Hadith #5809

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of silence and highlights one of its benefits, which is safety. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this impactful Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (Iltizam) "اِلْزَمِ" in the Hadith means to adhere to or embrace. It implies a sense of commitment and dedication. In this context, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises Muslims to embrace silence, to exercise restraint in their speech, and to refrain from unnecessary talk.

The word (as-samt) "الصَّمْتَ" refers to silence or abstaining from speech. It is an act of self-control and discipline, where one chooses to withhold their words and maintain a state of quietude. Silence is not merely the absence of speech, but a deliberate choice to refrain from idle chatter, gossip, and unnecessary arguments.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then mentions that the least of the benefits of silence is (as-salamah) "السَّلامَةُ", which can be translated as safety, security, or well-being. This implies that silence has numerous advantages, and safety is just one of them. Let us explore the significance of this advice in light of the Quran.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of guarding one's tongue and practicing silence. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:3),

Successful indeed are the believers who are humble in their prayers, and who turn away from idle talk.

This verse highlights the virtue of abstaining from idle talk, which includes unnecessary speech that serves no purpose.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to be patient and to turn away from those who engage in futile discourse. This verse demonstrates the importance of avoiding unnecessary arguments and debates that lead to nothing but discord and division.

Silence is a powerful tool that can protect us from many harms. It shields us from engaging in backbiting, slander, and spreading rumors, which are condemned in Islam. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12),

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

Silence also protects us from uttering words that may harm others or ourselves. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.

This verse cautions against making promises or commitments that we may not be able to fulfill, which can lead to negative consequences.

Moreover, silence allows us to reflect and ponder upon the words of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek knowledge. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:45),

Recite, [O Muhammad], what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows that which you do.

By embracing silence, we create an environment conducive to reflection, learning, and spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to embrace silence and highlights the safety it brings. Silence is not merely the absence of speech but a conscious choice to refrain from idle talk, gossip, and unnecessary arguments. The Quran supports this advice by emphasizing the importance of guarding our tongues, avoiding negative assumptions, and refraining from backbiting and slander. Silence allows us to reflect, seek knowledge, and protect ourselves from harm. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to practice silence and benefit from its virtues.