Hadith #2698

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who neglects the commandments of freedom is made to return to serfdom.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of upholding and respecting the principles of freedom and liberty in Islam. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (ahkam) "أحْكامِ" in the Hadith refers to the commandments or rulings. It signifies the laws and regulations that govern the concept of freedom. The word (al-huriyyah) "الحُرِّيَّةِ" means freedom or liberty. It encompasses the idea of being free from oppression, coercion, and restrictions.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of freedom and the rejection of oppression. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 256, Allah says,

There shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the religion.

This verse highlights the principle of freedom of religion, affirming that no one should be forced into accepting or practicing a particular faith.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 70, Allah states,

Indeed, We have honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.

This verse highlights the inherent dignity and freedom bestowed upon all human beings by Allah. It emphasizes that every individual has the right to live a life free from oppression and to enjoy the bounties of this world.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns against neglecting the commandments of freedom. It serves as a reminder that if one disregards or violates the principles of freedom, they will be subjected to a state of servitude or bondage. This can be understood in both a literal and metaphorical sense.

In a literal sense, neglecting the commandments of freedom can lead to the loss of physical freedom. For example, if a person engages in actions that infringe upon the rights and freedoms of others, they may face legal consequences that restrict their personal liberties. This could include imprisonment or other forms of confinement.

Metaphorically, neglecting the commandments of freedom can lead to a state of spiritual or emotional servitude. When individuals fail to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and respect for the rights of others, they become enslaved to their own desires, prejudices, and ego. This servitude to one's base desires and negative traits can hinder personal growth, hinder relationships, and lead to a state of inner turmoil and dissatisfaction.

To illustrate this further, let us consider an example. Imagine a society where the principles of freedom and justice are disregarded. The powerful exploit the weak, and the rights of individuals are trampled upon. In such a society, the oppressed may rise up against their oppressors, seeking to reclaim their freedom. However, if they neglect the commandments of freedom in their struggle, resorting to violence, injustice, or the suppression of others, they risk perpetuating a cycle of oppression and becoming enslaved to their own vices.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of upholding the principles of freedom and liberty in Islam. It warns against neglecting these commandments, as doing so can lead to a loss of physical and spiritual freedom. As Muslims, we are called upon to strive for justice, equality, and respect for the rights of all individuals, ensuring that our actions are in line with the teachings of the Quran. May Allah guide us to uphold the principles of freedom and protect us from the bondage of oppression.