Hadith #4986

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his companions.

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

مَنْ أساءَ اِجْتَلَبَ سُوءُ الجَزاءِ۔

This can be translated as,

One who wrongs others brings upon himself a severe reprisal.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (asa'a) "أساءَ" in the Hadith refers to the act of doing wrong or causing harm to others. It encompasses any action or behavior that goes against the principles of justice, fairness, and kindness. It includes acts of oppression, injustice, and cruelty towards fellow human beings. This word emphasizes the gravity of the action and the negative consequences it brings upon the wrongdoer.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and warns against oppression and wrongdoing. In Surah Al-An'am, Ayah 160, Allah says,

Whoever does an evil deed will not be recompensed except by the like thereof; but whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer - those will enter Paradise, being given provision therein without account.

This ayah highlights the principle of divine justice, stating that the consequences of one's actions will be in accordance with their deeds. If someone wrongs others, they will face a severe reprisal, as mentioned in the Hadith. This reprisal may manifest in various forms, such as facing hardships, loss of blessings, or even punishment in the Hereafter.

Another ayah that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Ghashiyah, Ayah 8-9, where Allah says,

Then indeed, upon Us is their account. Then indeed, upon Us is their account.

These verses remind us that ultimately, Allah is the ultimate judge and will hold everyone accountable for their actions. The wrongdoers will face the consequences of their deeds, and Allah's justice will prevail.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of treating others with kindness, fairness, and justice. It warns against oppressing or causing harm to others, as the consequences of such actions are severe. This Hadith encourages Muslims to reflect on their behavior and strive to uphold the principles of justice and compassion in all aspects of their lives.

Moreover, this Hadith also highlights the wisdom and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His profound understanding of human nature and the consequences of our actions is evident in this concise statement. It serves as a testament to his wisdom and his role as a guide for the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of treating others with justice and kindness. It serves as a warning against wrongdoing and oppression, emphasizing that the consequences of such actions are severe. As Muslims, we should strive to embody the principles of justice and compassion in our interactions with others, knowing that Allah's justice will prevail in the end. May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt and protect us from wrongdoing.