Hadith #6576

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, 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, "اِعْدِلْ تَحْكُمْ۔" This simple yet enlightening Hadith translates to

Be just and you will rule.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith by exploring the key words and their meanings.

The word (i'dil) "اِعْدِلْ" is derived from the root word (adala) "عَدَلَ", which means to be just, fair, and equitable. It encompasses the idea of treating others with fairness and impartiality, ensuring that everyone is given their due rights and that no injustice is committed. It is a call to establish justice in all aspects of life, whether it be in personal matters, social interactions, or governance.

The word (tahkum) "تَحْكُمْ" is derived from the root word (hakama) "حَكَمَ", which means to rule, govern, or judge. It implies the act of making decisions and exercising authority in a just and fair manner. It emphasizes the importance of justice in leadership and highlights that true rulership can only be achieved through the establishment of justice.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance for Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah 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.

This verse highlights the obligation of Muslims to uphold justice even if it goes against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones.

Another verse that emphasizes the importance of justice is found in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), where Allah says,

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.

This verse reminds Muslims that justice should not be compromised due to personal biases or animosity towards others. It emphasizes the need to rise above personal feelings and to uphold justice as an act of righteousness.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that justice is not only a moral obligation but also a prerequisite for effective leadership. A just ruler ensures the well-being of their subjects, maintains social harmony, and upholds the principles of fairness and equality. Such a ruler gains the respect and loyalty of the people, leading to a stable and prosperous society.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to prioritize justice in all aspects of their lives. It encourages individuals to be fair and just in their personal dealings, to advocate for justice in society, and to strive for justice in positions of authority. By embodying the values of justice, Muslims can contribute to the establishment of a just and equitable society, as envisioned by Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ),

Be just and you will rule,

emphasizes the indispensable role of justice in leadership and governance. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly highlight the importance of justice in all aspects of life. As Muslims, we are reminded to prioritize justice, both in our personal conduct and in our interactions with others. By doing so, we can contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society, in accordance with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of justice and righteousness.