The Danger of Speech and Heart Connection
The tongue is often the quickest detriment to a person’s spiritual health and can lead them into sin. Failing to recognize the boundaries of speech, engaging in unnecessary conversation, are among the greatest afflictions that darken the heart. Those who possess deep understanding (Gönül ehli) have made constant silence a practice; they only speak when their hearts compel them to express truth. As Attar narrates, great saints emphasized the importance of guarding one’s tongue, stating, “A person should be more careful of their tongue than the ground upon which they step!” The divine light within the heart of someone who engages in idle chatter (malayani) gradually diminishes.
The ‘Fasting’ of the Tongue and Protecting the Inner Self
Silence (Sükût) is not merely refraining from speaking; it is also nourishing the inner world with reflection. It is said, “The most fortified fortress is safeguarding the tongue.” If a person’s speech does not contain contemplation, it is heedlessness (gaflet); and if their silence is not reflection, it is sleep. The seeker (sâlik) who desires to feel the manifestations of Allah within his heart must firmly close his mouth to gossip (gıybet), lies, and empty claims. The state of piety (vera) in speech is more valuable than silver or precious metals.
Speaking Only for the Sake of Truth
In Sufism, silence encompasses speaking truth when necessary for Allah’s sake. If there is injustice present, or if enjoining good and forbidding evil (emr-i bil-maruf) is required, then speaking at that moment is an act of worship; otherwise, superfluous speech (fuzuli kelam) is a theft from one’s own spiritual essence. A true knower (arif) speaks with the intention of communicating with Allah through the heart when they are silent; and contemplates Allah when they close their eyes. The more a person restrains their tongue, the more open their heart becomes to divine inspiration and secrets.