Hadith #9076

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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,

مَنْ كَثُرَ كَلامُهُ زَلَّ۔

This can be translated into English as,

One who speaks too much [makes] blunders.

Let us delve into the profound wisdom behind this statement and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (kathura) "كَثُرَ" in this Hadith means "to speak excessively" or

to talk too much.

It refers to a person who indulges in idle and unnecessary speech, without considering the consequences of their words. The word (kalamuhu) "كَلامُهُ" means "his speech" or "his words." And the word (zalla) "زَلَّ" means "to make mistakes" or "to err."

This Hadith highlights the negative consequences of speaking excessively. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in the Quran about the dangers of idle talk and the importance of guarding our tongues. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 17:36)

And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.

Excessive speech can lead to speaking without knowledge, spreading rumors, and engaging in backbiting and slander. It can also lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and the loss of trust and credibility. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us in Surah Al-Hujurat, (Quran 49:12)

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

Excessive speech can also distract us from our purpose in life and waste our precious time and energy. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Qasas, (Quran 28:76)

Indeed, He does not like the exultant.

Exultation here refers to boastful and excessive speech, which is disliked by Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, warns us about the consequences of speaking too much. By speaking excessively, one is more likely to make mistakes, say things they regret, and cause harm to themselves and others. It is important to remember that silence is a virtue, and speaking only when necessary and with wisdom is a sign of intelligence and self-control.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to follow the guidance of the Quran and the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). We should be mindful of our words, speak with knowledge and wisdom, and avoid engaging in idle and unnecessary speech. By doing so, we can cultivate a peaceful and harmonious environment, strengthen our relationships, and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to guard our tongues and speak only that which is beneficial and pleasing to Him. And may He bless us with the ability to follow the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the teachings of the Quran in all aspects of our lives. Ameen.