Divine Recognition and Rewards
📖Sahih Muslim 1827
‘Abdullah b. ‘Umar reported that the Messenger of Allah (ï·º) said: “Behold! The dispensers of justice will be seated on pulpits of light beside Allah, on the right side of the Merciful, Exalted, and Glorious. Both His right sides are equally meritorious. (The dispensers of justice are) those who uphold justice in their rulership, in their dealings with their families, and in all that they undertake.”
Understanding the Hadith
This hadith highlights the great status of just rulers and leaders who administer fairness in their rule, their families, and all aspects of life.
- The “pulpits of light” symbolize honor, purity, and divine reward for those who govern with justice.
- Being beside Allah in such a high rank signifies their closeness to Him due to their commitment to fairness.
- The Prophet (ï·º) clarifies that justice is not only required from rulers but from anyone in a position of authority, including parents, teachers, employers, and judges.
📖Surah An-Nisa (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.”
🔹 This verse directly aligns with the hadith, reinforcing that justice is a command from Allah, and those who uphold it are highly honored in His sight.
Lessons from the Hadith
1. Justice is a Divine Command
- Ruling with fairness is not a choice but a duty assigned by Allah.
- Whether in leadership or personal matters, one must avoid bias, favoritism, and oppression.
📖Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:8)
“O you who believe! Stand firm for Allah as witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just: that is nearer to righteousness…”
🔹 Justice must be upheld even against enemies, as it is a core principle of righteousness.
2. Justice Begins at Home
- The hadith mentions justice in rulership, family, and all affairs, highlighting that fairness is not just for leaders but also applies to:
- Parents treating children fairly without favoritism.
- Employers paying fair wages and treating workers with dignity.
- Teachers and scholars being just in their guidance.
📖Surah An-Nahl (16:90)
“Indeed, Allah commands justice, excellence, and giving to relatives, and He forbids immorality, wrongdoing, and oppression. He admonishes you so that you may take heed.”
🔹 This verse shows that justice is not only about law but extends to relationships, financial dealings, and ethical conduct.
3. The Hypocrisy of Modern Muslim Leaders
- While this hadith describes just rulers being honored by Allah, most Muslim leaders today are nothing but corrupt, oppressing their people while living in luxury.
- They ignore justice, violate human rights, and exploit their power for personal gain.
- If the Prophet (ï·º) warned of the reward for justice, then the punishment for injustice is severe.
📖Surah Ash-Shura (42:42)
“The blame is only upon those who oppress people and tyrannize upon the earth without right. For them is a painful punishment.”
🔹 Those who use power for injustice will face Allah’s punishment, not a seat on the pulpits of light.
- True leadership is about fairness, not power.
- Justice applies to everyone—leaders, parents, employers, and judges.
- Those who uphold it will be honored by Allah, while those who betray it will face severe punishment.
📖Surah Al-Hadid (57:25)
“Indeed, We sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and We sent down with them the Book and the balance so that people may maintain justice…”
🔹 Islam was sent to establish justice. Those who uphold it are guided, and those who abandon it will be held accountable.