Hadith #7182

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

When you make an indirect reference to an intelligent person then you have tormented him with reproof.

This Hadith highlights the impact of indirect criticism on a person of intellect. To understand the essence behind this statement, let us delve into the words used in this Hadith.

The word (lawwah-ta) "لَوَّحْتَ" in Arabic refers to making an indirect reference or allusion. It implies conveying a message or expressing disapproval without directly addressing the person concerned. This form of communication can be subtle yet impactful, as it may leave the recipient feeling reproached or tormented.

The term (aqli) "عاقِلِ" denotes an intelligent or wise person. In this context, it refers to someone who possesses intellectual acumen and discernment. Such individuals are often perceptive and sensitive to the subtleties of communication.

Now, let us turn to the Quran to find verses that shed light on the significance of this Hadith. 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.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative assumptions and backbiting. Making indirect references can often lead to negative assumptions about others, which is condemned in Islam. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) compares backbiting to eating the flesh of one's brother, highlighting the repugnance of such behavior. Therefore, this Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims to refrain from engaging in indirect criticism or any form of communication that may torment others.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse advises Muslims against ridiculing or insulting others. It reminds us that we should not judge or belittle others, as they may be better than us in the sight of Allah. Making indirect references can often lead to ridicule or insult, causing emotional distress to the person being targeted. Hence, this Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims to be mindful of their words and actions, ensuring that they do not torment or harm others through indirect criticism.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we realize the importance of maintaining respectful and compassionate communication with others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, highlights the negative consequences of indirect criticism. Such behavior not only torments the person being indirectly referred to but also tarnishes the unity and harmony within the Muslim community.

Therefore, as Muslims, it is incumbent upon us to be mindful of our words and actions, ensuring that we do not engage in indirect criticism or any form of communication that may torment others. Instead, let us strive to promote understanding, empathy, and unity within our community, following the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to speak with wisdom and kindness, and protect us from causing harm to others.