Hadith #6185

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, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

الأَمُ البَغْيِ عِنْدَ القُدْرَةِ

which translates to

The vilest oppression is [that which is practiced] when one has power.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the severity and reprehensibility of oppression, particularly when it is carried out by those who possess authority or strength.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "الأَمُ" refers to oppression or wrongdoing, while "البَغْيِ" specifically denotes a form of oppression that involves transgressing the rights of others. "عِنْدَ" signifies the occurrence of oppression, and "القُدْرَةِ" refers to power or capability.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of justice and condemn oppression. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9),

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the obligation to fight against oppression and establish justice. It emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts and disputes in a just manner. It also reminds us that Allah loves those who act justly, indicating the significance of justice in Islam.

Another verse that sheds light on the concept of oppression is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:193), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And fight them until there is no oppression and the religion is entirely for Allah. But if they cease, then indeed, Allah is Seeing of what they do.

This verse encourages Muslims to fight against oppression until it is eradicated and the religion is established solely for the sake of Allah. It emphasizes the importance of resisting oppression and striving for justice.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith further reinforces the Quranic teachings on oppression. It highlights the severity of oppression, particularly when it is perpetrated by those who possess power and authority. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that the misuse of power to oppress others is not only morally wrong but also one of the gravest forms of wrongdoing.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, which is evident in his thought-provoking Hadith. He understood the detrimental consequences of oppression and the importance of justice in society. His words serve as a timeless reminder for Muslims to uphold justice, even when they have the power to oppress.

The consequences of practicing oppression when one has power are far-reaching. It leads to the erosion of trust, the breakdown of social harmony, and the perpetuation of injustice. Such oppression not only harms the victims but also tarnishes the reputation and integrity of the oppressor. It goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of justice, compassion, and fairness.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are urged to examine their own actions and intentions. It serves as a reminder to use any power or authority we possess to promote justice, protect the rights of others, and strive for the betterment of society. It reminds us that true strength lies in using our power responsibly and justly, rather than oppressing others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the vile nature of oppression, particularly when practiced by those in positions of power. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of justice and condemn oppression. Muslims are reminded to use their power responsibly and justly, and to strive for a society based on justice, compassion, and fairness. May Allah guide us all to uphold justice and protect the rights of others.