Hadith #5038

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One whose administration is good, his leadership lasts.

This Hadith highlights the importance of good governance and leadership, emphasizing that a leader who possesses virtuous qualities and governs with justice and wisdom will have a lasting impact.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (hasunat) "حَسُنَتْ" refers to goodness, excellence, or virtue. It implies the presence of positive qualities and actions that are beneficial and righteous. The word (siyasatuhu) "سياسَتُهُ" refers to administration or governance. It encompasses the principles, policies, and strategies employed by a leader to manage and govern a community or society. Finally, the word (damat) "دامَتْ" means to last or endure, indicating that the positive effects of a leader's administration will continue over time.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of good governance and leadership in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:58)

And [recall] when We made you successors after the people of Noah and increased you in stature extensively. So remember the favors of Allah that you might succeed

This verse highlights the responsibility of leadership and the need for those in positions of authority to recognize the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Qasas, Allah recounts the story of Prophet Moses (Musa) and his appointment as a leader. Allah says, (Quran 28:5)

And We wanted to confer favor upon those who were oppressed in the land and make them leaders and make them inheritors

This verse emphasizes that leadership is not merely a position of power, but rather a means to uplift and support the oppressed and marginalized.

From these Quranic verses, we can infer that leadership is a divine trust bestowed upon individuals, and it is incumbent upon them to fulfill this responsibility with excellence and righteousness. A leader who governs with justice, compassion, and wisdom will leave a lasting impact on their community, as their positive actions and policies will continue to benefit society even after their tenure.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, exemplified the qualities of a just and virtuous leader. His administration during his caliphate was marked by justice, equality, and compassion. He prioritized the welfare of the people and ensured that their rights were protected. His leadership was not only effective during his time but also continues to inspire Muslims across generations.

The consequences of good governance and leadership are far-reaching. A leader who governs with excellence and righteousness establishes a just and harmonious society. Such a leader fosters an environment where individuals can thrive, where justice is upheld, and where the needs of the people are met. This leads to social stability, economic prosperity, and overall well-being for the community.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are reminded of the importance of selecting leaders who possess the qualities of righteousness, wisdom, and justice. It is incumbent upon us to support and follow leaders who prioritize the welfare of the people and govern with integrity. Furthermore, this Hadith serves as a reminder for those in positions of authority to strive for excellence in their governance, knowing that their actions will have a lasting impact on the lives of those they serve.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of good governance and leadership. It highlights that a leader who governs with virtue and excellence will leave a lasting impact on their community. By referring to the Quranic verses, we understand that leadership is a divine trust, and it is the responsibility of leaders to govern with justice, compassion, and wisdom. Muslims are encouraged to support and follow leaders who embody these qualities, and leaders are reminded of the profound consequences their administration can have on society. May Allah guide us to be righteous leaders and grant us the ability to recognize and support virtuous leadership.