Hadith #5430

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us against seeking advice from liars, comparing them to mirages that deceive us by distorting our perception of reality. To understand the profound wisdom behind this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith.

The word (kadhdhaba) "كَذَّابَ" refers to a person who habitually lies and deceives others. This individual lacks integrity and honesty, and their words cannot be trusted. The word (saraab) "سَرَابِ" translates to "mirage" in English. A mirage is an optical illusion that appears in the distance, resembling water or an oasis, but in reality, it is nothing more than a trick of the light.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) comparison of the liar to a mirage holds deep significance. Just as a mirage distorts our perception of distance, the liar distorts our perception of truth. They make the distant seem near, enticing us with false promises and misleading information. Conversely, they make the near seem distant, obscuring the reality that lies within reach.

To further understand the wisdom of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of verifying information before accepting it. It cautions against blindly trusting individuals who may have ulterior motives or a propensity for falsehood.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Isra (17:36), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

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 of the importance of seeking knowledge and discernment before making decisions or seeking advice. It encourages us to be cautious and not to rely on individuals who lack credibility.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warning against consulting liars is rooted in his profound knowledge and understanding of human nature. He recognized that falsehood can be alluring, especially when it is presented in an appealing manner. The liar may use persuasive tactics to manipulate others and lead them astray. By comparing the liar to a mirage, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the deceptive nature of their words and the potential harm that can result from following their advice.

The consequences of heeding the advice of a liar can be far-reaching. It can lead to misguided decisions, broken trust, and damaged relationships. Moreover, it can have detrimental effects on both individuals and communities. Just as a mirage can lead a traveler astray in the desert, the advice of a liar can lead us away from the path of truth and righteousness.

As Muslims, it is essential for us to seek guidance from reliable and trustworthy sources. We should consult individuals who possess knowledge, integrity, and a track record of honesty. By doing so, we can protect ourselves from the pitfalls of falsehood and make informed decisions that align with the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to be cautious in seeking advice and to be discerning in distinguishing truth from falsehood. It highlights the importance of verifying information and seeking knowledge from credible sources. By heeding this advice, we can safeguard ourselves from the deceptive allure of the liar and remain steadfast on the path of righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize falsehood and the strength to uphold the truth.