Hadith #9072

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, "الكِتْمانُ مِلاكُ النَّجْوى", which can be translated as

Secrecy is the basis of confidential conversations.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of maintaining secrecy and confidentiality in our private discussions.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by exploring the key words used. The word (alkitman) "الكِتْمانُ" refers to secrecy or concealment. It implies the act of keeping something hidden or confidential, not disclosing it to others. (milak) "مِلاكُ" can be translated as the foundation or basis, indicating that secrecy is the fundamental element upon which confidential conversations are built. Lastly, (annajwa) "النَّجْوى" refers to private discussions or intimate conversations that are meant to be kept confidential.

To understand the significance of secrecy in confidential conversations, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Mujadila (58:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, when you converse privately, do not converse about sin and aggression and disobedience to the Messenger but converse about righteousness and piety. And fear Allah, to whom you will be gathered.

This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining the sanctity of private conversations and using them as a platform for discussing matters of righteousness and piety.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

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.

This verse highlights the importance of refraining from gossip, backbiting, and spreading rumors, which are all actions that violate the principle of secrecy and confidentiality.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us of the consequences that can arise from breaching the trust of confidential conversations. When we betray the trust of others and disclose their private matters, we not only harm their reputation but also damage the bond of trust that exists between us. This can lead to strained relationships, broken friendships, and a loss of credibility.

Maintaining secrecy in confidential conversations also reflects the wisdom and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). As the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and one of the greatest scholars of Islam, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and understanding. He recognized the importance of preserving the sanctity of private discussions, as they provide a safe space for individuals to express their thoughts, seek advice, and share personal struggles without fear of judgment or exposure.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the significance of secrecy in confidential conversations. It reminds us to uphold the trust placed in us by others and to refrain from disclosing private matters. By doing so, we not only protect the reputation and dignity of others but also strengthen the bonds of trust and maintain harmonious relationships within the Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the wisdom to uphold the principles of secrecy and confidentiality in our interactions.