Hadith #8725

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The bane of judges is greed.

This concise statement carries profound wisdom and highlights a significant issue that can corrupt the judicial system. Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (bane) "آفَةُ" refers to something that causes harm, destruction, or ruin. It signifies a severe problem or affliction that can have detrimental consequences. In this context, the bane being referred to is the negative quality or characteristic of judges. The word (judges) "القُضاةِ" encompasses those who are entrusted with the responsibility of dispensing justice and making legal decisions.

The Hadith identifies (greed) "الطَّمَعُ" as the specific trait that poses a threat to the integrity and fairness of judges. Greed refers to an intense desire for wealth, power, or material possessions, often at the expense of justice and righteousness. When judges are driven by greed, their decisions may be influenced by personal gain rather than upholding the principles of justice and equity.

The Quran provides guidance and warnings regarding the importance of justice and the dangers of succumbing to greed. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8),

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 emphasizes the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against one's own interests or the interests of loved ones. It warns against following personal inclinations and urges judges to remain impartial and fair in their decisions. Greed can cloud judgment and lead to biased rulings, undermining the very essence of justice.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Certainly We sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and We sent down with them the Book and the Balance, that people may stand forth in justice.

This verse highlights the divine purpose behind sending messengers and revealing scriptures - to establish justice among people. Judges play a crucial role in upholding this divine mandate, and their integrity is of utmost importance.

When judges are driven by greed, it leads to a breakdown of trust in the judicial system. People lose faith in the fairness and impartiality of the courts, which can have far-reaching consequences for society. It erodes the very foundations of justice and undermines the principles of equality and fairness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to judges and all those involved in the administration of justice to be vigilant against the destructive influence of greed. It calls for self-reflection and introspection, urging judges to prioritize justice over personal gain and to remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and equity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder of the dangers of greed and its impact on the judicial system. It highlights the importance of integrity, impartiality, and justice in the dispensation of legal decisions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to uphold justice and protect us from the pitfalls of greed.