Hadith #10274

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ كَثُرَ إنْصافُهُ تَشاهَدَتِ النُّفُوسُ بِتَعْدِيلِهِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of justice and equity in a person's character. The word "إنْصافُهُ" refers to the act of being just, fair, and impartial. It signifies the quality of treating others with equality and fairness, without any bias or discrimination. The word "تَشاهَدَتِ" means that people witness or observe, and "النُّفُوسُ" refers to the souls or individuals. Finally, "بِتَعْدِيلِهِ" means through his justice or fairness.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and equity in various verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah says,

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the significance of resolving conflicts and disputes with justice and fairness. It encourages Muslims to establish justice and equity in their dealings with others, even in times of conflict. By doing so, they will earn the love and pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), where Allah 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 upholding justice even when it may be against one's own interests or the interests of loved ones. It reminds Muslims to remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, regardless of the circumstances. By doing so, they bear witness to the justice of their character, just as the Hadith states.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified the qualities mentioned in this Hadith. His commitment to justice and equity was unparalleled, and his actions serve as a shining example for all Muslims. He demonstrated his dedication to justice through various incidents during his lifetime, such as the famous case of the dispute over the shield. When two men claimed ownership of a shield, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) resolved the matter by dividing the shield equally between them, ensuring fairness and justice.

The consequences of embodying justice and equity are far-reaching. When individuals consistently practice justice, their reputation spreads, and people bear witness to their fairness. This Hadith reminds us that justice is not only a personal virtue but also a means of positively influencing society. When justice becomes a defining characteristic of a person, it inspires others to follow suit, creating a just and harmonious community.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are reminded of the importance of justice in their daily lives. It encourages us to treat others with fairness, regardless of their background, status, or beliefs. By embodying justice, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to increase in equity and justice, and may our actions bear witness to our commitment to justice.