Hadith #9866

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "تاجُ المَلِكِ عَدْلُهُ۔" This can be translated as,

The king's crown is his justice.

Let us delve into the meaning of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (taj) "تاج" in Arabic refers to a crown or a headpiece that symbolizes authority and power. It is a symbol of leadership and sovereignty. In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) uses the metaphor of a crown to emphasize the importance of justice for a ruler. Just as a crown adorns the head of a king, justice should adorn the actions and decisions of a ruler.

The word (malik) "مَلِك" refers to a king or a ruler. It signifies someone who holds authority and power over a kingdom or a nation. In this context, it represents any person in a position of leadership, whether it be a political leader, a judge, or even a parent within their family.

The word (adl) "عَدْل" means justice. It encompasses fairness, equity, and the act of giving each person their due rights. Justice is a fundamental principle in Islam, emphasized throughout the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It is a cornerstone of a just and harmonious society.

To understand the significance of justice as the crown of a ruler, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25),

Indeed, We sent Our messengers with clear proofs and sent down with them the Scripture and the balance that the people may maintain [their affairs] in justice.

This verse highlights the role of messengers and scriptures in establishing justice among people. It emphasizes that justice is a divine commandment and a necessary component of a righteous society.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:58), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling trusts and judging with justice. It highlights that justice should be the guiding principle in all matters, whether they are personal or societal.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us that justice should be the defining characteristic of a ruler. A just ruler ensures that the rights of the people are protected, that the weak are not oppressed, and that the powerful are held accountable. By upholding justice, a ruler earns the respect and loyalty of their subjects, just as a crown adorns the head of a king.

When justice is the crown of a ruler, it has far-reaching consequences. It fosters a society where individuals can thrive, where disputes are resolved fairly, and where everyone has equal opportunities. It promotes social harmony, unity, and the well-being of the community as a whole.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are reminded of the importance of justice in all aspects of their lives. Whether in positions of power or in our personal interactions, justice should guide our actions and decisions. We should strive to be just in our dealings, treating others with fairness and equity. By doing so, we uphold the principles of Islam and contribute to the establishment of a just society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to embody justice in our lives, and may He guide our leaders to rule with justice and compassion. Ameen.