Hadith #308

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of making correct decisions in matters of governance. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his wisdom and knowledge, emphasizes that the correctness of a decision is closely tied to the power and authority behind it. The decision is accepted and respected when it is backed by the necessary power, and it loses its effectiveness when that power diminishes or disappears.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words and their implications. The word (sawab) "صَوَابُ" refers to correctness, accuracy, or soundness. It implies making a decision that is just, fair, and in line with the principles of justice and equity. The word (ra'i) "رَأْيِ" means opinion or judgment. It signifies the process of reasoning, deliberation, and arriving at a decision based on careful consideration.

The word (dawla) "دُّوَلِ" is derived from the root word (dawwala) "دَوَّلَ", which means to turn or rotate. In the context of this Hadith, it refers to the authority, power, or governance of a state or a ruler. It signifies the ability to enforce decisions and maintain stability and order.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement is in line with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasizes the importance of justice and power working hand in hand. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25),

We sent Our messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Scripture and the Balance that people may establish justice.

This verse highlights the divine mandate for establishing justice, which requires both the guidance of the scripture and the power to enforce it.

Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the importance of power and authority in maintaining stability and order. In Surah An-Nisa (4:59), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you.

This verse highlights the significance of following the guidance of Allah and His Messenger, as well as those in positions of authority.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that a correct decision can only be effective when it is supported by the necessary power and authority. It is not enough to have a just opinion or judgment; it must also be implemented and enforced. This principle is essential in matters of governance, where decisions impact the lives of individuals and the stability of society.

For example, if a ruler makes a just decision but lacks the power and authority to enforce it, the decision becomes ineffective and fails to bring about the desired change. On the other hand, if a ruler possesses the necessary power and authority but makes unjust decisions, it leads to oppression and injustice.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also highlights the consequences of a decision losing its power. When the power behind a decision diminishes or disappears, the decision itself becomes irrelevant and ineffective. This can be observed in historical examples where rulers or governments lose their authority, and their decisions are no longer respected or implemented.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of making correct decisions in matters of governance. It highlights that the correctness of a decision is closely tied to the power and authority behind it. A just decision must be supported by the necessary power to enforce it, and it loses its effectiveness when that power diminishes or disappears. This principle is in line with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of justice and the role of power and authority in maintaining stability and order. Muslims should strive to make informed and just decisions, while also recognizing the importance of power and authority in implementing those decisions for the betterment of society.