Urwa reported on the authority of his father that Hisham b. Hakim b. Hizam happened to pass by some people in Syria who had been made to stand in the sun and olive oil was being poured on their heads. He asked: “What is this?” They replied: “They are being punished for not paying the Kharaj (government tax).” Hisham responded:
“Allah will punish those who torment people in this world (without any genuine reason).”
Description:
This narration highlights a scene of unjust punishment. Civilians were tortured in the blazing sun, with olive oil poured over their heads a cruel form of humiliation and physical suffering – just for not paying taxes, Hisham ibn Hakim, a companion of the Prophet ﷺ, condemned this oppression outright. His words reflect the Islamic principle that no one has the right to torture others unjustly, even in the name of authority or law enforcement. Torturing people for financial failure is not just harsh, it is sinful and leads to Allah’s punishment in the Hereafter.
- Islam forbids torture or cruel treatment, even for criminals or defaulters.
- No ruler or government official has the right to humiliate people – punishment must be just and proportionate.
- Financial hardship is not a crime – Islam promotes mercy, not brutality.
- Accountability exists in the Hereafter – those who wrong others will be punished by Allah even if they hold power in this world.
- Standing up against injustice is a virtue – Hisham ibn Hakim didn’t stay silent.
Quranic Context:
📖Quran 4:75
And what is [the matter] with you that you fight not in the cause of Allah and [for] the oppressed among men, women, and children who say, “Our Lord, take us out of this city of oppressive people…”
→ Islam encourages standing up for the oppressed, not siding with tyrants.
📖Quran 28:83
That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.
→ Islam rejects arrogance and oppression by those in power.
📖Quran 42:42
The blame is only against those who wrong the people and tyrannize upon the earth without right. For them there will be a painful punishment.
→ Those who abuse their authority and torment others are warned of Allah’s punishment.
This hadith is a direct blow to modern dictatorships and corrupt regimes who use fear, torture, or financial control to break their people. Islam does not approve of such tyranny. Justice, compassion, and accountability are core principles – and those who abuse power will face the consequences from Allah.