Hadith #275

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequences of engaging in excessive quarrelling and the injustice that arises from not standing up against oppression. The Imam states,

He who goes too far in quarrelling is a sinner, but if one falls short in it, one is oppressed and it is difficult for a quarreller to fear Allah.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (khusoomah) "خُصوُمَةِ" refers to quarrelling or engaging in disputes. It encompasses any form of argumentation or contention that arises between individuals. The word (athim) "أَثِمَ" means a sinner, someone who has transgressed the boundaries set by Allah. On the other hand, (zulima) "ظُلِمَ" refers to oppression or being treated unjustly. Finally, (yattaqiya) "يَتَّقِيَ" means to fear Allah and be conscious of His presence in all actions.

To further understand the wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9):

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make peace between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make peace between them with justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of resolving disputes and conflicts among believers with justice and fairness. It highlights the obligation to stand up against oppression and work towards reconciliation. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith aligns with this Quranic principle, as it warns against both extremes in quarrelling.

Excessive quarrelling, as mentioned in the Hadith, is considered a sin. It involves crossing the boundaries of respectful discourse and engaging in harmful behavior. This can include using offensive language, spreading rumors, or resorting to physical violence. Such actions not only harm the individuals involved but also create division within the Muslim community. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11):

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames.

On the other hand, falling short in quarrelling, as mentioned in the Hadith, leads to oppression. When individuals fail to stand up against injustice, they become complicit in the oppression faced by others. This can manifest in various forms, such as remaining silent in the face of discrimination or refusing to support those who are being wronged. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against such behavior in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8):

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.

The consequences of excessive quarrelling and failing to stand against oppression are twofold. Firstly, it becomes difficult for a quarreller to fear Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Engaging in constant disputes and arguments distracts one from their spiritual obligations and hinders their ability to maintain a conscious connection with Allah. Secondly, the oppressed suffer from the injustice inflicted upon them. Their rights are violated, and they are denied the justice and fairness that Islam promotes.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to avoid excessive quarrelling and to stand up against oppression. It highlights the importance of maintaining respectful discourse and resolving conflicts with justice and fairness. By doing so, we not only uphold the teachings of the Quran but also contribute to the unity and well-being of the Muslim community. May Allah guide us all to follow the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to navigate disputes with wisdom and compassion.