Hadith #2783

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

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

A predatory animal that is rapacious and tears its prey apart is better than an unjust and oppressive ruler.

This Hadith emphasizes the severity of the harm caused by an unjust ruler and compares it to the actions of a predatory animal.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (hatoom) "حَطُوم" refers to a predatory animal that is fierce and aggressive in its pursuit of prey. It tears apart its victim without mercy. The word (zaloom) "ظَلُوم" denotes an unjust and oppressive ruler who transgresses the limits of justice and fairness.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 205:

And when he turns away [from you], his effort in the land is to cause corruption therein and destroy crops and animals. And Allah does not like corruption.

This verse highlights the destructive nature of an unjust ruler who causes corruption and harm to society, just like the predatory animal mentioned in the Hadith.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 4, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Indeed, Pharaoh exalted himself in the land and made its people into factions, oppressing a sector among them, slaughtering their [newborn] sons and keeping their females alive. Indeed, he was of the corrupters.

This verse illustrates the oppressive nature of Pharaoh, who divided people and committed heinous acts of injustice. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of having an unjust ruler.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) draws our attention to the grave consequences of living under the rule of an oppressive leader. Such a ruler not only causes harm to individuals but also disrupts the harmony and well-being of society as a whole. The comparison to a predatory animal highlights the ferocity and brutality of an unjust ruler, who tears apart the fabric of justice and fairness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), renowned for his wisdom and knowledge, emphasizes the importance of having a just ruler who upholds the principles of justice and equity. His words serve as a reminder to Muslims of the responsibility to strive for justice and to reject any form of oppression or tyranny.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the need to be vigilant in choosing our leaders and holding them accountable for their actions. It is our duty as Muslims to strive for justice, both in our personal lives and in society. We should actively work towards establishing systems that promote fairness, equality, and the well-being of all individuals.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the severity of the harm caused by an unjust and oppressive ruler. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for justice and to reject any form of tyranny. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in upholding justice and fairness in all aspects of our lives.