Hadith #9797

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

السُّلْطانُ الجائِرُ يُخيفُ البَرِيَّ۔

This Hadith highlights the oppressive nature of tyrant rulers and their ability to instill fear in the innocent. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (as-sultan) "السُّلْطانُ" refers to a ruler or authority figure who possesses power and control. This word emphasizes the position of authority that a ruler holds over a nation or community. The term (al-ja'ir) "الجائِرُ" refers to someone who is unjust, oppressive, and transgresses the boundaries of justice. This word highlights the negative qualities of a ruler who abuses their power and oppresses the people under their rule. The phrase (yukhīfu al-bariyya) "يُخيفُ البَرِيَّ" means that the tyrant king instills fear in the innocent and righteous individuals.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the oppression of rulers and the consequences they face. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 205, Allah says,

And when he turns away [from you], his effort in the land is to cause corruption therein and to destroy crops and animals. And Allah does not like corruption.

This verse highlights the destructive nature of tyrant rulers who cause corruption and harm to the society they govern.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 4, Allah recounts the story of Pharaoh, a prime example of a tyrant ruler. Allah says,

Indeed, Pharaoh exalted himself in the land and made its people into factions, oppressing a sector among them, slaughtering their [newborn] sons and keeping their females alive. Indeed, he was of the corrupters.

This verse illustrates the extent of Pharaoh's oppression, as he divided the people and committed heinous acts of killing innocent children. It serves as a reminder of the consequences that await tyrant rulers who oppress their subjects.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith sheds light on the dangers posed by oppressive rulers. Such rulers create an environment of fear and intimidation, causing the innocent to suffer and live in constant anxiety. Their actions go against the principles of justice and fairness that Islam upholds.

The consequences of tyrant rulers are far-reaching. They not only harm individuals but also disrupt the social fabric of a society. Innocent people are deprived of their rights, their voices are silenced, and their lives are filled with fear and uncertainty. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of standing against oppression and advocating for justice.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his deep knowledge and understanding of Islam. His words carry weight and wisdom, guiding Muslims to recognize the dangers of oppressive rulers. By reflecting on this Hadith and the Quranic verses that support it, Muslims are encouraged to resist tyranny and work towards establishing just and equitable societies.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the oppressive nature of tyrant rulers and their ability to instill fear in the innocent. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to stand against oppression and work towards establishing justice and fairness in society. May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of Islam and protect us from the harm of oppressive rulers.