Hadith #7206

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The intelligent person is one who fetters his tongue.

This amazing Hadith emphasizes the importance of controlling our speech and using it wisely. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (intelligent) "عاقل" in this Hadith refers to a person who possesses wisdom, understanding, and the ability to make sound judgments. It is someone who is not only knowledgeable but also applies that knowledge in their actions. In the context of this Hadith, intelligence is closely linked to the control of one's tongue.

The word (fetters) "عقل" in this Hadith means to restrain or control. It implies that the intelligent person is one who exercises self-discipline and refrains from speaking without purpose or engaging in harmful speech. By restraining their tongue, they are able to avoid uttering words that may cause harm or lead to regrettable consequences.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of guarding our tongues and speaking with wisdom. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qalam (68:10),

Indeed, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His way, and He is the best aware of those who are guided.

This verse reminds us that Allah is fully aware of our words and actions, and it is our responsibility to ensure that our speech aligns with His guidance.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us,

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 highlights the importance of speaking with kindness and choosing our words carefully. It warns us against falling into the traps of Satan, who seeks to sow discord among people through harmful speech.

The consequences of uncontrolled speech can be severe. It can lead to misunderstandings, hurt feelings, broken relationships, and even enmity among Muslims. The intelligent person, as described in the Hadith, understands the power of words and the impact they can have on others. They exercise caution and wisdom in their speech, ensuring that their words are beneficial, respectful, and in line with the teachings of Islam.

By fettering their tongue, the intelligent person sets an example for others to follow. They inspire others to speak with wisdom and kindness, fostering an environment of harmony and understanding. Their words become a source of guidance and enlightenment for those around them.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the immense responsibility we have as Muslims to control our speech. We should strive to be intelligent individuals who use our tongues to spread goodness, knowledge, and love. Let us remember the words of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) who said,

Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of restraining our tongues and speaking with wisdom. It reminds us that intelligence is not merely about knowledge but also about how we use that knowledge in our interactions with others. By controlling our speech, we can avoid causing harm, foster unity, and become a source of guidance for our fellow Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to implement this teaching in our lives.