Hadith #3231

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking and adhering to the truth while avoiding falsehood. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes this as the most beautiful quality and the best etiquette. Let us delve deeper into the exegesis of this amazing Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (taharri) "تَحَريِّ" in the Hadith means "opting" or "choosing." It signifies the deliberate and conscious decision to seek and uphold the truth in all aspects of life. This word highlights the active role that Muslims should play in their pursuit of truth. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us to seek knowledge and wisdom in numerous verses of the Quran.

In Surah Al-Zumar, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 47:19)

So know, [O Muhammad], that there is no deity except Allah and ask forgiveness for your sin and for the believing men and believing women. And Allah knows of your movement and your resting place.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding the truth about the oneness of Allah.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (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 highlights the importance of verifying information before accepting it as truth, as well as the need to avoid spreading false information that may harm others.

The word (tajannub) "تَجَنُّبُ" in the Hadith means "keeping away" or "avoiding." It signifies the act of distancing oneself from falsehood, lies, and deceit. This word emphasizes the need for Muslims to maintain integrity and honesty in their words and actions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in the Quran.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 9:119)

O you who have believed, fear Allah and be with those who are true.

This verse encourages Muslims to surround themselves with truthful individuals and to strive for truthfulness in their own lives.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 4:135)

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both.

This verse highlights the importance of standing up for justice and truth, even if it goes against our personal interests or the interests of our loved ones.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that opting for the truth and avoiding falsehood is the most beautiful quality and the best etiquette. This statement reflects the profound wisdom and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). When individuals prioritize truthfulness and integrity, they not only uphold the values of Islam but also contribute to a just and harmonious society.

Choosing the truth and avoiding falsehood has far-reaching consequences. It impacts our personal relationships, our interactions with others, and our overall character. When we prioritize truthfulness, we build trust and credibility with those around us. Our words and actions become a reflection of our faith, and we become beacons of guidance for others.

On the other hand, embracing falsehood leads to a breakdown of trust, confusion, and discord. It tarnishes our reputation and undermines our credibility. Moreover, spreading falsehood can have severe consequences, both in this world and in the hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in the Quran, (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.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize truthfulness and integrity in their lives. By actively seeking the truth and avoiding falsehood, we embody the most beautiful quality and the best etiquette. This commitment to truthfulness not only strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) but also contributes to a just and harmonious society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all in our pursuit of truth and grant us the strength to uphold it in all aspects of our lives.