Hadith #8023

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "أقْبَحُ العَيِّ الضَّجْرُ۔" This can be translated into English as,

The worst inarticulateness is [that which is caused by] irritation.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. (aqbah) "أقْبَحُ" refers to something that is extremely ugly, repulsive, or detestable. (al-'ayy) "العَيِّ" means inarticulateness or inability to express oneself clearly. Lastly, (ad-dajr) "الضَّجْرُ" refers to irritation, annoyance, or frustration.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

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 emphasizes the importance of avoiding ridicule, insults, and offensive nicknames. It highlights the negative consequences of such behavior, as it leads to division, animosity, and a breakdown in communication. When we allow irritation to cloud our judgment and influence our words, we become unable to express ourselves clearly and effectively. Our inarticulateness becomes a reflection of our inner frustration and negativity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us,

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 reminds us to refrain from making negative assumptions about others and engaging in backbiting. Negative assumptions often stem from irritation and can lead to misunderstandings and strained relationships. When we allow irritation to cloud our judgment, we fail to see the good in others and instead focus on their perceived faults. This not only harms our relationships but also hinders effective communication.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, highlights the detrimental effects of inarticulateness caused by irritation. When we are irritated, our ability to express ourselves clearly and effectively diminishes. Our words become distorted, lacking clarity and coherence. This not only hampers our ability to convey our thoughts and feelings accurately but also leads to misunderstandings and conflicts.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of controlling our emotions and maintaining composure in order to communicate effectively. By doing so, we can avoid the ugliness of inarticulateness caused by irritation and instead foster understanding, harmony, and productive dialogue.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the negative consequences of allowing irritation to cloud our judgment and influence our words. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining composure and controlling our emotions in order to communicate effectively. By doing so, we can avoid the inarticulateness that arises from irritation and instead foster understanding, harmony, and productive dialogue among Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and patience to communicate effectively and avoid the pitfalls of inarticulateness caused by irritation.