Hadith #9819

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

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

مَنْ طالَ عُدْوانُهُ زالَ سُلْطانُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One whose aggression is prolonged, his rule [soon] comes to an end.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the relationship between aggression and the downfall of a ruler.

Let us delve into the meaning of some key words in this Hadith. The word (taala) "طالَ" means to prolong or extend, while (udwanuhu) "عُدْوانُهُ" refers to aggression or oppression. Finally, (zala) "زالَ" signifies the end or disappearance of something, and (sultanuhu) "سُلْطانُهُ" refers to one's rule or authority.

To understand the deeper implications of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 190:

And fight in the way of Allah those who fight you. But do not transgress limits. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and moderation in dealing with aggression. It warns against exceeding the limits of permissible defense and highlights the disapproval of Allah towards those who transgress.

Another verse that sheds light on the consequences of prolonged aggression is found in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 46:

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse emphasizes the importance of obedience to Allah and His Messenger, as well as the negative consequences of disputes and aggression. It warns that prolonged aggression can lead to a loss of strength and ultimately, defeat.

Now, let us reflect on the profound wisdom contained in Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. When a ruler engages in prolonged aggression and oppression, it creates discontentment among the people. This discontentment can lead to resistance, rebellion, and ultimately the downfall of the ruler. History is replete with examples of tyrants and dictators whose rule crumbled due to their prolonged aggression and oppression.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, understood the consequences of prolonged aggression. He recognized that a ruler who fails to uphold justice and fairness will eventually lose the support and loyalty of the people. This Hadith serves as a reminder to both rulers and the ruled that justice, moderation, and respect for the rights of others are essential for the stability and longevity of any government.

As Muslims, we should reflect on the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to promote justice and fairness in our own lives and societies. We should reject aggression and oppression in all its forms, and work towards establishing a just and equitable society. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to recognize and oppose any form of prolonged aggression.