Hadith #3359

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ خافَ رَبَّهُ كَفَّ عَنْ ظُلْمِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

One who fears his Lord refrains from being unjust [to anyone].

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of fearing Allah and the consequences of injustice.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by analyzing the key words. The word (khaafa) "خافَ" means to fear or be in awe of something. In this context, it refers to the fear and awe of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The word (rabbahu) "رَبَّهُ" means his Lord, emphasizing the relationship between the individual and their Creator. The word (kaffa) "كَفَّ" means to refrain or abstain from something. And finally, the word (dhulmihi) "ظُلْمِهِ" means injustice or wrongdoing.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 8:

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. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and warns against allowing personal biases or hatred to cloud our judgment. It reminds us to fear Allah and to be just, as justice is closely tied to righteousness. By refraining from injustice, we demonstrate our fear and awe of Allah and fulfill our duty as Muslims.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah An-Nisa, verse 135:

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 highlights the importance of being just even when it is difficult, even if it means going against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones. It reminds us that Allah is the ultimate judge and that we should not let personal inclinations or biases sway us from the path of justice. By refraining from injustice, we demonstrate our fear and awe of Allah and uphold the principles of Islam.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in this Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to always strive for justice and refrain from any form of injustice. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and to be mindful of the rights of others. By fearing Allah and refraining from injustice, we not only fulfill our obligations as Muslims but also contribute to a more just and harmonious society.

The consequences of injustice are far-reaching. It not only harms the victim but also erodes the fabric of society. Injustice breeds resentment, division, and a breakdown of trust among individuals and communities. On the other hand, justice promotes peace, unity, and a sense of security. It is through justice that we can build a society that is based on fairness, equality, and compassion.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that true fear of Allah entails refraining from any form of injustice. His words serve as a guiding light for Muslims, urging us to constantly evaluate our actions and ensure that we are treating others with fairness and equity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of fearing Allah and refraining from injustice. It calls upon Muslims to be just in all aspects of their lives, even when it may be challenging or goes against personal interests. By doing so, we demonstrate our fear and awe of Allah and contribute to the establishment of a just and righteous society. May Allah guide us all to uphold justice and refrain from any form of injustice.