Hadith #8588

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the issue of dominating the weak and the slave, stating that such actions are a result of the wickedness or exigencies of power. To understand the connotation of this Hadith, let us delve into the important words and their implications.

The word (tasallutu) "تَسَلُّطُ" refers to the act of dominating or exercising authority over others. It implies the misuse of power and control, particularly in relation to those who are weak or enslaved. The word (da'if) "ضَعِيفِ" signifies those who are vulnerable, lacking strength, or in a disadvantaged position. On the other hand, the word (mamluk) "مَمْلُوكِ" refers to those who are enslaved or subjugated.

To shed light on the significance of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice, compassion, and fairness towards the weak and oppressed in numerous verses. For instance, in Surah An-Nisa (4:36), Allah says,

And worship Allah and associate nothing with Him, and to parents do good, and to relatives, orphans, the needy, the near neighbor, the neighbor farther away, the companion at your side, the traveler, and those whom your right hands possess. Indeed, Allah does not like those who are self-deluding and boastful.

This verse highlights the obligation to treat the weak and those in disadvantaged positions with kindness and fairness. It condemns the act of exploiting or dominating them, emphasizing the importance of justice and compassion in all aspects of life.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands,

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, regardless of one's personal interests or the social status of the individuals involved. It serves as a reminder that power and authority should never be misused to dominate or oppress others, especially the weak and the enslaved.

The exegesis of this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reveals profound insights into the consequences of dominating the weak and the enslaved. Such actions stem from the wickedness or exigencies of power, indicating that those who engage in such behavior are driven by their desire for control and dominance. However, this pursuit of power at the expense of others not only goes against the teachings of Islam but also leads to negative consequences.

By dominating the weak and the enslaved, individuals not only perpetuate injustice but also create an environment of fear, oppression, and inequality. This not only affects the immediate victims but also undermines the social fabric of the community as a whole. It erodes trust, fosters resentment, and hinders the establishment of a just and harmonious society.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, highlights the importance of recognizing the wickedness inherent in the act of dominating the weak and the enslaved. His words serve as a reminder to Muslims of all backgrounds that true power lies in using authority for the betterment of society, upholding justice, and treating all individuals with fairness and compassion.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns against the wickedness of dominating the weak and the enslaved. It calls upon Muslims to reflect on the Quranic teachings that emphasize justice, compassion, and fairness towards the vulnerable members of society. By adhering to these principles, we can contribute to the establishment of a just and equitable society, guided by the noble teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to uphold justice and treat all individuals with fairness and compassion.