To what extent is the circulating statement attributed to Imam Malik, may Allah have mercy on him—"If you see a man defending the truth, yet he insults, curses, and gets angry, then know that his intention is flawed; for the truth does not need this, it is enough for the truth to be declared aloud so that it may be responded to"—authentic in its attribution? And is the meaning of this statement sound, regardless of its attribution?

The mentioned narration about Imam Malik has not been found. As for cursing and reviling, they are forbidden and are not part of the believer's character. However, their issuance from someone defending the truth does not imply corruption of their intention. As for anger for the sake of truth, it is praiseworthy in its proper context, and texts have been reported indicating the permissibility of anger and severity for the sake of Allah's command.