Hadith #6421

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he poses a thought-provoking question,

Where are those who left the best heritage, were most just in their actions and had the biggest kingdoms?

This question encompasses three important qualities that are essential for a righteous and just leader.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (atharan) "آثاراً" refers to a heritage or legacy that is left behind. It signifies the impact and influence that a person has on society and future generations. The word (af'alan) "أفْعالاً" refers to actions, specifically just and righteous actions. And finally, the phrase (akbara mulkan) "أكْبَرَ مُلْكاً" refers to having the biggest kingdom or dominion, which implies having power and authority.

To comprehend the significance of these qualities, we turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 83:

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse emphasizes the importance of leaving a positive legacy and not seeking worldly power or corruption. The righteous are those who prioritize the Hereafter over worldly gains.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 25, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

Indeed, We sent Our messengers with clear proofs and sent down with them the Scripture and the balance that the people may maintain [their affairs] in justice.

This verse highlights the significance of justice in the actions of leaders. Just as the messengers were sent with clear proofs and scriptures to establish justice, it is the duty of leaders to uphold justice in their actions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) question challenges us to reflect on the qualities of those who have left a lasting impact on society. The best heritage is not measured by material possessions or worldly power, but by the positive influence one has on others. It is the legacy of knowledge, piety, and good deeds that truly matters. The most just actions are those that are guided by the principles of fairness, equality, and compassion. And the biggest kingdom is not one of earthly dominion, but rather the kingdom of the heart, where love for Allah and His creation reigns supreme.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified these qualities. His knowledge, wisdom, and justice are renowned among Muslims of all sects. He left behind a legacy of guidance and teachings that continue to inspire and guide us today. His actions were guided by the principles of justice, as he famously said,

Even if I strike the head of a believer with my sword and he is killed, it would be less beloved to me than killing a mosquito without any right.

His kingdom was not one of worldly power, but rather one of spiritual authority and moral excellence.

As Muslims, we are called to emulate the qualities mentioned in this Hadith. We should strive to leave a positive legacy by imparting knowledge, practicing justice, and embodying the teachings of Islam. We should prioritize the Hereafter over worldly gains and seek to establish justice in our actions. By doing so, we can hope to be among those who are praised by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this thought-provoking Hadith.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to follow in the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the righteous leaders who came before us. May He bless us with the ability to leave a positive legacy, perform just actions, and seek His pleasure above all else. And may He unite us all under the banner of Islam, in this world and the Hereafter.