Hadith #2784

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

شَرُّ الوُلاةِ مَنْ يَخافُهُ البَرِيءُ۔

This translates to,

The worst of rulers is one who is feared by the innocent.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (wulāt) "وُلاةِ" refers to rulers or leaders, those who hold positions of authority and power. The word (yakhāfu) "يَخافُهُ" means to fear or be afraid of, and (al-barī') "البَرِيءُ" refers to the innocent or the righteous individuals who are free from any wrongdoing.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of just and righteous leadership in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:125)

And [recall] when We made the House a place of return for the people and [a place of] security. And take, [O believers], from the standing place of Abraham a place of prayer. And We charged Abraham and Ishmael, [saying], 'Purify My House for those who perform Tawaf and those who are staying [there] for worship and those who bow and prostrate [in prayer].'

This verse highlights the responsibility of leaders to establish a safe and secure environment for the people. A just ruler should be someone who is trusted and respected, not someone who instills fear in the innocent. Allah further emphasizes the importance of justice in leadership in Surah An-Nisa, stating, (Quran 4:58)

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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns perfectly with these Quranic teachings. It warns against rulers who abuse their power and oppress the innocent. Such rulers create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, which goes against the principles of justice and righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his deep knowledge and understanding of Islam. His words carry immense wisdom and guidance for Muslims. In this Hadith, he highlights the negative consequences of a ruler who is feared by the innocent. When a leader is feared rather than respected, the people are deprived of their rights and freedoms. The innocent are oppressed, and the society as a whole suffers.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for just and righteous leadership. It encourages us to support leaders who prioritize the welfare and well-being of the people, rather than those who exploit their power for personal gain. It also reminds us of our duty as individuals to speak out against injustice and oppression, and to work towards establishing a society based on justice and compassion.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

The worst of rulers is one who is feared by the innocent

emphasizes the importance of just and righteous leadership. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which stress the need for leaders who establish security and justice for the people. As Muslims, we should strive to support leaders who uphold these principles and work towards creating a just and compassionate society. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us leaders who fear Him and prioritize the well-being of the innocent.