Hadith #8907

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

رُبَّ كَلِمَة سَلَبَتْ نِعْمَةً۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

Many an utterance has taken away a blessing.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (kalimah) "كَلِمَة" in this Hadith refers to a word or statement. It signifies the power and impact that our words can have on our lives and the lives of others. Our words hold immense weight and can either bring blessings or strip them away. It is a reminder to be mindful of our speech and to choose our words wisely.

The word (salabat) "سَلَبَتْ" in this Hadith means to snatch away or take away forcefully. It emphasizes the abrupt and sudden nature of how a single word can rob us of a blessing. It serves as a warning against the potential harm that can be caused by careless or hurtful speech.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Isra (17:53),

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse highlights the importance of speaking in a manner that is pleasing to Allah and promotes unity among believers. It cautions against falling into the traps of Satan, who seeks to sow discord through our words.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:263), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

Kind speech and forgiveness are better than charity followed by injury. And Allah is Free of need and Forbearing.

This verse emphasizes the superiority of kind and forgiving speech over material acts of charity. It highlights the transformative power of our words and the potential to bring about positive change in our relationships and communities.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the Quranic verses, we realize that our words have the ability to shape our lives and the lives of those around us. A single word spoken in anger or haste can sever relationships, destroy trust, and diminish the blessings in our lives. On the other hand, a kind and gentle word can mend broken bonds, uplift spirits, and invite blessings into our lives.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the power of our words. He urges us to exercise caution and mindfulness in our speech, recognizing that our words have consequences. By choosing our words carefully and speaking with kindness and compassion, we can preserve the blessings in our lives and foster an environment of love and harmony.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the impact our words can have on our lives and the lives of others. It urges us to be mindful of our speech, to choose our words wisely, and to strive for kindness and compassion in our interactions. By doing so, we can safeguard the blessings in our lives and contribute to a more harmonious and loving society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to speak words that bring blessings and goodness.