Hadith #9007

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

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

القوي من قمع لذته

which translates to

A strong person is one who subdues his pleasures.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of self-control and discipline in the face of desires and temptations.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us first examine the key words used. The word (al-qawi) "القوي" refers to strength and power. It signifies not only physical strength but also mental and spiritual strength. The word (qama'a) "قمع" means to suppress, restrain, or subdue. And (lazatah) "لذته" refers to pleasures or desires.

This Hadith aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of self-control and moderation. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And do not throw yourselves into destruction. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse reminds us to exercise self-restraint and avoid indulging in harmful or excessive behaviors.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:32), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.

This verse highlights the importance of controlling our desires and refraining from engaging in prohibited actions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement emphasizes the strength and power that lies in restraining our desires. It is easy to give in to our immediate gratifications, but true strength lies in resisting those temptations for the sake of a greater purpose. By subduing our pleasures, we develop self-discipline, which is essential for personal growth and spiritual elevation.

For example, a person who refrains from indulging in excessive food or drink, despite their availability, demonstrates their strength of character and self-control. They prioritize their physical and spiritual well-being over temporary pleasures. Similarly, a person who controls their anger and responds with patience and forgiveness exhibits strength in managing their emotions.

The consequences of subduing our pleasures are far-reaching. It allows us to develop a strong willpower, which empowers us to overcome challenges and temptations in various aspects of life. It helps us maintain a balanced and moderate lifestyle, free from the shackles of excessive desires. By practicing self-control, we become more mindful of our actions and make choices that align with our values and principles.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of self-discipline in our journey towards self-improvement and spiritual growth. It encourages us to evaluate our desires and urges, and to exercise restraint when necessary. By subduing our pleasures, we not only strengthen our character but also draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His pleasure.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true strength lies in subduing our pleasures and exercising self-control. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of moderation and self-restraint. By restraining our desires, we develop inner strength, discipline, and a closer connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to subdue our pleasures and lead a life of righteousness.