Hadith #6606

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,

لَنْ يُتَمَكَّنَ العَدْلُ حَتّى يَزِلَّ البَخْسُ۔

This can be translated as,

Justice can never be achieved until injustice falters [and comes to an end].

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the fundamental principle that justice cannot prevail as long as injustice continues to exist.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (justice) "عَدْلُ" refers to fairness, equity, and upholding what is right. It is the opposite of oppression and tyranny. The word (injustice) "بَخْسُ" refers to any act that goes against justice, such as oppression, exploitation, and unfair treatment.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of justice. In Surah An-Nisa, verse 135, 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 highlights the obligation of Muslims to uphold justice, even if it means going against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 9, where Allah 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 emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts and establishing justice, even if it requires fighting against the oppressor.

Now, let us reflect on the impactful message of this Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that justice cannot be fully realized until injustice is eradicated. Injustice creates an environment of inequality, suffering, and imbalance. It hinders the establishment of a just society where everyone's rights are protected and respected.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a call to action for Muslims. It urges us to actively work towards eliminating all forms of injustice, whether it be social, economic, or political. This requires us to confront and challenge oppressive systems and practices, and to stand up for the rights of the oppressed.

The consequences of failing to address injustice are dire. Injustice breeds resentment, discontent, and social unrest. It creates a cycle of violence and perpetuates divisions within society. On the other hand, the pursuit of justice leads to harmony, peace, and the flourishing of individuals and communities.

As Muslims, we are reminded by this Hadith and the supporting Quranic verses that justice is not a passive concept. It requires our active participation and commitment. We must strive to establish justice in all aspects of our lives, treating others with fairness and compassion. By doing so, we contribute to the realization of a just society, guided by the principles of Islam.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to uphold justice and eradicate injustice in all its forms. May we be among those who are steadfast in their pursuit of justice, following the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the teachings of the Quran. And may Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with His mercy and guidance in this world and the Hereafter.