Hadith #7086

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

The intrinsic nature of the intellect impels it to employ justice.

This impactful Hadith highlights the innate inclination of the human intellect towards justice. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (gharizatu) "غَريزَةُ" in the Hadith refers to the intrinsic nature or instinctive inclination. It represents the inherent disposition of the intellect, which is a gift from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The intellect, bestowed upon us by our Creator, possesses a natural inclination towards justice. This inclination serves as a guiding force, urging us to uphold fairness and equity in our actions and decisions.

The term (al-'aql) "العَقْلِ" in the Hadith refers to the intellect or rationality. It is the faculty of reasoning and understanding that distinguishes humans from other creatures. The intellect is a powerful tool that enables us to comprehend the world around us and make informed choices. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the intellect's natural disposition is to employ justice, indicating that justice is an integral part of rationality and wisdom.

To further understand the significance of justice in Islam, we turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse highlights the importance of treating others with respect and fairness, regardless of their social status, gender, or background. It emphasizes the need to refrain from mocking or belittling others, as it goes against the principles of justice and equality. By adhering to justice, we create an environment of harmony and mutual respect within the Muslim community.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 upholding justice even when it may be against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones. It reminds us that justice should not be compromised for personal gain or favoritism. By adhering to justice, we bear witness to the truth and fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in the Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to prioritize justice in their actions and decisions. It highlights the natural inclination of the intellect towards justice and encourages us to align our behavior with this innate disposition. By employing justice in all aspects of our lives, we contribute to the establishment of a just society, as envisioned by Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the intrinsic nature of the intellect to employ justice. This innate inclination towards justice is supported by various Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of fairness and equity. As Muslims, it is our duty to uphold justice in all aspects of our lives, treating others with respect and equality. By doing so, we contribute to the establishment of a just society that reflects the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to always strive for justice.