Hadith #10670

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "النميمة شيمة المارق" which translates to

Talebearing is the characteristic of a traitor.

In this impactful Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of talebearing and its association with treachery.

To better understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. (talebearing) "النميمة" refers to the act of spreading rumors, gossip, or slander about others in their absence. It involves speaking ill of someone behind their back, often with the intention of causing harm or discord. (characteristic) "شيمة" refers to a distinguishing quality or trait, while (traitor) "المارق" refers to someone who betrays the trust and loyalty placed in them.

The Quran provides us with guidance on the importance of guarding our tongues and refraining from talebearing. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12),

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.

This verse emphasizes the gravity of talebearing and its detrimental effects on individuals and society. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) compares it to consuming the flesh of one's brother, highlighting the repugnance and harm caused by such actions. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of their words and to refrain from engaging in talebearing.

Talebearing not only harms the reputation and honor of others, but it also erodes trust and unity within the community. It breeds suspicion, animosity, and division among Muslims, weakening the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood that Islam seeks to foster. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us 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. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring one another, regardless of our differences. It discourages mockery, insults, and offensive nicknames, which are often fueled by talebearing. By refraining from engaging in such behavior, Muslims can contribute to a harmonious and inclusive society, where mutual respect and understanding prevail.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be vigilant in guarding their tongues and to refrain from participating in talebearing. It highlights the association between talebearing and treachery, emphasizing that those who engage in such behavior betray the trust and loyalty placed in them.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the destructive nature of talebearing and its connection to treachery. It urges Muslims to refrain from engaging in such behavior and to instead foster unity, respect, and harmony within the community. By adhering to the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt, we can strive to create a society where talebearing is replaced with compassion, understanding, and sincere brotherhood and sisterhood. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in following the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and protect us from the harms of talebearing.