Hadith #8079

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The person who is most capable of being on the right is one who does not get angry.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of controlling one's anger and highlights the virtue of patience and forbearance.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and their significance. The word (sawab) "صَوَاب" in Arabic refers to being on the right path, doing what is correct and just. It encompasses righteousness, wisdom, and adherence to the teachings of Islam. The word (ghadab) "غَضَبْ" means anger, which is a natural emotion that can cloud one's judgment and lead to regrettable actions.

To understand the significance of controlling anger, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:134),

Those 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 highlights the virtues of those who control their anger and forgive others, as they are beloved by Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Furqan (25:63), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the qualities of the servants of the Most Merciful, stating,

And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace.

This verse emphasizes the importance of responding to harsh words with peace and tranquility, rather than reacting in anger.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the superior character of a person who can control their anger. Such an individual possesses the strength to remain calm and composed in challenging situations, enabling them to make wise decisions and act in accordance with the teachings of Islam. They are not easily provoked or swayed by their emotions, but rather exhibit patience and forbearance.

Controlling anger has numerous benefits in both personal and societal contexts. On an individual level, it prevents one from engaging in harmful behavior or saying hurtful words that may damage relationships. It allows for clearer thinking and better judgment, enabling one to resolve conflicts peacefully. In society, individuals who control their anger contribute to a harmonious and peaceful environment, fostering unity and understanding among people.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of self-control and the need to cultivate patience and forbearance in our lives. It serves as a reminder that true strength lies in controlling our emotions and responding to challenging situations with wisdom and tranquility. By emulating the example set by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can strive to be individuals who are on the right path, guided by the principles of Islam and embodying the virtues of patience and forbearance.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to control our anger and guide us on the path of righteousness. Ameen.