Hadith #6194

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states: "الظلم يجلب النقمة", which translates to

Injustice brings [divine wrath and] chastisement.

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

The word (zulm) "ظلم" in Arabic refers to injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses any act that transgresses the boundaries of fairness and equity. It is important to note that this Hadith does not specify the type of injustice, indicating that all forms of injustice, whether it be social, economic, or personal, have the potential to bring about divine wrath and punishment.

The word (niqmah) "نقمة" refers to divine retribution or chastisement. It signifies the punishment that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) may inflict upon individuals or societies as a consequence of their unjust actions. This punishment can manifest in various forms, such as natural disasters, social upheaval, or personal hardships.

The Quran provides ample evidence to support the message of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Anfal, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 8:25)

And fear the affliction which may not smite exclusively those among you who are wrongdoers and know that Allah is severe in punishment

This verse highlights that the consequences of injustice can extend beyond the perpetrators and affect the entire community. It serves as a warning that divine punishment can befall not only the wrongdoers but also those who remain silent or complicit in the face of injustice.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Rum, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 30:41)

Corruption has appeared throughout the land and sea by [reason of] what the hands of people have earned so He may let them taste part of [the consequence of] what they have done that perhaps they will return [to righteousness]

This verse emphasizes that the prevalence of injustice and corruption in society leads to divine punishment as a means to awaken individuals and societies to their wrongdoing, urging them to rectify their actions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims of the severe consequences of injustice. It highlights the importance of upholding justice in all aspects of life. When injustice prevails, it disrupts the balance and harmony that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has ordained for His creation. It breeds resentment, discontent, and ultimately invites divine retribution.

The consequences of injustice can be seen throughout history. Societies that have perpetuated injustice and oppression have faced the wrath of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The story of the people of 'Ad and Thamud in the Quran serves as a stark reminder of the punishment that befell them due to their transgressions and injustices.

On an individual level, the Hadith reminds us that our actions have consequences. When we engage in acts of injustice, whether it be through dishonesty, exploitation, or mistreatment of others, we invite divine punishment upon ourselves. This punishment may not be immediate, but it is a certainty in the divine plan.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to be agents of justice in our personal and societal interactions. We should stand against oppression and work towards establishing a just and equitable society. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also protect ourselves and our communities from the divine retribution that injustice brings.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to uphold justice in all aspects of our lives and protect us from the consequences of injustice.