Hadith #6270

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 جارَ قَصَمَ عُمْرَهُ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

One who oppresses [others] breaks [and shortens] his lifespan.

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

The word (jaar) "جار" in this Hadith refers to someone who oppresses or wrongs others. It encompasses any form of injustice, whether it is physical, emotional, or financial. Oppression is a grave sin in Islam, as it goes against the principles of justice and fairness that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has ordained for humanity.

To understand the consequences of oppression, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 5:45)

And We ordained for them therein a life for a life, an eye for an eye, a nose for a nose, an ear for an ear, a tooth for a tooth, and for wounds is legal retribution. But whoever gives [up his right as] charity, it is an expiation for him. And whoever does not judge by what Allah has revealed - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the principle of justice and retribution. It teaches us that oppression leads to a cycle of harm and retaliation. When one oppresses others, they sow the seeds of discord and enmity, which ultimately results in the shortening of their own lifespan. This can be understood both in a literal sense, as the consequences of oppression often lead to physical harm and even death, and in a metaphorical sense, as the spiritual and emotional toll of oppression can diminish one's quality of life.

Furthermore, the Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and warns against oppression. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 4:135)

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 highlights the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against our personal interests or relationships. Oppression not only harms the oppressed but also tarnishes the character and integrity of the oppressor. It is a betrayal of the trust that Allah has placed upon us as Muslims to establish justice and fairness in all aspects of our lives.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and understanding of Islam. His statement in this Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their actions and to avoid oppressing others. By doing so, we not only protect the rights and dignity of those around us but also preserve our own well-being and longevity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that oppression leads to the breaking and shortening of one's lifespan. It is a reminder for Muslims to uphold justice, fairness, and compassion in all their dealings. By doing so, we not only fulfill our responsibilities as believers but also safeguard our own spiritual and physical well-being. May Allah guide us all to be just and merciful in our actions and protect us from the path of oppression.