Hadith #2829

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, his righteous companions, and all the believers until the Day of Judgment.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الْحِلْمُ عَشِيرَةٌ" which can be translated as

Forbearance is [like] a tribe [as it protects those who belong to it].

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance and value of forbearance in our lives.

The word (hilm) "حِلْمُ" refers to forbearance, patience, and tolerance. It is the ability to remain calm and composed in the face of difficulties, hardships, or provocations. It is a quality that allows one to control their anger and respond to challenging situations with wisdom and grace.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares forbearance to (ashira) "عَشِيرَةٌ", which can be translated as a tribe. Just as a tribe provides protection and support to its members, forbearance serves as a shield and refuge for those who possess it. It safeguards individuals from the negative consequences of impulsive reactions and helps maintain harmony in relationships and society.

The concept of forbearance is emphasized in the Quran as well. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) praises those who possess this quality in Surah Al-Imran, verse 134:

Who spend [in the cause of Allah] 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 controlling anger and forgiving others, which are key aspects of forbearance.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Furqan, verse 63, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the characteristics 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 emphasizes the gentle and peaceful response of those who possess forbearance, even in the face of ignorance and harshness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the significance of forbearance in our personal and social lives. When we exercise forbearance, we create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. We become a source of support and protection for others, just as a tribe safeguards its members. By controlling our anger and responding with patience, we prevent conflicts and misunderstandings from escalating.

Forbearance also has a profound impact on our own well-being. It allows us to maintain our mental and emotional balance, preventing us from being consumed by anger and resentment. It enables us to approach situations with a clear mind and make rational decisions. Moreover, it fosters empathy and understanding, enabling us to build stronger and more harmonious relationships with others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of forbearance in our lives. It is a quality that protects and supports us, just as a tribe does for its members. By exercising forbearance, we can maintain peace and harmony in our relationships and society. Let us strive to cultivate this noble quality and follow the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, and his ability to exercise forbearance in the most challenging of circumstances. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to embody this virtue in our lives.