Hadith #8881

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for all Muslims to be cautious of excessive and impertinent speech. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his wisdom and knowledge, advises us to refrain from indulging in unnecessary talk, as it can have detrimental effects on our character and relationships.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith. The word (fudhool) "فُضُولَ" refers to excessive and impertinent speech, which goes beyond what is necessary or beneficial. It includes idle chatter, gossip, and engaging in discussions that serve no purpose. This type of speech is not only wasteful but can also lead to negative consequences.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that such excessive speech (yudhiru min 'uyubika ma batan)

يُظْهِرُ مِنْ عُيُوبِكَ ما بَطَنَ

meaning it exposes our hidden flaws. When we engage in unnecessary talk, we may unknowingly reveal our weaknesses, shortcomings, and faults to others. Our true character is often reflected in our words, and excessive speech can inadvertently expose our inner flaws, tarnishing our reputation and damaging our relationships.

Furthermore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that excessive speech (yuḥarriku 'alayka min a'ada'ika ma sakana)

يُحَرِّكُ عَلَيْكَ مِنْ أعْدائِكَ ما سَكَنَ

meaning it provokes our silent enemies. Our enemies may be observing us silently, waiting for an opportunity to exploit our weaknesses. Excessive speech can provide them with ammunition to use against us, as they can manipulate our words and actions to their advantage. Therefore, it is crucial for us to be mindful of our speech and not give our enemies any advantage.

To further emphasize the importance of guarding our speech, the Quran provides us with guidance. In Surah Al-Isra (17:36), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.

This verse reminds us to be cautious about what we say, as we will be held accountable for our words. Speaking without knowledge or engaging in excessive speech can lead to regret and consequences in this life and the hereafter.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Qalam (68:10-11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the consequences of excessive speech, saying,

Indeed, your Lord knows, [O Muhammad], that you stand [in prayer] almost two-thirds of the night or half of it or a third of it, and [so do] a group of those with you. And Allah determines [the extent of] the night and the day. He has known that you [Muslims] will not be able to do it and has turned to you in forgiveness, so recite what is easy [for you] of the Qur'an. He has known that there will be among you those who are ill and others traveling throughout the land seeking [something] of the bounty of Allah and others fighting for the cause of Allah. So recite what is easy from it and establish prayer and give zakah and loan Allah a goodly loan. And whatever good you put forward for yourselves - you will find it with Allah. It is better and greater in reward. And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse highlights the importance of prioritizing our actions and not burdening ourselves with excessive worship or speech. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) knows our capabilities and encourages us to do what is within our capacity, while seeking forgiveness for our shortcomings.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we are reminded of the power of our words and the need to exercise restraint in our speech. Excessive and impertinent speech can have far-reaching consequences, both in terms of our personal character and our relationships with others. By being mindful of our words and speaking with purpose and wisdom, we can protect ourselves from exposing our flaws and avoid provoking our enemies. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to guard our tongues and speak only that which is beneficial and pleasing to Him.