Hadith #5772

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states,

The least of things [required for salvation] is truthfulness and trustworthiness.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (sidq) "صدق" in Arabic refers to truthfulness, sincerity, and honesty. It encompasses both speaking the truth and being truthful in one's actions and intentions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in the Quran, stating in Surah Al-Tawbah, verse 119:

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

This verse highlights the association of truthfulness with righteousness and the need to surround ourselves with truthful individuals.

Furthermore, the word (amanah) "أمانة" in Arabic refers to trustworthiness, reliability, and fulfilling one's responsibilities. It encompasses being faithful to the trust placed upon us, whether it be in our relationships, professional duties, or societal obligations. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of trustworthiness in the Quran, stating in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 27:

O you who have believed, do not betray Allah and the Messenger or betray your trusts while you know [the consequence].

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that truthfulness and trustworthiness are the least of things required for salvation. This statement emphasizes the fundamental nature of these qualities in the life of a Muslim. They serve as the foundation upon which all other virtues are built. Without truthfulness and trustworthiness, our faith and actions are hollow and lacking in sincerity.

When we reflect on the consequences of truthfulness and trustworthiness, we realize their profound impact on our personal and societal well-being. Truthfulness fosters trust, strengthens relationships, and promotes harmony within communities. It allows for open communication, mutual understanding, and the establishment of justice. Trustworthiness, on the other hand, ensures that we fulfill our obligations and honor the trust placed upon us. It enables us to maintain our integrity and uphold the values of honesty and reliability.

Moreover, truthfulness and trustworthiness are closely intertwined with the concept of accountability. As Muslims, we believe that we will be held accountable for our words and actions in the Hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Isra, verse 36:

And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.

Our truthfulness and trustworthiness will be scrutinized on the Day of Judgment, and they will determine our ultimate salvation.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and trustworthiness in this Hadith. His own character serves as a shining example of these qualities. He was known as Al-Siddiq Al-Akbar (the greatest of the truthful) due to his unwavering commitment to truthfulness and trustworthiness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that truthfulness and trustworthiness are the least of things required for salvation. These qualities are deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran and serve as the foundation of our faith and actions. By embodying truthfulness and trustworthiness in our lives, we not only fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to be truthful and trustworthy in all aspects of our lives.