Exposition of the Hadith on Oppression

This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari (2447) contains profound wisdom regarding the spiritual consequences of injustice. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) declared: "Oppression will be a darkness on the Day of Resurrection."

The Nature of Oppression (Dhulm)

Oppression (dhulm) in Islamic terminology signifies placing something in other than its rightful place - be it through transgressing against Allah's rights or the rights of His creation.

Scholars classify oppression into three categories: between humans and their Lord (through shirk and disobedience), between humans themselves (through injustice), and self-oppression (through sins).

The Metaphor of Darkness

The darkness mentioned symbolizes multiple dimensions: confusion and loss of direction in the Hereafter, isolation from divine mercy, and the spiritual blindness that prevents recognizing truth.

Just as physical darkness prevents vision, the darkness of oppression prevents the soul from progressing toward salvation on the Day of Judgment.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Nawawi explains that this darkness affects both the oppressor's heart in this world and their path in the Hereafter. The severity corresponds to the magnitude of oppression committed.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that this darkness manifests as the oppressor's inability to cross the Sirat (the bridge over Hell) and their separation from the guided believers.

Practical Implications

This hadith serves as a powerful warning to immediately cease all forms of injustice and to seek forgiveness from those wronged.

Scholars emphasize that restoring rights to their owners before the Day of Judgment is essential, as on that Day, good deeds will be taken to compensate for oppression.