Hadith #2903

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

أنَا شاهِدٌ لَكُمْ، وحَجيجٌ يَوْمَ القِيمَةِ عَلَيْكُمْ۔

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries deep meaning and serves as a reminder for all Muslims.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (shahid) "شاهِدٌ" means a witness, someone who observes and testifies to the truth. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) declares himself as a witness for the believers, indicating that he will bear witness to their actions and deeds. The word (hajij) "حَجيجٌ" refers to a plaintiff or an accuser. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that he will also act as a plaintiff against those who disobey him on the Day of Judgment.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 143:

And thus We have made you a just community that you will be witnesses over the people and the Messenger will be a witness over you.

This verse emphasizes the role of the believers as witnesses over humanity, just as the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is a witness over them. Similarly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) assumes the role of a witness for the believers, reflecting his deep knowledge and understanding of the teachings of Islam.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 71, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

On the Day We will call every people with their record, whoever is given his book in his right hand - those will read their book, and injustice will not be done to them, [even] as much as a thread inside the date seed.

This verse highlights the accountability of every individual on the Day of Judgment. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds the believers that he will act as a plaintiff against those who disobey him, emphasizing the importance of following his guidance and teachings.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) declaration in this Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to adhere to his teachings and guidance. By following the path of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), believers can ensure that he will bear witness for them on the Day of Judgment. This Hadith also serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience. Those who choose to disregard the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) will face him as a plaintiff on the Day of Judgment, which carries severe consequences.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to emulate the qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our lives. We should seek knowledge, adhere to his teachings, and follow his example of justice, piety, and compassion. By doing so, we can ensure that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) will bear witness for us on the Day of Judgment, and we will be saved from the consequences of disobedience.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the role he plays as a witness and plaintiff on the Day of Judgment. It highlights the importance of following his guidance and teachings, and the consequences of disobedience. Muslims should strive to emulate the qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and seek his intercession on the Day of Judgment. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to the path of righteousness and grant us success in this life and the hereafter.