Hadith #2810

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights the true essence of forbearance (hilm) and distinguishes it from mere weakness or a temporary show of restraint. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

He who lacks strength and thus remains quiet, only to take revenge when he gets power, is not forbearing; rather only he is forbearing who forgives when he has power and over all of whose affairs forbearance prevails.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The term "hilm" refers to forbearance, patience, and self-restraint in the face of provocation or harm. It is a quality that enables one to control their anger and respond with kindness and forgiveness. The word "ajaz" means weakness or incapacity, while "hajam" signifies attacking or retaliating. "Qadar" refers to power or authority, and "intaqam" means seeking revenge.

To comprehend the wise message of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the virtues of forbearance and forgiveness. In Surah Al-Imran (3:134), Allah says,

Those who spend [in Allah's cause] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of restraining anger and forgiving others, even in difficult circumstances. It is a reminder that true forbearance lies in controlling one's emotions and responding with kindness, regardless of the situation. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) further emphasizes this virtue in Surah Ash-Shura (42:43), stating,

And whoever is patient and forgives - indeed, that is of the matters [requiring] determination.

The Quranic verses emphasize that true forbearance is not a sign of weakness or incapacity, but rather a manifestation of strength and determination. It is easy to react impulsively and seek revenge when one has the power to do so. However, true forbearance lies in forgiving and showing mercy, even when one has the ability to retaliate.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified this quality throughout his life. Despite facing numerous injustices and betrayals, he consistently demonstrated forbearance and forgiveness. One notable example is the Battle of Jamal, where Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) showed immense restraint and forgiveness towards those who had fought against him. This act of forgiveness not only reflected his strength of character but also served as a powerful example for Muslims to follow.

The consequences of practicing true forbearance are profound. It fosters unity, reconciliation, and the preservation of relationships. When individuals choose forgiveness over revenge, they contribute to the betterment of society and promote a culture of peace and harmony. Moreover, forbearance allows one to maintain their own inner peace and tranquility, as they are not burdened by the weight of anger and grudges.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are reminded of the importance of embodying the true essence of forbearance. It is not enough to simply remain quiet in the face of adversity; rather, true forbearance lies in forgiving and showing mercy when one has the power to retaliate. By following the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and practicing forbearance, Muslims can contribute to a more compassionate and just society.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to embody the true essence of forbearance and forgive others, even in the face of adversity. May we strive to follow the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and emulate their noble qualities. Ameen.