Does the saying "If you cannot prevent an oppression, at least announce it to everyone?" belong to Hazrat Ali (R.A.)?
The saying "If you cannot prevent an oppression, at least announce it to everyone" is not directly attributed to Hazrat Ali (R.A.) in the retrieved sources. However, the themes of speaking against oppression and the obligation to address wrongdoing resonate strongly with Islamic teachings and the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
For instance, it is narrated that the Prophet ﷺ said, Among the greatest forms of jihad is to speak a word of justice in front of a tyrannical ruler.
Sunan al-Tirmidhi 33:17. This emphasizes the importance of addressing injustice, even when one may not be able to prevent it directly.
Additionally, the implications of warning against oppression are present in other teachings attributed to both the Prophet ﷺ and the Imams. For example, a narration states, When people see evil but do not change it, Allah's punishment is imminent upon them.
Sunan Ibn Majah 37:80. This highlights the necessity of at least acknowledging and speaking out against wrongdoing.
While the exact phrasing you mentioned may not be found in the sources, the essence of combating oppression through speech and awareness is a significant aspect of Islamic ethics, reflected in both Sunni and Shia traditions.
Sources
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Sunan al-Tirmidhi 33:17
Sunan al-Tirmidhi · Book 33, Hadith 17 · Narrated by Abi Sa'id Al-Khudri
The Prophet said, 'Among the greatest forms of jihad is to speak a word of justice in front of a tyrannical ruler.'
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Sunan Ibn Majah 37:80
Sunan Ibn Majah · Book 37, Hadith 80
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "O people, you recite this verse: 'O you who believe, protect yourselves; no one will harm you if they go astray while you are rightly guided.' We heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say: 'When people see evil but do not change it, Allah's punishment is imminent upon them.'" Then it was reported, "Indeed, I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say this again."
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