately will eventually be exposed to unpleasant and undesirable information. It serves as a reminder that our words have consequences and can come back to haunt us.

The Quran provides several verses that emphasize the importance of guarding our tongues and speaking only that which is good and beneficial. 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.

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

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. He has known that there will be among you those who are ill and others traveling throughout the land seeking [something] of the bounty of Allah and others fighting for the cause of Allah. So recite what is easy from it and establish prayer and give zakah and loan Allah a goodly loan. And whatever good you put forward for yourselves - you will find it with Allah. It is better and greater in reward. And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

These verses highlight the importance of speaking that which is best and easy for us. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is aware of our capabilities and does not burden us beyond our capacity. It is crucial to focus on reciting the Quran, establishing prayer, giving zakah, and seeking forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims about the consequences of our words. When we engage in inappropriate speech, we not only harm others but also expose ourselves to undesirable information. Our words have the power to create divisions, spread falsehoods, and damage relationships. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution and speak only that which is beneficial, truthful, and in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of guarding our tongues and being mindful of our words. By doing so, we can maintain harmony, foster unity, and promote a positive environment within our communities. Let us strive to follow the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our speech, ensuring that our words reflect the values of Islam and contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to speak with kindness, truthfulness, and compassion.