Hadith #2825

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the virtue of forbearance and self-restraint in the face of anger, especially when one possesses the power to seek revenge. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the best form of forbearance is to control one's anger and exercise self-restraint, even when one has the ability to retaliate.

Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (hilm) "حِلْمِ" refers to forbearance or patience, which involves restraining oneself from reacting impulsively in moments of anger. (kathm al-ghayz) "كَظْمُ الغَيْظِ" means suppressing or restraining anger. It implies not allowing anger to control one's actions and instead maintaining composure and calmness.

The phrase (milk al-nafs) "مِلْكُ النَّفْسِ" translates to "exercising self-restraint." It signifies having control over one's desires, emotions, and impulses. It involves the ability to resist the temptation to act upon anger and to exercise self-discipline.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that this form of forbearance is most virtuous when one possesses the power or ability to seek revenge. This highlights the strength and nobility of character required to exercise self-restraint despite having the means to retaliate.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) praises those who suppress their anger in Surah Al-Imran, verse 134:

Who spend [in the cause of Allah] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of restraining anger and forgiving others. It teaches us that true strength lies in controlling our emotions and responding to provocation with patience and forgiveness. By doing so, we emulate the qualities that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) loves.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Ash-Shura, verse 37:

And those who avoid the major sins and immoralities, and when they are angry, they forgive.

This verse encourages us to avoid major sins and immoralities, and it specifically mentions forgiveness in moments of anger. It reminds us that forgiveness is a noble characteristic that should be cultivated, even when we are provoked or wronged.

Reflecting upon the Hadith, we can understand the profound wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) words. Suppressing anger and exercising self-restraint in the face of provocation or injustice requires immense strength of character. It is easy to react impulsively and seek revenge, but it takes true wisdom and self-control to respond with forbearance and forgiveness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sets an example for us to follow through his own actions. His knowledge, wisdom, and exemplary conduct serve as a guide for Muslims in navigating the challenges of life. By emulating his teachings and embodying the virtue of forbearance, we can strive to become better individuals and contribute to a more harmonious society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of suppressing anger and exercising self-restraint, especially when we have the power to seek revenge. It encourages us to emulate the noble qualities of patience and forgiveness, as exemplified by the teachings of the Quran. By embodying these virtues, we can strive to become better Muslims and contribute to a more peaceful and just society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to practice forbearance in all aspects of our lives.