Hadith #6226

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

ظُلْمُ المُسْتَسْلِمِ أعْظَمُ الجُرْمِ۔

This powerful statement translates to

Injustice to the one who has surrendered is the greatest crime.

Let us delve into the connotation of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (dhulm) "ظُلْمُ" refers to injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses any act that violates the rights of others, causing harm or suffering. In this context, it refers to the injustice committed against (al-mustaslim) "المُسْتَسْلِمِ", the one who has surrendered or submitted to the will of Allah. This surrender implies complete submission to the divine commandments and the teachings of Islam.

To understand the gravity of this statement, we must turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes justice as a fundamental principle in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah says,

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.

This verse highlights the importance of justice even within the Muslim community, emphasizing the need to rectify any injustice.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah commands,

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 means going against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. It highlights the importance of justice as a core value in Islam.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement underscores the severity of injustice committed against those who have surrendered to the will of Allah. When someone embraces Islam and submits themselves to the teachings of the religion, they place their trust in the Muslim community to treat them justly and protect their rights. Any act of injustice towards such individuals not only violates their rights but also undermines the very essence of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, highlights the significance of justice in Islam through this Hadith. He reminds us that injustice towards those who have surrendered is the gravest of crimes because it not only harms individuals but also tarnishes the reputation of Islam itself. When Muslims fail to uphold justice, they betray the trust placed upon them and hinder the growth and prosperity of the Muslim community.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their actions and ensure that they treat others with fairness and justice. It urges us to be vigilant in upholding the rights of those who have embraced Islam and to protect them from any form of oppression or wrongdoing. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that injustice towards those who have surrendered is the greatest crime. It emphasizes the importance of justice in Islam and reminds us of our responsibility to treat others with fairness and equity. By upholding justice, we not only fulfill the teachings of Islam but also contribute to the well-being and prosperity of the Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to be just and compassionate in our actions towards others.