Hadith #5655

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لاعَوْنَ أفْضَلُ مِنَ الصَّبْرِ۔

This can be translated as,

There is no aide better than patience.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (la'awn) "لاعَوْنَ" in this Hadith refers to assistance or support. It signifies seeking help or aid from someone or something. The word (afdal) "أفْضَلُ" means better or superior. And the word (as-sabr) "الصَّبْرِ" translates to patience.

Patience is a virtue that is highly emphasized in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly encourages Muslims to practice patience in various situations. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:153), Allah says,

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

This verse highlights the importance of patience as a means of seeking assistance from Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Asr (103:3), Allah states,

Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

Here, Allah emphasizes that patience is a quality possessed by those who are righteous and who advise one another towards truth. This indicates that patience is not only a personal virtue but also a means of supporting and aiding others in their pursuit of righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the epitome of knowledge and wisdom, highlights the significance of patience as the ultimate form of assistance. Patience is not merely enduring hardships; it is a powerful tool that helps us navigate through the challenges of life. It enables us to maintain composure, make sound decisions, and persevere in the face of adversity.

When we exercise patience, we are able to control our emotions and reactions, allowing us to respond to difficult situations with wisdom and grace. Patience helps us maintain our faith and trust in Allah, knowing that He is the ultimate source of assistance and support. It allows us to rely on Him and seek His guidance in times of difficulty.

Moreover, patience has far-reaching consequences in our lives. It strengthens our character, enhances our resilience, and deepens our relationship with Allah. It enables us to develop a sense of inner peace and contentment, even in the midst of trials. Patience also fosters empathy and compassion towards others, as we understand the struggles they may be facing.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that there is no aide better than patience. By practicing patience, we seek assistance from Allah and align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran. Patience empowers us to overcome challenges, maintain our faith, and support others in their journey towards righteousness. May Allah grant us the strength to embody this virtue and may it be a source of solace and guidance in our lives.