Hadith #6215

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:

بِئْسَ الزّادُ إلَى المَعادِ العُدْوانُ عَلَى العِبادِ۔

This Hadith can be translated into English as:

How evil a provision for the Hereafter is oppressiveness to the servants [of Allah]!

In this Hadith, there are two important words that require our attention. The first word is (provision) "زادُ" which refers to the actions, deeds, and qualities that a person carries with them in this world, and which will ultimately determine their fate in the Hereafter. The second word is (oppressiveness) "عُدْوانُ", which signifies any form of injustice, cruelty, or wrongdoing inflicted upon the servants of Allah.

To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 201:

And among them is he who says, 'Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.'

This verse highlights the importance of seeking goodness in both this world and the Hereafter. However, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the grave consequences of oppressing others as a means to achieve success in the Hereafter. Such oppression is considered a provision for the Hereafter, but it is an evil provision that will lead to a disastrous outcome.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) also emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in multiple verses of the Quran. In Surah Al-Hadid, verse 25, Allah says:

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

This verse highlights the role of the messengers and the divine scriptures in establishing justice among people. Oppression goes against the very essence of justice and is therefore condemned in Islam. The oppressor may think that they are securing a better place in the Hereafter, but in reality, their provision is tainted with injustice and will lead to their downfall.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, is reminding us of the grave consequences of oppressing others. He is urging us to reflect on our actions and ensure that our provision for the Hereafter is based on righteousness, compassion, and justice.

When we oppress others, we not only harm them but also damage our own souls. Oppression creates a cycle of hatred, resentment, and injustice that ultimately leads to the destruction of societies. It is a provision that will weigh heavily on our scales on the Day of Judgment and will result in a severe punishment.

As Muslims, we are called to emulate the qualities of justice and fairness that were exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). They were the embodiment of mercy, compassion, and justice, and their teachings guide us towards a path of righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for all Muslims. It warns us against the evil provision of oppression in the Hereafter and urges us to strive for justice and fairness in all aspects of our lives. Let us reflect on our actions and ensure that our provision for the Hereafter is based on righteousness and compassion, so that we may attain success in both this world and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us on the straight path and protect us from oppression and wrongdoing.