Hadith #9698

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "المروءة القناعة والتحمل" which translates to

Magnanimity is contentment and tolerance (or patience).

In this thought-provoking Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights two essential qualities that define true magnanimity.

Firstly, the term (contentment) "قناعة" refers to being satisfied and grateful with what Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has provided us. It is the opposite of greed and covetousness. Contentment is a virtue that allows us to appreciate the blessings we have been bestowed with, rather than constantly desiring more. It is a state of inner peace and tranquility that stems from recognizing the sufficiency of what Allah has decreed for us.

The Quran beautifully emphasizes the importance of contentment in several verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:152),

So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me.

This verse reminds us to be grateful to Allah for His countless blessings and to avoid ingratitude. Contentment is an expression of gratitude towards our Creator and a recognition of His wisdom in providing for us.

Secondly, the term (tolerance or patience) "تحمل" refers to the ability to endure hardships and difficulties with steadfastness and forbearance. It is the strength to remain calm and composed in the face of adversity. Tolerance is a virtue that enables us to maintain our composure and dignity, even when faced with challenging circumstances.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of patience and tolerance. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:153), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse reminds us that patience is a means of seeking Allah's assistance and that He is always with those who remain patient. Patience in the face of trials and tribulations is a sign of true magnanimity and a demonstration of our trust in Allah's plan.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the interconnectedness of contentment and tolerance. True magnanimity lies in being content with what we have been given and being patient when faced with challenges. When we are content, we are not consumed by the desire for more, and when we are patient, we do not succumb to frustration or despair.

Practicing contentment and tolerance has profound consequences in our lives. Contentment allows us to find peace and happiness in the present moment, rather than constantly chasing after worldly desires. It frees us from the shackles of materialism and enables us to focus on our spiritual growth and connection with Allah.

Tolerance, on the other hand, strengthens our character and builds resilience. It allows us to navigate through the ups and downs of life with grace and dignity. By remaining patient in the face of difficulties, we develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. We learn to trust in Allah's wisdom and rely on His guidance.

Reflecting on Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) words, we are reminded of the importance of cultivating these qualities in our lives. As Muslims, we should strive to embody contentment and tolerance in our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. By doing so, we can attain true magnanimity and draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the ability to practice these virtues and bless us with His mercy and guidance.