Hadith #5033

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the 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, "بِئْسَ السِّياسَةُ الْجَوْرُ۔" This can be translated as,

Tyranny is indeed an evil administrative policy.

In this wise utterance, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the detrimental nature of tyranny and its negative impact on governance.

Let us delve deeper into the key words of this Hadith to gain a comprehensive understanding. The term (siyasa) "سِّياسَةُ" refers to the art of governance, administration, or politics. It encompasses the principles and strategies employed in managing the affairs of a state or community. The word (jawr) "جَوْرُ" signifies oppression, injustice, or the act of transgressing the rights of others.

To shed light on the significance of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance for all Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly condemns tyranny and oppression, emphasizing the importance of justice and fairness in governance. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah says,

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the obligation to establish justice and resolve conflicts in a fair manner. It emphasizes the repudiation of oppression and the need to rectify any transgressions. Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah commands,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This verse underscores the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against one's personal interests or the interests of loved ones. It emphasizes the need for impartiality and integrity in all matters, including governance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the grave consequences of tyranny in any form of administration. Tyranny breeds corruption, discord, and the violation of human rights. It leads to the marginalization of the weak and vulnerable, creating a society plagued by injustice and suffering.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled wisdom and knowledge, understood the destructive nature of tyranny. His own governance during his caliphate was characterized by justice, compassion, and the protection of the rights of all individuals. He served as a shining example of a just leader, following in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and embodying the teachings of the Quran.

As Muslims, we are called upon to reject tyranny in all its forms and strive for justice and fairness in our personal lives and in society. We must advocate for good governance, where the rights of all individuals are respected and protected. By doing so, we contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society, in line with the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder of the detrimental nature of tyranny in governance. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of justice and fairness. As Muslims, we must strive to reject tyranny and promote justice in all aspects of our lives, following the example set by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the noble teachings of Islam. May Allah guide us all on the path of justice and righteousness.