Hadith #10265

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) states,

Verily if you show fairness to others, Allah will bring you closer [to Him].

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of fairness and justice in our interactions with others, and it highlights the divine reward that awaits those who uphold these principles.

Let us begin by examining the key words in this Hadith. The word (anshafta) "أنصفتَ" is derived from the root word (nasaafa) "نصف", which means to be fair, just, and impartial. It implies treating others equitably, without any bias or prejudice. The word (azlafka) "أزلفكَ" is derived from the root word (zulfa) "زلف", which means to bring closer or to draw near. It signifies the proximity and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) that one attains as a result of practicing fairness and justice.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25),

We sent aforetime our messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the Balance, that people may stand forth in justice.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice as a fundamental principle in Islam. It highlights that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has sent messengers and revealed scriptures to guide humanity towards justice and fairness.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands the believers,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

This verse emphasizes the obligation of Muslims to uphold justice, even if it means going against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones. It highlights the importance of fairness and impartiality in all aspects of life.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) complements these Quranic teachings by emphasizing the divine reward that awaits those who practice fairness and justice. When we treat others with fairness, we not only fulfill our moral duty but also draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This closeness to Allah is not only in the spiritual sense but also in terms of receiving His blessings, guidance, and mercy.

Practicing fairness and justice has profound consequences in our personal and societal lives. On an individual level, it cultivates a sense of righteousness and integrity within us. It helps us develop empathy, compassion, and respect for others. By treating others fairly, we contribute to the creation of a just and harmonious society.

Moreover, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a motivation for Muslims to strive for justice and fairness in all their interactions. It reminds us that our actions have consequences and that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rewards those who uphold His principles. It encourages us to reflect upon our own behavior and to constantly strive for self-improvement.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of fairness and justice in Islam. It urges us to treat others equitably and impartially, knowing that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rewards those who do so. By practicing fairness, we draw closer to Allah and contribute to the establishment of a just society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to uphold justice and fairness in our lives.