Hadith #10724

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

شَرُّ النّاسِ مَنْ يَظْلِمُ النّاسَ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

The worst person is one who oppresses others.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the teachings of the Quran.

The word (zulm) "ظلم" in Arabic refers to oppression, injustice, and wrongdoing. It encompasses any act that transgresses the rights of others or violates the principles of fairness and equity. Oppression is condemned in Islam, as it goes against the core values of justice and compassion that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has prescribed for humanity.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of justice and warns against oppression in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the obligation to establish justice and resolve conflicts in a fair manner. It also emphasizes the duty to fight against oppression and restore justice when it is violated. The worst person, as mentioned in the Hadith, is the one who engages in oppression, disregarding the rights and well-being of others.

Furthermore, the Quran warns against the consequences of oppression. In Surah Al-An'am (6:160), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Whoever comes [on the Day of Judgement] with a good deed will have ten times the like thereof [to his credit], and whoever comes with an evil deed will not be recompensed except the like thereof; and they will not be wronged.

This verse highlights the principle of divine justice, where each individual will be held accountable for their actions. Those who oppress others will face the consequences of their wrongdoing, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is just and does not wrong anyone. The worst person, therefore, is the one who oppresses others, as they will face the severe consequences of their actions in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the gravity of oppression through this Hadith. He highlights the importance of treating others with fairness, kindness, and respect. Oppression not only harms the oppressed but also tarnishes the character and soul of the oppressor.

As Muslims, we are called to emulate the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt. We must strive to be just and compassionate individuals, standing against oppression and advocating for the rights of others. By doing so, we can contribute to a more harmonious and just society, reflecting the values of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for all Muslims to reject oppression and strive for justice. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of fairness, compassion, and accountability. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to be individuals who uphold justice and protect the rights of others, and may He grant us the wisdom to avoid oppressing anyone.