Hadith #10702

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 purified progeny, and his righteous companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights three scenarios where individuals who possess noble qualities are subjected to unjust treatment. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring the meanings of the important words and drawing upon the guidance of the Quran to gain a deeper understanding.

The first scenario mentioned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is that of a knowledgeable person who is judged by an ignorant individual. The word used for "knowledgeable" in Arabic is (ʿālim) "عالِمٌ", which refers to someone who possesses deep understanding and wisdom in religious and worldly matters. This person, despite their knowledge, is unjustly criticized and judged by someone who lacks understanding and insight. This highlights the unfortunate reality where individuals who are well-versed in a particular field are often undermined and discredited by those who are ignorant.

To shed light on the importance of knowledge and the respect it deserves, we turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9),

Are those who know equal to those who do not know?

This verse emphasizes the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who do not. It serves as a reminder to Muslims that knowledge is a valuable asset that should be respected and acknowledged.

The second scenario mentioned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is that of a noble person who is dominated by a vile individual. The word used for "noble" in Arabic is (karīm) "كَريمٌ", which refers to someone who possesses honorable qualities and high moral standards. However, despite their noble character, they find themselves under the control and influence of someone who is morally corrupt and wicked.

To understand the significance of nobility and the challenges faced by noble individuals, we turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas (28:26),

He said, 'Indeed, I wish to wed you one of these, my two daughters, on [the condition] that you serve me for eight years; but if you complete ten, it will be [as a favor] from you. And I do not wish to put you in difficulty. You will find me, if Allah wills, from among the righteous.'

This verse narrates the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) when he sought refuge with a noble man named Shu'ayb. Despite his noble character, Shu'ayb was oppressed and dominated by others, highlighting the challenges faced by noble individuals in society.

The third scenario mentioned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is that of a virtuous person who is under the command of a vicious individual. The word used for "virtuous" in Arabic is (barr) "بَرٌّ", which refers to someone who is righteous, pious, and morally upright. However, despite their virtuous nature, they find themselves subjected to the authority and control of someone who is wicked and immoral.

To comprehend the struggles faced by virtuous individuals in such circumstances, we turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas (28:14),

And when he [Moses] reached his full strength and was [mentally] mature, We bestowed upon him judgement and knowledge. And thus do We reward the doers of good.

This verse highlights the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) when he was granted wisdom and knowledge by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Despite his righteousness, he was placed under the command of the Pharaoh, a tyrant and oppressor. This serves as a reminder that even the most virtuous individuals may find themselves in challenging circumstances, where they must navigate the influence of those who are morally corrupt.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals who possess noble qualities but are subjected to unjust treatment. It serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of respecting and valuing knowledge, acknowledging the struggles faced by noble individuals, and recognizing the difficulties encountered by virtuous individuals under the authority of the wicked. By reflecting upon these scenarios and drawing upon the guidance of the Quran, we can strive to cultivate a society that appreciates and upholds the rights of those who possess noble qualities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand and implement the teachings of this Hadith in our lives.