Hadith #862

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

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

قَليلٌمِنَ الإخْوانِ مَنْ يُنْصِفُ۔

This can be translated as,

It is only a few of the brothers who are fair.

Let us delve into the meaning of some important words in this Hadith. The word (ikhwan) "إخْوانِ" refers to brothers, indicating a sense of fraternity and unity among Muslims. The term (yunsifu) "يُنْصِفُ" means to be fair, just, and impartial. It implies treating others with equity and justice, without any bias or prejudice.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in various verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah says,

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.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah commands,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

From these verses, we can infer that justice and fairness are fundamental principles in Islam. Muslims are obligated to uphold justice even if it goes against their personal interests or biases.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the epitome of knowledge and wisdom, highlighted the scarcity of individuals who truly embody fairness and justice. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that while brotherhood and unity are essential, it is crucial to be vigilant and ensure that justice is not compromised.

Imam Ali's statement also sheds light on the reality of human nature. It acknowledges that not everyone will possess the qualities of fairness and justice. This recognition serves as a motivation for individuals to strive towards developing these virtues within themselves and to encourage others to do the same.

The consequences of disregarding justice and fairness are detrimental to society. When individuals are unjust, it leads to oppression, inequality, and the erosion of trust within the community. Conversely, when fairness and justice prevail, it fosters harmony, unity, and a sense of security among Muslims.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims should introspect and evaluate their own actions and attitudes. Are we truly embodying fairness and justice in our interactions with others? Are we treating our fellow brothers and sisters with equity and impartiality? It is essential to constantly strive towards self-improvement and to hold ourselves accountable for our actions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the scarcity of individuals who truly embody fairness and justice. It emphasizes the importance of upholding justice and fairness in all aspects of life, as commanded by Allah in the Quran. Muslims should strive to be among those few who are fair, contributing to the establishment of a just and harmonious society. May Allah guide us all on the path of justice and fairness.