Hadith #6585

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 and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the divine commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) regarding justice, benevolence, and the prohibition of indecency and injustice. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (justice) "عَدْلِ" refers to fairness, equity, and upholding what is right. It encompasses treating others with equality, giving each person their due rights, and ensuring that no one is oppressed or wronged. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice, stating in Surah An-Nisa (4:135),

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

Similarly, the word (benevolence) "إحْسانِ" signifies acts of kindness, goodness, and excellence in one's conduct towards others. It encompasses going beyond the mere fulfillment of obligations and treating others with compassion, generosity, and empathy. The Quran encourages benevolence in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

On the other hand, the prohibition of (indecency) "فَحْشاءِ" refers to all forms of immorality, obscenity, and lewd behavior that go against the principles of modesty and purity. The Quran unequivocally condemns indecency and obscenity in Surah Al-A'raf (7:33),

Say, 'My Lord has only forbidden immoralities - what is apparent of them and what is concealed - and sin, and oppression without right, and that you associate with Allah that for which He has not sent down authority, and that you say about Allah that which you do not know.'

Furthermore, the prohibition of (injustice) "ظُّلْمِ" encompasses any form of oppression, wrongdoing, or transgression against others. It includes usurping the rights of others, engaging in unfair practices, and causing harm or hardship to individuals or society as a whole. The Quran warns against injustice in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8),

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the fundamental principles of Islam, which are rooted in justice, benevolence, and the rejection of indecency and injustice. By enjoining justice and benevolence, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) establishes a framework for a just and harmonious society, where individuals are treated fairly and with kindness.

Conversely, the prohibition of indecency and injustice serves as a reminder to Muslims to refrain from engaging in immoral and oppressive behavior. It emphasizes the importance of upholding moral values, respecting the dignity of others, and avoiding any form of harm or wrongdoing.

The practical implications of this Hadith are vast. It calls upon Muslims to establish justice and benevolence in their personal lives, families, communities, and societies. It motivates individuals to treat others with fairness, kindness, and compassion, regardless of their differences. It encourages Muslims to stand against indecency and injustice, actively working towards eradicating these vices from society.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we realize that justice and benevolence are not mere abstract concepts, but rather practical principles that should guide our actions and interactions. By adhering to these principles, we contribute to the betterment of society, fostering an environment of peace, harmony, and righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims of the divine commandments of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) regarding justice, benevolence, and the prohibition of indecency and injustice. It highlights the significance of these principles in Islam and encourages Muslims to embody them in their daily lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the path of justice, benevolence, and righteousness.