Hadith #5135

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الْغَالِبُ بِالشَّرِّ مَغْلُوبٌ" which translates to

The one who gains victory by evil is [in actual fact] defeated.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the ultimate failure and defeat of those who resort to evil means to achieve their goals.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words. The word (ghalib) "غَالِبُ" refers to the one who gains victory or triumphs over others. (bish-sharri) "بِالشَّرِّ" means by means of evil or wrongdoing. And (maghlub) "مَغْلُوبٌ" signifies defeat or being overcome.

This Hadith resonates with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasizes the importance of righteousness and warns against the consequences of evil actions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2),

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.

This verse clearly highlights the distinction between good and evil, and the need to avoid any form of cooperation in wrongdoing.

Furthermore, the Quran repeatedly emphasizes that evil actions will ultimately lead to failure and defeat. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:135), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And We certainly seized the people of Pharaoh with years of famine and a deficiency in fruits that perhaps they would be reminded.

This verse illustrates how the people of Pharaoh, who were oppressive and engaged in evil actions, were ultimately defeated and punished by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Similarly, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:76), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

This verse highlights the story of Qarun, who gained wealth and power through unjust means, but was ultimately defeated and destroyed by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that resorting to evil means may bring temporary success, but it will ultimately lead to defeat and failure. Those who deceive, oppress, and harm others may appear to be triumphant in the short term, but they will face the consequences of their actions in this world and the hereafter.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of adhering to the principles of justice, righteousness, and moral integrity. Muslims are encouraged to seek victory through good deeds, honesty, and compassion. By following the teachings of Islam and upholding ethical values, Muslims can achieve true success and victory in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to always strive for righteousness and avoid resorting to evil means. It teaches us that true victory lies in adhering to the principles of justice and morality, and that those who gain success through wrongdoing will ultimately face defeat. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to the path of righteousness and grant us victory in this world and the hereafter.