Hadith #6202

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الظلم بوار الرعية" which translates to

Injustice is the ruination of the populace.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of injustice and its detrimental impact on society.

To understand the depth of this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. (zulm) "ظلم" refers to injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses any act that violates the rights of others, whether it be physical, emotional, or social. (bawar) "بوار" means destruction, ruin, or downfall. And (ar-ra'iyyah) "الرعية" refers to the populace or the community.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the importance of justice and warn against the consequences of injustice. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25),

Indeed, We sent Our messengers with clear proofs and sent down with them the Scripture and the balance that the people may maintain [their affairs] in justice.

This verse highlights the divine purpose of sending messengers and scriptures, which is to establish justice among people.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands the believers,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against one's personal interests or relationships.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement aligns perfectly with these Quranic teachings. Injustice, whether it is perpetrated by individuals or institutions, leads to the destruction and ruin of society. When people are oppressed and their rights are violated, it creates a sense of resentment, anger, and despair. This can lead to social unrest, division, and even violence.

Moreover, injustice undermines the trust and harmony within a community. When people feel that their grievances are not addressed and their voices are not heard, it erodes the fabric of society. Injustice creates a breeding ground for corruption, inequality, and the abuse of power. It hinders progress, stifles development, and perpetuates a cycle of suffering and injustice.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, recognized the profound impact of injustice on society. His statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for justice in all aspects of life. It urges us to stand against oppression, defend the rights of the marginalized, and work towards a just and equitable society.

As Muslims, we are called upon to reflect on the teachings of the Quran and the wisdom of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). We must strive to embody justice in our personal lives, relationships, and interactions with others. By doing so, we contribute to the betterment of society and fulfill our responsibilities as believers.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Injustice is the ruination of the populace,

serves as a powerful reminder of the destructive nature of injustice and its detrimental impact on society. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of justice and warn against the consequences of oppression. As Muslims, we are called upon to strive for justice and work towards a just and equitable society, in order to prevent the ruination of the populace. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of justice and righteousness.