Hadith #9373

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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) states,

The ascendency of the vile ones is from the calamities of the times.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful saying in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. The word (dawla) "دُوَلُ" refers to the ascendency or rise to power. (al-li'aam) "اللِّئامِ" refers to the vile or despicable ones, those who possess low moral character or engage in wicked actions. And (nawa'ib al-ayyam) "نَوائِبِ الأيّامِ" refers to the calamities or tribulations of the times.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:36),

Indeed, those who disbelieve spend their wealth to avert [people] from the way of Allah. So they will spend it; then it will be for them a [source of] regret; then they will be overcome.

This verse highlights the consequences of the vile ones who use their wealth and resources to hinder the path of Allah. Despite their temporary ascendency, their actions will ultimately lead to regret and defeat.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:83), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse emphasizes that true ascendency and success lie in righteousness and piety, not in corrupt actions or seeking power for personal gain. The vile ones may have temporary control, but their ultimate outcome will be one of failure and humiliation.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the transient nature of the ascendency of the vile ones. They may rise to power through exploiting the calamities and tribulations of the times, but their reign will be short-lived. History is replete with examples of despotic rulers who have oppressed their people but eventually faced downfall and disgrace.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to remain steadfast in the face of adversity and to uphold the principles of justice, righteousness, and compassion. It teaches us not to be disheartened by the temporary success of the wicked, but to have faith in the ultimate triumph of truth and justice.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, which he acquired through his close association with the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his deep understanding of the Quran. His words carry great weight and provide guidance for Muslims in every era.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the ascendency of the vile ones is a result of the calamities and tribulations of the times. However, their power is temporary and will ultimately lead to regret and defeat. Muslims should remain steadfast in upholding righteousness and justice, knowing that true success lies in the path of Allah. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to navigate through the challenges of our time and to always strive for what is right.