Hadith #6280

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

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

مَنْ عَمِلَ بِالجَوْرِ عَجَّلَ اللّهُ هُلْكَهُ۔

This can be translated as,

The destruction of one who acts with oppression is hastened by Allah.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (jawr) "جَوْرِ" refers to oppression or injustice. It is an act of transgression against the rights of others, causing harm and suffering. The word (hulka) "هُلْكَهُ" means destruction or ruin. It signifies the severe consequences that await those who engage in oppression.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and warns against oppression. 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 in society.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 8, 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 means going against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones. It reminds us that justice should prevail above personal biases and relationships.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns perfectly with these Quranic teachings. It serves as a powerful reminder that those who engage in oppression will face swift destruction from Allah. This destruction can manifest in various ways, both in this world and in the Hereafter.

In this world, we witness numerous examples of oppressive individuals or nations facing downfall and ruin. History is filled with accounts of tyrants who, despite their temporary power and authority, eventually met their demise. Their oppressive actions led to their own destruction, as Allah's justice prevails over all.

Moreover, the consequences of oppression extend beyond the physical realm. In the Hereafter, those who have oppressed others will face severe punishment. Allah warns in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 85,

Then is it that you believe in a part of the Scripture and disbelieve in the rest? Then what is the recompense for those who do that among you except disgrace in worldly life; and on the Day of Resurrection, they will be sent back to the severest of punishment.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to always uphold justice and refrain from oppression. It highlights the importance of treating others with fairness, kindness, and compassion. By doing so, we not only avoid the destruction that comes with oppression but also earn the pleasure of Allah and the blessings of a just society.

As Muslims, we must reflect on this Hadith and strive to embody its teachings in our daily lives. We should stand against all forms of oppression, whether it is on an individual level or a societal level. By promoting justice and fairness, we contribute to the betterment of our communities and pave the way for a harmonious and righteous society.

May Allah guide us all to be just and compassionate individuals, and may He protect us from the destructive consequences of oppression.