(282) Chapter: Prohibition of Cruelty

It has been narrated that Hisham bin Hakim bin Hizam (May Allah be pleased with them) happened to pass by some (non-Arab) farmers of Syria who had been made to stand in the sun, and olive oil was poured on their heads. He said: "What is the matter?" He was told that they had been detained for the non-payment of Jizyah. (Another narration says that they were being tortured for not having paid Al-Kharaj). Thereupon Hisham said: "I bear testimony to the fact that I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) saying, 'Allah will torment those who torment people in the world."' Then he proceeded towards their Amir and reported this Hadith to him. The Amir then issued orders for their release.

[Muslim].

Commentary:
1. "Al-Kharaj'' is that tax which is charged on the produce yielded by land which is in the possession of nonMuslims in a Muslim State, while the revenue that is recovered from the Muslims on the lands held by them iscalled "Al-Ushr''. "Jizyah'' is that annual fee which is charged from the non-Muslims for the safety and security provided to their life, property and honour by a Muslim State. Muslims pay Zakat and non-Muslims pay Jizyah.

2. "Adhab'' torment is that particular punishment which Allah will inflict upon the inhabitants of Hell. If anyone gives a similar punishment to anybody in this world, he will be punished by Allah in the Hereafter for it, because He does not like anyone to do so. To make someone stand in a sizzling hot day and pour oil over his head is one type of tormenting people. For this reason, Hisham bin Hakim (May Allah be pleased with them) mentioned this Hadith to the Governor to warn him and make him abolish the punishment.

3. We also learn from this Hadith that it is incumbent on every Muslim to enjoin good on people and forbid them from doing evil.

4. Tyrants should be warned against their tyrannies so that they abstain from them.