كَمْ مِنْ غَيظ تُجُرِّعَ مَخافَةَ ما هُوَ أشَدُّ مِنْهُ۔
How many a time is anger suppressed out of the fear of that which is more severe than it.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Suppressing Anger)
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 progeny, and his noble companions.
The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the concept of controlling one's anger due to the fear of something more severe. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to gain a better understanding.
The word (ghayz) "غَيظ" refers to anger or wrath. It is an intense emotion that can cloud one's judgment and lead to regrettable actions. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) acknowledges that anger is a natural human emotion, but he emphasizes the importance of suppressing it. He states that anger is often suppressed out of the fear of something more severe.
The phrase (tujurri'a makhafa) "تُجُرِّعَ مَخافَةَ" can be translated as
is suppressed out of the fear of.
This indicates that individuals restrain their anger due to the apprehension of facing a consequence that is even more severe. This fear acts as a deterrent, preventing them from acting upon their anger.
To understand the wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly advises Muslims to control their anger and respond with patience and forgiveness. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah says, (Quran 3:134)
And those who restrain anger and pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good
This verse emphasizes the importance of restraining anger and pardoning others, as it is an act that is beloved by Allah. By controlling our anger, we are following the guidance of Allah and seeking His pleasure. This is a reflection of the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his patience and forbearance.
Furthermore, in Surah Al-Shura, Allah advises the believers, (Quran 3:133)
And hasten to forgiveness from your Lord and a garden as wide as the heavens and earth, prepared for the righteous
This verse encourages Muslims to seek forgiveness and paradise by forgiving others and letting go of anger. It reminds us that the reward for restraining anger and forgiving others is a vast and beautiful paradise.
Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on the consequences of their actions. When we allow anger to overpower us, we risk saying or doing things that may have severe consequences, both in this world and the hereafter. By suppressing our anger and seeking the pleasure of Allah, we protect ourselves from these potential harms.
Moreover, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of self-control and discipline. He acknowledges that anger is a natural emotion, but he urges Muslims to rise above it and exercise restraint. This is a testament to his immense knowledge and wisdom, as he understood the detrimental effects of uncontrolled anger.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the significance of suppressing our anger out of the fear of something more severe. By controlling our anger and seeking the pleasure of Allah, we emulate the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and follow the guidance of the Quran. We protect ourselves from the potential consequences of uncontrolled anger and pave the way for forgiveness, paradise, and the love of Allah. May Allah grant us the strength and wisdom to control our anger and act with patience and forgiveness.
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