In Wisdom (186), Imam Ali (peace be upon him) strongly condemns oppression and points to its consequences. This wisdom is particularly relevant in historical contexts where tyranny and injustice were rampant, and Imam Ali (a.s.) faced such challenges throughout his life. It conveys that those who initiate oppression will ultimately regret their actions.

The central theme of this wisdom is that the outcome of oppression is always negative. The oppressor will face the consequences of their actions, and their conscience will bear the weight of their misdeeds. Imam Ali (a.s.) suggests that those who are the first to commit injustice will find themselves in a position of remorse, metaphorically described as cutting their own hands with their teeth, indicating the self-destructive nature of their actions.

Another important aspect of this wisdom is that the effects of oppression are not limited to the oppressed; the oppressor also suffers the repercussions. This serves as a spiritual lesson that one should avoid oppression and strive for justice in their interactions with others. Practically, it advises us to work towards eliminating oppression in our lives, allowing us to cleanse our hearts of hatred and malice.

Furthermore, this wisdom highlights the necessity of addressing our own inner evils to treat others well. It teaches us that by removing hatred and resentment from our hearts, we can also help others rid themselves of these negative emotions. This interconnectedness emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in fostering a just and compassionate society.