Hadith #5507

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

والشَّهادَةَ اِسْتِظْهاراً عَلَى المُجاحَداتِ۔

This can be translated as,

And testimony [has been prescribed] as a means of overcoming denials.

Let us delve into the meaning of some key words in this Hadith. The word (shahadah) "شَهَادَةَ" refers to testimony or bearing witness. It is a powerful tool that serves as evidence and proof of truth. The word (istizhara) "اِسْتِظْهاراً" comes from the root (zahara) "ظَهَرَ", which means to manifest or make apparent. In this context, it signifies the act of using testimony to bring forth the truth and overcome falsehood. Finally, the word (mujahadat) "مُجَاحَدَاتِ" refers to denials or disputes that arise when the truth is challenged.

To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nisa (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 emphasizes the importance of bearing witness to the truth, even if it goes against our personal interests or the interests of our loved ones. It highlights the need for justice and integrity in our testimonies. By doing so, we overcome denials and falsehoods, just as Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) stated in the Hadith.

Another verse that sheds light on the significance of testimony is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:283), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And if you are on a journey and cannot find a scribe, then a security deposit [should be] taken. And if one of you entrusts another, then let him who is entrusted discharge his trust [faithfully] and let him fear Allah, his Lord. And do not conceal testimony, for whoever conceals it - his heart is indeed sinful, and Allah is Knowing of what you do.

This verse highlights the importance of honesty and trustworthiness in bearing witness. It emphasizes that testimony should not be concealed or hidden, as doing so is a betrayal of trust and a sinful act. By openly testifying to the truth, we uphold justice and overcome denials.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can understand that testimony is not merely a legal requirement but a powerful means to establish truth and overcome falsehood. It serves as a tool to bring justice and integrity into our lives. By testifying honestly and fearlessly, we contribute to the establishment of a just society and the preservation of truth.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. His statement in this Hadith highlights the significance of testimony in upholding justice and combating denials. As Muslims, we should strive to follow his example and bear witness to the truth, even in the face of adversity. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to be truthful witnesses and overcome denials.