Hadith #6175

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.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to distance ourselves from injustice, emphasizing that it is the greatest of wrongdoings and the biggest of sins. Let us delve deeper into the words of this hadith and explore its meaning in light of the Quran.

The word (dhulm) "ظُّلْمِ" in Arabic refers to injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses any act that violates the rights of others, whether it is physical, emotional, or social. It is a transgression against the divine order and a violation of the principles of justice and equity that Islam upholds.

The Quran repeatedly condemns injustice and emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25),

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 role of the messengers and the scriptures in establishing justice among people.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), 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. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just.

This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the gravity of injustice by stating that it is the greatest of wrongdoings and the biggest of sins. This highlights the severity of engaging in any form of injustice, as it not only harms others but also tarnishes our own souls.

Injustice has far-reaching consequences. It disrupts the harmony and balance of society, breeds resentment and animosity, and leads to the erosion of trust and unity among people. It creates a cycle of oppression and retaliation, perpetuating a state of injustice and suffering. On an individual level, engaging in injustice tarnishes our character and distances us from the path of righteousness.

Reflecting on this hadith, we are reminded of the importance of treating others with fairness, compassion, and respect. We must strive to establish justice in all aspects of our lives, whether it is in our personal relationships, our professional endeavors, or our interactions with society at large. By doing so, we align ourselves with the divine commandments and contribute to the betterment of our communities.

As Muslims, we should take this hadith to heart and actively distance ourselves from any form of injustice. We should be vigilant in recognizing and rectifying any injustices we witness or perpetrate. By doing so, we uphold the principles of Islam and contribute to the establishment of a just and equitable society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in our pursuit of justice and protect us from the temptations of injustice. May we strive to emulate the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his profound knowledge and unwavering commitment to justice. Ameen.