Hadith #9832

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Whoever is tyrannical in his reign and increases his aggression, Allah will demolish his foundation and tear down his pillars [of kingship].

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequences of tyranny and aggression in leadership.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (jaara) "جارَ" refers to someone who is tyrannical or oppressive in their reign. This includes those who abuse their power, oppress their subjects, and transgress the boundaries of justice. The word (sultan) "سُلْطانِهِ" refers to the realm of authority and power that a leader possesses. It encompasses their governance, rule, and control over a certain domain.

The word (akthara) "أكْثَرَ" means to increase or intensify. In the context of this Hadith, it signifies the leader's escalation of aggression and oppression. This could manifest in various forms, such as unjust policies, suppression of dissent, or the use of force against the people.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that those who engage in such behavior will face severe consequences. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will

demolish his foundation and tear down his pillars [of kingship].

This metaphorical language signifies the complete destruction and downfall of the tyrant's reign. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will remove the support and stability upon which the tyrant relies, leading to their ultimate downfall.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes justice and warns against oppression in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (57:25)

And We sent aforetime our messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the Balance, that people may stand forth in justice

This verse highlights the importance of justice as a fundamental principle of leadership.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the qualities of the righteous leaders, saying, (25:63)

And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth in humility, and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace

This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and peaceful conduct in leadership, contrasting with the arrogance and aggression of tyrants.

The consequences of tyranny and oppression are also highlighted in the story of the Pharaoh in the Quran. Despite his immense power and arrogance, the Pharaoh met a tragic end as his kingdom crumbled and he drowned in the sea. This serves as a powerful reminder that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) does not tolerate tyranny and injustice.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a timeless reminder for all leaders, Muslim or otherwise. It warns against the abuse of power, oppression, and aggression. It reminds us that true leadership lies in justice, humility, and compassion. Those who deviate from these principles will face the wrath of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and witness the crumbling of their reign.

As Muslims, we should reflect upon this Hadith and strive to embody the qualities of just and compassionate leadership. We should hold our leaders accountable and demand justice for all. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to be righteous leaders and grant us the wisdom to recognize and reject tyranny in all its forms.