Hadith #4659

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, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

أجمِلُوا فِي الخِطابِ تَسْمَعُوا جَميلَ الجَوابِ

which translates to

Make your address polite and you will hear a polite reply.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of using polite and respectful language when communicating with others.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. The word (ajmilu) "أجمِلُوا" comes from the root word (jameel) "جميل", which means beautiful or good. It implies that we should strive to make our speech beautiful, pleasant, and respectful. The word (alkhitab) "الخِطابِ" refers to the act of addressing or speaking to someone. It encompasses all forms of communication, whether verbal or written.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to make our address polite, which means using kind and respectful words, tone, and gestures. By doing so, we create an atmosphere of harmony and mutual respect. This approach fosters better understanding and encourages others to respond in a similar manner. When we communicate politely, we are more likely to receive a polite reply in return.

The importance of polite speech is emphasized in the Quran as well. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:53),

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 Muslims to choose their words wisely and speak in the best possible manner. By doing so, we protect ourselves from the influence of Satan, who seeks to create discord and animosity among people.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ahzab (33:70), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, fear Allah and speak words of appropriate justice.

This verse reminds us to fear Allah and speak with justice and fairness. It emphasizes the importance of using our words responsibly and avoiding any form of harm or injustice in our speech.

The consequences of following Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice are profound. When we make our address polite, we create an environment of respect and understanding. Polite speech promotes healthy relationships, resolves conflicts, and fosters a sense of unity among Muslims. It allows for effective communication and opens doors for constructive dialogue.

Conversely, when we neglect the importance of polite speech, we risk damaging relationships, causing misunderstandings, and escalating conflicts. Harsh and disrespectful language can lead to hurt feelings, resentment, and even the breakdown of friendships and communities. It is crucial for Muslims to remember that our words have the power to either build bridges or burn them.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom. His emphasis on the importance of polite speech highlights his deep understanding of human psychology and the impact our words have on others. By following his advice, we can strive to emulate his noble character and contribute to a more harmonious and respectful society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the significance of using polite and respectful language in our interactions with others. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of speaking in the best possible manner. By making our address polite, we create an atmosphere of respect and understanding, fostering healthy relationships and promoting unity among Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to always choose our words wisely and speak with kindness and respect.