Hadith #6292

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) highlights the stark contrast between the tyrant and the just individual. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, eloquently states that the tyrant is despised and condemned, even if none of his oppressive actions directly affect the one who criticizes him. On the other hand, the just person stands in complete opposition to the tyrant.

To delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze some key words. The term (al-jāʾir) "الْجائِرُ" refers to the tyrant, someone who exercises oppressive power and acts unjustly towards others. This includes those who abuse their authority, oppress the weak, and violate the rights of others. The word (mamqūt) "مَمْقُوتٌ" describes the tyrant as being hated and detested by society due to their unjust actions. The term (madhmūm) "مَذْمُومٌ" further emphasizes the negative perception and dispraise associated with the tyrant.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then contrasts the tyrant with the just individual, using the term (al-ʿādil) "العادِلُ". The just person is one who upholds justice, fairness, and equality in their actions and dealings with others. They do not oppress or exploit others, but rather strive to establish a society based on justice and righteousness.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and condemns oppression. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah 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 highlights the obligation to stand against oppression and to establish justice. It is the duty of every Muslim to condemn and resist tyranny, regardless of whether they are directly affected by it. The dispraise and condemnation of the tyrant is not only a moral obligation but also a means to uphold justice and protect the rights of the oppressed.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah commands,

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 personal interests or relationships. It is a reminder that justice should be upheld without bias or favoritism, and that personal inclinations should not hinder the pursuit of justice.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims to be vigilant in recognizing and opposing tyranny, even if they are not directly affected by it. It encourages us to stand up for justice and to condemn those who oppress others, as this is an essential part of our faith.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the inherent evil of tyranny and the importance of standing against it. It reminds us that the just person is the antithesis of the tyrant, and that it is our duty as Muslims to condemn oppression and strive for justice. By following the teachings of the Quran and the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can work towards establishing a just society and fulfilling our responsibilities as believers. May Allah guide us all on the path of justice and righteousness.