Hadith #10114

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the nature of worldly wealth and power. It states that when someone possesses wealth and power, their mistakes are often overlooked and considered correct, while the correct actions of their opponents are seen as mistakes. This Hadith sheds light on the influence that wealth and power can have on people's perception of right and wrong.

To better understand the essence of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words and concepts it presents. The word (dawlah) "دَوْلَةُ" refers to worldly wealth and power, encompassing material possessions, authority, and influence. It signifies the ability to control and manipulate circumstances in one's favor. The word (taruddu) "تَرُدُّ" means to turn or transform. It implies that the possession of wealth and power has the ability to change the perception of actions and their consequences.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the deceptive nature of worldly possessions and power. Allah says, (Quran 3:14)

Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return.

This verse reminds us that worldly possessions and power may appear attractive and desirable, but they are merely temporary enjoyments. The true reward lies with Allah, and it is in the hereafter that our actions will be truly weighed and judged. Therefore, it is crucial for Muslims to maintain a balanced perspective and not be swayed by the allure of worldly wealth and power.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes the consequences of possessing wealth and power. It states that the mistakes of those who hold such positions are often overlooked and considered correct, while the correct actions of their opponents are seen as mistakes. This highlights the potential for injustice and corruption that can arise when individuals with wealth and power manipulate the perception of right and wrong to serve their own interests.

In Surah Al-Ma'idah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the misuse of power and wealth. Allah says, (Quran 5:8)

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. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse reminds us of the importance of justice and fairness, regardless of one's position or the power they hold. It is incumbent upon Muslims to uphold justice and not allow personal biases or the influence of wealth and power to cloud their judgment.

Reflecting on the exegesis of this Hadith, we can see the dangers of allowing worldly wealth and power to distort our perception of right and wrong. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice and to not be swayed by the allure of material possessions and authority.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his deep knowledge and understanding of Islam. His wisdom and teachings continue to guide Muslims today. This Hadith serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant and not succumbing to the temptations and pitfalls that come with worldly wealth and power.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize the true value of wealth and power, and to use them in a manner that is pleasing to Him. May He protect us from the pitfalls of materialism and guide us on the path of justice and righteousness.