Hadith #6624

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the profound concept of justice and its impact on individuals. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its deep meaning in light of the Quran.

The Hadith begins with the statement,

In justice there is comfort.

Here, the word "justice" is translated from the Arabic term "al-'adl." 'Adl refers to the act of being fair, equitable, and impartial. It is the quality of giving each person their due rights and treating them with equality. In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of justice in numerous verses, such as in Surah An-Nisa, verse 135, where He says,

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 highlights the obligation of Muslims to uphold justice, even if it goes against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones.

The Hadith further states,

and one for whom justice is beleaguering, then oppression will be more beleaguering [and difficult] for him.

Here, the word "beleaguering" is translated from the Arabic term "al-jawr." Jawr refers to oppression, injustice, and transgression. It is the act of denying someone their rights, causing harm, or treating them unfairly. The Hadith implies that if justice becomes difficult for an individual, and they are oppressed or denied their rights, then the experience of oppression will be even more burdensome and challenging for them.

To understand the connotation of this Hadith, we must reflect on the consequences of justice and oppression. When justice prevails in society, it brings about peace, harmony, and comfort. People feel secure, knowing that their rights will be protected and that they will be treated fairly. This creates an environment where individuals can thrive and reach their full potential. In contrast, when justice is absent, and oppression prevails, it leads to chaos, discord, and suffering. People are deprived of their rights, leading to feelings of frustration, resentment, and despair.

The Quran provides numerous examples of the consequences of justice and oppression. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 9, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah.

This verse highlights the importance of resolving conflicts with justice and fairness. It also emphasizes the obligation to fight against oppression and restore justice when it is violated.

Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the consequences of oppression in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 85, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Then is it that you believe in a part of the Scripture and disbelieve in the other? Then what is the recompense for those who do that among you except disgrace in worldly life; and on the Day of Resurrection they will be sent back to the severest of punishment.

This verse warns against the consequences of selectively following the teachings of the Quran and disregarding justice. It highlights that those who oppress and deviate from justice will face disgrace and severe punishment in this world and the hereafter.

In light of these Quranic verses, we can understand the enlightening message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. Justice is not only a moral obligation but also a source of comfort and tranquility. When justice is upheld, individuals and societies thrive. On the other hand, oppression and injustice lead to immense suffering and hardship. Therefore, Muslims are encouraged to strive for justice in all aspects of their lives, treating others with fairness, and standing against oppression.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of justice and its impact on individuals. It highlights that justice brings comfort and tranquility, while oppression brings about greater hardship. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that support this Hadith, we can understand the profound significance of justice in Islam. As Muslims, it is our duty to uphold justice, treat others fairly, and strive against oppression in order to create a just and harmonious society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of justice and righteousness.