Hadith #5565

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الصبر أدفع للبلاء" which translates to

Patience is more repelling for affliction[s].

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of patience in dealing with the trials and tribulations of life.

The word (sabr) "صبر", which means patience, is derived from the root word (s-b-r) "ص ب ر". It conveys the idea of restraining oneself, persevering, and remaining steadfast in the face of difficulties. Patience is not simply enduring hardships, but rather it encompasses a state of inner calmness, resilience, and trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The phrase (adfa' lil-bala') "أدفع للبلاء" means to repel or ward off afflictions. It signifies that patience acts as a shield against the adversities and challenges that we encounter in life. It is through patience that we can overcome these difficulties and emerge stronger and more spiritually elevated.

The importance of patience is emphasized in numerous verses of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:153),

O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse highlights the connection between patience and seeking assistance from Allah. It reminds us that patience is not a passive state but rather an active means of seeking Allah's support and guidance.

Another verse that emphasizes the significance of patience is found in Surah Al-Imran (3:200), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, persevere and endure and remain stationed and fear Allah that you may be successful.

Here, Allah encourages believers to persevere and remain steadfast in their faith, reminding them that success comes through patience and steadfastness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for Muslims. It reminds us that patience is not only a virtue but also a powerful tool for navigating the challenges of life. By exercising patience, we can repel afflictions and overcome hardships with grace and resilience.

When faced with trials, practicing patience allows us to maintain a positive mindset and avoid falling into despair or frustration. It enables us to approach difficulties with a calm and composed demeanor, seeking solace and strength in our faith. Patience also helps us develop a deeper understanding of our own capabilities and limitations, fostering personal growth and self-improvement.

Moreover, patience has far-reaching consequences beyond the individual level. When we exhibit patience in the face of adversity, we inspire those around us and become a source of strength and support for others. Our patience becomes a shining example of faith and resilience, encouraging others to follow suit and seek solace in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the immense power of patience in repelling afflictions. It encourages us to cultivate patience as a virtue and to rely on it as a means of seeking Allah's assistance. By practicing patience, we can navigate the challenges of life with strength, grace, and unwavering faith. May Allah grant us the ability to embody patience in all aspects of our lives.