Hadith #8914

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

رُبَّ كَلام أنْفَذُ مِنْ سِهام۔

This Hadith is translated as,

Many a word is more piercing than an arrow.

Let us delve into the meaning of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (rubba) "رُبَّ" in this Hadith means "many" or "countless." It emphasizes the abundance and frequency of a certain occurrence. The word (kalām) "كَلام" refers to speech or words. It encompasses both spoken and written expressions. The word (anfadh) "أنْفَذُ" means "piercing" or "penetrating." It signifies the impact and effect that words can have on individuals and society. Lastly, (min siham) "مِنْ سِهام" means "than arrows." It draws a comparison between the power of words and the sharpness of arrows.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that highlight the significance and consequences of our words. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:263),

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

This verse emphasizes the importance of choosing our words wisely, as they can have a greater impact than material acts of charity. Kind and forgiving words can mend relationships and bring about positive change.

In Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

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 encourages Muslims to speak with wisdom and goodness, as Satan seeks to sow discord and create divisions through harmful speech. By choosing our words carefully, we can protect ourselves from the traps of Satan and promote unity among Muslims.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qalam (68:10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Indeed, your Lord knows, [O Muhammad], that you stand [in prayer] almost two-thirds of the night or half of it or a third of it, and [so do] a group of those with you. And Allah determines [the extent of] the night and the day. He has known that you [Muslims] will not be able to do it and has turned to you in forgiveness, so recite what is easy [for you] of the Qur'an. He has known that there will be among you those who are ill and others traveling throughout the land seeking [something] of the bounty of Allah and others fighting for the cause of Allah. So recite what is easy from it and establish prayer and give zakah and loan Allah a goodly loan. And whatever good you put forward for yourselves - you will find it with Allah. It is better and greater in reward. And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse highlights the importance of reciting the Quran and establishing prayer, even if it is done in smaller portions due to various circumstances. It reminds us that every good deed, including the recitation of the Quran, holds immense value in the sight of Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the connotation of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. The Hadith teaches us that words possess immense power and can leave a lasting impact on individuals and society. Just as an arrow can pierce through the body, words can penetrate the hearts and minds of people, leaving them wounded or inspired.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, reminds us to be cautious and deliberate in our speech. Our words should be chosen carefully, considering their potential consequences. Harsh and hurtful words can cause deep emotional wounds, leading to broken relationships and animosity. On the other hand, kind and uplifting words can heal wounds, foster understanding, and bring about positive change.

We must remember that our words are a reflection of our character and faith. As Muslims, we are called to follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who exemplified the highest standards of speech and conduct. By embodying their teachings, we can use our words to spread love, compassion, and guidance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the power and impact of our words. It urges us to be mindful of the consequences of our speech and to choose our words wisely. By aligning our words with the teachings of the Quran and the noble examples of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in using our words for good and protect us from the harm that can result from careless speech.