Hadith #8098

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, "رُدُّوا البادِرَةَ بِالحِلْمِ" which translates to

Repel [fits of] rage with forbearance.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of controlling one's anger and responding to provocation with patience and forbearance.

The word "بادِرَةَ" in this Hadith refers to a sudden outburst of anger or rage. It signifies a spontaneous reaction that can lead to negative consequences if not managed properly. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises Muslims to repel such fits of rage by employing "الحِلْمِ" which means forbearance or patience.

The concept of forbearance is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages Muslims to exercise patience in various situations and to control their anger. In Surah Al-Imran, Ayah 134, Allah says,

Those who spend [in Allah's cause] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

This ayah emphasizes the importance of restraining anger and forgiving others, which aligns perfectly with the message of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the Hadith. By repelling fits of rage with forbearance, Muslims can follow the divine guidance and earn the love of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) understood the consequences of uncontrolled anger and the benefits of practicing forbearance. He was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, and his ability to remain calm and composed even in the face of adversity. His example serves as an inspiration for Muslims to emulate in their daily lives.

When we respond to provocation with patience and forbearance, we not only prevent the escalation of conflicts but also maintain our own peace of mind. By controlling our anger, we avoid saying or doing things that we may later regret. This leads to healthier relationships, both with Allah and with our fellow human beings.

Moreover, repelling fits of rage with forbearance allows us to uphold the principles of justice and fairness. Instead of reacting impulsively, we can respond thoughtfully and consider the consequences of our actions. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of justice and the avoidance of transgression.

In Surah Al-Ma'idah, Ayah 8, Allah says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This ayah reminds us of the importance of being just, even when it may be difficult or goes against our personal inclinations. By repelling fits of rage with forbearance, we can ensure that our actions are guided by justice and fairness, rather than being clouded by anger and impulsiveness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to control their anger and respond to provocation with forbearance. By practicing patience and restraining our rage, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the example set by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). This not only leads to healthier relationships and a peaceful society but also earns the pleasure and love of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the strength and wisdom to implement this valuable lesson in our lives.