Hadith #2861

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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 superiority of exercising forbearance and self-control over seeking revenge. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the strength required to control oneself during moments of anger is far greater than the strength needed to retaliate and seek vengeance.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this profound Hadith by examining the key words and concepts it presents. The word (hilm) "حِلْمِ" refers to forbearance, patience, and self-control. It encompasses the ability to restrain oneself from reacting impulsively or aggressively when faced with provocation or anger. On the other hand, (al-ghadab) "الغَضَبِ" refers to anger or wrath, which is a natural emotion that arises in response to certain situations.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares the strength required for forbearance during moments of anger to the strength needed for vengeance. By doing so, he highlights the immense value and significance of controlling one's anger and choosing forbearance over seeking revenge.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:134):

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 emphasizes the importance of restraining anger and forgiving others, as it is an act that is beloved by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It highlights the significance of exercising self-control and forbearance, even in challenging situations.

Furthermore, in Surah Ash-Shura (42:37), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

And those who avoid the major sins and immoralities, and when they are angry, they forgive.

This verse emphasizes the virtue of forgiveness and the ability to let go of anger. It encourages Muslims to refrain from holding grudges and seeking revenge, instead choosing forgiveness and forbearance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on their own actions and reactions. It urges us to prioritize self-control and forbearance over seeking vengeance. By doing so, we not only display strength of character, but also contribute to a more harmonious and peaceful society.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, which is evident in this Hadith. His emphasis on the strength required for forbearance during moments of anger highlights his deep understanding of human nature and the challenges we face in controlling our emotions. He reminds us that true strength lies in mastering our own selves and choosing the path of forbearance, even when faced with provocation.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize self-control and forbearance over seeking revenge. It highlights the immense strength required to control oneself during moments of anger and emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and letting go. By embodying these qualities, we not only display strength of character, but also contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious society, in line with the teachings of the Quran. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to exercise forbearance and control our anger.