Hadith #5763

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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,

مَنْ صَدَقَ مَقالُهُ زادَ جَلالُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One whose speech is truthful, his loftiness is increased.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of truthfulness in speech and its impact on one's character and status.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith. The word (sadaka) "صَدَقَ" means "to be truthful" or

to speak the truth.

It implies honesty, sincerity, and integrity in one's words. The word (maqaluhu) "مَقالُهُ" refers to "his speech" or "what he says." It encompasses all forms of communication, including verbal and written expressions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that when a person speaks the truth consistently, their (jalaluhu) "جَلالُهُ", which can be translated as "loftiness" or "dignity," is increased. This means that their character becomes elevated, and they gain respect and honor in the eyes of others. Truthfulness in speech is a virtue that enhances one's credibility, reliability, and trustworthiness.

The importance of truthfulness in speech is emphasized in the Quran as well. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ahzab (33:70),

O you who have believed, fear Allah and speak words of appropriate justice.

This verse highlights the need for believers to be mindful of their speech and to ensure that their words are just and truthful.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both.

This verse emphasizes the importance of speaking the truth, even if it goes against one's own interests or the interests of loved ones. It highlights the need for honesty and integrity in all aspects of life.

The consequences of speaking the truth are not limited to this world but extend to the Hereafter as well. In Surah Az-Zumar (39:33), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And the one who has brought the truth and [they who] believed in it - those are the righteous.

This verse assures us that those who speak the truth and believe in it will be counted among the righteous in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize truthfulness in their speech. When we consistently speak the truth, we not only enhance our own character but also inspire others to do the same. Our words become a reflection of our inner selves, and people trust and respect us for our honesty.

Moreover, truthfulness in speech fosters strong and healthy relationships. When we are truthful, we build trust with others, and they feel comfortable confiding in us. Our words carry weight and influence, and we become a source of guidance and support for those around us.

On the other hand, the consequences of dishonesty and falsehood are severe. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns in Surah Az-Zumar (39:32),

So who is more unjust than one who lies about Allah and denies the truth when it has come to him? Is there not in Hell a residence for the disbelievers?

This verse highlights the gravity of lying about Allah and denying the truth. It serves as a reminder that falsehood leads to destruction and ultimately leads to the Hellfire.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in speech. When we consistently speak the truth, our character is elevated, and we gain respect and honor in the eyes of others. Quranic verses further reinforce the significance of truthfulness and warn against the consequences of dishonesty. As Muslims, it is our duty to prioritize truthfulness in our speech and strive to be people of integrity and honesty. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to speak the truth and increase our loftiness in this world and the Hereafter.