Hadith #6216

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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,

دَوامُ الظُّلْمِ يَسْلُبُ النِّعَمَ ويَجْلُبُ النِّقَمَ۔

This can be translated as,

Continued injustice takes away blessings and brings forth chastisement.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this beautiful Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (dhulm) "ظُلْم" in Arabic refers to injustice, oppression, and wrongdoing. It encompasses any act that violates the rights of others or transgresses the boundaries set by Allah. The word (dawam) "دَوامُ" means continuity or persistence. Therefore, the Hadith highlights the detrimental consequences of persisting in acts of injustice.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-An'am (6:160),

Whoever does an evil deed will not be recompensed except by the like thereof; but whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer - those will enter Paradise, being given provision therein without account.

This verse emphasizes the principle of divine justice, stating that every action has consequences. Those who persist in injustice will face the repercussions of their actions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:56), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

And cause not corruption upon the earth after its reformation. And invoke Him in fear and aspiration. Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining justice and avoiding corruption. It reminds us that persisting in injustice not only leads to the loss of blessings but also invites divine punishment.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their actions and strive for justice in all aspects of life. When injustice becomes a norm, it erodes the blessings bestowed upon a society. It disrupts the harmony and balance that Allah has established in His creation. The consequences of persisting in injustice are not limited to material losses but also include spiritual and moral degradation.

For instance, when individuals or societies engage in acts of oppression, they create an environment of fear, mistrust, and animosity. This not only hampers social cohesion but also hinders progress and development. Moreover, the oppressed individuals may be driven to desperation and may resort to violence or rebellion as a means of seeking justice. This cycle of injustice and retaliation perpetuates a never-ending cycle of suffering and hardship.

On the other hand, when justice prevails, it brings about numerous blessings. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises in Surah An-Nahl (16:90),

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.

This verse highlights the divine command to establish justice and good conduct. By adhering to these principles, individuals and societies can experience the blessings of peace, harmony, and prosperity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the consequences of persisting in acts of injustice. It emphasizes that continued oppression not only leads to the loss of blessings but also invites divine chastisement. By striving for justice and righteousness, we can create an environment of peace and prosperity, both in this world and in the hereafter. May Allah guide us all to uphold justice and avoid all forms of oppression.