Hadith #6192

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May the blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الظُّلْمُ عِقابٌ۔" which translates to

Injustice is [the cause of divine] punishment.

This concise statement holds connotation and highlights the consequences of injustice in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words used. Firstly, (zulm) "ظُلْم" refers to injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses any act that transgresses the boundaries of fairness, equality, and righteousness. Zulm can manifest in various forms, such as denying someone their rights, exploiting the vulnerable, or causing harm to others.

The word (iqaab) "عِقاب" refers to punishment or retribution. It signifies the consequences that follow acts of injustice. In the context of this Hadith, it refers to the divine punishment that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) may inflict upon those who commit injustice.

To further comprehend the gravity of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran, which provides numerous verses that emphasize the importance of justice and warn against the consequences of injustice. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8),

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 obligation upon Muslims to uphold justice, even if it goes against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. It warns against the distortion of truth or the refusal to bear witness, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is fully aware of our actions. This verse serves as a reminder that justice is not to be compromised, for it is a fundamental principle of Islam.

Another verse that sheds light on the consequences of injustice is found in Surah Al-An'am (6:160), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Whoever comes [on the Day of Judgement] with a good deed will have ten times the like thereof [to his credit], and whoever comes with an evil deed will not be recompensed except the like thereof; and they will not be wronged.

This verse highlights the principle of divine retribution, where every action, whether good or evil, will be accounted for. Those who commit injustice will face the consequences of their actions, and they will not be wronged in any way. This serves as a warning and a reminder that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is just and will ensure that justice prevails.

In light of these Quranic verses, we can understand the exegesis of the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). The statement

Injustice is [the cause of divine] punishment

emphasizes the direct correlation between injustice and the consequences that follow. It serves as a reminder to Muslims that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate judge, and He will hold every individual accountable for their actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, highlights the importance of justice in society. His words serve as a motivation for Muslims to strive for justice in all aspects of their lives, whether it be in personal relationships, social interactions, or governance.

The consequences of injustice are far-reaching and can have detrimental effects on individuals, communities, and nations. Injustice breeds resentment, division, and a breakdown of trust. It disrupts the harmony and balance that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has ordained for His creation. Therefore, it is incumbent upon Muslims to actively promote justice, stand against oppression, and work towards establishing a just society.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims should introspect and evaluate their own actions and intentions. Are we treating others with fairness and equity? Are we upholding justice in our personal and professional lives? Are we standing against injustice, even if it means going against our own interests?

By internalizing the message of this Hadith and implementing it in our daily lives, we can contribute to the betterment of society and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us strive to be individuals who embody justice, for it is through justice that we can attain the mercy and blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in this world and the hereafter.