Hadith #2670

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states,

A man cannot be faulted for taking his right, rather he can only be censured for taking that which is not [rightfully] his.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this statement and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The key words in this hadith are (his right) "حَقِّهِ" and (that which is not his) "مالَيْسَ لَهُ". The word "حَقِّهِ" refers to one's legitimate entitlement, whether it be a material possession, a legal claim, or a rightful share. On the other hand, "مالَيْسَ لَهُ" refers to something that does not rightfully belong to an individual, something that is acquired unlawfully or through unjust means.

To understand the importance of upholding one's rights, we turn to the Quran. 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 fairness in resolving disputes among believers. It highlights the obligation to uphold one's rights and seek justice when they are violated. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith further reinforces this principle by stating that a person cannot be faulted for taking what rightfully belongs to them.

However, the hadith also warns against taking that which is not rightfully ours. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:36),

And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.

This verse cautions us against making assumptions or taking actions without proper knowledge or evidence. It reminds us to be mindful of our actions and to refrain from taking what does not rightfully belong to us, whether it be someone else's property, rights, or opportunities.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be just and fair in all aspects of their lives. It encourages us to stand up for our rights and seek justice when they are violated, while also reminding us to refrain from any form of injustice or wrongdoing.

By adhering to the principles of justice and fairness, we not only uphold the teachings of Islam but also contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society. It is through the application of these principles that we can create an environment where everyone's rights are respected and protected.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith reminds us of the importance of upholding our rights and seeking justice, while also cautioning us against taking what does not rightfully belong to us. It serves as a profound reminder of the principles of justice and fairness that are deeply rooted in the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to act justly and fairly in all aspects of our lives.