Hadith #9109

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,

كَثْرَةُ كِذْبِ المَرْءِ تُذْهِبُ بَهائَهُ۔

This Hadith warns us about the detrimental effects of excessive lying on a person's prestige and honor. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (kathratu) "كَثْرَةُ" means "excessive" or "abundance," indicating that the Hadith is specifically addressing the habit of frequent and persistent lying. Lying is an act of intentionally deceiving others by distorting the truth. It is a betrayal of trust and undermines the foundations of honesty and integrity.

The word (kidhb) "كِذْبِ" refers to lying. It encompasses all forms of falsehood, whether it is spoken, written, or conveyed through actions. Lying not only involves the act of uttering false statements but also includes hiding or distorting the truth.

The phrase (tudhibu baha'ahu) "تُذْهِبُ بَهائَهُ" translates to

takes away a person's prestige.

Here, (bahaa) "بَهَاء" refers to prestige, honor, or dignity. It represents the positive reputation and respect that an individual possesses. The Hadith highlights that excessive lying diminishes a person's prestige, tarnishing their character and credibility in the eyes of others.

To understand the gravity of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in several verses. In Surah Al-Ma'idah, Allah says, (Quran 4:135)

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted

This verse highlights the significance of standing firm in justice and being truthful, even if it goes against our personal interests or relationships. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining honesty and integrity, regardless of the consequences. By lying excessively, we deviate from the path of justice and compromise our own credibility.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah warns against the consequences of lying, saying, (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 fulfilling commitments and being honest in financial matters. Lying in business transactions or deceiving others in matters of wealth not only violates the rights of individuals but also leads to the erosion of trust and the loss of one's prestige.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that excessive lying has severe consequences. It not only diminishes a person's prestige but also undermines trust, damages relationships, and disrupts the fabric of society. Muslims are encouraged to embody truthfulness, honesty, and integrity in all aspects of their lives, striving to maintain their reputation and honor.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to always speak the truth, protect our honor, and grant us the strength to resist the temptation of lying. May we be among those who are known for their honesty and integrity, both in the eyes of Allah and our fellow Muslims.