Hadith #1592

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

مُسْتَعْمِلُ الباطِلِ مُعَذَّبٌ مَلُومٌ۔

This can be translated as,

The one who employs falsehood is chastised and condemned.

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

The word "مُسْتَعْمِلُ" refers to someone who actively utilizes or employs something. In this context, it signifies the act of using falsehood or deceit. The word "الباطِلِ" refers to falsehood, deception, or anything that deviates from the truth. It encompasses lies, dishonesty, and any action that contradicts the principles of honesty and integrity.

To understand the gravity of employing falsehood, we turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and warns against falsehood. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:42)

And do not mix the truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know [it].

This verse highlights the severity of mixing truth with falsehood and concealing the truth knowingly.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah warns, (Quran 17:34-35)

And do not approach the property of an orphan, except in the way that is best, until he reaches maturity. And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned. And give full measure when you measure, and weigh with an even balance. That is the best [way] and best in result.

These verses emphasize the importance of honesty and integrity in financial dealings, urging Muslims to fulfill their commitments and be just in their measurements.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder that those who employ falsehood will face chastisement and condemnation. This chastisement can be both in this world and in the hereafter. In this world, the consequences of falsehood can manifest in various forms, such as loss of trust, damaged relationships, and a tarnished reputation. Moreover, the psychological burden of living a life based on deceit can lead to inner turmoil and a loss of self-respect.

In the hereafter, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns of severe punishment for those who engage in falsehood. In Surah Al-Nahl, Allah says, (Quran 16:90-91)

Indeed, Allah orders justice and good conduct and giving to relatives and forbids immorality and bad conduct and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded. And fulfill the covenant of Allah when you have taken it, [O believers], and do not break oaths after their confirmation while you have made Allah, over you, a witness. Indeed, Allah knows what you do.

These verses highlight the importance of upholding justice and fulfilling covenants, while warning against immorality and breaking oaths.

Reflecting on Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith, we understand that employing falsehood not only leads to worldly consequences but also carries severe spiritual consequences. It is a betrayal of the trust placed upon us by Allah and a violation of the principles of honesty and integrity that Islam upholds.

As Muslims, we should strive to embody the qualities of truthfulness and honesty in all aspects of our lives. We should be mindful of our words, actions, and intentions, ensuring that they align with the teachings of the Quran and the noble example set by our Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). By doing so, we can protect ourselves from the chastisement and condemnation that result from employing falsehood, and instead, earn the pleasure and blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all on the path of truth and righteousness.