Hadith #9102

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,

جانِبُوا الكِذْبَ فَإنَّهُ مُجانِبُ الإيمانِ۔

This can be translated as,

Eschew lying for indeed it alienates one from faith.

In this beautiful saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of avoiding falsehood, as it is contrary to the essence of faith.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, it is essential to delve into the meanings of the key words. The word (lying) "كِذْبَ" refers to intentionally distorting the truth or fabricating falsehood. It encompasses all forms of dishonesty and deceit. The word (alienates) "مُجانِبُ" means to distance oneself or to be separated from something. And finally, the word (faith) "إيمانِ" refers to a deep-rooted belief in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His teachings.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hajj (22:30),

That (has been commanded), and whoever honors the sacred ordinances of Allah - it is best for him in the sight of his Lord.

This verse highlights the importance of adhering to the commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and avoiding falsehood, as it is a violation of His sacred ordinances.

In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:42), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the consequences of lying, stating,

And do not mix the truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know (it).

This verse emphasizes the need for honesty and integrity, as mixing truth with falsehood or concealing the truth is a betrayal of faith.

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

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

This verse highlights the importance of truthfulness, even in difficult situations, as it is a testimony to our faith in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to all Muslims of the detrimental effects of lying on one's faith. Lying not only contradicts the principles of Islam but also erodes the trust and integrity within society. It tarnishes one's character and weakens the bond between individuals. Moreover, lying can lead to a chain of negative consequences, such as the breakdown of relationships, loss of credibility, and the spread of misinformation.

By abstaining from lying, Muslims uphold the values of truthfulness and sincerity, which are essential components of faith. It reflects a deep-rooted belief in the teachings of Islam and a commitment to living a righteous life. Honesty not only strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) but also fosters trust and harmony within the community.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) enlightening Hadith serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to prioritize truthfulness and integrity in their words and actions. It encourages us to strive for excellence in our character and to be mindful of the consequences of falsehood. By adhering to the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can strengthen our faith and contribute to a just and righteous society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to eschew lying and uphold the values of truthfulness in all aspects of our lives. May He bless us with the ability to live in accordance with the teachings of the Quran and the noble example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny.