Hadith #10660

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon Muhammad, his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Evil retribution [and revenge] is from the vileness of victory.

This impactful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of seeking revenge and the importance of displaying noble character even in moments of victory.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith. The word (evil) "سُوءُ" refers to something that is morally wrong, harmful, or detrimental. It encompasses actions that are contrary to the teachings of Islam and the principles of justice and fairness. The word (retribution) "عُقُوبَةِ" refers to punishment or revenge inflicted upon someone in response to a perceived wrongdoing. It signifies the act of seeking vengeance or taking matters into one's own hands.

The term (vileness) "لُؤْمِ" refers to the despicable nature of an action or behavior. It implies that seeking revenge is a base and ignoble act that goes against the values of Islam. Finally, the word (victory) "ظَفَرِ" signifies triumph or success in a particular endeavor.

To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8),

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of displaying righteousness and justice towards others, even those who may have wronged us. Seeking revenge, as mentioned in the Hadith, is contrary to the teachings of Islam, which call for forgiveness, mercy, and the pursuit of justice through lawful means.

Another verse that sheds light on the concept of revenge is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:178),

O you who have believed, prescribed for you is legal retribution for those murdered - the free for the free, the slave for the slave, and the female for the female. But whoever overlooks from his brother anything, then there should be a suitable follow-up and payment to him with good conduct. This is an alleviation from your Lord and a mercy. But whoever transgresses after that will have a painful punishment.

This verse highlights the principle of legal retribution in cases of murder. However, it also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us to overlook the faults of others and seek a peaceful resolution rather than resorting to revenge.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that seeking revenge, even in moments of victory, is a reflection of one's own vileness and moral shortcomings. It is an act that perpetuates a cycle of violence and harm, leading to further discord and animosity.

Instead, Muslims are encouraged to display noble character, forgiveness, and mercy. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) himself exemplified these qualities when he forgave those who had wronged him during the conquest of Makkah. This act of mercy and forgiveness led to the reconciliation and acceptance of Islam by many.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the negative consequences of seeking revenge and the importance of displaying noble character, even in moments of victory. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize forgiveness, justice, and the pursuit of peace. As Muslims, we should strive to embody these teachings and refrain from seeking revenge, for it is an act that goes against the principles of Islam and perpetuates harm and discord. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the path of righteousness and mercy.