Hadith #6608

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 and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "مَنْ عَدَلَ تَمَكَّنَ۔" This can be translated as,

One who is just gains [and strengthens his] power [and authority].

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

The word (adala) "عَدَلَ" in this Hadith refers to justice, fairness, and equity. It signifies the act of treating others with equality, ensuring that their rights are upheld, and refraining from any form of oppression or injustice. Justice is a fundamental principle in Islam, emphasized repeatedly in the Quran.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9),

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 importance of justice in resolving conflicts and maintaining peace within the Muslim community. It emphasizes the obligation to establish justice and act justly, even if it means standing against those who oppress. By doing so, one not only upholds the rights of others but also gains the support and favor of Allah.

Furthermore, the word (tamakkan) "تَمَكَّنَ" in the Hadith denotes the attainment and consolidation of power and authority. When a person upholds justice, they not only gain the respect and trust of others but also strengthen their position of influence. This is because justice is a quality that inspires confidence and loyalty among people.

In Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 emphasizes the importance of being just, even in difficult circumstances where personal interests or relationships may be at stake. It reminds Muslims to uphold justice as witnesses for the sake of Allah, regardless of the consequences. By doing so, one not only fulfills their duty but also gains the support and blessings of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the profound connection between justice and power. When a person embodies justice in their actions and decisions, they not only uphold the principles of Islam but also gain the support and favor of Allah. This support manifests in the form of increased power and authority, as people naturally gravitate towards those who are just and fair.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was known for his unparalleled knowledge and implementation of justice. His famous saying,

Justice is the foundation of the world,

reflects his deep understanding of the importance of justice in society. His commitment to justice not only earned him the respect and admiration of Muslims but also solidified his position as a leader and guide.

As Muslims, we are reminded by this Hadith to prioritize justice in our lives. By upholding justice, we not only fulfill our religious obligations but also gain the support and blessings of Allah. Let us strive to be just in our dealings, treating others with fairness and equality, and in doing so, may we strengthen our own power and authority in the eyes of Allah.