Hadith #6813

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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,

The most unjust conduct is for you to seek equity from people while not dealing with them in the same way.

This amazing Hadith emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in our interactions with others. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (ajwar) "أجْوَرُ" in the Hadith refers to the most unjust or unfair conduct. It highlights the severity of the injustice being discussed. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is drawing our attention to the fact that seeking equity from others while not treating them with fairness is a grave injustice.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in various verses. For example, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:9), Allah says,

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 highlights the obligation to act justly and settle disputes in a fair manner. It emphasizes the importance of treating others with equity, even in times of conflict. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith aligns perfectly with this Quranic principle, as it warns against seeking equity from others while failing to reciprocate the same fairness in our own dealings.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah An-Nisa (4:58), where Allah says,

Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice. Excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and Seeing.

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling our responsibilities and obligations towards others. It reminds us to uphold justice when judging between people. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith echoes this Quranic command by highlighting the injustice of seeking equity from others while failing to treat them with fairness.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that it calls us to examine our own behavior and ensure that we are treating others justly. It reminds us that justice is not a one-sided demand but a two-way street. We cannot expect fairness from others if we ourselves are not willing to practice it.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, and this Hadith is a testament to his deep understanding of the Quranic teachings. It serves as a reminder for all Muslims, both Shia and Sunni, to strive for justice and fairness in all aspects of our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns against seeking equity from others while not dealing with them in the same way. It emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in our interactions with others. By aligning with the Quranic teachings on justice, this Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to uphold these principles in their daily lives. May Allah guide us all to be just and fair in our dealings with others.