Hadith #6641

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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:

دَوْلَةُ العادِلِ مِنَ الواجِباتِ۔

This can be translated as:

The coming to power of the just is from the necessities.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith in light of the Quran. Firstly, it is important to understand the key words in this Hadith. The word (dawlah) "دَوْلَةُ" refers to the establishment or rise to power of a just ruler or government. (al-'adil) "العادِلِ" denotes someone who is just, fair, and equitable in their actions and decisions. And (al-wajibat) "الواجِباتِ" refers to the necessary obligations or duties.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we find numerous Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of justice and the establishment of just leadership. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25),

Certainly We sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and We sent down with them the Scripture and the Balance, that people may maintain justice.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nahl (16:90), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands,

Indeed, Allah commands justice and good conduct and giving to relatives and forbids immorality and bad conduct and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded.

From these verses, we can understand that justice is a fundamental principle in Islam and that it is incumbent upon Muslims to establish justice in all aspects of their lives, including in matters of governance. The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes the necessity of just leadership, highlighting its importance and significance.

When a just ruler comes to power, they ensure fairness, equality, and the protection of the rights of the people. They make decisions based on justice and uphold the principles of Islam. Such a leader is guided by the teachings of the Quran and the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Their rule brings about stability, prosperity, and harmony within society.

Conversely, the absence of just leadership can lead to oppression, corruption, and the violation of rights. This can result in social unrest, inequality, and a breakdown of moral values. The Quran warns against such injustices and encourages Muslims to strive for justice in all circumstances.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see its relevance in our contemporary world. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to actively seek and support leaders who are just and equitable. It also emphasizes the responsibility of those in positions of power to govern with justice and fairness, upholding the principles of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of just leadership and its necessity in Islam. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the establishment of justice in all aspects of life. Muslims are encouraged to strive for justice and support leaders who uphold these principles, as it is through just governance that societies can thrive and flourish. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all towards justice and righteousness.