Hadith #5722

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,

Truthfulness is the brother of justice.

This enlightening saying emphasizes the close relationship between truthfulness and justice. To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words.

The word (sidq) "صدق" translates to "truthfulness" in English. It refers to the act of speaking and acting in accordance with the truth, without any distortion or deception. Truthfulness is a fundamental virtue in Islam, as it is a reflection of the honesty and integrity that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) expects from His servants.

The word (adl) "عدل" translates to "justice" in English. It refers to the quality of being fair, impartial, and equitable in all matters. Justice is a central principle in Islam, as it ensures the rights of individuals are upheld and maintained. It is the foundation upon which a just society is built.

To further understand the connection between truthfulness and justice, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights the importance of righteousness, which encompasses both truthfulness and justice. It emphasizes that the most honorable and noble individuals in the sight of Allah are those who possess these qualities. By being truthful and just, Muslims can establish strong bonds of brotherhood and unity within society.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 upholding justice, even in difficult circumstances. It encourages Muslims to be just and truthful, even if it means going against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. This demonstrates the high moral standards that Islam sets for its followers.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the inseparable bond between truthfulness and justice. When one is truthful, they naturally incline towards justice, as truthfulness requires the fair treatment of others. Similarly, when one is just, they are compelled to speak and act truthfully, as justice cannot be achieved without honesty.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for both truthfulness and justice in their daily lives. By embodying these virtues, we can contribute to the establishment of a just society, where the rights of all individuals are respected and upheld. It also reminds us of the exemplary character and wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his profound knowledge and adherence to truth and justice.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that truthfulness and justice are inseparable. They are like brothers, supporting and reinforcing each other. As Muslims, we should strive to embody these virtues in our words and actions, for they are the foundation of a righteous and just society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to the path of truth and justice.