Hadith #2777

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,

Lack of leaders is easier to bear than the leadership of the depraved.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of having just and righteous leaders, and the detrimental consequences that arise from being led by corrupt and immoral individuals.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (fiqdan) "فِقْدانُ" refers to the absence or lack of something. In this context, it signifies the absence of competent and virtuous leaders. The term (ru'asa) "الرُّؤَساءِ" refers to leaders or rulers, who are responsible for guiding and governing the affairs of the people. Lastly, (riyasa) "رِياسَةِ" denotes the act of leadership or being in a position of authority.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of just leadership in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 247, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Their prophet said to them, 'Indeed, Allah has sent to you Saul as a king.' They said, 'How can he have kingship over us while we are more worthy of kingship than him and he has not been given any measure of wealth?' He said, 'Indeed, Allah has chosen him over you and has increased him abundantly in knowledge and stature. And Allah gives His sovereignty to whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing [in favor] and Knowing.'

This verse highlights the importance of knowledge and virtue in a leader. Prophet Saul (peace be upon him) was chosen by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to be a king over the people, despite their initial objections. The reason for his selection was his abundance in knowledge and stature. This demonstrates that a leader must possess not only worldly knowledge but also spiritual wisdom and moral integrity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement further emphasizes the significance of having righteous leaders. The leadership of the depraved, those who lack moral values and integrity, can have severe consequences for a society. Such leaders may exploit their authority for personal gain, oppress the weak, and neglect the welfare of the people. This leads to corruption, injustice, and a breakdown of societal harmony.

In Surah Al-Qasas, verse 14, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) narrates the story of Prophet Moses (peace be upon him) and the corrupt Pharaoh. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And We wanted to confer favor upon those who were oppressed in the land and make them leaders and make them inheritors.

This verse highlights the divine intention of appointing just leaders who would bring about justice and prosperity for the oppressed.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of selecting leaders who possess the qualities of righteousness, knowledge, and integrity. It urges us to be vigilant in our choices and to strive for leaders who will guide us on the path of justice and righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of having just and virtuous leaders. It warns against the detrimental consequences of being led by corrupt and immoral individuals. This message aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of knowledge, virtue, and justice in leadership. As Muslims, we must strive to select leaders who embody these qualities, as they play a crucial role in shaping the well-being and prosperity of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in our choices and bless us with righteous leaders.