Be not like those who spoke evil things of Musa...

Be not like those who spoke evil things of Musa, but Allah cleared him of what they had said, and he was worthy of regard with Allah. O you who believe! Be careful of (your duty to) Allah and speak the right word.” [^4] The Holy Prophet (SAW) said: “Hold your tongue!”[^5] It means to observe Taqwa in one’s speaking.

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: “What throws man into fire are two hollow things; the mouth and the private parts (lusts).” ^6 It is related that a man came to the Holy Prophet (SAW), saying to him: “Give me an advice!” The Holy Prophet (SAW) said: “Hold your tongue!” The man asked again: “Give me an advice!” The Messenger of Allah (a.s.) said: “Hold your tongue!” For the third time, the man asked: “Give me an advice!” The Holy Prophet (SAW) said: “Hold your tongue! Woe to you!

Will people be thrown into Fire on their faces except for what they have reaped by their tongues?”[^7] It is also reported that a man came to the Holy Prophet (SAW), saying: “Give me an advice!” The Holy prophet (SAW) said: “Serve Allah as if you see Him and count yourself among the dead.” Then the Holy Prophet (SAW) said: “Shall I inform you about a thing which is more effective than these? Then he pointed to his tongue.”[^8] He has also said: “Surely Allah is near the tongue of every speaker.

Therefore, one has to observe Taqwa in what he says.” ^9 The Messenger of Allah (SAW) has been reported as saying: “Whoever observes the burden of responsibility and the suffering of the tongue and is abstinent as to his abdomen and lusts, shall enter Paradise.”[^10] Imam Ali (AS) has been reported as saying: “By Allah, I do not think that the fear of Allah benefits a man, unless he controls his tongue.”[^11] Imam Ali (AS) has also said: “Man is hidden under his tongue.”[^12] Therefore, weigh your sayings and then present them to your wits!

If what you want to say is for God and His way, say them, for what is there between the Creator and the creature of secrets, sciences and treasures comes through speaking and revelation, and if it is not so, then silence is better, because speaking is like wine which intoxicates that one. Try then to say what causes guidance and not sedition and mischief. Try to say what promotes Islam and Muslims. Do not say anything that may create division and discord among Muslims and lead to bloodletting.

Do not say anything that may dishonor people.