Hadith #8117

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ غَضِبَ عَلى مَنْ لايَقْدِرُعَلى مَضَرَّتِهِ طالَ حُزْنُهُ، وعذَّبَ نَفْسَهُ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the negative consequences of getting angry at someone who is incapable of causing harm. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (ghadiba) "غَضِبَ" in Arabic refers to anger or wrath. It is a natural emotion that humans experience, but it is important to control and channel it appropriately. The Hadith warns against getting angry (ala) "عَلى" someone, meaning directing one's anger towards someone who is (la yaqdiru 'ala) "لايَقْدِرُعَلى" - someone who is unable to cause harm or damage. This could refer to someone who is weak, helpless, or innocent.

The Hadith highlights the negative consequences of such anger. It states that when one gets angry at someone who cannot harm them, their sadness is prolonged and they torment themselves. This means that instead of finding resolution or peace, the individual remains in a state of distress and suffering. This serves as a reminder to Muslims to be mindful of their anger and to direct it towards just causes and situations where it can bring about positive change.

The Quran provides guidance on managing anger and its consequences. In Surah Al-Imran (3:134), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Those who control their anger and are forgiving toward people; Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of self-control and forgiveness, which are key to managing anger in a positive and constructive manner. By controlling our anger and forgiving others, we not only please Allah, but we also maintain our own emotional well-being.

Another verse that sheds light on the consequences of anger is found in Surah Ash-Shura (42:37), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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

This verse encourages Muslims to refrain from major sins and immoral actions, and to forgive others even when they are angry. By doing so, we can prevent ourselves from falling into a cycle of negativity and harm.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. His teachings and actions were guided by the Quran, and he exemplified the qualities of patience, forgiveness, and self-control. He understood the detrimental effects of anger and advised Muslims to avoid getting angry at those who cannot harm them.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see that it serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their emotions and to direct their anger towards constructive purposes. Getting angry at someone who cannot cause harm not only prolongs our own sadness but also leads to self-inflicted torment. By following the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can strive to control our anger, forgive others, and maintain our emotional well-being. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to manage our emotions in a manner that is pleasing to Him.