Hadith #8931

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

مَنْ ساءَ كَلامُهُ كَثُرَ مَلامُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One whose speech is bad, his censure increases.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of speaking with kindness and avoiding harmful words. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (sa'a) "ساءَ" in this Hadith refers to speech that is unpleasant, hurtful, or offensive. It encompasses any form of communication that is negative, disrespectful, or lacking in wisdom. This includes not only harsh words but also false accusations, backbiting, gossip, and spreading rumors. Such speech not only harms others but also tarnishes the reputation of the one who speaks ill.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in the Quran about the consequences of using bad speech. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah 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 highlights the importance of refraining from mocking or insulting others, as it can lead to arrogance and division among people. It reminds us that we should not judge others based on their outward appearance or social status, as only Allah knows the true worth of individuals. By avoiding bad speech, we can foster unity and harmony within the Muslim community.

Furthermore, the Hadith states that (kathura malamuhu) "كَثُرَ مَلامُهُ", meaning that the censure or criticism of the one who speaks badly increases. This implies that when someone engages in negative speech, they are more likely to be criticized and disliked by others. People tend to distance themselves from those who consistently use hurtful language, as it creates a toxic environment and erodes trust.

In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah advises us,

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 emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative assumptions, spying, and backbiting. Backbiting is considered as eating the flesh of one's brother, which is repulsive and detestable. It is a sin that damages relationships and spreads discord among Muslims. By refraining from bad speech, we can maintain the sanctity of brotherhood and sisterhood in Islam.

The consequences of engaging in bad speech are not limited to this world alone. In Surah Al-Qalam (68:10-11), Allah warns,

Indeed, those who ridicule the believers - they will be in the depths of Hellfire. They will abide therein eternally. Would they not repent, Allah will seal over their hearts and their hearing and over their vision is a veil. And for them is a great punishment.

These verses highlight the severity of mocking or ridiculing believers. Those who engage in such behavior will face severe punishment in the Hereafter. It is a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their words and to treat others with respect and kindness.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we understand that our words have a profound impact on ourselves and those around us. Speaking with kindness and avoiding bad speech not only preserves our own integrity but also fosters unity and harmony within the Muslim community. Let us strive to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the guidance of the Quran in our daily interactions, so that our speech may be a source of goodness and blessings for all.