Hadith #6572

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "العدل أفضل السياستين" which translates to

Justice is the better of the two policies.

This concise statement holds great significance and provides us with valuable guidance in matters of governance and leadership.

The word (adl) "عدل" in Arabic refers to justice, fairness, and equity. It encompasses the idea of treating others with equality and ensuring that everyone's rights are upheld. Justice is a fundamental principle in Islam, emphasized in both the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) Himself is described as the Just, and He commands us to uphold justice in all aspects of our lives.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9),

And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the importance of justice in resolving conflicts and maintaining harmony within the Muslim community. It emphasizes the obligation to establish justice and fairness, even if it means taking a stand against oppression. By doing so, we uphold the principles of Islam and earn the love of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice even when it may go against our personal interests or the interests of our loved ones. It reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate authority and that we should not let our biases or desires cloud our judgment. Upholding justice requires us to be fair and impartial, regardless of the circumstances.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Justice is the better of the two policies,

serves as a reminder that justice should always be prioritized over any other considerations in matters of governance and leadership. It highlights the importance of establishing a just and equitable society, where everyone's rights are protected and respected.

By prioritizing justice, leaders can ensure the well-being and prosperity of their communities. When justice prevails, people feel secure, and trust is built between the rulers and the ruled. This, in turn, leads to social cohesion, economic stability, and overall progress.

On the other hand, neglecting justice and favoring personal interests or biases can lead to corruption, oppression, and social unrest. It erodes the trust of the people and undermines the legitimacy of the leadership. History is replete with examples of societies that have suffered due to the absence of justice in their governance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thought-provoking Hadith serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to prioritize justice in all aspects of their lives, including governance and leadership. It is a call to establish just societies that reflect the teachings of Islam and uphold the rights of all individuals.

As Muslims, we should strive to embody the principles of justice in our personal lives and advocate for justice in our communities. By doing so, we contribute to the establishment of a just and equitable society, in line with the teachings of the Quran and the example of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to uphold justice and righteousness in our actions and grant us the ability to establish just societies that reflect the true spirit of Islam.