Hadith #6213

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "بِالبَغْيِ تُجْلَبُ النِّقَمُ۔" This can be translated as,

By oppression, chastisement is brought down.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. (baghy) "بَغْي" refers to oppression, transgression, or injustice. It signifies the act of exceeding the limits or boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and violating the rights of others. (tujlabu) "تُجْلَبُ" means to bring down, to attract, or to draw upon oneself. And (an-niqam) "النِّقَمُ" refers to punishment, retribution, or divine wrath.

To understand the wise message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Ash-Shura (42:42),

And the retribution for an evil act is an evil one like it, but whoever pardons and makes reconciliation - his reward is [due] from Allah. Indeed, He does not like wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the principle of divine justice, where the punishment for an evil act is a corresponding evil. It highlights the consequences of oppression and transgression, which ultimately lead to punishment and retribution. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us that He does not like wrongdoers, and they will face the consequences of their actions.

Another verse that sheds light on the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Anfal (8:25), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And fear a trial which will not strike those who have wronged among you exclusively, and know that Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse reminds us that the consequences of oppression and wrongdoing are not limited to the oppressors alone. The entire community can be affected by the repercussions of injustice. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us to be cautious and fearful of the punishment that can befall those who engage in oppression.

Now, let us reflect on the impactful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. It serves as a reminder of the universal principle that oppression and transgression will inevitably lead to punishment and retribution. When individuals or societies engage in acts of injustice, they attract divine wrath upon themselves.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words carry great weight. Through this Hadith, he emphasizes the importance of upholding justice, fairness, and respect for the rights of others. It serves as a warning against the consequences of oppression and a call to establish a just and equitable society.

The consequences of oppression can be seen throughout history. Nations that have oppressed their own people or others have faced the wrath of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in various forms, such as natural disasters, internal conflicts, or the downfall of their empires. The punishment may not always be immediate, but it is certain.

As Muslims, we must internalize the message of this Hadith and strive to be just in all our dealings. We should stand against oppression, support the oppressed, and work towards establishing justice in our communities. By doing so, we can avoid attracting divine punishment and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the consequences of oppression and transgression. It serves as a powerful reminder that by engaging in acts of injustice, we bring upon ourselves divine punishment and retribution. Let us strive to be just and fair, and work towards establishing a society that upholds the principles of justice and righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us on the path of justice and protect us from oppression.