Hadith #6929

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) emphasizes two important qualities that a person should possess when they are in a position of power or authority. The first quality is being graciously forgiving, and the second is acting with justice. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore the Quranic verses that support this exegesis.

The word (jamīla) "جَمِيلَ" in the Hadith refers to being gracious, beautiful, and noble in one's actions. It implies that when a person attains power or authority, they should use it to show kindness and forgiveness towards others. This quality is in line with the teachings of the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes Himself as (Al-'Afūww) "العَفُوُّ", the Most Forgiving. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 187, Allah says,

And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse highlights the importance of forgiveness and mercy, which should be emulated by Muslims, especially when they are in positions of authority.

The word (‘afwi) "عَفْوِ" in the Hadith means forgiveness. It signifies pardoning others, overlooking their mistakes, and not seeking revenge or holding grudges. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the virtue of forgiveness. In Surah Al-Imran, verse 134, Allah says,

Who spend [in the cause of Allah] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse encourages Muslims to control their anger and forgive others, even in difficult situations. It reminds us that forgiveness is an act of righteousness that is beloved to Allah.

The second quality mentioned in the Hadith is acting with justice when one is in authority. The word (‘adl) "عَدْلِ" in the Hadith refers to justice, fairness, and equity. It implies that when a person holds a position of power, they should use it to establish justice and treat people fairly. The Quran repeatedly 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.

This verse highlights the obligation of Muslims to uphold justice, even if it goes against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones.

The concept of justice is deeply ingrained in the teachings of Islam. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) himself was known for his just and fair leadership. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), as the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet (ﷺ), inherited this noble quality of justice. His knowledge, wisdom, and ability to make fair decisions are well-known among Muslims. Therefore, when Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to act justly when in authority, it is a reminder of his own exemplary character.

The consequences of embodying these qualities are profound. When a person in power forgives others graciously and acts with justice, it creates an environment of harmony, trust, and respect. It fosters unity among people and strengthens the social fabric of society. It also leads to the establishment of a just and equitable system, where everyone's rights are protected and upheld.

Furthermore, the Hadith serves as a reflection for Muslims today. It reminds us that power and authority should not be misused or abused. Instead, they should be utilized to bring about positive change and benefit others. It urges us to be mindful of our actions and responsibilities when we are in positions of influence, whether it be in our families, communities, or workplaces.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of being graciously forgiving and acting with justice when we are in positions of power or authority. These qualities are in line with the teachings of the Quran and the examples set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions. By embodying these qualities, we can contribute to the betterment of society and fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims. May Allah guide us all to follow the path of forgiveness and justice.