Hadith #10260

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

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

الإنْصافُ مِنَ النَّفْسِ كَالْعَدْلِ فِي الإمْرَةِ

which translates to

Being equitable with others is like being just [while] in authority.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of fairness and justice in our interactions with others, regardless of our position or authority.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words. (al-insaf) "الإنْصافُ" refers to being equitable, fair, and just. It entails treating others with equality and impartiality, without any bias or favoritism. (an-nafs) "النَّفْسِ" refers to the self or the individual. It signifies that equity should be practiced not only in our dealings with others but also within ourselves, in our thoughts, intentions, and actions.

To understand the significance of equity and justice, we turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 9, Allah says,

إِنَّ اللَّهَ يَأْمُرُ بِالْعَدْلِ وَالْإِحْسَانِ وَإِيتَاءِ ذِي الْقُرْبَىٰ وَيَنْهَىٰ عَنِ الْفَحْشَاءِ وَالْمُنكَرِ وَالْبَغْيِ ۚ يَعِظُكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَذَكَّرُونَ

which means,

Indeed, Allah commands justice, good conduct, and giving to relatives. And He forbids immorality, bad conduct, and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded.

This verse highlights that Allah commands justice, which includes being equitable and fair in our interactions. It is a fundamental principle of Islam that applies to all aspects of our lives. Allah's command for justice is not limited to those in positions of authority but extends to every individual, emphasizing the importance of equity in our personal conduct as well.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 8, where Allah says,

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُونُوا قَوَّامِينَ بِالْقِسْطِ شُهَدَاءَ لِلَّهِ وَلَوْ عَلَىٰ أَنفُسِكُمْ أَوِ الْوَالِدَيْنِ وَالْأَقْرَبِينَ ۚ إِن يَكُنْ غَنِيًّا أَوْ فَقِيرًا فَاللَّهُ أَوْلَىٰ بِهِمَا ۖ فَلَا تَتَّبِعُوا الْهَوَىٰ أَن تَعْدِلُوا ۚ وَإِن تَلْوُوا أَوْ تُعْرِضُوا فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ كَانَ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ خَبِيرًا

which means,

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 standing firm in justice, even if it goes against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones. It reminds us that Allah is the ultimate authority and that justice should never be compromised, regardless of the circumstances. This further reinforces the message of the Hadith, highlighting the significance of equity and justice in our interactions with others.

Now, let us reflect on the meaning of this Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, teaches us that being equitable with others is akin to being just while in authority. This Hadith serves as a reminder that justice and equity should be the guiding principles in all our dealings, whether we are in positions of authority or not.

When we treat others with equity and fairness, we create an environment of trust, respect, and harmony. It fosters a sense of unity and equality among individuals, regardless of their social status, race, or background. By practicing equity, we uphold the principles of justice that are deeply rooted in Islam.

Furthermore, this Hadith encourages us to reflect on our own actions and intentions. It reminds us to be fair and just not only in our interactions with others but also within ourselves. We should strive to be equitable in our thoughts, intentions, and actions, ensuring that we treat others with the same fairness and respect that we expect for ourselves.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of equity and justice in our interactions with others. It emphasizes that being equitable with others is akin to being just while in authority. This Hadith is supported by Quranic verses that highlight the significance of justice and fairness in Islam. By practicing equity, we create a society that is based on justice, equality, and harmony. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to be equitable and just in all our dealings, both with others and within ourselves.