Hadith #8938

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

لاتُحَدِّثْ بِما تَخافُ تَكْذيبَهُ۔

This can be translated as:

Do not speak that which you fear others will consider a lie.

Let us delve into the meaning of this beautiful saying. The word (tuḥaddith) "تُحَدِّثْ" is derived from the root word (ḥadatha) "حَدَثَ", which means to speak or narrate. It implies conveying information or sharing a story. The word (takhafu) "تَخافُ" is derived from the root word (khafa) "خَافَ", which means to fear or be afraid. It signifies the feeling of apprehension or worry. Lastly, the word (takdhibahu) "تَكْذِيبَهُ" is derived from the root word (kadhaba) "كَذَبَ", which means to lie or fabricate. It refers to the act of intentionally deceiving or distorting the truth.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us not to speak about something if we fear that others will consider it a lie. This guidance emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in our speech. It encourages us to be cautious and mindful of the impact our words may have on others. It reminds us to only speak the truth and refrain from spreading falsehoods or engaging in deceitful behavior.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of truthfulness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8):

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This verse highlights the importance of being truthful and just, even if it goes against our personal interests or the interests of our loved ones. It reminds us that Allah is aware of our actions and will hold us accountable for our words and deeds. Therefore, it is essential to speak the truth and avoid distorting or refusing to give testimony.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

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 refraining from spreading false rumors, mocking others, or using offensive language. It teaches us to be respectful and considerate in our speech, recognizing that everyone has inherent worth and dignity. By adhering to this guidance, we can foster a culture of kindness, understanding, and unity within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the consequences of their words. Speaking the truth not only reflects our integrity but also has a profound impact on our relationships and the society at large. When we speak the truth, we build trust, strengthen bonds, and promote justice. Conversely, spreading falsehoods or engaging in deceit erodes trust, damages relationships, and contributes to the deterioration of society.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) guidance to not speak that which we fear others will consider a lie is a powerful reminder of the importance of truthfulness in Islam. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the significance of honesty, justice, and respect in our speech. By adhering to this advice, we can cultivate a culture of truth, trust, and unity within the Muslim community, and contribute to the betterment of society as a whole. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to always speak the truth and protect us from falsehood.