Hadith #2866

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of forbearance and tolerance in one's life. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense wisdom and knowledge, states that he found these qualities to be more beneficial than the bravery and courage of men.

Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (hilm) "حِلْمَ" refers to forbearance, patience, and calmness in the face of adversity. It is the ability to control one's anger and respond with kindness and understanding. The word (ihtimala) "إحْتِمالَ" means tolerance, acceptance, and the ability to bear with the shortcomings of others. It is the quality of being open-minded and forgiving.

To further comprehend the significance of these qualities, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the virtues of forbearance and tolerance in several verses. In Surah Al-Imran (3:134), 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 verse highlights the importance of controlling one's anger and forgiving others, which aligns with the concept of forbearance and tolerance mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). It emphasizes that those who possess these qualities are beloved by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah Al-A'raf (7:199), where Allah says,

Take what is given freely, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the ignorant.

This verse encourages Muslims to respond to ignorance and wrongdoing with kindness and wisdom, rather than reacting impulsively. It emphasizes the importance of forbearance and tolerance in dealing with others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) recognized the power of these qualities in his own life. He understood that forbearance and tolerance have the ability to resolve conflicts, bridge gaps, and create harmony among people. By practicing these virtues, he was able to gain the respect and support of others, even more so than those who displayed bravery and courage.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) approach to leadership and governance serves as a prime example of the effectiveness of forbearance and tolerance. During his caliphate, he faced numerous challenges and opposition, yet he consistently chose to respond with patience and understanding. This approach not only diffused tensions but also won the hearts of many, as people witnessed the wisdom and compassion of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

In our own lives, we can learn from Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) example and strive to cultivate these qualities within ourselves. By practicing forbearance and tolerance, we can create a more harmonious and compassionate society. We can build bridges of understanding and empathy, and contribute to the betterment of humanity as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the power of forbearance and tolerance in our lives. These qualities enable us to navigate through challenges, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships. By embodying these virtues, we can follow in the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive for a more peaceful and compassionate world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these qualities and benefit from their blessings.