Hadith #6578

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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,

اِعْدِلْ تَدُمْ لَكَ القُدْرَةُ۔

This translates to

Be just and your power will last.

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries profound wisdom and guidance for all Muslims.

Let us first delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. (i'dil) "اِعْدِلْ" means to be just, fair, and equitable in all our actions and decisions. It encompasses treating others with fairness, giving everyone their due rights, and refraining from any form of oppression or injustice. (tadum) "تَدُمْ" means to endure, persist, or last. And (al-qudrah) "القُدْرَةُ" refers to power, authority, or influence.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of justice in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), 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.

This verse highlights the divine command to establish justice in all aspects of our lives.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah states,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against our personal interests or the interests of our loved ones.

Now, let us reflect on the profound wisdom contained within the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). When we strive to be just in our actions, decisions, and interactions with others, we not only fulfill a divine command but also ensure the longevity and sustainability of our power, authority, and influence. This is because justice is a fundamental principle that establishes harmony, trust, and stability within society.

When leaders and individuals embody justice, they gain the respect and trust of those around them. People are more likely to follow and support a just leader, as they know their rights will be protected and their grievances will be addressed fairly. This leads to a united and cohesive society, where people work together towards common goals, rather than being divided by oppression, discrimination, or injustice.

On the other hand, when leaders or individuals act unjustly, they sow the seeds of discord, resentment, and instability. History is replete with examples of tyrants and oppressors who abused their power and eventually faced downfall and loss of authority. This is because injustice breeds discontent, resistance, and ultimately, the erosion of power.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes the importance of justice in this Hadith. He understood that justice is not only a moral obligation but also a practical necessity for the preservation of power and authority. By being just, we not only fulfill our duty towards Allah but also ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of our leadership and influence.

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

Be just and your power will last

carries a beautiful message for all Muslims. It reminds us of the importance of justice in all aspects of our lives and the consequences of acting unjustly. By embodying justice, we not only fulfill a divine command but also ensure the longevity and effectiveness of our power, authority, and influence. May Allah guide us all to be just in our actions and decisions, and may He grant us the wisdom to understand and implement this noble principle in our lives.