Hadith #6195

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الظُّلْمُ وَخيمُ العاقِبَةِ۔" This can be translated as

Injustice has adverse consequences.

Let us begin by examining the key words in this Hadith. The word (zulm) "ظُلْم" refers to injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses any act that violates the rights of others or transgresses the boundaries set by Allah. The word (kheem) "خيم" means severe, grave, or serious. And (al-'aqibah) "العاقِبَةِ" refers to the consequences or outcomes of one's actions.

To understand the connotation of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and warns against oppression throughout the Quran. In Surah Al-Hadid, verse 25, Allah says,

Indeed, We sent Our messengers with clear proofs and sent down with them the Scripture and the balance that the people may maintain [their affairs] in justice.

This verse highlights the divine purpose of sending messengers and scriptures, which is to establish justice among people.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa, verse 135, Allah commands the believers,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones. It is a reminder that justice should always prevail, regardless of personal biases or affiliations.

The consequences of injustice are severe and far-reaching. In Surah Ash-Shura, verse 42, Allah warns,

And never will Allah grant to the wrongdoers a way [of escape].

This verse highlights that those who commit injustice will not find any escape or reprieve from the consequences of their actions. They will be held accountable for their deeds in this world and the hereafter.

In Surah Al-Anfal, verse 25, Allah states,

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 reminds us that the consequences of injustice can affect not only the wrongdoers but also those who remain silent or complicit in the face of oppression. Allah's punishment is severe, and it encompasses all those who contribute to or tolerate injustice.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and understanding of Islam, reminds us of the grave consequences of injustice in this Hadith. Injustice not only harms the victims but also corrupts the society as a whole. It breeds resentment, fuels conflicts, and undermines the foundations of a just and harmonious community. The adverse consequences of injustice can be seen in the form of social unrest, inequality, and the erosion of trust and unity among people.

As Muslims, we are obligated to stand against injustice and promote justice in all aspects of our lives. We must strive to be just in our dealings with others, whether it is in our personal relationships, our professional conduct, or our participation in societal matters. By upholding justice, we contribute to the betterment of our communities and fulfill the divine commandments of Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the adverse consequences of injustice. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of justice and warn against oppression. As Muslims, we must strive to establish justice in all aspects of our lives, knowing that the consequences of injustice are severe and far-reaching. May Allah guide us to be just and protect us from the harms of injustice.