Hadith #9097

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,

Lying and treachery are not from the qualities of the honourable.

This impactful saying emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and loyalty in the character of a noble individual. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (lying) "كِذْب" refers to the act of intentionally deceiving others by uttering falsehood. It is a grave sin that undermines trust and integrity in society. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly condemns lying in the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:42)

And do not mix the truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know [it].

This verse highlights the importance of speaking the truth and warns against distorting it for personal gain or to deceive others.

The word (treachery) "خِيانَة" refers to betrayal or disloyalty towards others. It involves breaking promises, revealing secrets, or acting deceitfully towards those who trust us. Treachery is condemned in Islam, as it undermines the foundations of trust and unity within society. Allah says in Surah Al-Anfal, (Quran 8:27)

And do not betray Allah and His Messenger or betray your trusts while you know [the consequence].

This verse emphasizes the gravity of treachery and reminds Muslims of their duty to uphold their commitments and responsibilities.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights that lying and treachery are not befitting the character of an honorable person. A person of honor is known for their integrity, honesty, and loyalty. They uphold the principles of truthfulness and remain steadfast in their commitments. Such individuals are respected and trusted by others, and their actions reflect the teachings of Islam.

The Quran provides numerous examples and teachings that emphasize the importance of truthfulness and loyalty. In Surah Al-Mu'minun, Allah describes the qualities of the successful believers, stating, (Quran 23:1-7)

Successful indeed are the believers, those who are humble in their prayers, and those who turn away from ill speech, and those who are observant of zakah, and those who guard their private parts, except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they will not be blamed - but whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors.

This passage highlights the importance of avoiding falsehood and ill speech, which includes lying and treachery.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah instructs the believers to verify information before spreading it, stating, (Quran 49:6)

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse emphasizes the need for truthfulness and caution in accepting and spreading information, as false reports can lead to harm and regret.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to all Muslims of the importance of upholding truthfulness and loyalty in their daily lives. Lying and treachery not only harm individuals but also erode the fabric of trust within society. By embodying the qualities of the honorable, Muslims can contribute to a just and harmonious community, guided by the principles of Islam.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to always speak the truth and remain loyal to our commitments. May He bless us with the character of the honorable and protect us from the vices of lying and treachery. And may peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.