Hadith #7813

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the 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,

راكِبُ العُنْفِ يَتَعَذَّرُ مَطْلَبُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

Whoever acts violently, his goal becomes difficult [to achieve].

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. The word (rakib) "راكِبُ" refers to someone who rides or mounts, indicating a person who adopts a particular approach or method. (al-'unf) "العُنْفِ" translates to violence or aggression, which encompasses any form of forceful or oppressive behavior.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us that when one chooses to employ violence or aggression as a means to achieve their goals, they will encounter numerous obstacles and difficulties along the way. This statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that resorting to violence is not a viable solution and often leads to negative consequences.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of peaceful and just conduct. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:190),

Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.

This verse clearly outlines the principle of self-defense but also highlights the prohibition of exceeding the limits of justice and fairness.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:32), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.

This verse emphasizes the sanctity of human life and the prohibition of unjustly taking another person's life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran. When individuals resort to violence, they often create a cycle of hatred and retaliation, making their goals even more challenging to achieve. History has shown us that violent revolutions, wars, and conflicts rarely lead to lasting peace and prosperity. Instead, they result in the loss of innocent lives, destruction, and long-lasting animosity.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his wisdom and knowledge, understood the importance of peaceful means to achieve justice and righteousness. He himself demonstrated this principle throughout his life, even during times of great adversity. His approach to resolving conflicts and establishing justice was rooted in mercy, compassion, and wisdom.

As Muslims, we should strive to follow the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and adhere to the teachings of the Quran. We must reject violence and aggression as means to achieve our goals, and instead, seek peaceful and just solutions. By doing so, we can contribute to the betterment of society, foster harmony, and create an environment conducive to the growth and well-being of all individuals.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to the path of peace, justice, and righteousness. May He grant us the wisdom to understand the profound teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the strength to implement them in our lives.