Hadith #2820

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, "أُحْلُمْ تُكْرَمْ۔" This can be translated into English as,

Be forbearing and you will be honored.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking saying in light of the Quran.

The word (uhlum) "أُحْلُمْ" is derived from the root word (hilm) "حَلَم", which means to be patient, forbearing, and tolerant. It encompasses the ability to control one's anger and respond to challenging situations with calmness and wisdom. This quality is highly regarded in Islam, as it promotes harmony, understanding, and forgiveness within society.

The word (tukram) "تُكْرَمْ" is derived from the root word (karam) "كَرَمَ", which means honor, dignity, and respect. It signifies the elevation of an individual's status and the recognition of their noble character and virtues. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to honor those who possess the quality of forbearance and patience.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the significance of forbearance and its connection to honor and reward. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas (28:54),

Indeed, those who are patient will be given their reward without account.

This verse highlights that those who possess the quality of patience and forbearance will be rewarded abundantly by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:134), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 controlling anger and forgiving others, as it is a characteristic loved by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Be forbearing and you will be honored,

serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate the quality of patience and forbearance in their lives. By doing so, they not only attain honor and respect in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but also in the eyes of their fellow human beings.

When we practice forbearance, we are able to navigate through difficult situations with grace and composure. Instead of reacting impulsively or with anger, we respond with wisdom and understanding. This not only preserves our own peace of mind but also allows us to maintain harmonious relationships with others.

For example, when faced with an argument or disagreement, a forbearing individual would choose to listen attentively, seek common ground, and respond with kindness and empathy. This approach not only diffuses tension but also opens the door for productive dialogue and resolution.

Moreover, the quality of forbearance enables us to forgive others for their mistakes and shortcomings. It allows us to let go of grudges and resentments, promoting a culture of compassion and reconciliation. By forgiving others, we free ourselves from the burden of negative emotions and create an environment of harmony and unity.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Be forbearing and you will be honored,

serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to cultivate the quality of patience and forbearance in their lives. By embodying this noble characteristic, we not only attain honor and respect in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but also foster harmonious relationships and contribute to a more compassionate and peaceful society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be forbearing and may He honor us in this world and the Hereafter.