Hadith #5034

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights two important principles in the realm of politics: justice in authority and pardoning despite having the power to punish. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (justice) "عَدْلُ" refers to fairness, equity, and upholding what is right. It encompasses the idea of treating people with equality and ensuring that their rights are protected. In the context of politics, justice is crucial for maintaining a just and harmonious society. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of justice in several verses of the Quran:

(Quran 16:90)

Indeed, Allah orders 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.

(Quran 4:135)

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.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that justice should be maintained in authority, meaning that those in positions of power should govern with fairness and equity. They should not abuse their authority or use it for personal gain. This principle is in line with the teachings of Islam, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands leaders to rule with justice and righteousness:

(Quran 4:58)

Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice. Excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and Seeing.

(Quran 4:135)

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.

The second part of the Hadith highlights the importance of pardoning despite having the power to punish. The word (pardon) "عَفْوُ" refers to forgiving and showing mercy, even when one has the ability to seek retribution. This principle is rooted in the teachings of Islam, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages forgiveness and mercy:

(Quran 24:22)

And let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allah should forgive you? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

(Quran 7:199)

Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the ignorant.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true beauty in politics lies in the ability to forgive and show mercy, even when one has the power to punish. This principle promotes reconciliation, harmony, and the building of strong relationships within society.

By upholding justice in authority and practicing forgiveness, leaders can create a just and compassionate society. They can inspire others to follow the path of righteousness and establish a system that is based on fairness and mercy. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, exemplified these principles throughout his life. He was a just ruler who treated his subjects with fairness and mercy, even in the face of opposition.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of justice in authority and the power of forgiveness. These principles are deeply rooted in the teachings of Islam and are essential for the establishment of a just and compassionate society. As Muslims, we should strive to embody these principles in our personal and political lives, following the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all our actions. May Allah guide us all on the path of justice and mercy.