Hadith #5487

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who is patient in the face of his lust becomes complete in [his] magnanimity.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of self-control and patience in overcoming our desires and achieving a higher level of moral excellence.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (sabar) "صَبَرَ" means patience, endurance, and self-restraint. It is the ability to control one's desires and impulses in order to maintain righteousness. (shahwah) "شَهْوَةِ" refers to lust or desire, specifically the intense desire for worldly pleasures that may lead one astray from the path of righteousness. (tanaha) "تَنَاهَىٰ" means to reach a state of perfection or completion, to attain a higher level of moral excellence. (al-murwah) "المُرُوَّةِ" refers to magnanimity, generosity, and nobility of character.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:135),

And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves, remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins - and who can forgive sins except Allah? - and [who] do not persist in what they have done while they know.

This verse highlights the importance of self-control and seeking forgiveness when one falls into sin. It is through patience and repentance that we can overcome our desires and strive for moral excellence.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:5-6), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the qualities of the successful believers,

And they who guard their private parts, except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they will not be blamed - But whoever seeks beyond that, then they are the transgressors.

These verses emphasize the importance of self-restraint and controlling one's desires within the permissible boundaries set by Allah. By doing so, one attains a higher level of moral excellence and avoids falling into sin.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that by being patient in the face of our lusts and desires, we can attain a state of magnanimity and moral completeness. When we are able to control our desires and impulses, we are able to make rational and righteous decisions, rather than being driven solely by our base instincts. This self-control allows us to prioritize our spiritual growth and the well-being of others over our own immediate gratification.

For example, when faced with the temptation to engage in unlawful relationships or indulge in forbidden pleasures, a person who exercises patience and self-restraint will resist those desires for the sake of Allah. They will prioritize their commitment to their faith and the preservation of their moral integrity. This act of self-control not only strengthens their character but also protects them from the negative consequences and spiritual harm that may arise from succumbing to their lusts.

Moreover, practicing patience and self-restraint in the face of our desires allows us to develop a sense of empathy and compassion towards others. When we are able to control our own desires, we become more understanding and considerate of the struggles and challenges faced by others. This leads to acts of kindness, generosity, and selflessness, which are the hallmarks of a magnanimous character.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of self-control and patience in overcoming our lusts and desires. By exercising patience and restraint, we can attain a higher level of moral excellence and become complete in our magnanimity. This requires a conscious effort to prioritize our spiritual growth and the well-being of others over our own immediate gratification. May Allah grant us the strength and guidance to overcome our desires and strive for moral excellence.