Hadith #6924

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of abandoning revenge, as it is considered one of the worst actions that can be committed by those in positions of power. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises Muslims to rise above the desire for revenge and to instead focus on accumulating virtues and merits.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). The word (intiqam) "انتقام", translated as revenge, refers to the act of inflicting harm or punishment upon someone in response to a perceived wrongdoing. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that this action is among the worst that can be carried out by those who possess power or authority.

To further understand the significance of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the importance of treating others with justice and fairness, even if they may have wronged us in some way. Revenge, on the other hand, goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize forgiveness and mercy.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) goes on to say that those who rise above the desire for revenge have taken hold of the accumulation of merits. This means that by refraining from seeking revenge, individuals are able to accumulate virtues and good deeds. The act of forgiving and letting go of grudges is highly regarded in Islam, as it demonstrates a person's ability to control their anger and seek peace instead. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Ash-Shura (42:40),

The recompense for an evil is an evil like thereof; but whoever forgives and makes reconciliation, his reward is with Allah. Verily, He likes not the Zalimun (oppressors, polytheists, and wrongdoers).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sets an example for Muslims by advising against revenge. He himself was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, and his ability to rise above personal grievances. One of the most notable examples of this is the Battle of Jamal, where Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) forgave those who had fought against him, including Aisha, the wife of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). This act of forgiveness not only demonstrated Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) noble character, but also helped to unite the Muslim community and prevent further bloodshed.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to abandon revenge and instead focus on accumulating virtues and merits. By forgiving others and seeking reconciliation, we not only follow the teachings of Islam, but also contribute to the unity and harmony of the Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to rise above the desire for revenge and to always strive for forgiveness and peace.