Hadith #6246

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states: "لاظَفَرَ مَعَ بَغْي۔" This can be translated into English as:

There is no victory with oppression.

This concise statement holds a enlightening message that is supported by numerous verses from the Quran.

One important word in this Hadith is (zafara) "ظَفَرَ", which means victory or triumph. It refers to achieving success or overcoming obstacles. Another significant word is (baghy) "بَغْي", which means oppression or transgression. It signifies unjust actions, going beyond the limits, and violating the rights of others.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46):

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse emphasizes the importance of obedience to Allah and His Messenger, which includes following the principles of justice and fairness. When Muslims engage in oppression and transgression, they lose their strength and courage, resulting in a loss of victory. True victory lies in upholding justice, righteousness, and the teachings of Islam.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), Allah (تَبَارَكَ 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 justice and fairness, even if they hold different beliefs. Oppression and transgression are clearly forbidden in Islam. Acting justly towards others is a means of gaining the love and pleasure of Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's statement reminds us that true victory cannot be achieved through oppression. It serves as a reminder to Muslims to uphold justice, fairness, and respect for the rights of others. When we oppress others, we not only harm them but also harm ourselves and our own chances of success.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his deep knowledge and understanding of Islam. His wisdom and teachings continue to guide Muslims today. Through this Hadith, he emphasizes the importance of justice and righteousness in all aspects of life.

When we reflect on this Hadith, we realize that victory achieved through oppression is temporary and hollow. It may bring short-term gains, but it ultimately leads to the deterioration of society and the loss of blessings from Allah (عَزَّ وَجَلَّ). True victory lies in upholding justice, treating others with fairness, and striving for the betterment of humanity.

As Muslims, we should internalize the message of this Hadith and strive to live our lives in accordance with the principles of justice and righteousness. By doing so, we not only fulfill our obligations as believers but also contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society.