Hadith #5041

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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) states,

There is no leadership like [practicing] justice in administration.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of justice in leadership and administration. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this thought-provoking Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word "lariasa" in the Hadith refers to leadership or governance. It encompasses the responsibility of guiding and governing a community or nation. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that the most effective and righteous form of leadership is one that upholds justice in all aspects of administration.

The concept of justice is a recurring theme in the Quran, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice in various contexts. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah says, (57:25)

Indeed, We sent Our messengers with clear proofs and revealed with them the Scripture and the balance that the people may maintain [their affairs] in justice

This verse highlights that the purpose of sending messengers and revealing scriptures is to establish justice among people.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa, Allah says, (4:135)

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

This verse emphasizes the obligation of Muslims to uphold justice, even if it goes against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones.

The Quran also provides examples of leaders who exemplified justice in their administration. Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) is a prime example of a just leader. When he was appointed as the treasurer of Egypt, he implemented a fair and just economic system that ensured the welfare of the people. His administration was based on meritocracy, as he appointed individuals based on their abilities and qualifications, rather than favoritism or nepotism.

Similarly, Prophet Sulaiman (Solomon) is known for his wise and just governance. In Surah An-Naml, it is mentioned that when two women came to him with a dispute over a child, he used his wisdom and discernment to determine the true mother. This incident showcases his commitment to justice and his ability to resolve conflicts justly.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the significance of justice in leadership. A just leader ensures equal opportunities for all, upholds the rights of the people, and establishes a fair and transparent system. Such leadership fosters trust, unity, and social harmony within a society.

Moreover, justice in administration has far-reaching consequences. It leads to the prosperity and well-being of a nation, as it ensures the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. It also promotes social justice, as it protects the rights of the marginalized and vulnerable members of society. A just leader inspires the people and gains their respect and loyalty, as they witness the fairness and integrity of their leader's actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was a paragon of knowledge and justice. His profound understanding of Islamic principles and his commitment to justice made him an exemplary leader. During his caliphate, he implemented various reforms to ensure justice and equality among the people. His famous saying,

People are of two types: they are either your brothers in faith or your equals in humanity,

reflects his inclusive and egalitarian approach to leadership.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the paramount importance of justice in leadership and administration. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly stress the significance of justice in all aspects of life. A just leader not only ensures the welfare and prosperity of the people but also establishes a society based on fairness, equality, and harmony. May Allah guide us all to be just and righteous leaders, following the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).