Hadith #9833

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of justice and kindness in leadership. Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith and explore its profound implications in light of the Quran.

The word (adala) "عَدَلَ" in Arabic means to be just, fair, and equitable. It refers to the act of treating people with equality, without any bias or discrimination. Justice is a fundamental principle in Islam, and it is repeatedly emphasized in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8),

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

The word (sultan) "سُلْطانِهِ" in this Hadith refers to one's authority or rule. It encompasses both political and social leadership. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of being just and fair in exercising one's authority. This means that a leader should not abuse their power or oppress the people under their rule. Instead, they should uphold justice and ensure that everyone is treated fairly.

The word (bathala) "بَذَلَ" means to show kindness, generosity, and benevolence towards others. It signifies going above and beyond the call of duty to help and support those in need. Kindness is a quality that is highly praised in Islam. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that if a leader is just in their rule and shows kindness to the people, Allah will elevate their stature and strengthen their helpers. This means that Allah will increase their influence, honor, and respect in the eyes of the people. Furthermore, Allah will provide support and assistance to such a leader, ensuring their success and victory.

This Hadith aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises in Surah Al-Hajj (22:40),

Indeed, Allah defends those who have believed.

When a leader upholds justice and kindness, they create an environment of trust, fairness, and compassion. This fosters unity and harmony among the people, leading to stability and progress in society.

On the other hand, if a leader is unjust and oppressive, they will face severe consequences. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns in Surah Al-Qamar (54:51-55),

Indeed, We will support Our messengers and those who believe during the life of this world and on the Day when the witnesses will stand. The Day their excuse will not benefit the wrongdoers, and they will have the curse, and they will have the worst home.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we can understand that leadership is not merely about power and authority. It is a responsibility bestowed upon individuals to serve and protect the interests of the people. A just and kind leader is one who upholds the principles of justice and compassion, ensuring the well-being and prosperity of their community.

As Muslims, we should strive to embody the qualities of justice and kindness in all aspects of our lives, whether we hold positions of authority or not. By doing so, we contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society, in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to be just and kind in our dealings, and may He elevate our status in this world and the Hereafter.