Hadith #9565

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

ما عَقَدَ إيمانَهُ مَنْ لَمْ يَحْفَظْ لِسانَهُ۔

This powerful statement emphasizes the importance of guarding one's tongue as an integral part of completing one's faith. Let us delve into the profound wisdom behind this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (aqada) "عَقَدَ" in Arabic means to tie, fasten, or complete. It signifies the act of firmly establishing or securing something. In this context, it refers to the completion of one's faith. The word (imaanahu) "إيمانَهُ" refers to one's faith or belief in Allah and His teachings. It encompasses both the belief in the heart and the actions that manifest from it.

Now, let us explore the significance of guarding the tongue. The word (lam yahfadh) "لَمْ يَحْفَظْ" means to not guard or protect. It implies the lack of control and restraint over one's speech. The tongue is a powerful tool that can either bring about great good or cause immense harm. It is through our words that we express our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution and mindfulness in our speech.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that highlight the importance of guarding the tongue. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qalam (68:10),

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. It reminds us that Allah is aware of our limitations and accepts our efforts, even if they are not perfect. Similarly, in guarding our tongues, we must strive to speak words that are pleasing to Allah and beneficial to others. We should avoid engaging in idle gossip, backbiting, slander, and any form of harmful speech.

Another verse that sheds light on the significance of guarding the tongue is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 emphasizes the importance of speaking in a manner that is good, kind, and beneficial. It reminds us that Satan seeks to sow discord and create divisions among people through the misuse of our tongues. Therefore, as Muslims, we should strive to use our words to promote unity, understanding, and compassion.

The consequences of not guarding our tongues can be severe. Our words have the power to destroy relationships, spread falsehoods, and cause harm to others. They can tarnish our reputation and lead to regret and remorse. Moreover, the Quran warns us that on the Day of Judgment, every word we have uttered will be accounted for. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Qaf (50:18),

Not a word does he utter but there is a watcher by him ready [to record it].

On the other hand, when we guard our tongues and speak with wisdom, kindness, and truthfulness, we can reap numerous rewards. Our words can bring comfort to those in distress, spread knowledge and guidance, and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ahzab (33:70-71),

O you who have believed, fear Allah and speak words of appropriate justice. He will [then] amend for you your deeds and forgive you your sins. And whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger has certainly attained a great attainment.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that guarding our tongues is an essential aspect of completing our faith. It calls upon us to exercise control and restraint over our speech, ensuring that our words are in line with the teachings of Islam. By doing so, we can avoid the harmful consequences of reckless speech and instead reap the rewards of speaking words that are pleasing to Allah and beneficial to humanity. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to guard our tongues and use our words for the betterment of ourselves and others.