Hadith #6263

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لِكُلِّ ظالِم اِنْتِقامٌ۔" which translates to

For every oppressor there is a reprisal.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the divine justice of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and serves as a reminder that no oppressor will go unpunished.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. The word (dhalim) "ظالِم" refers to someone who commits injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses those who transgress the boundaries set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and harm others unjustly. The word (intiqam) "اِنْتِقامٌ" means retribution or revenge, implying that every oppressor will face the consequences of their actions.

This Hadith aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the concept of divine justice. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Anfal (8:25),

And fear the affliction which may not smite exclusively those among you who have done wrong.

This verse serves as a warning that the consequences of oppression and wrongdoing can affect not only the oppressors but also the innocent.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-An'am (6:165), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And He is the subjugator over His servants, and He sends over you guardian-angels until, when death comes to one of you, Our messengers take him, and they do not fail [in their duties].

This verse highlights that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has appointed angels as guardians over His servants, ensuring that justice is served even after death.

The reprisal mentioned in the Hadith is not limited to the worldly realm but extends to the Hereafter as well. In Surah Al-Imran (3:161), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And it is not [possible] for a prophet to deceive [in his claim]. Whoever deceives will bring his deceit with him on the Day of Resurrection.

This verse emphasizes that no oppressor, regardless of their status, will escape the consequences of their actions on the Day of Judgment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to stand against oppression and injustice. It motivates us to strive for justice and to support the oppressed, knowing that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will ensure that every oppressor faces the consequences of their actions.

This Hadith also carries a profound reflection on the character and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). As the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom. His words are a source of guidance for Muslims, and this Hadith exemplifies his deep understanding of the divine justice of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

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

For every oppressor there is a reprisal

highlights the divine justice of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and serves as a reminder that no oppressor will go unpunished. It aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran, emphasizing the consequences of oppression and wrongdoing both in this world and the Hereafter. This Hadith motivates Muslims to stand against injustice and support the oppressed, knowing that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will ensure justice prevails. May we always strive for justice and righteousness, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all our actions.