Hadith #9853

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is a impactful Hadith that compares the position of a king's courtier to that of a person riding on a lion. It highlights the envy that people may have towards the courtier's status, while emphasizing the courtier's awareness of the inherent danger and precariousness of his position.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. The term "صاحِبُ السُّلْطانِ" refers to the courtier or companion of the king, someone who holds a position of influence and power within the royal court. The word "كَراكِبِ" means "riding" or "mounted upon," indicating the courtier's association with the king and his proximity to power. The word "الأسَدِ" translates to "lion," symbolizing the dangerous nature of the courtier's position.

To understand the wisdom behind this analogy, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's protection and guidance in all our endeavors, especially when we find ourselves in positions of authority or influence.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:15), we find the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) when he accidentally killed an Egyptian man. Realizing the danger of his situation, Musa sought forgiveness from Allah and asked for protection. This incident serves as a reminder that even the most powerful and influential individuals can find themselves in vulnerable positions, and it is only through seeking Allah's guidance that they can navigate these challenges.

Returning to the Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) draws our attention to the fact that while others may envy the courtier's position, the courtier himself is acutely aware of the risks and dangers associated with it. This awareness stems from the courtier's intimate knowledge of the inner workings of the royal court, the intrigues, and the potential for betrayal or downfall.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a cautionary reminder for Muslims in positions of power or influence. It urges them to remain humble, vigilant, and mindful of the potential pitfalls that come with their positions. It encourages them to seek Allah's guidance and protection, recognizing that true power lies in the hands of the Almighty.

Moreover, this Hadith also serves as a reminder for individuals who may envy or desire positions of power and influence. It reminds them that such positions come with great responsibility and potential dangers. It encourages them to reflect on their intentions and motivations, reminding them that true success lies not in worldly status, but in righteousness and the pleasure of Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) provides a profound insight into the nature of power, influence, and the dangers they entail. It serves as a reminder for both those in positions of authority and those who aspire to such positions, emphasizing the need for humility, vigilance, and reliance on Allah's guidance. May Allah grant us the wisdom to navigate the challenges of this world and protect us from the perils of power.