Hadith #2851

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Gulp down the pains of forbearance, for indeed it is the cornerstone of wisdom and the fruit of knowledge.

This profound saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of practicing forbearance and patience in our lives.

Let us delve into the meanings of some key words in this Hadith. The word "tajarra" means to gulp down or swallow, while "madad" refers to the pains or difficulties. "Hilm" is translated as forbearance, which encompasses patience, tolerance, and the ability to control one's anger or frustration. It is important to note that forbearance is not a passive acceptance of injustice, but rather a conscious choice to respond to challenging situations with wisdom and composure.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes forbearance as the "ra's" or cornerstone of wisdom. This implies that wisdom, which is the ability to make sound judgments and decisions, is built upon the foundation of forbearance. Without forbearance, wisdom cannot flourish. The word "thamarah" refers to the fruit, indicating that forbearance is the outcome or result of knowledge. It is through acquiring knowledge and understanding that one can develop the capacity for forbearance.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the significance of forbearance and its connection to wisdom and knowledge. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:134):

Those 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 highlights the importance of restraining anger and forgiving others, which are manifestations of forbearance. It is through practicing forbearance that one can attain the love and pleasure of Allah.

In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse encourages Muslims to avoid negative assumptions and backbiting, which require patience and forbearance. By refraining from such harmful actions, one can maintain harmonious relationships and contribute to a peaceful society.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of embracing forbearance in our daily lives. When faced with difficulties or injustices, we should strive to respond with patience and wisdom, rather than reacting impulsively. Forbearance allows us to maintain control over our emotions and enables us to make rational decisions. It also fosters empathy and understanding towards others, as we recognize that everyone is going through their own struggles.

By practicing forbearance, we can cultivate wisdom and knowledge. We become better equipped to navigate the challenges of life and make choices that align with our values and principles. Moreover, forbearance strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), as we demonstrate our trust in His divine wisdom and plan. It is through the cultivation of forbearance that we can attain tranquility and spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to embrace forbearance in their lives. By gulping down the pains of forbearance, we lay the foundation for wisdom and knowledge. Through the practice of forbearance, we can navigate challenges with composure and make decisions that align with our values. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to embody forbearance and may it lead us to attain wisdom and knowledge.