Hadith #6300

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the concept of divine justice and the respite given to the oppressors. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this amazing Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (dhulamatu) "ظُلامَةُ" in the Hadith refers to the darkness or oppression faced by the oppressed. It signifies the suffering, injustice, and hardship inflicted upon them. The word (mazlumin) "مَظْلُومينَ" denotes those who are oppressed, wronged, or treated unjustly. These individuals are the victims of the oppressors mentioned in the Hadith.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of justice and the consequences of oppression in numerous verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This verse highlights the obligation upon Muslims to uphold justice, even if it means going against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. It emphasizes the importance of being just and fair in all circumstances, regardless of one's social status or wealth. This principle is directly related to the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), as it condemns the oppressors who cause darkness and suffering for the oppressed.

Another verse that sheds light on the concept of divine justice is found in Surah Yunus (10:44), where Allah says,

Indeed, Allah does not wrong the people at all, but it is the people who are wronging themselves.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is never unjust in His actions. It is the people themselves who bring harm upon themselves through their own wrongdoing and oppression. This verse serves as a reminder that Allah's justice is perfect and that He will hold the oppressors accountable for their actions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that Allah gives respite to the oppressors but does not overlook their actions. This means that Allah may delay the punishment of the oppressors, allowing them time to reflect and repent. However, this delay should not be mistaken for negligence or indifference on the part of Allah. Rather, it is a manifestation of His mercy and wisdom.

In Surah Al-Imran (3:178), Allah says,

And let not those who disbelieve ever think that [because] We extend their time [of enjoyment] it is better for them. We only extend it for them so that they may increase in sin, and for them is a humiliating punishment.

This verse highlights that the respite given to the oppressors is not a sign of Allah's approval or favor, but rather a means for them to accumulate more sins and ultimately face a severe punishment.

The consequences of oppression and injustice are also addressed in the Quran. In Surah Al-Anfal (8:25), Allah warns,

And fear a 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 the punishment for oppression and wrongdoing will not be limited to the oppressors alone. It may also affect those who remain silent or complicit in the face of injustice.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the divine justice of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His respite given to the oppressors. It reminds us that Allah's justice is perfect and that He will hold the oppressors accountable for their actions. The delay in punishment should not be mistaken for negligence, as it is a manifestation of Allah's mercy and wisdom. Muslims are obligated to uphold justice and stand against oppression, as emphasized in the Quran. May we all strive to be just and fair in all aspects of our lives, seeking Allah's pleasure and avoiding the path of oppression.