Hadith #9810

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The adornment of kingship is justice.

This thought-provoking saying emphasizes the importance of justice in leadership and governance. Let us delve deeper into the meanings and implications of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (zayn) "زَيْنُ" in Arabic refers to adornment, beauty, or embellishment. It signifies something that enhances the attractiveness or excellence of a person or thing. In this context, it refers to the quality that enhances the kingship or leadership. The word (mulk) "مُلْكِ" means kingship or sovereignty, indicating the authority and power of a ruler. And finally, the word (adl) "عَدْلُ" means justice, which is the fair and equitable treatment of individuals.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of justice in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25),

Indeed, We sent Our messengers with clear proofs and sent down with them the Scripture and the balance that the people may maintain [their affairs] in justice.

This verse highlights that the messengers were sent with the balance, which refers to justice, so that people may establish justice in their societies.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands the believers,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

This verse emphasizes the obligation of Muslims to uphold justice, even if it goes against their personal interests or the interests of their loved ones.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) draws our attention to the fact that justice is not only a desirable quality in leadership but also an essential element that adorns and enhances the legitimacy and effectiveness of kingship or any form of governance. When a ruler governs with justice, it brings about stability, harmony, and prosperity in society.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified the embodiment of justice. His knowledge, wisdom, and commitment to justice were unparalleled. He is famously known for his statement,

People are of two types: they are either your brothers in faith or your equals in humanity.

This beautiful Hadith reflects his understanding of justice, as he recognized the inherent dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of their faith or background.

When justice prevails in leadership, it motivates people to trust and respect their leaders. It creates an environment where the rights of individuals are protected, and everyone is treated fairly and equitably. This, in turn, leads to a sense of belonging, unity, and social cohesion among the members of society.

Conversely, the absence of justice in leadership can have severe consequences. It can lead to oppression, corruption, and the exploitation of the weak and vulnerable. It breeds discontent, resentment, and social unrest. The Quran warns against such injustices in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims that justice is not only a desirable quality but also an essential adornment for leaders and rulers. It is a fundamental principle that must be upheld in all aspects of life, particularly in positions of authority. The Quranic verses mentioned further reinforce the significance of justice and its role in establishing a just and equitable society. As Muslims, we are called upon to strive for justice and to support leaders who govern with justice, for it is through justice that societies flourish and individuals thrive. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all in upholding justice in our lives and societies.