What is the interpretation of the noble Hadith: "Indeed, Allah Almighty raises some people by this speech and lowers others," and is "speech" here intended to mean the Book of Allah?

The summary of the answer:

The hadith (definition) was narrated by Muslim and Ahmad, and its wording is: "Indeed, by this Book, Allah raises some people and lowers others."

This encompasses metaphorical elevation in this world through high status and good repute, and physical elevation in the Hereafter through high ranks in Paradise.

The intention is that righteous deeds are the criterion for elevation and advancement in the sight of Allah, not lineage. Many scholars among the Salaf were freed slaves (Mawali) yet they became leaders of the Ummah through their knowledge and piety.

Al-Zuhri narrated that 'Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan asked him about the leaders of the major cities, and he mentioned that most of them were from the Mawali. This indicates that religious devotion and narration (of knowledge) are the criteria for leadership and elevation, not lineage.