Hadith #9830

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

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

One who unsheathes the sword of aggression is stripped of the grandeur of kingship.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the severe consequences of engaging in unjust aggression and the loss of honor and authority that accompanies such actions.

Let us delve deeper into the important words of this Hadith to gain a comprehensive understanding. The word (salla) "سَلَّ" means to unsheathe or draw out, while (sayf) "سَيْفَ" refers to a sword. (al-'udwan) "العُدْوانِ" denotes aggression or transgression, and (suliba) "سُلِبَ" means to be stripped or deprived. Finally, (izz) "عِزَّ" signifies grandeur or honor, and (as-sultan) "السُّلْطانِ" refers to kingship or authority.

To further elucidate the meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:32),

Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.

This verse emphasizes the sanctity of life and the prohibition of aggression, as killing an innocent soul is akin to killing all of humanity. It is clear that Islam strongly condemns any form of unjust aggression.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hajj (22:40), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought because they were wronged, and indeed Allah is competent to give them victory.

This verse highlights the principle of self-defense and the permission granted to those who have been wronged to fight back against their aggressors. However, it is crucial to note that this permission is granted only in cases of self-defense and not for the sake of aggression.

Based on the teachings of the Quran, we can understand the impactful message behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. The act of unsheathing the sword of aggression, which involves initiating unjust violence or transgression, leads to the stripping of the grandeur of kingship. This means that those who engage in unjust aggression lose not only their honor and dignity but also their authority and legitimacy as leaders. Their actions are contrary to the principles of justice and peace that Islam upholds.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words carry great weight and significance. Through this Hadith, he emphasizes the importance of upholding justice, avoiding aggression, and maintaining the sanctity of life. It serves as a reminder to Muslims that true leadership lies in promoting peace, justice, and the well-being of society, rather than engaging in acts of aggression and oppression.

The consequences of unsheathing the sword of aggression are far-reaching, not only in this world but also in the Hereafter. Muslims are urged to reflect upon this Hadith and strive to emulate the noble qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his unwavering commitment to justice and his exemplary conduct as a leader.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and may He grant us the wisdom to avoid aggression and uphold justice in all aspects of our lives.