Guarding the Tongue: Speaking with Kindness

with Hatmah Naluggwa Ssekaaya

Assalam alaykum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh

In Islam, our speech is a mirror of our faith. Every word we utter is recorded, and it can either raise us in reward or weigh us down in sin. Allah S.W says:

“Not a word does he utter but that with him is an observer ready [to record].” (Qur’an 50:18)

The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W taught: “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak good or remain silent.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

How to practice this Sunnah:

• Speak with gentleness: Use kind words, avoid shouting or harsh tones.
• Avoid gossip and backbiting: These destroy good deeds and harm relationships.
• Choose beneficial words: Share knowledge, encouragement, and du’as instead of idle or hurtful talk.

Why it matters: A single kind word can heal hearts, while a careless word can cause deep wounds. Guarding the tongue is among the surest ways to earn Allah’s mercy and maintain harmony in society.

Practical Tip: Before speaking, ask yourself three questions: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? If not, silence is safer.

Takeaway: The tongue is small but powerful—use it to spread goodness, not harm.