Hadith #8937

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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:

لاتَقُولَنَّ ما يَسُوءُكَ جَوابُهُ۔

This can be translated as:

Never say anything the reply for which will hurt you.

In this impactful Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises Muslims to be cautious with their words and to refrain from uttering anything that may lead to harmful consequences. To fully understand the depth of this advice, let us delve into the meanings of some key words in this Hadith.

The word (la taqulann) "لا تقولن" translates to "never say." This emphasizes the importance of constant vigilance in our speech, reminding us to carefully choose our words and avoid hasty or thoughtless remarks. It serves as a reminder that our words have the power to shape our relationships and impact the world around us.

The phrase (ma yasū'uka) "ما يسوءك" can be translated as

anything that will hurt you.

Here, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the potential harm that can arise from our words. It encompasses both the immediate consequences of hurtful replies and the long-lasting damage they can inflict on relationships, trust, and harmony.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of good speech and warns against the consequences of harmful words. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 53, Allah says:

And 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 reminds us of the importance of speaking in a manner that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and beneficial to others. It highlights the role of Satan in sowing discord and division through our words. By refraining from hurtful replies, we protect ourselves from falling into the trap set by Satan and maintain the unity and harmony within the Muslim community.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 11:

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 insulting or ridiculing others. It teaches us to be mindful of our words and to treat others with respect and kindness. By avoiding hurtful replies, we uphold the principles of Islam and protect ourselves from falling into the trap of disobedience.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this Hadith serves as a powerful reminder of the impact our words can have on ourselves and others. It encourages us to exercise restraint and wisdom in our speech, considering the potential consequences before uttering any hurtful words. By doing so, we not only protect ourselves from harm but also contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom. His teachings continue to guide and inspire Muslims of all backgrounds. Let us strive to follow his example and be mindful of our words, ensuring that they bring about goodness and benefit rather than harm and discord.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to control our tongues and speak with wisdom and kindness. May He bless us with the understanding to implement the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our daily lives.