Hadith #5621

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of patience and perseverance in the face of hardships and challenges. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who is not patient in his toiling [for earning his livelihood] has to be patient in destitution.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this hadith by examining the important words and concepts it encompasses. The word (sabr) "صَبَرَ" is translated as patience, which refers to the ability to endure difficulties with steadfastness and resilience. It is a quality highly praised in the Quran, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 153:

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

The word (kaddihi) "كَدِّهِ" refers to one's toiling or exertion in the pursuit of earning a livelihood. It encompasses the efforts and struggles one goes through in their work or business endeavors. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that patience is necessary during this toiling phase, as it is a test of one's character and faith.

The phrase (sabar 'ala al-iflas) "صَبَرَ عَلَى الإفْلاسِ" translates to

has to be patient in destitution.

Here, the Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequence of not being patient during the toiling phase. If one lacks patience and gives up easily, they will eventually face destitution and hardship. This destitution can be understood in various aspects, including financial, emotional, or spiritual.

To further understand the significance of this hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of patience and its rewards. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 155, Allah says,

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 us that trials and tribulations are a part of life, and it is through patience that we can navigate through them successfully.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Insan, verse 24, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

So be patient with gracious patience.

This verse emphasizes the need for patience in all aspects of life, including our pursuit of sustenance and livelihood. It reminds us that patience is not simply enduring hardships, but doing so with a positive and grateful attitude.

Reflecting on the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can gain valuable insights into the consequences of impatience and the virtues of perseverance. When faced with challenges in our work or business, it is essential to remain patient and steadfast. By doing so, we not only strengthen our character but also increase our chances of success. Conversely, if we lack patience and give up easily, we may find ourselves in a state of destitution and hardship.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, provides us with this profound guidance to remind us of the importance of patience in all aspects of our lives. Let us strive to embody this virtue and seek solace in the teachings of the Quran, for it is through patience that we can overcome challenges and attain success in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to be patient in all our endeavors.