Hadith #6594

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Justice is a foundation [for a healthy society]; oppression is destruction.

This profound statement highlights the significance of justice in establishing a harmonious and prosperous society, while emphasizing the detrimental consequences of oppression.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. "Al-'adl" refers to justice, which encompasses fairness, equity, and upholding what is right. It is the act of giving each individual their due rights and treating them impartially. On the other hand, "al-jawr" refers to oppression, which involves the unjust treatment of others, violating their rights, and causing harm and suffering.

To further understand the importance of justice and the consequences of oppression, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25),

We sent aforetime our messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the Balance, that people may stand forth in justice.

This verse emphasizes that Allah has sent messengers and revealed scriptures to guide humanity towards justice. It highlights the central role of justice in the teachings of Islam.

Additionally, in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

This verse emphasizes the obligation of Muslims to uphold justice, even if it goes against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. It underscores the importance of justice as a fundamental principle in Islam.

Now, let us reflect on the impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). He asserts that justice is a foundation for a healthy society. When justice prevails, people's rights are protected, and they are treated fairly. This fosters a sense of security, trust, and unity within the community. It allows individuals to thrive and contribute to the betterment of society, leading to social harmony and progress.

Conversely, oppression is described as destruction. When oppression prevails, it leads to the disintegration of society. The rights of individuals are violated, causing resentment, division, and conflict. Oppression breeds injustice, inequality, and a lack of trust among people. It stifles growth, hinders progress, and ultimately leads to the downfall of a society.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of upholding justice in all aspects of life. It calls upon individuals to be just in their dealings, whether it be in personal relationships, governance, or societal interactions. It encourages Muslims to stand against oppression and work towards establishing a just society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of justice as a foundation for a healthy society, while emphasizing the destructive nature of oppression. It reminds Muslims of their duty to uphold justice in all aspects of life and to stand against oppression. By adhering to the principles of justice, Muslims can contribute to the establishment of a just and prosperous society, in line with the teachings of Islam. May Allah guide us all to be just and protect us from oppression.