Hadith #6240

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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,

مِنْ أفْحَشِ الظُّلْمِ ظُلْمُ الكِرامِ۔

This Hadith highlights the severity of injustice, specifically when it is committed against honorable individuals. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (zulm) "ظُلْم" in Arabic refers to any form of injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses actions that transgress the boundaries of fairness, equality, and righteousness. In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the injustice committed against (alkiram) "الكِرام", meaning the honorable ones, is particularly heinous and grievous.

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 warns against oppression. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.

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.

From these verses, we understand that justice is a fundamental principle in Islam. Allah commands Muslims to uphold justice even if it goes against their personal interests or the interests of their loved ones. This underscores the importance of treating all individuals, especially the honorable ones, with fairness and equity.

When Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) speaks of the injustice committed against the honorable ones, he is referring to those individuals who possess noble qualities, high moral standards, and a strong sense of integrity. These honorable individuals are deserving of respect, dignity, and fair treatment.

The consequences of committing injustice against the honorable ones are severe. It not only tarnishes the reputation and honor of the victims but also disrupts the social fabric of society. When injustice is perpetrated against the honorable ones, it creates an environment of fear, mistrust, and resentment. This, in turn, leads to the erosion of social cohesion and the breakdown of ethical values.

To illustrate the gravity of this Hadith, let us consider an example from the life of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). During his caliphate, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his unparalleled knowledge, wisdom, and justice. He would tirelessly strive to ensure that justice prevailed in society, even if it meant going against his own interests or those of his close associates.

One incident that exemplifies Imam Ali's commitment to justice is the case of the Jewish man who had a dispute with a Muslim. The Jewish man approached Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) seeking his judgment. Despite the fact that the Muslim was a close companion of Imam Ali, he ruled in favor of the Jewish man based on the principles of justice and fairness. This incident showcases Imam Ali's unwavering commitment to upholding justice, even when it involved the honorable ones.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the severity of injustice when it is committed against the honorable ones. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to uphold justice, fairness, and equity in all aspects of their lives. By treating the honorable ones with respect and dignity, we contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society, as prescribed by the teachings of Islam and exemplified by the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). May Allah guide us all to be just and honorable individuals.