Hadith #6296

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, and his noble companions.

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

الظالم طاغ ينتظر إحدى النقمتين

which translates to

The unjust transgressor is awaiting one of two chastisements [of this world or the Hereafter].

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequences that await those who oppress and transgress against others.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. The term (transgressor) "ظالم" refers to someone who wrongs others, violates their rights, and oppresses them. It encompasses all forms of injustice, whether it be physical, emotional, or financial. The word (unjust) "طاغ" emphasizes the excessive and persistent nature of the transgressor's actions. It signifies their audacity and arrogance in their wrongdoing.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the unjust transgressor is (awaiting) "انتظر" one of two (chastisements) "نقمتين". The word "انتظر" implies a state of anticipation and waiting for something to occur. It suggests that the transgressor may not immediately face the consequences of their actions, but they will eventually be held accountable. The term "نقمتين" refers to two types of chastisements or punishments.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance for Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the consequences that await those who oppress and transgress against others. In Surah Al-Imran (3:178), Allah says:

And let not the disbelievers think that Our postponing of their punishment is good for them. We postpone the punishment only so that they may increase in sinfulness. And for them is a humiliating punishment.

This verse highlights that the delay in punishment for the oppressors is not a sign of Allah's approval or leniency. Rather, it is a means to allow them to increase in their wrongdoing and to give them an opportunity to reflect and repent. However, their ultimate punishment will be severe and humiliating.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Anfal (8:25):

And fear a trial which will not strike those who have wronged among you exclusively, and know that Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse warns the transgressors that the punishment they await will not be limited to this world alone. It serves as a reminder that Allah's punishment can manifest in various forms, both in this life and in the Hereafter.

The consequences of transgression and oppression can be seen throughout history. Tyrants and oppressors have faced the wrath of Allah in this world, through the downfall of their empires, humiliation, or even physical punishments. Examples from the past, such as the Pharaoh of Egypt or the people of 'Ad and Thamud, serve as reminders of the divine retribution that awaits those who persist in their injustice.

Furthermore, the Hadith also serves as a warning to those who witness oppression and choose to remain silent or complicit. Allah says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11):

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 highlights the importance of standing against injustice and not remaining silent. By failing to speak out against oppression, we become complicit in the wrongdoing. Therefore, it is crucial for Muslims to actively promote justice, equality, and fairness in all aspects of life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences that await those who oppress and transgress against others. It highlights the certainty of divine retribution, whether in this world or the Hereafter. As Muslims, we must strive to uphold justice, speak out against oppression, and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all our actions. May Allah guide us on the path of righteousness and protect us from the consequences of transgression.