Hadith #6198

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, "البغي يجلب النقم" which translates to

Oppression brings [divine wrath and] chastisements.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequences of oppression and the divine retribution that follows such actions.

The word (al-baghi) "البغي" refers to oppression, transgression, or injustice. It encompasses any act of wrongdoing, whether it is against oneself or others. Oppression is a grave sin in Islam, as it goes against the principles of justice, fairness, and compassion that are emphasized in the Quran.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against oppression in numerous verses of the Quran. In Surah Al-An'am, Allah says, (Quran 6:152)

And do not commit injustice, [for] indeed, Allah does not like the unjust

This verse clearly indicates that Allah despises oppression and injustice, and it is not befitting for a believer to engage in such actions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah states, (Quran 49:12)

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful

This verse highlights the importance of treating others with respect and fairness, and it condemns actions such as backbiting and spreading false rumors, which are forms of oppression.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also emphasizes the consequences of oppression. Allah's divine wrath and chastisements are the natural outcomes of engaging in oppressive behavior. The Quran affirms this in several verses. In Surah Al-Anfal, Allah warns, (Quran 8:25)

And fear the trial which will not strike those who have wronged among you exclusively, and know that Allah is severe in penalty

This verse serves as a reminder that Allah's punishment is not limited to the oppressors alone, but it may also affect those who remain silent or complicit in the face of oppression.

Moreover, in Surah Al-Qasas, Allah recounts the story of Pharaoh and his people, who oppressed the Children of Israel. Allah says, (Quran 7:130)

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 demonstrates how Allah's punishment can manifest in various forms, including natural disasters and scarcity, as a consequence of oppression.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to uphold justice, fairness, and compassion in all aspects of their lives. It highlights the importance of standing against oppression and advocating for the rights of the oppressed. By doing so, Muslims can strive to avoid the divine wrath and chastisements that result from oppressive behavior.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the grave consequences of oppression and the divine retribution that follows such actions. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of justice, fairness, and compassion. As Muslims, it is our duty to stand against oppression and work towards creating a just and equitable society, in order to avoid the divine wrath and chastisements that result from oppressive behavior. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from oppression.