Hadith #6282

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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,

ما أقْرَبَ النِّقْمَةَ مِنَ الظَّلُومِ۔

This Hadith can be translated into English as,

How close is chastisement to the unjust!

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us first delve into the important words it contains. The word (niqmah) "نِقْمَةَ" refers to punishment or retribution, while (dhulm) "ظُلُومِ" signifies injustice or oppression. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the close proximity between punishment and injustice, emphasizing that the consequences of unjust actions are swift and inevitable.

This Hadith finds its roots in the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the consequences of injustice and oppression. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:25),

And fear the affliction which may not smite exclusively those among you who are wrongdoers.

This verse reminds us that the punishment of Allah does not discriminate between the oppressors and the innocent. It serves as a warning to those who engage in injustice, urging them to fear the consequences of their actions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:52), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Like the custom of the people of Pharaoh and those before them. They disbelieved in the signs of Allah, so Allah seized them for their sins. Indeed, Allah is Powerful and severe in punishment.

This verse highlights the fate of those who persist in their unjust ways, drawing a parallel between the punishment inflicted upon the people of Pharaoh and those who came before them. It serves as a reminder that Allah's punishment is swift and severe for those who engage in oppression.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the epitome of knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes the close proximity between punishment and injustice to remind Muslims of the importance of upholding justice in all aspects of life. His words serve as a motivation for individuals to refrain from engaging in any form of oppression, as the consequences of such actions are not only detrimental in this world but also in the hereafter.

The consequences of injustice are far-reaching and have a profound impact on individuals, societies, and even nations. Injustice breeds resentment, division, and a breakdown of trust within communities. It leads to the erosion of rights, the marginalization of vulnerable groups, and the perpetuation of cycles of violence. The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the importance of justice in maintaining harmony and peace within society.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we must strive to embody the qualities of justice and fairness in our interactions with others. We should be mindful of the consequences of our actions and ensure that we do not engage in any form of oppression or injustice. By upholding justice, we contribute to the establishment of a just and equitable society, guided by the principles of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the close proximity between punishment and injustice. It serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of engaging in oppression and emphasizes the importance of upholding justice in all aspects of life. May we strive to be just and fair in our actions, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the betterment of our communities.