Hadith #8595

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The alms-tax of power is even-handedness.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in the exercise of power and authority. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this profound statement in light of the Quran.

The word "zakat" in Arabic refers to purification, growth, and giving. It is often associated with the obligatory alms-tax that Muslims are required to pay. In this context, the term "zakat" signifies the responsibility of those in positions of power to purify and grow their authority through acts of fairness and equity.

The word "qudrah" means power or authority. It encompasses the ability to influence and make decisions that impact others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that the alms-tax of power is "inshaaf," which translates to even-handedness, justice, and impartiality. This implies that those in positions of power must exercise their authority with fairness, ensuring that everyone is treated equitably and justly.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in various verses. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 highlights the obligation to settle disputes with justice and fairness. It emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts in a manner that upholds the principles of justice and equality. Similarly, in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands,

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.

This verse underscores the need for Muslims to uphold justice, even if it goes against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. It emphasizes the importance of being just and fair in all circumstances, regardless of social status or personal relationships.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to those in positions of power that they have a duty to exercise their authority with fairness and impartiality. It highlights the consequences of abusing power and the detrimental effects it can have on individuals and society as a whole.

When power is wielded unjustly, it leads to oppression, inequality, and the marginalization of certain groups. Conversely, when power is exercised with even-handedness, it fosters a sense of trust, unity, and social harmony. It ensures that everyone's rights are protected and that no one is unjustly treated or marginalized.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) impactful Hadith serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims in positions of authority to reflect upon their actions and ensure that they are fulfilling their responsibilities with justice and fairness. It calls upon them to be mindful of the weight of their decisions and the impact they have on the lives of others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds Muslims of the importance of justice and fairness in the exercise of power and authority. It calls upon those in positions of power to purify and grow their authority through acts of even-handedness. By adhering to the principles of justice and fairness, we can create a just and equitable society that upholds the values of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to be just and fair in our actions and grant us the ability to exercise power with wisdom and righteousness.