Hadith #6223

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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, "ضادُّوا الجَوْرَ بِالعَدْلِ۔" which translates to

Counter oppression with justice.

This short but thought-provoking Hadith holds immense wisdom and guidance for Muslims in dealing with injustice and oppression.

The word (jawr) "جَوْرَ" refers to any act of injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses actions that transgress the rights of others, causing harm, and violating the principles of fairness and equity. On the other hand, the word (adl) "عَدْلِ" signifies justice, fairness, and balance. It refers to upholding the rights of individuals and treating them with equality and equity.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and condemns oppression in various verses. For example, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah 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. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the obligation to counter oppression with justice. It emphasizes the need to establish justice and fairness, even in times of conflict or dispute. Muslims are commanded to strive for reconciliation and mediation, but if one party persists in oppression, then it becomes necessary to fight against the oppressor until justice is restored.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah An-Nahl (16:90), where Allah says,

Indeed, Allah orders justice and good conduct and giving to relatives and forbids immorality and bad conduct and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded.

Here, Allah explicitly commands justice and forbids oppression. This verse reminds Muslims of their duty to establish justice in all aspects of their lives and to refrain from any form of oppression or wrongdoing. It serves as a reminder that countering oppression with justice is not only a recommendation but a divine command.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Counter oppression with justice,

encapsulates the essence of Islamic teachings. It teaches Muslims that when faced with injustice, they should respond with justice, not with further oppression or wrongdoing. By doing so, they uphold the principles of Islam and follow the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions.

This Hadith also highlights the wisdom and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). He understood that justice is the antidote to oppression and that it is the duty of every Muslim to establish justice in society. By countering oppression with justice, Muslims can bring about positive change, promote harmony, and ensure the well-being of individuals and communities.

The consequences of following this Hadith are far-reaching. When Muslims counter oppression with justice, they not only protect the rights of the oppressed but also create an environment of peace and tranquility. By upholding justice, they contribute to the establishment of a just society, where everyone is treated fairly and equitably.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims should strive to embody justice in their personal and collective lives. They should stand against all forms of oppression, whether it be social, economic, or political, and work towards establishing justice in all spheres of society. By doing so, they fulfill their duty as believers and contribute to the betterment of humanity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Counter oppression with justice

serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to uphold justice in the face of oppression. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of justice and condemn all forms of oppression. By following this guidance, Muslims can contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society, in line with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to act with justice and righteousness.