Hadith #2024

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 and noble family, and his righteous companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "Al-junudu husunur-ra'iyyah," which translates to

Soldiers are defenders of the people.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the crucial role of soldiers in protecting and safeguarding the community.

To delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words used. "Junud" refers to soldiers or troops, while "husun" means fortresses or strongholds. "Ra'iyyah" signifies the people or the community. Thus, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that soldiers are like fortresses, standing as a shield to protect and defend the people.

This concept of soldiers being defenders of the people finds resonance in the Quran as well. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hajj (22:39),

Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought, because they were wronged. And indeed, Allah is competent to give them victory.

This verse highlights the permission granted to those who are being oppressed to defend themselves against their oppressors. Soldiers, in this context, play a vital role in safeguarding the rights and well-being of the people.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:190), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.

This verse emphasizes the importance of self-defense and fighting against those who initiate aggression. Soldiers, as defenders of the people, are entrusted with the responsibility of upholding justice and protecting the innocent.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also highlights the noble qualities and characteristics that soldiers should possess. They should be courageous, disciplined, and committed to the cause of justice. They should be well-trained and equipped to face any challenges that may arise. Just as a fortress provides security and protection, soldiers should be a source of strength and support for the community.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reminder to the Muslim ummah of the importance of unity and cooperation. Just as a fortress is built collectively, the defense of the community requires the collective efforts of its members. Soldiers cannot fulfill their duty without the support and cooperation of the people they are defending. This Hadith encourages Muslims to stand united and work together in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Soldiers are defenders of the people

emphasizes the crucial role of soldiers in protecting and safeguarding the community. It highlights the importance of self-defense, justice, and unity within the Muslim ummah. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless our soldiers and grant them success in their noble endeavors. May we all strive to be defenders of justice and uphold the rights of the oppressed.