Hadith #2680

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of truthfulness in both judgment and speech. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the best of creation are those who judge with truth, meaning they base their decisions and rulings on the principles of justice and fairness. Furthermore, he mentions that those who are most beloved to Allah are those who are more truthful in their speech.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this profound Hadith. The word (afdal) "أفضل" means the best or the most superior. It signifies the highest rank and excellence. (al-khalaq) "الخلق" refers to creation or creatures. Therefore, the Hadith is emphasizing that the best among all creatures are those who judge more with truth.

The word (aqtahum) "أقضاهم" comes from the root word (qada) "قضى", which means to judge or to decide. It implies that the best among creation are those who make judgments and decisions based on truth and justice. They are not swayed by personal biases or ulterior motives, but rather prioritize the principles of fairness and righteousness.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. 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 ayah emphasizes the importance of standing firm in justice and being witnesses for Allah, even if it goes against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones. It highlights the need for impartiality and fairness in judgment, which aligns perfectly with the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the Hadith.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that the most beloved among creation to Allah are those who are more truthful in speech. The word (ahabbuhum) "أحبهم" means the most beloved or the most loved. It signifies the deep affection and favor of Allah towards those who prioritize truthfulness in their words.

Truthfulness in speech is a fundamental aspect of Islamic ethics. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ahzab (33:70-71):

O you who have believed, fear Allah and speak words of appropriate justice. He will [then] amend for you your deeds and forgive you your sins. And whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger has certainly attained a great attainment.

These verses highlight the importance of speaking words of justice and appropriateness. When we prioritize truthfulness in our speech, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to rectify our actions and forgive our sins. It is a means of attaining closeness to Allah and achieving success in both this world and the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sets a profound example for us through his own life. Known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, he was renowned for his truthfulness in speech and his ability to judge with utmost fairness. His famous saying,

Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise,

reflects his deep understanding of the importance of truth in all aspects of life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for all Muslims to prioritize truthfulness in both judgment and speech. By judging with truth and speaking truthfully, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions. May Allah guide us all to be among those who are truthful in all aspects of our lives.