Hadith #9870

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The lassitude of a king is more harmful for the people than the oppression of a king.

This wise utterance highlights the detrimental effects of a negligent ruler on the well-being of the society. To fully comprehend the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of its key words.

The word "lassitude" in this Hadith is translated from the Arabic word (خَورُ) "khawr". It refers to the indifference, negligence, or lack of concern shown by a ruler towards the affairs of his subjects. It signifies a state of apathy and disinterest in fulfilling the responsibilities of leadership.

On the other hand, the term "oppression" is translated from the Arabic word (جَوْرِ) "jawr". It denotes the act of unjustly and forcefully oppressing or tyrannizing over others. It implies the abuse of power and the violation of the rights of the people.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the consequences of negligence and indifference in leadership in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 205:

And when it is said to him, 'Fear Allah,' pride in the sin takes hold of him. Sufficient for him is Hellfire, and how wretched is the resting place.

This verse emphasizes that a leader who is negligent and fails to fear Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will ultimately face severe consequences. Their pride and arrogance will blind them to their own faults, leading them towards destruction. Such a leader will not only harm themselves but also bring harm upon their subjects.

Furthermore, the Quran also highlights the importance of just leadership and warns against the oppression of rulers. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 9, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 obligation of fighting against oppression and striving for justice. It highlights the importance of establishing a just society where the rights of all individuals are protected. It is the duty of a ruler to ensure justice and fairness, and any oppression or injustice must be opposed and rectified.

Now, returning to the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can understand that the lassitude or indifference of a ruler is more harmful than their oppression. When a ruler is indifferent and neglectful towards the needs and concerns of their subjects, it leads to a breakdown in governance and the deterioration of society. The lack of attention and care from the ruler can result in the neglect of essential services, the spread of corruption, and the erosion of trust between the ruler and the ruled.

In contrast, the oppression of a ruler, though undoubtedly harmful, can sometimes lead to resistance and the awakening of the people's consciousness. It can ignite a sense of unity and determination to fight against injustice. However, the lassitude of a ruler leaves the people feeling abandoned and hopeless, as their needs and grievances go unheard and unaddressed.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to both leaders and the people. It urges leaders to be proactive, responsible, and attentive to the needs of their subjects. It also reminds the people of the importance of holding their leaders accountable and striving for just governance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the harmful consequences of a negligent ruler on society. It emphasizes the importance of just leadership and the detrimental effects of indifference and neglect. As Muslims, we should strive for leaders who are conscientious, just, and attentive to the needs of the people. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all towards righteous leadership and grant us the ability to establish just societies.