Hadith #6583

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he emphasizes the importance of justice by stating,

Verily being fair in [your] ruling and eschewing oppression are part of justice.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (adl) "عَدْلِ" in the Hadith refers to justice, fairness, and equity. It encompasses the idea of treating others with equality and impartiality. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands us in the Quran to uphold justice in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

Furthermore, the word (tunṣifa) "تُنْصِفَ" in the Hadith means to be just and fair in one's rulings and judgments. It implies that a ruler or judge should base their decisions on truth and righteousness, without any bias or prejudice. This concept is beautifully highlighted in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), where Allah says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes the importance of avoiding oppression, as it is an integral part of justice. The word (ẓulmah) "ظُّلْمَةَ" in the Hadith refers to oppression, injustice, and wrongdoing. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) explicitly condemns oppression in the Quran and warns against its severe consequences. In Surah Al-An'am (6:152), Allah says,

And do not approach the property of an orphan, except in the way that is best, until he reaches maturity. And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that justice requires not only being fair in our rulings but also actively avoiding any form of oppression. This includes refraining from taking advantage of others, exploiting their rights, or causing harm to them. It is crucial to remember that justice is not limited to the actions of rulers or judges but is a responsibility that every individual must uphold in their daily lives.

The consequences of adhering to justice and avoiding oppression are far-reaching. When justice prevails, it leads to a harmonious society where everyone's rights are protected, and people can live in peace and tranquility. On the other hand, oppression breeds resentment, division, and instability. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises in the Quran that those who uphold justice will be rewarded both in this world and the Hereafter. In Surah An-Nahl (16:90), Allah says,

Indeed, Allah orders justice and good conduct and giving to relatives and forbids immorality and bad conduct and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the exemplary knowledge and wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His profound understanding of justice, as guided by the Quran, serves as a timeless lesson for all Muslims. It is incumbent upon us to strive for justice in all aspects of our lives, ensuring fairness and equity in our interactions with others. By doing so, we uphold the teachings of Islam and contribute to the establishment of a just and compassionate society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be just and fair in our dealings, and may He guide us to follow the path of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the teachings of the Quran.