Hadith #4908

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, "نِعْمَ الشّيمَةُ السَّكينَةُ" which translates to

Calmness is an excellent quality.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of maintaining a state of tranquility and composure in our lives.

The word (shimah) "شّيمَةُ" in this Hadith refers to a quality or characteristic. It signifies a distinguishing feature or attribute that sets an individual apart. In this context, it refers to the quality of calmness or tranquility. The word (sakina) "سَّكينَةُ" means tranquility, peace, or serenity. It refers to a state of inner peace and composure.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that highlight the significance of maintaining calmness and tranquility in our lives. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:153),

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

This verse emphasizes the importance of patience and prayer in seeking assistance from Allah. It implies that maintaining a state of calmness and patience in the face of challenges is crucial.

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 highlights the importance of responding to harshness with peaceful words and maintaining a calm demeanor.

The exegesis of this Hadith emphasizes the significance of cultivating the quality of calmness in our lives. Calmness allows us to navigate through the challenges and trials of life with grace and composure. It enables us to respond to difficult situations in a measured and thoughtful manner, rather than reacting impulsively.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified this quality of calmness throughout his life. His deep knowledge and understanding of Islam allowed him to remain composed even in the most challenging circumstances. For example, during the Battle of Jamal, when faced with aggression and provocation, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) maintained his calmness and sought peaceful resolutions.

The consequences of cultivating calmness are profound. It allows us to maintain healthy relationships, resolve conflicts peacefully, and make wise decisions. Calmness also enables us to connect with our inner selves and seek guidance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in times of distress. It is through this state of tranquility that we can find solace and peace in our hearts.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are encouraged to strive for calmness in their lives. We should seek to develop this quality by practicing patience, self-control, and mindfulness. By doing so, we can navigate the challenges of life with grace and tranquility, and ultimately attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the ability to cultivate calmness and serenity in our hearts and lives.