Hadith #7814

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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,

مَنْ رَكِبَ العُنْفَ نَدِمَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who acts violently, regrets.

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

The word (rakiba) "رَكِبَ" in this Hadith means to ride or embark upon. It signifies the act of engaging in violence, aggression, or oppression. The word (al-'unf) "العُنْفَ" refers to any form of unjust or excessive force, whether physical, verbal, or emotional. It encompasses actions that cause harm, pain, or suffering to others.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of avoiding violence and promoting peace and justice. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:32),

Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.

This verse highlights the sanctity of human life and the severe consequences of taking it unjustly.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the importance of respecting others and refraining from any form of verbal or emotional violence.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the regret that accompanies acts of violence. This regret stems from the realization that violence only leads to negative consequences and further perpetuates a cycle of harm and suffering. When one engages in violence, they not only harm others but also damage their own soul and tarnish their character.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see its relevance in various aspects of life. In personal relationships, acting violently towards others can lead to broken bonds, severed friendships, and lasting regrets. In societal contexts, violence breeds animosity, division, and unrest. It is through peaceful dialogue, understanding, and empathy that we can build harmonious communities.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his wisdom and knowledge. His profound understanding of the consequences of violence stemmed from his deep insight into the teachings of Islam and the Quran. He recognized that violence not only harms others but also damages the perpetrator's own soul and distances them from the path of righteousness.

As Muslims, we are called upon to embody the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt. We should strive to be agents of peace, justice, and compassion in our interactions with others. By avoiding violence and choosing peaceful means to resolve conflicts, we can contribute to a more harmonious and just society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the path of peace and righteousness, and may we always remember the profound wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our actions and interactions.