Hadith #2409

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) emphasizes two important principles:

Be good to the servants [of Allah]

and

act justly in the lands.

These principles are essential for Muslims to uphold in their interactions with others and in their governance of society.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith. The word (ihsan) "إحْسانِ" means to do good or to excel in goodness. It encompasses acts of kindness, benevolence, and excellence in one's conduct towards others. It is a comprehensive term that encourages Muslims to treat all people with kindness, compassion, and respect, regardless of their social status or religious affiliation.

The word (adl) "عَدْلِ" means justice. It refers to fairness, equity, and impartiality in all aspects of life. Acting justly entails treating others with equality, ensuring their rights are upheld, and refraining from any form of oppression or injustice. It is a fundamental principle in Islam, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran:

(Surah An-Nahl, 16:90)

Allah commands justice, the doing of good, and giving to relatives.

(Surah An-Nisa, 4:58)

And when you judge between people, judge with justice.

The Hadith further states that by practicing these principles, we will be safe

when the witnesses are presented

on the Day of Judgment. This refers to the accountability we will face for our actions in the Hereafter. Our treatment of others and our adherence to justice will be scrutinized, and only those who have fulfilled these obligations will find safety and salvation.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we must reflect on the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of good treatment towards others and the establishment of justice. For example, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 8, Allah says:

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.

This verse highlights the obligation upon Muslims to be just even in the face of animosity or personal biases. It reminds us that justice is a core value that should guide our actions, regardless of the circumstances.

Furthermore, the Quran encourages Muslims to be kind and compassionate towards all people, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 83:

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the importance of doing good to others, irrespective of their social or religious background. It reminds us that our interactions with fellow human beings should be characterized by kindness, compassion, and respect.

In light of these Quranic teachings, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a practical guide for Muslims in their daily lives and in their roles as leaders. It emphasizes the need to prioritize goodness and justice in our interactions with others, both individually and collectively. By doing so, we not only fulfill our obligations as Muslims but also contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to be good to the servants of Allah and to act with justice in all matters. It reminds us of the importance of treating others with kindness, compassion, and respect, and of upholding fairness and equity in our interactions. By adhering to these principles, we ensure our safety and salvation on the Day of Judgment. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these teachings in our lives and to establish justice and goodness in our societies.