[3] Truthfulness and Not Trickery
In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.
Imam Al-Barbahaaree, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Al-Hasan (al-Basree) said, “The wise man does not argue or seek to overcome with stratagem rather he propagates his wisdom. If it is accepted, he praises Allah and if it is rejected he praises Allah”. [Sharh As-Sunnah]
Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:
Quotes: The wise man is the one who posses wisdom, and wisdom is to place something in its place. Similarly, the wise one means the one with understanding.
He does not debate (with) a fruitless debate that is devoid of benefit.
He propagates his knowledge and if accepted he praises Allah. This is what is sought after. If it is not accepted, he is absolved of his responsibility and the proof is conveyed.
“He praises Allah” because he established and conveyed the proof, and fulfilled what is required of him, and the guiding of the hearts is in the hands of Allah.
An Excerpt from It’haf Al-Qari Bitta’liqaat Alaa Sharh As- Sunnah Lil Imam Barbahaaree. 2/265-266