Hadith #5650

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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,

ما صَبَرْتَ عَنْهُ خَيْرٌٌمِمّا إلْتَذَذْتَ بِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

That which you abstain from is better than that which you delight in.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds great wisdom and guidance for Muslims.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us first analyze the key words. The word (sabarta) "صَبَرْتَ" is derived from the root word (sabara) "صَبَرَ", which means to exercise patience, endurance, and self-restraint. The word (anhu) "عَنْهُ" means from it or from that. The word (khayrun) "خَيْرٌ" means better or superior. The word (iltadhatha) "إلْتَذَذْتَ" is derived from the root word (ladhha) "لَذَّ", which means to take pleasure or delight in something.

Now, let us turn to the Quran to find support for the wisdom behind Imam Ali's statement. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:216)

And it may be that you dislike a thing which is good for you and that you like a thing which is bad for you. Allah knows but you do not know.

This verse highlights the fact that sometimes we may desire or take pleasure in something that is ultimately harmful for us, while we may dislike or abstain from something that is actually beneficial.

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

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

This verse emphasizes the importance of restraining oneself from engaging in immoral acts, even if they may provide temporary pleasure. By abstaining from such actions, one is able to protect their honor, maintain purity, and avoid the negative consequences associated with such behavior.

Imam Ali's statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to exercise self-control and patience in their actions and desires. It encourages us to prioritize the long-term benefits and rewards over temporary pleasures. For example, refraining from indulging in excessive worldly desires and material possessions can lead to a more content and spiritually fulfilling life. Similarly, abstaining from sinful acts, such as lying, cheating, or backbiting, can preserve our integrity and strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Moreover, this Hadith teaches us the importance of self-discipline and self-restraint in various aspects of our lives. It reminds us to control our desires and impulses, whether it be in matters of wealth, food, relationships, or personal ambitions. By practicing moderation and avoiding excess, we can maintain a balanced and harmonious lifestyle.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

That which you abstain from is better than that which you delight in

serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to exercise patience and self-restraint. It encourages us to prioritize the long-term benefits and rewards over temporary pleasures. By abstaining from harmful actions and desires, we can attain spiritual growth, preserve our integrity, and ultimately seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and attain success in this life and the hereafter.