Hadith #6207

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الظلم يردي صاحبه" which translates to

Injustice destroys the one who practices it.

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of injustice and emphasizes the consequences it brings upon its perpetrators.

To delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words used. The word (zulm) "ظلم" refers to injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses any action that transgresses the boundaries of fairness and equity. The word (yurdi) "يردي" means to destroy, ruin, or lead to the downfall of someone. And (sahibahu) "صاحبه" refers to the one who practices or commits the injustice.

This Hadith resonates with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and warns against oppression. 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.

This verse highlights that the purpose of sending messengers and revealing scriptures is to establish justice among people.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands the believers,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones.

The consequences of practicing injustice are severe, as mentioned in Surah Al-Isra (17:81),

And say, 'Truth has come, and falsehood has departed. Indeed is falsehood, [by nature], ever bound to depart.'

This verse highlights that falsehood and injustice are inherently transient and will eventually be exposed and eradicated.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the destructive nature of injustice. It serves as a motivation to strive for justice in all aspects of life, whether it be in personal interactions, societal affairs, or governance. By practicing justice, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society.

The consequences of injustice are not limited to this world alone. In the Hereafter, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises severe punishment for those who oppress others. In Surah Al-Hajj (22:47), Allah says,

And they urge you to hasten the punishment. But Allah will never fail in His promise. And indeed, a day with your Lord is like a thousand years of those which you count.

This verse reminds us that Allah's punishment is inevitable, and the oppressors will be held accountable for their actions.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we realize that justice is not merely a societal obligation but also a personal responsibility. We must strive to be just in our thoughts, words, and actions, treating others with fairness and equity. By doing so, we not only protect ourselves from the destructive consequences of injustice but also contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to uphold justice and protect us from the temptations of injustice. Ameen.