Hadith #2788

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

It is from the right of the shepherd to choose for his flock that which he chooses for himself.

This Hadith emphasizes the responsibility and duty of a leader, whether in a religious, social, or political context, to prioritize the well-being and guidance of those under their care.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (ra'i) "رَاعِي" refers to a shepherd or a leader who is responsible for guiding and nurturing a group of individuals. The term (ra'iyyah) "رَعِيَّة" refers to the flock or the community under the care of the shepherd. The word (yakhtaruhu) "يَخْتارُ" means to choose or select. And finally, (nafsihi) "نَفْسِهِ" refers to oneself.

To further comprehend the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Hashr (59:7),

And what Allah restored to His Messenger from the people of the towns - it is for Allah and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and orphans and the [stranded] traveler - so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you. And whatever the Messenger has given you - take; and what he has forbidden you - refrain from. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse highlights the authority and responsibility of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his chosen successors, the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), in making decisions for the community. They have the right to choose what is best for the people, just as they choose what is best for themselves. This concept of leadership is rooted in the divine guidance bestowed upon them by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:159), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instructs the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ),

So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].

This verse highlights the importance of consultation and seeking the opinions of the community in decision-making. A true leader, like the shepherd mentioned in the Hadith, takes into consideration the needs and aspirations of those under their care. They involve the community in the decision-making process, ensuring that their voices are heard and respected. However, the final decision lies with the leader, who is entrusted with the responsibility of making choices that align with the greater good.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, exemplified this concept of leadership throughout his life. He prioritized the welfare of the community, making decisions that were in their best interest. His famous saying,

People are of two types: they are either your brothers in faith or your equals in humanity,

reflects his inclusive and compassionate approach to leadership.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the responsibility of a leader to prioritize the well-being of those under their care. Just as a shepherd chooses what is best for himself, a leader should choose what is best for the community. This concept is supported by Quranic verses that highlight the authority and responsibility of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his chosen successors in making decisions for the community. A true leader involves the community in the decision-making process, while ultimately relying on divine guidance and wisdom. May we all strive to embody the qualities of a righteous leader and seek guidance from the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).