Hadith #8590

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The bane of power is withholding favor.

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

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. The word "bane" refers to something that causes harm or ruin. "Power" here signifies authority, control, or influence. And "withholding favor" means refusing to show kindness, mercy, or generosity.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of showing kindness and generosity towards others. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 83, Allah says,

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the obligation to do good to others, including relatives, orphans, and the needy. It reminds us that withholding favor and refusing to help those in need is contrary to the teachings of Islam. Similarly, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 8, Allah says,

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.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness, even if it goes against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones. It reminds us that withholding favor and refusing to be just is a grave sin in the sight of Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the significance of Imam Ali's statement. The bane of power is withholding favor means that when individuals in positions of authority or influence refuse to show kindness, mercy, or generosity, it leads to harm and ruin. When those in power neglect their duty to help and support others, it creates a society where the vulnerable suffer and injustice prevails.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, understood the detrimental consequences of withholding favor. He recognized that power should be used as a means to uplift and benefit others, not as a tool for oppression or selfish gain. By emphasizing the importance of showing favor, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of our responsibility to use our positions of authority and influence to bring about positive change and alleviate the suffering of those in need.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to use their power and influence for the betterment of society. It highlights the importance of showing kindness, mercy, and generosity to others, as taught by the Quran. By doing so, we can create a more just and compassionate world, in line with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to embody these noble qualities and grant us the wisdom to use our power and influence for the greater good.