Hadith #6265

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 pure and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لِلظّالِمِ اِنْتِقامٌ۔" which translates to

For the unjust there is reprisal.

This concise statement holds essence and serves as a reminder of the divine justice that awaits those who oppress others.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us first explore the key words within it. The word (zalim) "ظّالِمِ" refers to someone who commits injustice or wrongdoing. This can encompass various forms of oppression, such as physical, emotional, or financial harm inflicted upon others. The word (intiqam) "اِنْتِقامٌ" means reprisal or retribution, indicating that there will be consequences for the actions of the unjust.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and warns against oppression. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah 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. 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 highlights the obligation upon Muslims to uphold justice, even if it goes against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. It serves as a reminder that justice should never be compromised, regardless of the circumstances. The concept of reprisal for the unjust is implied here, as Allah assures that He is aware of our actions and will hold us accountable for any injustice committed.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-An'am (6:160), Allah states,

Whoever comes [on the Day of Judgement] with a good deed will have ten times the like thereof [to his credit], and whoever comes with an evil deed will not be recompensed except the like thereof; and they will not be wronged.

This verse emphasizes the divine justice that will be meted out on the Day of Judgment. Those who have committed injustices will only be recompensed with the equivalent punishment for their actions, ensuring that they are not wronged in any way.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that the reprisal for the unjust is a fundamental aspect of Allah's justice. It serves as a deterrent for those who oppress others, reminding them that their actions will not go unpunished. This divine justice provides solace to the victims of injustice, assuring them that their oppressors will be held accountable for their actions.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to actively strive for justice in all aspects of their lives. It encourages us to stand against oppression and support the rights of the oppressed. By doing so, we align ourselves with the divine decree and contribute to the establishment of a just society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

For the unjust there is reprisal

carries a enlightening message about the divine justice that awaits those who commit injustice. It reminds us of the importance of upholding justice, as emphasized in the Quran. By understanding and internalizing this message, we are motivated to actively work towards justice and support the rights of the oppressed. May Allah guide us all to be just and protect us from the path of oppression.