Hadith #10123

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Acting on the principle of justice is from the signs of nobility.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of justice in our actions and highlights it as a characteristic of noble individuals.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (sign) "عَلامَة" signifies a distinguishing mark or characteristic. It is something that sets apart an individual or a group from others. (nobility) "النُّبْلِ" refers to high moral qualities, excellence, and honor. It is a state of being distinguished and honorable.

The phrase (acting on the principle of justice) "بِسُنَّةِ الْعَدْلِ" is of utmost importance in this Hadith. (principle) "سُنَّة" refers to a way or a practice that is established and followed. In this context, it refers to the way of justice. (justice) "الْعَدْلِ" is a fundamental concept in Islam, encompassing fairness, equity, and impartiality.

To further understand the significance of justice as a sign of nobility, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. 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 Book and the Balance, so that people may establish justice.

This verse highlights the mission of the messengers and the importance of justice in society. It emphasizes that justice is a fundamental principle that must be established and upheld by individuals.

Another verse that emphasizes the significance of justice is found in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 justice even in difficult circumstances and urges believers to be just witnesses, even if it goes against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones.

From these Quranic verses, we can understand that justice is not only a moral obligation but also a command from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a principle that must be upheld in all aspects of our lives, whether personal, social, or legal. Acting upon justice is a sign of nobility because it requires individuals to rise above their personal biases and interests and to treat others with fairness and equity.

When we act upon the principle of justice, we contribute to the establishment of a just society. Our actions motivate others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that leads to a more harmonious and equitable community. Conversely, neglecting justice can have severe consequences. It can lead to oppression, inequality, and the breakdown of social order.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to incorporate justice into our daily lives. We should be just in our dealings with others, whether it is in our personal relationships, our professional interactions, or our roles within society. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also embody the noble qualities that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasized in this Hadith.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to act upon the principle of justice and make it a defining characteristic of our lives. May He guide us to follow the footsteps of the noble individuals who exemplified justice, such as Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). And may He enable us to contribute to the establishment of a just and equitable society.