Hadith #9849

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Blessings and peace 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,

طَلَبُ السُّلْطانِ مِنْ خِداعِ الشَّيْطانِ۔

which translates to

Seeking power [and sovereignty] is from the deceptions of Satan.

In this thought-provoking saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the deceptive nature of seeking power and authority.

The word (talabu) "طَلَبُ" means "seeking" or "pursuing." It implies a deliberate and active effort to attain something. In this context, it refers to the pursuit of power and sovereignty. The word (as-sultan) "السُّلْطانِ" refers to power, authority, or sovereignty. It encompasses both political and social control.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes this pursuit as being (min khida'i ash-shaytan) "مِنْ خِداعِ الشَّيْطانِ", meaning

from the deceptions of Satan.

Here, the word (khida'i) "خِداعِ" refers to deception, trickery, or deceit. It signifies the cunning and misleading tactics employed by Satan to lure individuals into pursuing power.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the dangers of seeking power for the wrong reasons and the negative consequences it can have on individuals and society.

In Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), Allah says,

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse reminds us that the pursuit of worldly power and material possessions is merely a temporary and illusory pleasure. It is a distraction from the true purpose of life and the pursuit of righteousness. The pursuit of power often leads to arrogance, greed, and neglect of the spiritual and moral aspects of life.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:76), Allah says,

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

This verse highlights the story of Qarun, who was granted immense wealth and power but used it to oppress and tyrannize others. It serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that power in the wrong hands can lead to corruption and injustice.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the embodiment of knowledge and wisdom, warns us against the deceptive allure of power. He understood that seeking power for personal gain or dominance can lead to the neglect of justice, compassion, and the well-being of others. It can also corrupt the individual and society as a whole.

The consequences of seeking power without a righteous intention and a sense of responsibility are evident throughout history. We have witnessed leaders who have abused their authority, oppressed their people, and caused immense suffering. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims to be cautious and introspective when it comes to the pursuit of power.

Instead of seeking power for personal gain, Muslims should strive to attain positions of authority with the intention of serving and benefiting society. They should be guided by the principles of justice, compassion, and the teachings of Islam. By doing so, they can ensure that their pursuit of power is aligned with the values and teachings of the Quran and the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that seeking power and sovereignty can be a deceptive trap set by Satan. It urges us to reflect on the true purpose of power and to approach it with humility, righteousness, and a genuine desire to serve humanity. May Allah guide us all to the path of righteousness and protect us from the deceptions of Satan.