Hadith #6293

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon Muhammad, his family, his companions, and all the righteous Muslims.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

أجْوَرُ النّاسِ مَنْ عَدَّ جَوْرَهُ عَدْلاً مِنْهُ۔

This Hadith is a wise utterance that highlights the concept of justice and oppression. Let us now delve into the words of this Hadith and explore its meaning in light of the Quran.

The word (ajwar) "أجْوَرُ" in this Hadith means "the most oppressive." It refers to someone who commits acts of injustice and tyranny. The word (jawrah) "جَوْرَهُ" means "his tyranny," indicating the unjust actions and oppression carried out by an individual. And the word (adlan) "عَدْلاً" means "justice," which is the opposite of oppression.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9):

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 importance of justice and the obligation to fight against oppression. It teaches us that if one group oppresses another, it is our duty to stand up against the oppressor and strive for justice. The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) echoes this sentiment by highlighting that the most oppressive person is the one who considers his tyranny to be just.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found 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. 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 upholding justice, even if it goes against our personal interests or the interests of our loved ones. It reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate authority and that we should not let our biases or desires cloud our judgment. The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with this message by highlighting the danger of considering one's tyranny to be just.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can understand that it serves as a reminder for Muslims to always strive for justice and to never justify their own oppressive actions. It teaches us that true justice lies in treating others fairly, even if it means going against our own interests. By adhering to the principles of justice, we can create a society that is free from oppression and tyranny.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of justice and the dangers of oppression. It urges us to be just in all our dealings and to fight against oppression whenever we encounter it. By following the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt, we can strive to be among those who are truly just in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all on the path of justice and righteousness.