Hadith #6689

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ سَلَّ سَيْفَ العُدْوانِ قُتِلَ بِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

One who unsheathes the sword of aggression is killed by it.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this wise utterance in light of the Quran. The word (salla) "سَلَّ" means to unsheathe or draw out, while (sayf) "سَيْفَ" refers to a sword. (al-'udwan) "العُدْوانِ" denotes aggression or transgression.

This Hadith emphasizes the consequences of engaging in aggression and violence. It serves as a reminder to Muslims that resorting to violence and aggression will ultimately lead to their own destruction. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his wisdom and knowledge, highlights the importance of avoiding aggression and promoting peace and justice.

The Quran echoes this message in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:190),

Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.

This verse emphasizes the importance of self-defense but strictly prohibits transgression. It is permissible to defend oneself, but it is impermissible to initiate aggression or exceed the limits set by Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:32), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.

This verse highlights the sanctity of human life and the gravity of taking a life unjustly. It emphasizes the importance of preserving life and avoiding violence.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder that violence begets violence. When one engages in aggression and unsheathes the sword of transgression, they are inviting their own destruction. This Hadith encourages Muslims to seek peaceful resolutions, to promote justice, and to avoid any form of aggression.

The consequences of aggression are not limited to physical harm or death. Aggression can have far-reaching consequences, including the destruction of families, communities, and societies. It breeds hatred, resentment, and a cycle of violence that perpetuates suffering. By heeding the wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), Muslims can strive to create a world based on justice, compassion, and peace.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder of the consequences of aggression and violence. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of self-defense while strictly prohibiting transgression. By avoiding aggression and promoting peace, Muslims can strive to create a harmonious society that upholds the sanctity of life and fosters justice and compassion. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to the path of peace and righteousness.