Islamic Perspective about Sabr (Patience)
Every believer who believes in Allah (S.W.T) will be tested. Such tests can come in the form of fear, hunger, illness, some loss of goods or lives, or similar provisions. No one can have a completely blissful life without hardships.
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Obstacles are inevitable in our lives, we experience different situations, emotions, and feelings a different times. However, the uncertainty of each moment always takes us by surprise even when we know first-hand how unpredictable this world can be. And it is during these moments that we figure out the truth of life. That is, whether we’re going through a time of turbulence or peace, the only constant that stays put, no matter what is the existence of Allah (S.W.T).
But the way we deal with them would determine the final result. Having a painful moment does not mean that we are being neglected by Allah (S.W.T); instead, we are being brought closer to the Almighty.
Prophet Muhammed PBUH said,
“If Allah (S.W.T) wants to do good to somebody, He afflicts him with trials.” (Ṣaḥîḥ al-Bukhârî 5645. Hadith 115)
The life we live in this world is the prelude to life in the next world. Believers are obliged to work hard in the here and now in order to be joyous in the hereafter. In order to guide us to grow closer to Himself, Allah (S.W.T) throws hurdles onto our paths to force us to inspect our own faith. Believers strive to be patient in these moments of hardship, craving the delayed ecstasies in heaven.
Most of the time we are not able to know the mystery behind something that we assume is a hardship, but in fact, that hardship might be something good for us. For instance, we might have to reach a place within a specified time, but then we miss the train. This failure to meet the appointed time would be for a better reason that we even couldn’t figure out at the time, such as avoiding a car crash along the way. Or, sometimes we would have to be faced with some troubles, perhaps because our deeds incline towards evil. Indeed Allah (S.W.T) says,
“And whatever strikes you of disaster, it is for what your hands have earned — but He pardons much.” (Quran, 42:30)”
Today’s post is about patience and the Islamic perspective on it and in this post, I will shed light upon Islamic teachings from the Quran and Sunnah that show the significance of this unique quality.
Islamic Perspective on Sabr (Patience)
Patience has a great status in the sight of Allah Almighty and in Islam. Patience is of best from deeds and has a great reward with no limit. Patience or Sabr is an attribute to which Islam attaches great importance. It is one of the truest and most beloved forms of worship. By practicing Sabr, we commit ourselves to the Will of Allah (S.W.T) while truly accepting whatever He has written for us.
“And be patient and persevering, for Allah (S.W.T) is with those who patiently persevere. (Holy Qur’an, 8: 46)”
Patience is always considered a good quality for humankind to develop and increase. Islam always upholds the standard of being patient and kind. Allah (S.W.T) says,
“Indeed, the patient (al-ṣâbir-ûn) will be given their reward in full without measure.” (Quran , 39:10)”
Sabr literally means “enduring,” “bearing,” “resisting pain, suffering, and difficulty,” and “dealing calmly with problems.” In more general terms it means “patience,” which is one of the most important actions of the heart mentioned in the Qur’an. Because of its importance, patience is regarded as half of one’s religious life. (The other half is thankfulness.) It is a virtue that enables us to proceed towards worthy goals and remain unaffected by difficult situations.
Prophet Muhammad PBUH said:
“Strange indeed are the affairs of the believers, for all their affairs are good for them… If good things happen to them, they’re thankful, and that is good for them; and if bad things happen to them, they remain patient, and that too is good for them.” (Muslim, 2999)
Patience or Sabr is the biggest Blessing and Mercy of Allah (S.W.T) that He has bestowed upon us. Part of ṣabr (patience) is the discovery of truth, which is why patience in Islam is not simply sitting off in the corner and allowing the world to pass you by.
Life presents many challenges and, unfortunately, there remain those who face many more challenges than we do. Those who suffer from poverty and war face the biggest challenges of all; the discovery of this truth, as well as taking action to help them, purifies the soul.
“For those who do good in this world there is good, and the earth of Allah (S.W.T) is vast. Only those who are patient (al-ṣâbir-ûn) will be paid back their reward without measure ( Quran , 39:10)”
Though Islam encourages patience, it does not preclude expressing one’s emotions at a loss or disappointment.
Allah (S.W.T) Loves Patience
Allah (S.W.T) is sufficient for us and He knows everything that we are going through. When we are faced with hardships and events that test our character, let us remind ourselves that we want Allah (S.W.T) to be with us, and that is through beautiful patience.
“Obey Allah (S.W.T) and His Messenger and do not dispute with one another, or you would be discouraged and weakened. Persevere! Surely Allah (S.W.T) is with those who persevere (Quran, 8:46)”
One of the most pleasured rewards in this world and the next is to receive the love of Allah (S.W.T). Having patience entails love from The Most Loving.
“How many of the prophets fought (in Allah’s way), and with them (fought) large bands of [religious] men? But they never lost heart if they met with disaster in Allah’s way, nor did they weaken (in will) nor give in. And Allah Loves those who are firm and steadfast” (Quran, 3:146)
This verse of the Quran explains that even the prophets of God were faced with trials in which their patience was tested — and that this should be a sign for us to take faith and strength from these stories and remember to stay patient ourselves.
“And obey Allah (S.W.T) and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah (S.W.T) is with the patient.” — (Quran 8: 46)
In this verse, the Holy Quran tells us that Allah (S.W.T) will remain with us while we are patient. For us as believers, there should be nothing more comforting than knowing that Allah (S.W.T) will remain by our side while we are patient, and this should encourage us to strive towards being steadfast no matter what.
Allah (S.W.T) will be tested
Every believer who believes in Allah (S.W.T) will be tested. Such tests can come in the form of fear, hunger, illness, some loss of goods or lives, or similar provisions. No one can have a completely blissful life without hardships. But Allah (S.W.T) does not burden a soul greater than it can bear. Whenever He afflicts us with some difficulty, He gives us hope too. We are not left alone with trials and hardships.
Allah (S.W.T) says:
After every difficulty, Allah (S.W.T) will soon grant relief. ( In Surah at-Talaq, verse 07)
The intention of Allah (S.W.T) in testing us is not to discourage us, but to purify our emotions and to heal us with spirituality. Indeed, Allah (S.W.T) always helps and provides us with a way out of every difficulty that we face. Our burdens, troubles, and difficulties can be removed through prayers, patience, and by having complete faith in Allah (S.W.T).
“Be sure We shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods, lives, and the fruits of your toil. But give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere. Those who say, when afflicted with calamity, ‘To Allah (S.W.T) we belong, and to Him is our return.’ They are those on whom descend blessings from their Lord, and mercy. They are the ones who receive guidance” (Quran, 2:155–157)
Finally, in this verse of the Holy Quran, Allah (S.W.T) tells us that no matter how safe we may feel, all of us will be tested in this lifetime. But, as the Quran reminds us, by affirming our faith and stating “To Allah (S.W.T) we belong, and to Him is our return”, we will hopefully be able to gain the blessings of patience and live out of our lives as truly faithful Muslims.
Despite our lives being temporary, many of us continue to feel the pressures to quickly succeed and do well in terms of modern societal standards. It remains imperative, however, that we remember the true meaning of success and stay patient no matter what trial may face us — we are, after all, only here for one purpose: to worship and love Allah (S.W.T) alone.
Type of Sabr
Patience in Islam has many dimensions. Holding back one’s body from what Islam restricts and training it to perform righteous deeds are some of those dimensions. we are taught three main types of patience:
- Steadfastness or perseverance to fulfill Allah’s commands
- Forbearance or self-restraint from committing that which Allah s.w.t prohibits
- Endurance or fortitude in the face of grief and calamity.
Real patience is at the first stroke of calamity or grief, as mentioned in a hadith.
The Prophet Muhammad PBUH said:
“Verily, patience is at the first stroke of a calamity.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari)
Complaining is the opposite of patience. It is our belief and Faith that Allah (S.W.T) Alone can protect us from all harm and ease our difficulties. Therefore, patience is obligatory in such panic situations and hardships in all that Allah (S.W.T) had decreed for us.
It is a good, praise-worthy, and desirable character. It is a distinct moral of a Muslim. Patience has many graceful effects, good benefits, and generous consequences. It is an excellent means of strength against adversities, harms, hardships, and anxieties. Patience provides us resistance against weakness and endows us with a steadfastness in obeying Allah (SWT). It is the best tool for firmness against tribulations and temptations. Moreover, it is the weapon of a Muslim through which he will be successful both in this world and in the Hereafter.
Patience in Quran:
The Quran is beautiful all in all. The importance of Sabr can be concluded from the fact that the Qur’an is decorated with multiple verses that are directly, or indirectly, related to the virtue of patience. It refers to an attitude that beautifies all other aspects of our Muslim lives as we endeavor to submit to the ways of Allah (S.W.T).
The Holy Quran teaches us to control our negative emotions like sadness and mental illnesses as otherwise, it will become a distraction. Instead, we should adopt a positive mentality and, in the event of disagreement or provocation, we should exercise patience. This can give us pause to remember the power of forgiveness and reconciliation.
Patience is a virtue and it definitely requires practice. Allah (S.W.T) mentions the word ‘Sabr’ in its different forms numerous times in the Quran, which shows us its great importance. Apart from patience, it can also be defined as endurance, fortitude, steadfastness, restraint, and perseverance. Here are some Quranic verses about patience:
“O my son, establish prayer, enjoin what is right, forbid what is wrong, and be patient over what befalls you. Indeed, [all] that is of the matters [requiring] determination ( Quran 31:17)”
When facing difficulties and going through tough times in life, it is vital that we believe Allah (S.W.T) is always ready to help us. Therefore, we need to be patient and seek His help through prayers.
“And seek help through patience and prayer; and indeed, it is difficult except for the humbly submissive [to Allah] (Quran 2: 45)”
In this verse, the Quran reminds us that true patience is only for the humble, and for those who are able to understand that all joys and hardships are equally a blessing from Allah (S.W.T).
“O believers! Seek comfort in patience and prayer. Allah is truly with those who are patient (Quran 2:153)”
We must continuously strive towards being better Muslims who are able to humbly remain patient no matter what we may be facing.
“So be patient with gracious patience. ( Quran 70:5)”
Facing hardships is inevitable when we are enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong. Therefore, patience is required.
“Oh my son, keep up the prayer, and command beneficence, and forbid malfeasance, and (endure) patiently whatever may afflict you. Surely that is (an indication of true) resolve concerning His Commands (Quran, 31:17)”
The Quran also tells us here that showing patience and prayer, can be a sign that we are truly trusting in Allah’s decisions and will. By committing ourselves to accept our fates whatever they may be we can help ourselves grow in faith and as Muslims.
“And be patient, [O Muḥammad], and your patience is not but through Allāh. And do not grieve over them and do not be in distress over what they conspire (Quran16: 127)”
Here, the Holy Quran states that in the end, we must remember that even the blessing of having patience is from Allah (S.W.T) we must continuously be thankful for the ability to have patience and to strive towards being Muslims who appreciate the beauty of having full faith in Allah (S.W.T).
“So be patient. Indeed, the promise of Allāh is truth. And let them not disquiet you who are not certain ( Quran 30:60)”
It is easy for many of us to become doubtful or frightened during our lives, and this verse from the Quran reminds us to stay firm in our faith. By remaining patient and trusting in Allah (S.W.T), we can be assured that our strength will definitely come from unwavering faith.
“But none is granted it except those who are patient, and none is granted it except one having a great portion [of good] (Quran 41: 35)”
Here again, the Holy Quran stresses the need for us all to understand patience in order to attain goodness. To be able to practice and act on patience is no easy feat but when practiced with sincerity of heart, patience can be the most rewarding of all.
“So be patient; indeed, the [best] outcome is for the righteous.” — (Quran 11: 49)
Hadith on Patience
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “
How wonderful is the affair of the believer, for his affairs are all good, and this applies to no one but the believer. If something good happens to him, he is thankful for it and that is good for him. If something bad happens to him, he bears it with patience and that is good for him.”
According to Ibn Al-Qayyim, patience means,
“…to stop ourselves from despairing and panicking, to stop our tongues from complaining, and to stop our hands from striking our faces and tearing our clothes at times of grief and stress.”
As long as we keep up our patience, Allah (S.W.T) is removing our sins and rewarding us for every single moment of discomfort we experience, no matter how seemingly trivial. Moreover, being tested with difficulties in this world is much better than being punished in the afterlife.
The Prophet PBUH said,
“If Allah intends good for His servant, He hastens the punishment for him in this world.” (Al-Tirmidhī)
Furthermore, the Prophet PBUH said,
“The believing men and women continue to experience trials in their lives, with their children and wealth until they meet Allah without any sin.”
The Beautiful Patience Stories in Quran
Islam teaches us to be patient with whatever befalls us just like in the Story of Prophet Ayub (A.S) and many other examples in the lives of the other Prophets show how great their patience was. Allah (S.W.T) tested Prophet Ayub (A.S) in such a way that his health was taken away from him. Historians had written that not a single limb on his body was safe from disease except for his tongue and heart which he always remembered Allah (S.W.T).
Even though Prophet Nûh (A.S.) had propagated his divine message for almost 950 years, it brought around only some 11 to 80 followers. Throughout his propagation struggle, he faced many cases of abuse, derision, and at times complete ignorance. But he kept patiently waiting for the fruits of his efforts. Then he, along with his followers, sailed to Mount Judi when the great flood covered the rest of the earth.
“And certainly We sent Noah to his people, so he remained among them a thousand years save fifty years. And the deluge overtook them while they were unjust. So we delivered him and the Companions of the Ark. And We made it a sign for all peoples.” [Sûrah Al-Ankabut 29:14–15]
The Quran describes the patience of Prophet Ya‘qûb (A.S.) as “beautiful patience.” He loses his son but still waits for his return with much patience.
[The brothers] said, “O our father, indeed we went racing each other and left Joseph with our possessions, and a wolf ate him. But you would not believe us, even if we be truthful.” And they brought his shirt, stained with false blood. He responded, “No! Your souls must have tempted you [to do something evil.] So [I can only endure with] beautiful patience (ṣabr)! It is Allah’s help that I seek to bear your claims.” [Sûrah Yusuf 12:17–18]
These stories draw out how much Allah (S.W.T) loves patience. No matter what occurs in life, the believer always gives priority through his sincere belief in Allah (S.W.T) to think that whatever the outcome, it is for the ultimate good. Whenever ease comes along, he thanks, Allah (S.W.T). And whenever hardship hits him, he relies on Allah (S.W.T).
The Reward for your Patience
Patience, in its true form, is one of the greatest acts of worship by being patient we are fully committing ourselves to the Will of Allah (S.W.T) and accepting whatever He may have written for us. While it may be difficult, we must collectively strive towards living a life of complete trust and faith in God and remember that the strenuous act of patience will always have the sweetest rewards.
As the reward for patience is great and without limit, it undoubtedly requires determination and lots of practice.
And whoever endures patiently and forgives — surely this is a resolve to aspire to. (Quran42:43)
In another Allah (S.W.T) says in Quran;
The patient will be rewarded with the highest place in Heaven.
I”t is they who will be rewarded with (elevated) mansions (in Paradise) for their perseverance, and will be received with salutations and (greetings of) peace”
(Quran, 25:75)
Patience is considered a virtuous good deed. At times, we may think that we are at a loss when our patience does not bear the result that we aspire to. Verily Allah (S.W.T) reminds us that those who are patient are among the good-doers whose rewards are promised.
“And be patient, for indeed, Allah does not allow to be lost the reward of those who do good.” — (Surah 11: 115)
In this verse, the Quran reminds us that being patient in it itself may be a reward it is an act of faith and worship to remain steadfast and patient. No matter what trial or daunting task we may be faced with, here the Quran reminds us that Allah (S.W.T) will never overlook the rewards of those who deserve them.
Indeed, the rewards for being patient and practicing Sabr are immense! As such, we should consider it a way of seeking Allah’s Mercy. May Allah (S.W.T) SWT bless us all with a fruitful life and a beautiful hereafter. Ameen.
Dua of Patience
To seek Allah’s help when faced with fear and loss, with patient prayers and perseverance for Allah (S.W.T). Allah (S.W.T) is with those who are patient, more specifically during calamity and suffering.
Final Thoughts:
Patience is the ability to endure difficult circumstances such as perseverance in the face of delay; tolerance of provocation without responding in annoyance or anger or forbearance when under strain, especially when faced with longer-term difficulties.
The Prophet Muhammad PBUH said that:
“True patience is at the first stroke of calamity.” (Al-Bukhari, 1302)
As Islam is a complete code of life and it guides and teaches us in every sphere of life. So it teaches us we have to do patient in our difficult situations in this way we have a strong belief in Almighty Allah that He will never leave us alone.
Being patient will help us to analyze a situation and to work on overcoming it. Notice how food becomes tastier to us when our hunger intensifies. In the same way, we can experience the best taste of our blessings during our hard times.
Patience or Sabr is the biggest Blessing and Mercy of Allah that He has bestowed upon us. As we can see in the above Islamic teachings from Quran and sunnah about patience, it is not just a matter of willpower. Instead, patience as a virtue is Allah’s Gift for us. Lastly, the rewards of being patient are immense. As such, being patient is one of the best ways to seek Allah’s Mercy.
We can adopt the Islamic teachings ( Quran and Sunnah) regarding patience in our way of life in many ways, using them to guide us now and into the hereafter. A physical journey, whether you are walking, driving, or otherwise, is rarely a straight line from point A to B; rather, it has many twists and turns required for one reason or another. Such forced pauses or side trips require patience.
Think about patience in terms of personal and professional development. There will always be hardships along the way. It is how we deal with these setbacks by displaying patience that ensures we can see a difficult situation from all angles and thereby gain experience for the future. Confrontation rarely gets you anywhere, and conflict, more often than not, closes one door without necessarily opening another. Opposition to difficulties helps no one, but patience does.
May Allah SWT help us to be patient, persevere, endure, and remain steadfast in all our matters and admit us to His paradise. Ameen.
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