Hadith #8965

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Verily you are accountable for your speech, so do not say anything except [that which is] good.

This impactful Hadith emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our words and the responsibility we have for them. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (mu'akhadhoon) "مُؤاخَذُونَ" in the Hadith refers to being held accountable or responsible for our words. It highlights the fact that our speech carries weight and has consequences. The word (aqwalikum) "أقْوالِكُمْ" means our words or statements. It encompasses everything we say, whether it be spoken or written.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran of the significance of our words. In Surah Al-Isra (17:36), Allah 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 emphasizes the importance of speaking only when we have knowledge and understanding. It cautions us against spreading rumors, gossip, or false information.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qalam (68:10), Allah says,

So be patient with gracious patience.

This verse encourages us to exercise patience and restraint in our speech, especially in times of anger or frustration. It reminds us to choose our words carefully and to avoid saying anything that may cause harm or hurt to others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice to

not say anything except [that which is] good

aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran. It urges us to be mindful of the impact our words can have on ourselves and those around us. It encourages us to speak with kindness, compassion, and truthfulness.

When we speak only good words, we create an atmosphere of positivity and harmony. Our words have the power to inspire, uplift, and bring people closer to one another. Conversely, when we speak ill of others, spread rumors, or engage in backbiting, we create division, animosity, and hurt.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasis on the accountability of our speech serves as a reminder that we will be answerable for every word we utter. On the Day of Judgment, our words will be presented before Allah, and we will be held responsible for the impact they had on ourselves and others.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to adopt the noble qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), particularly his deep knowledge and wisdom. We should seek to emulate his eloquence and choose our words wisely. By doing so, we can contribute to a more harmonious society and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to control our tongues and speak only that which is good. May He purify our hearts and grant us the wisdom to use our words for the betterment of ourselves and humanity. And may He bless us with the guidance to follow the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).