Hadith #6243

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Never oppress one who has no helper except Allah.

This amazing Hadith emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in our interactions with others. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (zulm) "ظلم" in Arabic refers to oppression, injustice, or wrongdoing. It encompasses any act that violates the rights of others or causes harm to them. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns against engaging in such behavior, particularly towards those who have no one to defend or support them except Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

This Hadith reminds us of the importance of treating others with fairness and compassion, regardless of their social status or circumstances. It urges us to be mindful of the vulnerable members of society who may lack the means or resources to defend themselves against oppression. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has repeatedly emphasized the significance of justice in the Quran.

In Surah An-Nisa, 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 emphasizes the obligation of Muslims to uphold justice, even if it goes against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. It highlights the importance of being impartial and fair in our dealings with others, regardless of their social standing. This aligns perfectly with the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the Hadith under discussion.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-An'am, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 17:36)

And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned

This verse reminds us to refrain from passing judgment or oppressing others based on assumptions or incomplete knowledge. It encourages us to seek knowledge and understanding before making any judgments or taking any actions. This aligns with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), as it urges us to be cautious and mindful of the consequences of our actions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be just and compassionate in all aspects of their lives. It encourages us to reflect on our own behavior and to ensure that we do not oppress or harm others. It reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate protector and helper of those who are oppressed, and He will hold us accountable for our actions.

By adhering to the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), Muslims can strive to create a just and compassionate society. We must remember that true strength lies in treating others with fairness and kindness, and in seeking justice for all, regardless of their circumstances. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the path of justice and righteousness.