كَلِمَةً طَيِّبَةً كَشَجَرَةٍ طَيِّبَةٍ أَصْلُهَا ثَابِتٌ وَفَرْعُهَا فِي السَّمَاء تُؤْتِي أُكُلَهَا كُلَّ حِينٍ بِإِذْنِ رَبِّهَا
A good word is like a good tree, whose root is firm and whose branches are in the sky, yielding its fruit in every season with the permission of its Lord.
Sura Ibrahim, verse 24-25
The good word in this tree has been described as those words and actions of a human being that stem from faith in Allah. Allah compares it to a tree that is strong, upright, and productive – qualities that befit a believer. The words and actions of a believer are as pleasant as a beautiful tree.
Comparing it to a good tree points to the following:
– The good word has growth and progress. It is not stagnant. That which is done for the sake of Allah always grows.
– Every part of the good word is the best it can be. Its root is firm, branches are high, and fruits are produced in every season. Such is a believer. The Holy Prophet (s) said; A believer is like a palm tree, every part of it is beneficial.
– Having firm roots enables the tree to have high branches, and regular fruits. Without firm roots, this would not be possible. Similarly, whatever is done for Allah must be grounded in firm faith, for it to reach high.
– The branches of the tree are high above the ground, away from the lowliness and pollution of the earth. Similarly, the words and actions of a believer are above the petty levels of worldly inclinations.
This is a beautiful verse to remind yourself to say good words. Recite it before meeting people and create beautiful trees with your words and actions. Motivate yourself to say words that are like trees – strong, lofty, and fruitful. The fruits of your words can remain in the minds and hearts of people for longer than you expected. It is testimony to the power of the tongue, that it can spread a lot of good – or a lot of evil – depending on the roots it springs from.