Hadith #2137

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is a thought-provoking statement that invites us to reflect on the nature of human behavior and the importance of justice and fairness in our interactions with others. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this wise utterance and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (favor) "فَضْلَ" and (deprive) "حَرَمَ". The word "فَضْلَ" refers to the act of bestowing a favor or blessing upon someone, while "حَرَمَ" means to deprive or deny someone of their rightful share or favor. These words highlight the concept of justice and fairness, emphasizing the importance of treating others with equity and not withholding what is due to them.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the significance of justice and fairness in our dealings with others. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah says,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights the equality of all human beings and the importance of recognizing and respecting each other's rights.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:58), Allah says,

Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice. Excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and Seeing.

This verse emphasizes the obligation to fulfill one's responsibilities and to judge with fairness and equity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in the Hadith draws our attention to the paradoxical behavior of individuals who seek favors from those above them while denying the rights of those below them. This behavior contradicts the principles of justice and fairness that are emphasized in the Quran. It is a reminder that we should not seek favors at the expense of others, but rather strive to treat everyone with equity and respect.

For example, imagine a person who expects kindness and generosity from their superiors but fails to extend the same courtesy to their subordinates. This person may be quick to ask for favors and privileges from those in higher positions but neglects the rights and well-being of those under their authority. Such behavior goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of treating all individuals with fairness and compassion.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on their own conduct and to ensure that they are not engaging in unjust practices. It encourages us to examine our relationships and interactions with others, ensuring that we are treating everyone with fairness and respect, regardless of their social status or position.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of justice and fairness in our interactions with others. It urges us to reflect on our own behavior and to ensure that we are not seeking favors at the expense of others. By treating everyone with equity and respect, we uphold the principles of Islam and strive to create a just and compassionate society. May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).