Hadith #8316

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,

ما تَسابَّ إثْنانِ إلاّ غَلَبَ اَلأَمُهُما۔

This can be translated as,

Two people never insult each other except that the one who is wicked of the two prevails.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequences of engaging in verbal abuse and insults.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words. The word (tasaba) "تَسابَّ" refers to the act of insulting or abusing one another. It implies the use of offensive language or derogatory remarks. The word (ithnain) "إثْنانِ" means two individuals, indicating that this Hadith specifically addresses situations where two people are involved in a verbal altercation. The word (ghalaba) "غَلَبَ" means to prevail or overcome. It signifies that in such situations, the one who is more wicked or evil in their actions will emerge as the dominant party.

This Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) resonates with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of good conduct, kindness, and avoiding disputes. 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 highlights the importance of refraining from insulting or ridiculing others, as it can lead to the degradation of one's own character. It reminds Muslims to treat others with respect and kindness, regardless of their differences. Similarly, in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

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 choose their words wisely and speak in a manner that promotes harmony and unity. It warns against falling into the trap of Satan, who seeks to create discord and division among people through the use of hurtful language.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder of the negative consequences that arise from engaging in verbal abuse and insults. When two individuals resort to insulting each other, it not only damages their relationship but also reflects their own moral shortcomings. The one who is more wicked or evil in their actions will ultimately prevail, as their behavior demonstrates a lack of self-control, humility, and adherence to Islamic teachings.

Moreover, this Hadith highlights the importance of self-restraint and forgiveness in the face of insults. Rather than retaliating with more insults, Muslims are encouraged to respond with patience and forgiveness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas (28:54),

And those who are patient and do righteous deeds will have forgiveness and great reward.

By choosing to respond to insults with patience and righteousness, Muslims can rise above the negativity and maintain their dignity. This not only reflects the teachings of Islam but also serves as a means of self-improvement and spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds Muslims of the consequences of engaging in verbal abuse and insults. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of good conduct, kindness, and avoiding disputes. By refraining from insults and responding with patience and forgiveness, Muslims can uphold their moral values and maintain harmonious relationships with others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the teachings of Islam and protect us from the pitfalls of engaging in hurtful speech.