Hadith #224

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the concept of justice and the consequences that await those who oppress others. Let us delve into the meaning of this enlightening Hadith and explore its implications in the light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (oppressed) "مَظْلُومِ" and (oppressor) "ظَّالِمِ". The word "مَظْلُومِ" refers to someone who is wronged, treated unjustly, or oppressed. On the other hand, the word "ظَّالِمِ" refers to someone who is unjust, oppressive, or tyrannical. These words carry significant weight and are central to understanding the message of this Hadith.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and warns against oppression. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 194, Allah says,

And whoever transgresses the limits therein, then upon him is the blame of those [who are] oppressed.

This verse highlights the accountability of the oppressor and the responsibility they bear for the suffering they inflict upon others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hajj, verse 60, Allah states,

And if Allah had not enabled the people to defend themselves against one another, corruption would have surely spread on earth.

This verse emphasizes the necessity of standing up against oppression and defending the rights of the oppressed. It also serves as a reminder that allowing oppression to prevail leads to societal corruption and chaos.

Now, let us reflect on the thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses. The Hadith teaches us that the day when the oppressed finally triumph over their oppressors will be more severe and consequential than the day when the oppressors held power over the oppressed. This statement highlights the divine justice that awaits those who perpetrate injustice and oppression.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that no act of oppression goes unnoticed or unpunished by Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The oppressors may enjoy temporary power and control, but their day of reckoning will come. This Hadith serves as a warning to those who exploit their positions of authority or privilege to oppress others, that their actions will ultimately lead to their own downfall.

The consequences of oppression can be seen throughout history. Empires that were built on the oppression of others eventually crumbled, and tyrants who ruled with an iron fist were eventually overthrown. The oppressed, on the other hand, have often emerged stronger and more resilient, as their struggles have united them and fueled their determination for justice.

This Hadith also serves as a motivation for the oppressed to persevere and have hope in the face of adversity. It reminds them that their struggle is not in vain and that their day of liberation will come. It encourages them to seek justice through peaceful means, to stand up against oppression, and to trust in the ultimate justice of Allah (عَزَّ وَجَلَّ).

As Muslims, we are called upon to uphold justice and to stand against oppression in all its forms. This Hadith reminds us of our duty to support the oppressed and to work towards a more just and equitable society. It serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences and that we will be held accountable for the way we treat others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the divine justice that awaits those who oppress others. It serves as a reminder to both the oppressors and the oppressed that their actions and struggles have profound consequences. May we all strive to be on the side of justice and righteousness, and may we never forget the power of standing up against oppression.