Hadith #5883

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.

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

Man ḍaraba yadahu ʿalā faḫiḏihi ʿinda muṣībah faqad aḥbaṭa ajrahu.

This Hadith warns against a specific action during times of hardship, which is hitting one's hand on their thigh. It highlights that such an action nullifies the reward that one may have earned through patience and perseverance in the face of difficulties.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us explore the relevant words and phrases. The word "ḍaraba" means to hit or strike, "yadahu" refers to one's hand, and "faḫiḏihi" means thigh. "Muṣībah" refers to a calamity or hardship, and "aqra" means to nullify or invalidate. Therefore, the Hadith cautions against hitting one's hand on their thigh as a reaction to a difficulty, as it results in the nullification of the reward.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155),

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.

This verse reminds Muslims that they will inevitably face trials and tribulations in life. However, the reward for those who remain patient is promised by Allah.

Another verse that sheds light on the importance of patience during hardships is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286),

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reassures Muslims that Allah does not place a burden on them that is beyond their capacity to endure. It emphasizes the need for patience and trust in Allah's wisdom and mercy.

Now, let us delve into the profound wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. When faced with difficulties, it is natural for humans to experience frustration, anger, or despair. The action of hitting one's hand on their thigh is a physical manifestation of these negative emotions. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that such a reaction diminishes the reward that could have been attained through patience and reliance on Allah.

By hitting one's hand on their thigh, an individual is expressing their discontentment and dissatisfaction with the decree of Allah. This action reflects a lack of trust in His wisdom and a failure to recognize that every trial is an opportunity for growth and spiritual elevation. Instead of resorting to impulsive reactions, Muslims are encouraged to exercise patience, seek solace in prayer, and rely on Allah's guidance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound insight reminds us that true patience lies not only in enduring hardships but also in maintaining a calm and composed demeanor. It is through this composed state that one can reflect on the purpose of trials and seek guidance from Allah. By restraining ourselves from impulsive reactions, we can preserve the reward that awaits those who demonstrate patience during challenging times.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) cautions against hitting one's hand on their thigh during times of hardship. This action nullifies the reward that could have been earned through patience and reliance on Allah. The Quranic verses emphasize the importance of patience and trust in Allah's wisdom during trials. Muslims are encouraged to remain composed, seek solace in prayer, and trust that Allah does not burden them beyond their capacity. May Allah grant us the strength to face hardships with patience and reward us abundantly for our steadfastness.