Hadith #6291

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is a powerful statement that condemns the oppressors and transgressors. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring the meanings of its important words and their implications in light of the Quran.

The first word we will examine is (baghin) "باغينَ", which refers to those who commit oppression and transgression. This term encompasses individuals who unjustly violate the rights of others, causing harm and suffering. The Quran repeatedly condemns oppression and emphasizes the importance of justice. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), 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.

Next, we come across the phrase (ahkam al-hakimeen) "أحْكَمِ الحاكِمينَ", which translates to

the Fairest of all judges.

This phrase highlights the supreme wisdom and justice of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), who is the ultimate judge of all affairs. The Quran affirms this in Surah Al-An'am (6:57), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And to Him belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and to Allah will all matters be returned.

The final phrase we will analyze is (a'lim damair al-mudmirin) "عالِمِ ضَمائِرِ المُضْمِرينَ", which means

the Knower of the inner thoughts of the hidden consciences.

This phrase highlights the comprehensive knowledge of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), who is aware of the deepest intentions and thoughts of every individual. The Quran emphasizes this attribute of Allah in Surah Al-Mulk (67:13), where it states,

And whether you conceal your speech or reveal it, indeed, He is Knowing of that within the breasts.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. By stating

Woe be to the oppressors,

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is warning the wrongdoers of the severe consequences they will face for their actions. This serves as a reminder to Muslims that oppression is not only morally wrong but also carries grave consequences in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes the magnitude of the oppressors' transgressions by highlighting that they are committing these acts against the Fairest of all judges. This reminds us that no matter how powerful or influential the oppressors may be in this world, they will ultimately be held accountable by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), who is the epitome of justice.

Moreover, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) draws attention to the fact that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the Knower of the inner thoughts of the hidden consciences. This serves as a reminder that even if oppressors manage to conceal their actions from the eyes of the world, they cannot hide their true intentions from Allah. This should instill fear and caution in the hearts of those who engage in oppression, as they will ultimately be held accountable for their actions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder to Muslims about the consequences of oppression and transgression. It highlights the justice and knowledge of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), who is the ultimate judge and the Knower of all things. Muslims are urged to uphold justice, refrain from oppressing others, and remember that their actions will be judged by the Fairest of all judges. May we all strive to be just and righteous individuals, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all our affairs.