Hadith #6212

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, "بالظُّلْمِ تَزُولُ النِّعَمُ۔" This can be translated as,

By injustice, blessings are removed.

Let us delve into the profound wisdom contained within this statement and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (zulm) "ظُّلْمِ" in this Hadith refers to injustice, oppression, or wrongdoing. It encompasses any act that transgresses the boundaries of fairness, equity, and righteousness. Injustice can manifest in various forms, such as denying someone their rights, usurping their property, or treating them unfairly. It is a grave sin that not only harms the victim but also has far-reaching consequences for society as a whole.

The Quranic teachings emphasize the importance of justice and warn against the consequences of injustice. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8),

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.

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

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.

These verses highlight the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against our personal interests or the interests of our loved ones. Injustice not only leads to the removal of blessings but also disrupts the harmony and balance that Allah has ordained for society.

When injustice prevails, it creates a ripple effect that affects individuals, families, and entire communities. The blessings bestowed upon a society, such as peace, prosperity, and unity, are gradually eroded. The fabric of society weakens, and people suffer the consequences of their own wrongdoing.

To illustrate this, let us consider an example from history. During the caliphate of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), a man named Qanbar approached him and complained about his neighbor who had encroached upon his property unjustly. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) immediately took action and restored justice by returning the land to its rightful owner. This act of upholding justice not only resolved the dispute but also preserved the blessings of peace and harmony within the community.

The removal of blessings due to injustice is not limited to material possessions. It extends to the spiritual realm as well. When a person engages in injustice, they distance themselves from the mercy and blessings of Allah. Injustice tarnishes the soul and weakens the connection between the individual and their Creator. This separation from Allah's blessings can lead to a sense of emptiness, dissatisfaction, and spiritual decline.

As Muslims, we are called to be agents of justice and righteousness in all aspects of our lives. We must strive to treat others with fairness, kindness, and compassion. By doing so, we not only preserve the blessings bestowed upon us but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the profound consequences of injustice. It serves as a powerful reminder to uphold justice in all our dealings and to strive for fairness and righteousness. By doing so, we not only preserve the blessings bestowed upon us but also fulfill our duty as Muslims to establish justice and equity in the world. May Allah guide us all to be just and righteous in our actions.