Hadith #5065

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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,

مَنْ بَلَّغَكَ شَتْمَكَ فَقَدْ شَتَمَكَ۔

This can be translated into English as,

One who informs you of your vilification has [himself] vilified you.

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds great wisdom and can be understood in light of the teachings of the Quran.

To fully comprehend the meaning of this Hadith, it is important to analyze the key words used. The word (shatmaka) "شَتْمَكَ" refers to vilification, insult, or abusive language directed towards someone. It encompasses any form of verbal attack that aims to degrade or belittle an individual. The word (ballagha) "بَلَّغَكَ" means to inform or convey a message. Therefore, the Hadith can be understood as saying that if someone informs you about the insults or vilification directed towards you, they themselves have engaged in the act of vilifying you.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of avoiding backbiting, slander, and spreading rumors. 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 highlights the gravity of backbiting and the harm it causes to individuals and the community as a whole. It reminds Muslims to be cautious of assuming the worst about others and to refrain from engaging in gossip or spreading harmful information. Similarly, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns against participating in such behavior by stating that even relaying insults or vilification to someone is equivalent to engaging in that act oneself.

The consequences of engaging in vilification or spreading such information are far-reaching. It not only damages the reputation and honor of the individual being vilified but also tarnishes the character of the person spreading the information. It creates a toxic environment of mistrust, animosity, and division within the community. Islam emphasizes the importance of unity, brotherhood, and respect for one another. Engaging in vilification goes against these principles and undermines the social fabric of the Muslim community.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of guarding our tongues and being mindful of the words we speak. It teaches us to be cautious about the information we convey and to refrain from participating in the spread of harmful speech. Furthermore, it highlights the need for individuals to be aware of the impact their words can have on others and to strive for kindness, empathy, and forgiveness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to refrain from engaging in vilification and to be cautious about the information they convey. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of avoiding backbiting and slander. By adhering to these principles, Muslims can foster an environment of unity, respect, and compassion within their communities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to speak with wisdom and kindness, and protect us from engaging in harmful speech.