Hadith #6219

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

راكِبُ الظُّلْمِ يُدْرِكُهُ البَوارُ۔

This can be translated as

One who embarks on injustice is met with ruin.

Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (dhulm) "ظُّلْمِ" in this Hadith refers to injustice or oppression. It encompasses any act that transgresses the boundaries of fairness, equality, and righteousness. Dhulm can manifest in various forms, such as usurping the rights of others, inflicting harm, or denying justice. It is a grave sin that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has forbidden in the Quran.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-An'am (6:152):

And do not approach the property of an orphan, except in the way that is best, until he reaches maturity. And give full measure and weight in justice. We do not charge any soul except [with that within] its capacity. And when you speak, be just, even if it concerns a near relative. And fulfill the covenant of Allah. This is what He has enjoined upon you that you may remember.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice in all aspects of life. It warns against encroaching upon the rights of orphans and emphasizes the need to be fair and just in matters of measurement and speech. It is a reminder that injustice will ultimately lead to ruin, both in this world and the hereafter.

Another verse that highlights the consequences of injustice is found in Surah Al-Anfal (8:25):

And fear a trial which will not strike those who have wronged among you exclusively, and know that Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse serves as a warning to those who commit injustice. It reminds us that the consequences of our actions will not be limited to the wrongdoers alone, but will affect the entire community. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is severe in His punishment, and no one can escape the consequences of their unjust deeds.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the inevitability of ruin for those who engage in injustice. It serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how powerful or influential a person may be, their oppressive actions will ultimately lead to their downfall.

We can find numerous examples throughout history where tyrants and oppressors have met their ruin. Pharaoh, who oppressed the Children of Israel, was ultimately drowned in the sea. The tyrannical rulers of the past, such as Nimrod and Abu Jahl, met their end in disgrace. These examples serve as a testament to the truth of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) words.

Moreover, the consequences of injustice extend beyond the immediate destruction of the wrongdoer. Injustice breeds resentment, division, and a cycle of violence. It erodes the fabric of society and undermines the principles of justice and equality. The oppressed are driven to seek justice, and the cycle of oppression and retaliation continues.

As Muslims, we are called upon to stand against injustice and oppression in all its forms. We are reminded in the Quran that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) loves those who uphold justice and righteousness. We must strive to establish justice in our personal lives, our communities, and the wider society.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of injustice. It warns us that those who embark on the path of oppression will ultimately meet their ruin. As Muslims, we must strive to uphold justice and fairness in all our dealings, knowing that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is severe in His punishment for those who transgress His boundaries. May we always strive to be on the side of justice and righteousness.