Hadith #6234

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,

كَفى بِالظُّلْمِ طارِداً لِلنِّعْمَةِ، وجالِباً لِلنِّقْمَةِ۔

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali highlights the destructive nature of injustice. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to understand its significance and relevance in the light of the Quran.

The word (zulm) "ظلم" in Arabic refers to injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses any act that violates the rights of others or transgresses the boundaries set by Allah. Injustice not only harms the victims but also has far-reaching consequences for the perpetrator. The word (taridan) "طارِداً" means dispeller or repeller, indicating that injustice drives away blessings. Similarly, the word (jaliban) "جالِباً" means invoker or bringer, suggesting that injustice attracts chastisement or punishment.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the detrimental effects of injustice and the importance of justice. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25),

Certainly We sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and We sent down with them the Book and the Balance, so that people may establish justice.

This verse highlights the divine purpose behind sending messengers and revealing scriptures: to establish justice in society. Injustice disrupts the balance and harmony that Allah intends for His creation.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah commands the believers,

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

This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones. It underscores the principle that justice should prevail over personal biases or affiliations.

The consequences of injustice are not limited to this world; they extend to the Hereafter as well. In Surah Al-An'am (6:160), Allah warns,

Whoever comes [on the Day of Judgment] with a good deed will have ten times the like thereof [to his credit], and whoever comes with an evil deed will not be recompensed except the like thereof; and they will not be wronged.

This verse highlights the principle of divine retribution, where each individual will be held accountable for their actions. Injustice will be met with appropriate punishment, while justice will be rewarded manifold.

Imam Ali's statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of justice in all aspects of life. Injustice not only harms individuals and societies but also distances us from the blessings and mercy of Allah. It disrupts the natural order established by Allah and invites His wrath and punishment. Conversely, upholding justice brings about blessings, harmony, and the pleasure of Allah.

As Muslims, we must strive to embody the qualities of justice and fairness in our interactions with others. We should seek to rectify any injustices we witness and stand up against oppression. By doing so, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny, particularly Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his profound knowledge and unwavering commitment to justice.

May Allah guide us all to be just and fair in our actions and protect us from the destructive consequences of injustice. May He grant us the ability to recognize and rectify any injustices we encounter, both in our personal lives and in society at large. And may He shower His blessings and mercy upon us, both in this world and in the Hereafter.