Hadith #103

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the qualities required to establish the rule of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in society. Let us delve into the exegesis of this amazing Hadith.

The first important word in this Hadith is (yuqeemu) "يُقِيمُ", which means "to establish" or "to uphold." It implies the establishment of a just and righteous system that adheres to the principles of Islam. This establishment is not merely a superficial display, but rather a comprehensive implementation of Allah's laws in all aspects of life.

The next word is (amr Allah) "أَمْرَ اللَّهِ", which refers to the commandments and decrees of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encompasses all aspects of life, including personal conduct, social interactions, and governance. It is through the establishment of Allah's commandments that true justice and righteousness can prevail in society.

The Hadith then describes the qualities of the one who can establish the rule of Allah. The first quality is (la yusani'u) "لَا يُصَانِعُ", which means

to show no relenting

or

to be firm and resolute.

It implies that the one who establishes the rule of Allah must not compromise or waver in matters of right and wrong. They must remain steadfast and unwavering in upholding the truth, even in the face of adversity.

The second quality is (la yudari'u) "لَا يُضَارِعُ", which means

to not behave like wrongdoers

or

to not imitate the oppressors.

This highlights the importance of maintaining moral integrity and not adopting the unethical practices of those who are unjust. The one who establishes the rule of Allah must set a higher standard of conduct and lead by example.

The third quality is (la yattabi'u al-matami'a) "لَا يَتَّبِعُ الْمَطَامِعَ", which means

to not run after objects of greed

or

to not pursue personal interests.

This emphasizes the need for selflessness and the avoidance of personal gain in the pursuit of power. The one who establishes the rule of Allah must prioritize the welfare of the people and work towards their betterment, rather than seeking personal benefits.

To understand the significance of these qualities, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. 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 emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in resolving conflicts. The one who establishes the rule of Allah must ensure that justice prevails, even if it means standing against oppression and wrongdoing. They must strive to establish a just society where everyone's rights are protected.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), 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 highlights the importance of being just, even if it goes against one's personal interests or the interests of loved ones. The one who establishes the rule of Allah must prioritize justice over personal desires and biases. They must be impartial and fair in their decision-making, regardless of the circumstances.

The consequences of adhering to these qualities are profound. When the rule of Allah is established by someone who shows no relenting, does not behave like wrongdoers, and does not run after objects of greed, it leads to a just and harmonious society. It fosters an environment where the rights of individuals are protected, where oppression is eradicated, and where the principles of Islam are upheld.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we are reminded of the exemplary qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His unwavering commitment to justice, his refusal to compromise in matters of right and wrong, and his selflessness in serving the people are all evident in his life. As Muslims, we should strive to emulate these qualities and work towards establishing the rule of Allah in our own lives and societies.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the qualities required to establish the rule of Allah. It calls for unwavering commitment to justice, moral integrity, and selflessness. By adhering to these qualities, we can contribute to the establishment of a just and righteous society, in accordance with the teachings of the Quran. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all in upholding these principles and grant us success in our efforts.