Hadith #1342

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 pure and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لايُقَصِّرُ المُؤْمِنُ عَنْ احْتِمال، ولا يَجزَعُ لِرَزِيَّة۔

This Hadith emphasizes two important qualities that a believer should possess: forbearance and steadfastness in the face of difficulties.

The word (ihtimal) "احْتِمال" in this Hadith refers to forbearance or patience. It is the ability to remain calm and composed in the face of hardships, trials, and tribulations. It is the quality of enduring and persevering through difficult times without losing hope or becoming overwhelmed. The believer is encouraged not to fall short in exercising this virtue, as it is a fundamental characteristic of a true believer.

The second part of the Hadith mentions the word (raziyyah) "رَزِيَّة", which can be translated as difficulty or adversity. It refers to the challenges and hardships that one may encounter in life. The believer is advised not to get anxious or distressed when faced with such difficulties. Instead, they should remain steadfast and rely on their faith in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to guide them through the trials.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:155-156)

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient, Who, when disaster strikes them, say, 'Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.'

These verses remind us that trials and tribulations are a part of life. They are tests from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to assess our faith and patience. The believer who possesses forbearance and does not become anxious or distressed in the face of difficulties is rewarded by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). They remain steadfast in their devotion and trust in Allah's plan, knowing that everything happens according to His wisdom.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 47:31)

And We will surely test you until We make evident those who strive among you and the patient, and We will test your affairs.

These verses highlight the importance of patience and perseverance in the face of trials. The believer who remains steadfast and patient during difficult times demonstrates their trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and their commitment to their faith. They understand that these tests are a means of purification and growth, and they do not waver in their dedication to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the importance of forbearance and steadfastness in the face of difficulties. It encourages us to cultivate these qualities in ourselves as believers. When we face challenges, we should strive to remain patient and trust in Allah's plan. We should not allow ourselves to become overwhelmed or anxious, but rather seek solace in our faith and rely on Allah's guidance.

By embodying the qualities of forbearance and steadfastness, we can navigate through the trials of life with grace and resilience. We can find strength in our faith and draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these virtues and face the challenges of life with patience and steadfastness.