Hadith #6276

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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,

مَنْ ظَلَمَ قُصِمَ عُمْرُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One who is unjust, his life is broken [and shortened].

To understand the essence behind this statement, let us delve into the key words and their implications.

The word (zalama) "ظَلَمَ" means to commit injustice, to oppress, or to wrong others. It refers to any act that transgresses the boundaries of fairness and equity. The word (qusima) "قُصِمَ" is derived from the root word (qasama) "قَصَمَ", which means to break or divide. In this context, it signifies the breaking or shortening of one's life.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-An'am, verse 160: (6:160)

Whoever comes with a good deed will have ten times the like thereof [to his credit], and whoever comes with an evil deed will not be recompensed except the like thereof; and they will not be wronged.

This verse emphasizes the principle of divine justice, stating that every action has consequences. If one commits injustice, they will be held accountable for their actions. The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) echoes this concept by highlighting the direct correlation between injustice and the shortening of one's life.

When a person engages in acts of injustice, they disrupt the natural order established by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). They cause harm and suffering to others, thereby inviting divine retribution. This retribution may manifest in various ways, including the shortening of their lifespan. Such individuals may experience a decrease in their overall well-being and face unforeseen challenges that impact the length and quality of their life.

To illustrate this point, let us consider an example. Imagine a person who consistently oppresses and mistreats others in their personal and professional life. They may deceive their colleagues, exploit their subordinates, and disregard the rights of those around them. While they may appear to be successful and powerful in the short term, their actions create a ripple effect of negativity and animosity. Eventually, their reputation may be tarnished, relationships may deteriorate, and they may face unforeseen obstacles that hinder their progress. As a result, their life becomes fragmented and their opportunities for growth and fulfillment are diminished.

The consequences of injustice extend beyond the physical realm. Injustice breeds resentment, anger, and a sense of injustice in the hearts of those who are wronged. This can lead to social unrest, conflicts, and a breakdown of trust within communities. In the long run, the individual who engages in injustice not only suffers in this world but also risks facing severe consequences in the hereafter.

Reflecting upon the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we are reminded of the importance of upholding justice in all aspects of our lives. As Muslims, we are called to emulate the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who were paragons of justice and righteousness. By treating others with fairness, compassion, and respect, we not only fulfill our moral obligations but also safeguard our own well-being and longevity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of injustice. It highlights the interconnectedness of our actions and their impact on our lives. By striving for justice and fairness, we not only contribute to the betterment of society but also ensure the preservation of our own physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to uphold justice and righteousness in all aspects of our lives.