Hadith #10278

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, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الإنْصافُ زَيْنُ الإمْرَةِ" which translates to

Equity is the ornament of [power and] authority.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in the exercise of authority.

The word (al-insaf) "الإنْصافُ" refers to justice, fairness, and equity. It encompasses the idea of treating everyone with equality and giving each person their due rights. It is the act of being impartial and unbiased in making decisions and judgments. The word (zayn) "زَيْنُ" means ornament or adornment, symbolizing that justice is not only a moral obligation but also enhances the beauty and effectiveness of those in positions of authority.

The Quranic teachings emphasize the significance of justice and fairness in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9):

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. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the importance of resolving conflicts and disputes with justice and fairness. It emphasizes the duty of those in authority to intervene and establish justice, even if it means taking action against the oppressor. This aligns with Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement that equity is the ornament of authority.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against our personal interests or the interests of our loved ones. It highlights the need for impartiality and integrity in bearing witness and making judgments. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement echoes this Quranic principle, emphasizing that equity is the adornment of authority.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds profound implications for those in positions of power and authority. It serves as a reminder that true leadership is not merely about exerting control or enforcing one's will, but rather about upholding justice and fairness. When leaders prioritize equity, they inspire trust and respect among their followers, creating a harmonious and just society.

By practicing justice and fairness, leaders can foster an environment where the rights of all individuals are protected, and the well-being of the community is prioritized. This leads to social cohesion, stability, and progress. Conversely, the absence of justice and fairness in authority can lead to oppression, corruption, and societal unrest.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to strive for justice and fairness in all aspects of life, whether in positions of authority or in our personal interactions. It encourages us to be just and equitable in our dealings with others, regardless of their social status, ethnicity, or beliefs.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Equity is the ornament of [power and] authority,

emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in positions of authority. It aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the significance of justice and impartiality. By upholding equity, leaders can inspire trust and create a just society. Muslims are reminded to prioritize justice and fairness in all aspects of life, striving to be just and equitable in their interactions with others. May Allah guide us all to be just and fair in our actions and grant us the ability to establish justice in the world.