Hadith #8308

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of using respectful and dignified language when engaging with others, especially those who are at the same level of knowledge or status as oneself. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares the use of obscene language in such situations to the pecking of two cockerels and the quarrelling of two dogs. He emphasizes that this behavior is not befitting of the wise and intelligent.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (safahuka) "سَفَهُكَ" refers to using obscene or disrespectful language. (darajatika) "دَرَجَتِكَ" means the same level or status as oneself. (niqar) "نِقَارٌ" signifies the pecking of a cockerel, while (hirash) "هِرَاشٌ" represents the quarrelling of two dogs. (majruhayn) "مَجْرُوحَيْنِ" refers to being wounded, and (mafdhuhayn) "مَفْضُوحَيْنِ" means being humiliated.

To further understand the teachings of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them.

This verse emphasizes the importance of refraining from mocking or ridiculing others, as they may possess qualities or virtues that are superior to our own. It reminds us to treat others with respect and dignity, regardless of their status or knowledge.

Another verse that resonates with the teachings of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ),

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 among people through the use of hurtful and disrespectful language. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to strive for excellence in our speech and to avoid engaging in quarrels or using obscene language.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith warns against the consequences of using disrespectful language. He states that such behavior will only lead to further conflict and harm, either in the form of physical wounds or humiliation. Moreover, he highlights that this behavior is not characteristic of the wise and intelligent. Instead, he encourages us to exercise forbearance and patience, even in the face of provocation. By doing so, we can rise above petty disputes and maintain our dignity and honor.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the importance of using respectful and dignified language in our interactions with others. It teaches us to avoid engaging in quarrels and to refrain from using obscene or disrespectful language, especially when dealing with those who are at the same level of knowledge or status as ourselves. By following the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can cultivate an environment of harmony, respect, and understanding within the Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to implement these teachings in our lives.