Hadith #2899

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is a beautiful saying that highlights his unique position and authority in the world. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its key words and their meanings in light of the Quran.

The first important word in this Hadith is (kaab) "كابُّ". It is derived from the root word "kaba" which means to turn something over or reverse its position. Here, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is metaphorically referring to himself as the one who has the power and authority to turn the world over on its face. This signifies his immense knowledge, wisdom, and ability to challenge the norms and bring about a transformation in the world.

The second key word is (qaadir) "قادِرُ". It is derived from the root word "qadr" which means to measure or gauge something according to its true value. In this context, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is asserting his ability to accurately assess the worth and significance of the world. He possesses the knowledge and insight to understand the true nature of worldly affairs, distinguishing between what is valuable and what is insignificant.

The third important word is (raadd) "رادُّ". It is derived from the root word "raadd" which means to drive something back or reverse its direction. Here, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing his power to drive the world back on its heels, challenging the prevailing order and bringing about a paradigm shift. This highlights his role as a reformer and a leader who seeks to rectify the deviations and injustices in society.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:107):

And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.

This verse highlights the role of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as a mercy to all of creation. Similarly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is also a mercy to the world, as he possesses the knowledge and wisdom to guide humanity towards righteousness and justice.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

We sent aforetime our messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the Balance, that people may stand forth in justice.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and balance in the world. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), with his profound understanding of justice, is the one who can truly gauge the world according to its true value and establish justice in all aspects of life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also reminds us of the Quranic concept of (Oneness of Allah) "Tawheed". In Surah Al-Anbiya (21:22), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

If there were, in the heavens and the earth, other gods besides Allah, there would have been confusion in both!

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining order and balance in the world. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), as the representative of the divine authority on earth, ensures that the world remains in harmony and balance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on the true purpose of their existence. It urges us to strive for knowledge, wisdom, and justice in order to bring about positive change in the world. It also emphasizes the importance of recognizing and following the rightful leaders who possess the qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in guiding humanity towards righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights his unique position as the one who can turn the world over, gauge its true value, and drive it back on its heels. This statement is supported by various Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of justice, balance, and the guidance of righteous leaders. Muslims should strive to embody the qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in their own lives and work towards establishing justice and righteousness in the world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of truth and grant us the wisdom to understand the profound teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).