Hadith #9858

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The best of all kings in character is one whose justice prevails over all the people.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of justice in the character of a ruler. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (sajiyyah) "سَجِيَّةً" in the Hadith refers to a king or ruler. It signifies a person who holds authority and power over others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that the best among them is the one who upholds justice and fairness in their governance. This implies that a ruler's character is not measured by their wealth, power, or status, but rather by their commitment to justice.

The concept of justice is central to Islam and is repeatedly emphasized in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nisa, verse 135:

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 emphasizes the importance of justice, even if it goes against one's own interests or the interests of loved ones. It reminds Muslims to be just and fair in all circumstances, regardless of their personal biases. This aligns perfectly with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), which highlights the significance of justice prevailing over all people.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 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. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being just and fair, even in the face of animosity or hatred from others. It encourages Muslims to rise above personal biases and to prioritize justice in all aspects of their lives. This aligns with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), which highlights the importance of justice prevailing over all people, regardless of their social status or affiliations.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we can understand that a ruler who prioritizes justice and fairness in their governance will create an environment of peace and harmony. Such a ruler will ensure that the rights of all individuals, regardless of their background or social standing, are protected. This leads to a just society where people can thrive and prosper.

Furthermore, the Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that justice is not only the responsibility of rulers but also of every individual. We should strive to embody justice in our personal and professional lives, treating others with fairness and equality. By doing so, we contribute to the establishment of a just society, as envisioned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and emphasized in the Quran.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of justice in the character of a ruler. It emphasizes that the best among them is the one whose justice prevails over all people. This aligns with the Quranic teachings that repeatedly emphasize the significance of justice and fairness. As Muslims, we should strive to embody justice in all aspects of our lives, contributing to the establishment of a just society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in upholding justice and fairness in our actions and interactions.