The tongue is a small part of the human body, yet it carries an enormous impact. Through it, a person declares their statement of faith, comforts hearts, spreads kindness, and mentions God through prayer and praise. Through it also, a person may harm others, break relationships, or fall into actions that distance them from God’s grace. Because of its impact, Islam places great emphasis on guarding the tongue and using speech wisely.
Understanding the “afflictions of the tongue” is essential. These are harmful habits of speech that can damage one’s relationship with God and with people. The good news is that the Quran and the Messenger’s example offer beautiful guidance to help believers speak with wisdom, compassion, and restraint.
Why the Tongue Matters in Islam
The Messenger ﷺ said: “Whoever believes in God and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent.”
This simple teaching highlights the foundation of Islamic speech: say what is beneficial, or hold back from speaking altogether. Silence is not a weakness; it is an act of devotion that brings blessings and reward when used to prevent harm.
Islam teaches that words are not just sounds. They are recorded and will be judged, they affect hearts, and they shape one’s character in this life and their fate in the next life. One sincere statement may elevate a person, while one reckless statement may cause regret for years.
Common Afflictions of the Tongue
- Backbiting
Definition: Speaking about someone in a way they would dislike if they heard it, even if it is true.
Why it’s harmful: Backbiting is a sin, it destroys relationships, spreads negativity, and hurts hearts. The Quran compares it to “eating the flesh of one’s dead brother” (49:12), showing how spiritually damaging it is.
Practical tip: Before speaking about someone in their absence, ask: Would I say this if they were here? If not, remain silent or rephrase positively.
- Slander and Rumors; Being a talebearer
Definition (Slander): Making false accusations about someone.
Definition (Carrying tales): Spreading gossip or information that causes tension between people.
Why it’s harmful: These are major sins. These bad habits break trust and tear communities apart. The Messenger ﷺ warned that the person who spreads harmful gossip will be punished in the Hereafter.
Practical tip: Verify information before passing it on, and choose speech that brings hearts together rather than dividing them.
- Lying
Islam strongly encourages truthfulness and clarity. The Messenger ﷺ said a believer does not persist in lying because it leads to wrongdoing and spiritual darkness.
Practical tip: Even small, “harmless” lies can become habits. Try to be as honest as possible, and if a mistake is made, correct it immediately and repent.
- Harsh or Hurtful Speech
Some people speak without thinking of how their words land on others. Islam encourages kindness, gentle advice, and soft speech.
It is a command from God “… and speak to people with good words.” (2:83)
Practical tip: When frustrated or emotional, pause before speaking. A moment of patience can save you from many regrets.
- Excessive Talk
Talking too much, even if not sinful, can waste time, weaken one’s focus on important matters of faith, and lead to mistakes.
The early scholars said: “Whoever’s speech increases, their mistakes increase.”
Practical tip: Practice intentional silence. Spend time listening more than speaking.
How to Purify the Tongue
Islam does not only warn against harmful speech; it also teaches believers how to cultivate good habits that lead to spiritual growth.
- Mention God Often
Occupying the tongue with statements of praise such as subhanAllah (Allah is perfect), alhamdulillah (All praise and glory belong to God), and Allahu akbar (God is greater) protects it from pointless, negative or harmful talk.
- Speak with Purpose
Ask yourself: Is this speech beneficial? Will it bring goodness? Will it cause harm?
Purposeful speech is a sign of maturity and faith.
- Apologize When Necessary
If you slip — and everyone does — Islam encourages sincere repentance and, when possible, making amends with the person you wronged.
- Surround Yourself with Good Company
Being around positive, mindful, and respectful people helps you adopt the same manners.
The Tongue as a Path to Paradise
The tongue can be a gateway to immense reward. Through it, a person recites the Quran, gives kind reminders, uplifts others, makes prayerful supplications, and strengthens families and communities.
The Messenger ﷺ said: “A servant may speak a statement pleasing to God without thinking much of it, yet God raises him by many degrees because of it.”
Every small act of goodness counts. Even a kind word counts in reward as charity.
Mastery of the tongue is one of the most important aspects of Islamic character. It is not achieved overnight, and new Muslims should not feel overwhelmed. Growth comes gradually with awareness, practice, God’s help through prayer and sincere intention.