Hadith #8726

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 and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The worst of judges is one whose judgments are oppressive.

This Hadith highlights the importance of justice and fairness in the role of a judge. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its meaning in light of the Quran.

The word (judges) "قُضَاةِ" in this Hadith refers to those individuals who are appointed to administer justice and make legal decisions. These judges hold a significant responsibility in upholding justice and ensuring the rights of individuals are protected. The word (oppressive) "جارَتْ" describes the nature of their judgments, indicating that they are unjust, unfair, and oppressive.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of justice in numerous verses of the Quran. 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. 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 highlights the obligation of Muslims to uphold justice, even if it goes against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. It emphasizes the importance of being just and fair, regardless of the circumstances. Therefore, a judge who fails to fulfill this duty and instead delivers oppressive judgments is indeed the worst of judges.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 8, Allah says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of impartiality and fairness in the pursuit of justice. It warns against allowing personal biases or animosity towards a particular group of people to cloud one's judgment. A judge must always strive to be just, as it is an essential characteristic of righteousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to judges and the entire Muslim community of the importance of justice and fairness in the legal system. When a judge delivers oppressive judgments, it leads to the oppression of individuals and the violation of their rights. This not only undermines the principles of justice but also erodes the trust and confidence of the people in the judicial system.

The consequences of oppressive judgments are far-reaching. They can lead to social unrest, resentment, and a breakdown of societal harmony. Conversely, when judges fulfill their duty with justice and fairness, it promotes a just society where individuals feel secure and their rights are protected. It fosters trust in the legal system and strengthens the bonds of the community.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and understanding of Islamic principles, including justice. His wisdom and guidance continue to inspire Muslims to this day. As Muslims, we must strive to embody the qualities of justice and fairness in all aspects of our lives, just as Imam Ali did.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of justice and fairness in the role of a judge. It serves as a warning against delivering oppressive judgments, as it goes against the principles of Islam. We must strive to uphold justice in all our actions, for it is the foundation of a just and harmonious society. May Allah guide us all to be just and fair in our dealings, and may He grant us the ability to recognize and reject oppression in all its forms.