Hadith #9826

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,

One who is just in his kingship becomes needless of his aides.

This beautiful Hadith highlights the importance of justice in leadership and its transformative power. To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words.

The word (adala) "عَدَلَ" refers to justice, fairness, and equity. It encompasses upholding the rights of others and treating them with equality. It is a quality that is highly emphasized in Islam, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran, (Quran 4:58)

Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice

The word (sultan) "سُلْطانِهِ" refers to kingship or authority. It signifies a position of power and control over a group of people. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true power lies not in the number of aides or supporters one has, but in the justice and fairness with which one exercises that power.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 16:90)

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

This verse emphasizes that justice is not only a commandment from Allah, but also a means of guidance and a reminder for humanity.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is, (Quran 31:18)

Indeed, Allah does not like those who are self-deluding and boastful

This verse highlights the negative qualities of arrogance and self-importance, which are often associated with oppressive rulers who do not prioritize justice. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true leadership is not about personal gain or maintaining power at all costs, but rather about serving the people and upholding justice.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that a just leader who governs with fairness and equity does not rely solely on aides or supporters to maintain their authority. Instead, their just actions and decisions speak for themselves, earning the respect and trust of the people. Such a leader becomes needless of aides because their integrity and commitment to justice inspire others to follow their example.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for justice in all aspects of life, whether it be in positions of authority or in our personal interactions. It emphasizes the importance of upholding the rights of others, treating them with fairness, and avoiding oppression. By embodying the principles of justice, we can create a society that is harmonious, just, and free from the need for excessive reliance on external support.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true power lies in justice and fairness, not in the number of aides or supporters one has. It reminds us of the importance of upholding justice in leadership and in all aspects of life. By embodying these principles, we can create a society that is just, equitable, and free from the need for excessive reliance on external support. May Allah guide us all to be just and fair in our actions and grant us the ability to lead with justice.