Hadith #9089

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all 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, "الكذب يزري بالإنسان" which translates to

Lying degrades a person.

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries profound wisdom and guidance for all Muslims.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "الكذب" refers to lying, which is the act of intentionally deceiving others by uttering falsehoods. "يزري" means to degrade or lower, implying that lying diminishes a person's character, honor, and integrity. And "الإنسان" refers to a human being, emphasizing that lying has detrimental effects on an individual's moral and spiritual well-being.

The Quranic teachings extensively emphasize the importance of truthfulness and warn against the consequences of lying. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8),

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. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This verse highlights the importance of truthfulness and justice, even if it goes against one's personal interests or relationships. It emphasizes that Allah's commandments should take precedence over personal desires. By lying, one distorts the truth and fails to fulfill their duty as a witness for Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Az-Zumar (39:3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Indeed, We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth so you may judge between the people by that which Allah has shown you. And do not be for the deceitful an advocate.

This verse highlights the responsibility of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to judge between people based on the guidance of the Quran. It also warns against advocating for those who engage in deceit and falsehood. Lying is contrary to the principles of justice and integrity, and it is not befitting for a Muslim to support or defend those who engage in such behavior.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Lying degrades a person,

serves as a reminder of the negative consequences of dishonesty. When a person lies, they not only betray the trust of others but also compromise their own character and integrity. Lying tarnishes one's reputation and credibility, leading to a loss of respect and trust from others. Moreover, lying can have severe consequences in both this world and the Hereafter.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns in Surah An-Nahl (16:105),

Indeed, those who disbelieve in the verses of Allah and kill the prophets without right and kill those who order justice from among the people - give them tidings of a painful punishment.

This verse highlights the severe punishment awaiting those who reject the signs of Allah and engage in acts of injustice, including lying and killing. Lying not only harms individuals but also disrupts social harmony and justice. It is essential for Muslims to uphold truthfulness and honesty in all aspects of their lives, as it is a fundamental characteristic of a believer.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to refrain from lying. Lying not only degrades a person's character and integrity but also goes against the teachings of the Quran. Muslims should strive to be truthful in their words and actions, upholding justice and righteousness in all aspects of their lives. By doing so, they will earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and attain spiritual growth and moral excellence. May Allah guide us all to the path of truthfulness and protect us from the harms of lying.