Hadith #5850

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

There is no good in remaining silent from the truth just as there is no benefit in speech with ignorance.

This impactful saying highlights the importance of speaking the truth and avoiding ignorance in our words.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (sukoot) "سُكُوتِ" refers to remaining silent or refraining from speaking. (al-haqq) "الحَقِّ" means the truth, which encompasses both religious and moral truths. (al-qawl) "القَوْلِ" refers to speech or utterance, and (al-jahl) "الجَهْلِ" signifies ignorance or lack of knowledge.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of speaking the truth in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:83)

And speak to people good [words]

This verse encourages us to use our words for goodness and truthfulness, rather than remaining silent when the truth needs to be spoken.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against speaking without knowledge, saying, (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

This verse cautions us against engaging in speech based on ignorance, as it can lead to harmful consequences and accountability before Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the negative consequences of both remaining silent when the truth needs to be spoken and speaking without knowledge. By remaining silent from the truth, we fail to fulfill our duty as Muslims to enjoin good and forbid evil. Our silence may allow falsehood and injustice to prevail, leading to the deterioration of society.

On the other hand, speaking without knowledge or speaking ignorantly can lead to spreading misinformation, causing confusion and harm. It is essential for Muslims to seek knowledge, understand the teachings of Islam, and speak with wisdom and insight. By doing so, we can contribute positively to our communities and promote understanding and justice.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, exemplified the importance of speaking the truth and avoiding ignorance in his own life. His eloquence and clarity in speech were evident in his sermons, letters, and interactions with others. He always prioritized the truth, even in the face of adversity, and his words continue to inspire Muslims to this day.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to speak the truth and avoid ignorance in our words. We should not remain silent when the truth needs to be spoken, and we should strive to acquire knowledge and speak with wisdom. By doing so, we can contribute to the betterment of society and uphold the teachings of Islam. May Allah guide us all to speak the truth and grant us the wisdom to avoid ignorance in our speech.