Hadith #7255

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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 عَقَلَ صَمَتَ۔" which translates to,

One who has intelligence remains silent [until there is a need to speak].

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for all Muslims, regardless of their sect or school of thought.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words. The word (a'qala) "عَقَلَ" refers to intelligence or intellect, which is the faculty of reasoning and understanding. It encompasses the ability to comprehend and analyze situations, as well as make sound judgments. The word (samata) "صَمَتَ" means to remain silent or to refrain from speaking.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of intellect and wisdom. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 8:22)

Indeed, the worst of living creatures in the sight of Allah are the deaf and dumb who do not use reason.

This verse highlights the significance of utilizing our intellect and reasoning abilities, as those who fail to do so are considered among the worst of creatures.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 13:16)

Say, 'Are the blind equivalent to those who see? Or are the darknesses equivalent to the light? Or have they attributed to Allah partners who created like His creation so that the creation [of each] seemed similar to them?' Say, 'Allah is the Creator of all things, and He is the One, the Prevailing.'

This verse highlights the stark contrast between those who possess intellect and those who lack it. It emphasizes the importance of using our intellect to distinguish between truth and falsehood, light and darkness.

Now, let us delve into the profound exegesis of the Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense wisdom and knowledge, advises us to remain silent unless there is a need to speak. This guidance is rooted in the understanding that silence is often a sign of intelligence and wisdom. It is a means of preserving one's dignity, avoiding unnecessary conflicts, and preventing the spread of falsehood.

Remaining silent allows us to carefully observe and analyze situations before speaking. It gives us the opportunity to reflect upon our words and consider their potential consequences. By doing so, we can ensure that our speech is meaningful, beneficial, and in line with the teachings of Islam.

Silence also serves as a shield against engaging in idle gossip, backbiting, and slander, all of which are condemned in Islam. The Quran states, (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 reminds us of the importance of restraining our tongues and refraining from speaking about matters that we have no knowledge of.

Moreover, remaining silent in certain situations can be a means of maintaining peace and harmony. The Quran instructs us, (Quran 6:68)

And when you see those who engage in [offensive] discourse concerning Our verses, then turn away from them until they enter into another conversation. And if Satan should cause you to forget, then do not remain after the reminder with the wrongdoing people.

This verse encourages us to disengage from conversations that involve offensive discourse or arguments, and instead, seek refuge in silence.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the virtue of remaining silent until there is a need to speak. It emphasizes the importance of utilizing our intellect and wisdom to carefully choose our words and actions. By doing so, we can uphold the values of Islam, maintain peace, and contribute positively to our communities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and ability to implement this guidance in our lives.