Hadith #9816

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states that there is no reward with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) greater than the reward of a just ruler and a benevolent man. Let us delve into the meanings of some important words in this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding.

The word (thawabun) "ثَوابٌ" refers to reward or recompense. It is the result or consequence of one's actions, whether good or bad. It is a manifestation of Allah's justice and mercy. The word (sultan) "سُلْطانِ" means a ruler or authority figure who has power and control over a specific domain. The term (al-'adil) "العادِلِ" refers to a just or fair person who upholds justice and equity. And finally, the word (al-muhsin) "المُحْسِنِ" denotes a benevolent or virtuous individual who performs acts of kindness and goodness.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Hadid (57:25), Allah says,

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

This verse highlights the role of messengers in establishing justice and maintaining balance in society.

Additionally, in Surah An-Nisa (4:135), Allah commands the believers,

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.

Furthermore, the Quran also emphasizes the importance of benevolence and kindness. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195), Allah says,

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse encourages Muslims to spend their wealth in the way of Allah and to perform acts of goodness and kindness.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we can understand that the reward mentioned in the Hadith is not limited to the material realm. Rather, it encompasses both the worldly and spiritual realms. A just ruler who governs with fairness and equity will not only be rewarded in this life but also in the Hereafter. Similarly, a benevolent individual who performs acts of kindness and goodness will be rewarded by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) both in this world and in the Hereafter.

The consequences of adhering to the principles mentioned in this Hadith are far-reaching. A just ruler who upholds justice and fairness will create an environment of peace, stability, and prosperity for his subjects. This will lead to the overall well-being and happiness of the society. Similarly, a benevolent individual who performs acts of kindness and goodness will contribute to the betterment of society and the upliftment of those in need.

Moreover, the Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to strive for justice and benevolence in their own lives. It reminds us of the importance of upholding justice in our dealings with others, whether it be in our personal relationships, professional endeavors, or societal interactions. It also encourages us to be kind and compassionate towards others, as acts of benevolence have immense rewards in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the immense reward that awaits those who embody the qualities of a just ruler and a benevolent individual. It emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in society, as well as the significance of performing acts of kindness and goodness. By adhering to these principles, Muslims can contribute to the establishment of a just and compassionate society, both in this world and in the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these qualities and be among those who are rewarded greatly by Him.