Hadith #8978

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of guarding one's speech and being mindful of the words we utter. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that our speech is recorded and preserved, forever remaining in our book of deeds. This highlights the significance of our words and the impact they can have on our spiritual journey and ultimate destiny.

The word (mahfuz) "مَحْفُوظٌ" in the Hadith refers to something that is preserved or safeguarded. It signifies that our speech is carefully recorded and protected, ensuring that it will be accounted for on the Day of Judgment. This serves as a reminder that our words hold weight and will be a witness for or against us in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to make our speech about that which brings us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to be cautious of uttering words that may lead to our destruction. This guidance aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of speaking good and avoiding harmful speech.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran (Surah Al-Isra, 17:53):

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse encourages us to choose our words wisely and speak in a manner that is pleasing to Allah. It reminds us that Satan seeks to create discord and division through our speech, and therefore, we must strive to use our words for goodness and unity.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran (Surah Al-Qalam, 68:10-11):

Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.

These verses highlight that we will be held accountable for our words, as well as our actions and intentions. Our speech is not separate from our overall conduct; rather, it is an integral part of our character and will be scrutinized on the Day of Judgment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice serves as a reminder of the power of our words. Our speech has the ability to build bridges, spread love and compassion, and bring people closer to Allah. Conversely, it can also cause harm, sow discord, and lead to our own downfall. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us as Muslims to be mindful of the words we choose to utter.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to make our speech a means of seeking closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). We should use our words to spread kindness, knowledge, and positivity, while refraining from engaging in gossip, backbiting, or spreading falsehood. By doing so, we can ensure that our speech is a reflection of our faith and a means of earning Allah's pleasure.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder of the importance of guarding our speech. Our words are not insignificant; they are recorded and will be accounted for on the Day of Judgment. Let us strive to make our speech a source of goodness, drawing closer to Allah and avoiding that which may lead to our destruction. May Allah guide us in choosing our words wisely and grant us the ability to speak in a manner that pleases Him.