Hadith #8922

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Kathratu al-kalam tumillu al-sam'.

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of excessive speech. Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word "kathratu" means "too much" or "excessive," while "al-kalam" refers to "talking" or "speech." The term "tumillu" can be translated as "weary" or "fatigue," and "al-sam'" refers to the "ear." Thus, the Hadith can be understood as

Too much talking makes the ear weary.

This Hadith reminds us of the importance of moderation in speech. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us in the Quran to speak with wisdom and in measured tones. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 53, Allah says,

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.

Excessive talking can lead to various negative consequences. It can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and even the spread of false information. The Quran warns us about the dangers of idle talk and gossip. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 12, Allah says,

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.

Furthermore, excessive speech can also lead to wasting valuable time and energy that could have been utilized for more productive endeavors. The Quran emphasizes the importance of utilizing our time wisely and engaging in beneficial actions. In Surah Al-Asr, Allah says,

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of restraining our tongues and speaking only when necessary. His words serve as a reminder to Muslims to be mindful of the power of speech and its potential consequences.

Excessive talking can strain relationships, as it may lead to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. It is essential to choose our words carefully and speak with kindness and respect. The Quran teaches us the importance of good communication and advises us to speak in a gentle and compassionate manner. In Surah An-Nahl, verse 125, Allah says,

Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has strayed from His way, and He is most knowing of who is [rightly] guided.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to exercise moderation in speech. Excessive talking can lead to weariness and fatigue, as well as negative consequences such as misunderstandings and conflicts. The Quran provides guidance on the importance of wise and measured speech, avoiding idle talk and gossip, utilizing time wisely, and speaking with kindness and respect. Let us strive to follow the teachings of the Quran and the wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our daily lives, and may Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to control our tongues and speak with wisdom and righteousness.