Hadith #9839

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, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Evil viziers are the helpers of tyrants and the brothers of wrongdoers.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the detrimental role played by corrupt advisors and associates in supporting oppressive rulers and facilitating wrongdoing.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The term "viziers" refers to high-ranking officials or advisors who hold significant influence and power within a government or administration. These individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of providing counsel and guidance to the ruler. However, when these viziers are corrupt and immoral, they become "evil viziers" who misuse their positions to further their own interests and support unjust actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes these evil viziers as

the helpers of tyrants.

This indicates that they actively assist and enable oppressive rulers in their unjust practices. By aligning themselves with tyrants, these evil viziers contribute to the perpetuation of injustice and the suppression of the rights of the people.

Furthermore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) refers to them as

the brothers of wrongdoers.

This emphasizes the close association between corrupt advisors and those who engage in wrongdoing. The term "brothers" signifies a deep bond and shared interests. In this context, it implies that evil viziers not only support tyrants but also share their immoral values and engage in wrongful acts themselves.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us against the consequences of aligning ourselves with the wrongdoers in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 51:

O you who have believed, do not take the Jews and the Christians as allies. They are [in fact] allies of one another. And whoever is an ally to them among you - then indeed, he is [one] of them. Indeed, Allah guides not the wrongdoing people.

This verse highlights the importance of choosing our companions wisely and not aligning ourselves with those who engage in wrongdoing. By associating with evil viziers and supporting tyrants, we risk becoming complicit in their oppressive actions and deviating from the path of righteousness.

Another relevant Quranic verse is found in Surah Al-An'am, verse 68:

And when you see those who engage in [offensive] discourse concerning Our verses, then turn away from them until they enter into another conversation. And if Satan should cause you to forget, then do not remain after the reminder with the wrongdoing people.

This verse advises us to distance ourselves from those who engage in offensive discourse and wrongful actions. It reminds us to avoid being influenced by their negative behavior and to seek out better company. By heeding this advice, we can protect ourselves from the harmful influence of evil viziers and their association with tyrants.

The exegesis of this Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious in choosing their advisors and associates. It highlights the importance of integrity, righteousness, and moral values in those who hold positions of influence and power. Muslims should strive to surround themselves with individuals who uphold justice, truth, and the teachings of Islam.

Moreover, this Hadith also serves as a warning to those who may be tempted to support oppressive rulers or engage in wrongful acts. It reminds us of the severe consequences of aligning ourselves with wrongdoing and the importance of standing up against injustice.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sheds light on the detrimental role played by evil viziers who support tyrants and engage in wrongdoing. By analyzing the key words and reflecting on the Quranic verses, we understand the importance of choosing righteous advisors and associates, as well as the consequences of aligning ourselves with those who perpetuate injustice. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to always seek the path of righteousness and protect us from the influence of evil.