Hadith #9834

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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) emphasizes the importance of prioritizing religion over worldly power and authority. Let us delve into the exegesis of this amazing Hadith.

The key words in this Hadith are (his kingship) "مُلْكَهُ" and (his religion) "دينِهِ". The term "مُلْكَهُ" refers to one's authority, power, or dominion over others. It encompasses any position of leadership or governance. On the other hand, "دينِهِ" refers to one's religious beliefs, practices, and principles.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that if a person makes their kingship or authority subservient to their religion, meaning they prioritize their religious values and principles in their governance, then every king or ruler will submit to them. This submission is not merely a physical submission, but rather a recognition and acceptance of the moral and spiritual authority of such an individual.

To understand the depth and significance of this statement, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:120),

And never will the Jews or the Christians approve of you until you follow their religion.

This verse highlights the fact that people are often influenced by the values and principles of those in positions of power and authority. Therefore, if a leader prioritizes their religion and upholds its principles, they will naturally gain the respect and submission of others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:44), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) admonishes those who do not judge by what Allah has revealed, stating,

But how is it that they come to you for judgment while they have the Torah, in which is the judgment of Allah? Then they turn away, [even] after that; but those are not [in fact] believers.

This verse emphasizes the importance of ruling and governing according to the divine laws and principles revealed by Allah. When a leader prioritizes their religion and governs in accordance with these principles, they establish justice and righteousness, earning the submission and respect of others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their religious values and principles in all aspects of their lives, including positions of authority and leadership. It highlights the importance of governing with justice, compassion, and integrity, as these are the core teachings of Islam.

When a leader prioritizes their religion, they become a role model for others, inspiring them to follow the path of righteousness. Their actions and decisions are guided by the teachings of Islam, ensuring that justice prevails and the rights of the people are protected. Such leaders are respected and admired not only by their own community but also by other rulers and nations.

Conversely, when a leader neglects their religious values and principles, they may succumb to corruption, oppression, and injustice. This not only harms the society they govern but also tarnishes the image of Islam. The submission and respect of others cannot be achieved through tyranny and disregard for the principles of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of prioritizing religion over worldly power and authority. By making our positions of leadership subservient to our religion, we establish justice, righteousness, and compassion in our governance. This not only earns the submission and respect of others but also ensures the betterment of society as a whole. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to be righteous leaders who prioritize our religion in all aspects of our lives.