Hadith #2054

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who fights against the people will be fought and one who considers himself to be safe from plunder will be plundered.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore its profound implications in light of the Quran.

The word (haraba) "حارَبَ" in Arabic means to fight or wage war against someone. It implies engaging in conflict or hostility with others. On the other hand, (aminah) "أمِنَ" means to consider oneself safe or secure from harm or danger. And (sallaba) "سَّلَبَ" refers to plundering or seizing someone's possessions by force.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:190),

Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.

This verse emphasizes the principle of self-defense and just warfare. Muslims are allowed to fight back against those who initiate aggression, but they must not exceed the limits set by Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the importance of treating others with fairness and justice, even if they hold different beliefs or opinions.

Based on these Quranic verses, we can understand that the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is cautioning against initiating aggression or fighting without just cause. It reminds us that those who engage in unjust warfare or hostility against others will inevitably face resistance and retaliation. This principle aligns with the Quranic teachings of self-defense and the prohibition of transgression.

Moreover, the Hadith warns against complacency and false sense of security. It reminds us that those who consider themselves immune from harm or invincible will eventually be subjected to plunder and loss. This serves as a reminder that no one is exempt from the consequences of their actions, and arrogance or overconfidence can lead to downfall.

In Surah Al-Anfal (8:30), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And [remember, O Muhammad], when those who disbelieved plotted against you to restrain you or kill you or evict you [from Makkah]. But they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.

This verse reminds us that even the enemies of truth and justice may plot and scheme, but Allah's plan is always superior. It serves as a reminder that no one should become complacent or feel secure without relying on Allah's protection and guidance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to uphold justice, avoid aggression, and remain humble in the face of challenges. It emphasizes the importance of self-defense within the limits set by Allah, while cautioning against initiating hostilities or underestimating the consequences of one's actions. By reflecting on this Hadith and aligning our actions with the teachings of the Quran, we can strive to maintain a just and balanced approach in our interactions with others. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the perils of aggression and arrogance.