Hadith #5025

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, "أقْبَحُ السِّيَرِ الظُّلْمُ" which translates to

The most loathsome mode of conduct is inequity.

In this thought-provoking Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the repugnance of injustice and oppression.

To fully comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. "سِيَرِ" refers to conduct or behavior, while "ظُلْمُ" encompasses the concept of injustice, oppression, and wrongdoing. The word "أقْبَحُ" denotes the utmost ugliness and repulsiveness. Therefore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that injustice is the most abhorrent and detestable form of behavior.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that reinforce the repugnance of injustice and the importance of justice. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9),

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 obligation to establish justice and resolve conflicts in a fair manner. It emphasizes the repulsion towards oppression and the necessity to fight against it. It also emphasizes the love of Allah for those who act justly, indicating the immense reward and virtue associated with justice.

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

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 in difficult circumstances, even if it goes against our personal interests or the interests of our loved ones. It highlights the need to be just and truthful in our testimonies and actions, for Allah is fully aware of our deeds.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds immense wisdom and serves as a reminder for Muslims to always strive for justice and fairness in all aspects of life. Inequity and oppression not only harm individuals but also corrupt societies, leading to unrest, division, and the erosion of moral values.

By recognizing the ugliness of injustice, Muslims are motivated to actively combat it and establish a just society. This involves speaking out against oppression, supporting the oppressed, and working towards the eradication of social, economic, and political inequalities.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, exemplified the principles of justice throughout his life. His commitment to justice and his unwavering stance against oppression serve as an inspiration for Muslims to follow in his footsteps.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the repulsiveness of injustice and the importance of justice in Islam. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasize the obligation to establish justice and fight against oppression. As Muslims, we must strive to embody the principles of justice in our actions, interactions, and societal endeavors, following the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). May Allah guide us all on the path of justice and righteousness.