Hadith #8095

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of anger. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith by exploring the important words and their meanings.

The word (qareen) "قَرِينُ" in Arabic refers to an associate or a companion. In this context, it signifies the presence of anger as a companion to an individual. The word (ghadab) "غَضَبُ" means anger. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes anger as an evil associate because of the detrimental effects it has on a person's character and actions.

The Hadith states that anger (yubdi al-ma'aib) "يُبْدِي المَعَائِبَ", which means it exposes faults. When a person is consumed by anger, their true character is revealed, and they may say or do things that they would not do in a calm state. This exposure of faults can lead to strained relationships, hurtful words, and regretful actions.

Furthermore, the Hadith mentions that anger (yudni al-sharr) "يُدْنِي الشَّرَّ", which means it brings evil closer. Anger clouds one's judgment and impairs their ability to make sound decisions. It can lead to aggression, violence, and the perpetuation of harm. By succumbing to anger, a person is more likely to engage in actions that are detrimental to themselves and others.

On the contrary, the Hadith also emphasizes that anger (yuba'idu al-khayr) "يُبَاعِدُ الخَيْرَ", which means it distances good. When a person is engulfed in anger, they are unable to think rationally and consider the consequences of their actions. This can hinder their ability to engage in acts of kindness, compassion, and righteousness. Anger becomes a barrier that prevents them from seeking and embracing goodness.

To further understand the significance of controlling anger, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:134):

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

This verse highlights the importance of self-restraint and forgiveness, which are qualities that counteract the negative effects of anger.

Additionally, in Surah Ash-Shura (42:37), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us to respond to evil with goodness:

And those who, when tyranny strikes them, they defend themselves. And the retribution for an evil act is an evil one like it. But whoever pardons and makes reconciliation - his reward is [due] from Allah. Indeed, He does not like wrongdoers.

This verse encourages us to respond to provocation and harm with patience, forgiveness, and reconciliation, rather than allowing anger to dictate our actions.

Reflecting on the exegesis of this Hadith, we realize the importance of controlling our anger and its potential consequences. By restraining our anger, we can maintain harmonious relationships, make wise decisions, and uphold the values of kindness and righteousness. It is through the teachings of Islam, exemplified by the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), that we are reminded of the detrimental effects of anger and encouraged to seek self-improvement in this regard.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to control our anger and respond to challenging situations with patience, forgiveness, and goodness. Ameen.