Hadith #6283

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

ما أعْظَمَ عِقابَ الباغي۔

This translates to:

How great is the chastisement of the oppressor!

In this beautiful saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the severity of the punishment that awaits those who engage in oppression and wrongdoing.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. The word (chastisement) "عِقاب" refers to the punishment or retribution that is inflicted upon someone as a consequence of their actions. It serves as a means of rectifying and purifying the wrongdoer. The word (the oppressor) "الباغي" refers to someone who transgresses the boundaries of justice and fairness, causing harm and suffering to others.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the gravity of oppression and the severe consequences it entails. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 191, Allah says:

And kill them wherever you overtake them and expel them from wherever they have expelled you, and fitnah is worse than killing. And do not fight them at al-Masjid al-Haram until they fight you there. But if they fight you, then kill them. Such is the recompense of the disbelievers.

This verse highlights the severity of fighting and aggression, indicating that the punishment for those who engage in such behavior is severe.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 25, Allah states:

And fear the affliction which does not strike exclusively those among you who have wronged; and know that Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse serves as a reminder that the punishment for oppression and wrongdoing is not limited to the wrongdoers themselves, but it can also affect innocent individuals. It emphasizes that Allah's punishment is severe and encompasses all those who engage in oppression.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement draws our attention to the consequences of oppression and the importance of upholding justice and fairness. It serves as a reminder that no one can escape the consequences of their actions, especially when they involve harming others. The oppressor may enjoy temporary power and authority in this world, but their ultimate fate will be one of severe punishment and regret.

This Hadith also highlights the profound knowledge and wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). As the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), he was blessed with immense knowledge and understanding of the teachings of Islam. His words serve as a guiding light for Muslims, reminding us to always stand against oppression and injustice.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

How great is the chastisement of the oppressor!

serves as a powerful reminder of the severe consequences that await those who engage in oppression and wrongdoing. It urges Muslims to uphold justice and fairness in all aspects of life, and to strive for a society free from oppression. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to follow the path of righteousness and protect us from the punishment of the oppressor.