THE TEACHING OF PATIENCE

A Western commentator, William Paton, has written, “One of the fruits of Islam has been that stubborn, durable patience which comes of the submission to the absolute will of God.” This observation is entirely accurate. In Islamic teachings, patience holds great importance. Many verses of the Quran, directly or indirectly, relate to patience. Patience is such a vital quality that without it, faith and Islam become unimaginable.

The present world is designed in such a way that people frequently encounter unpleasant experiences—both at home and in society. If a person responds to every such occasion by engaging in conflict with others, they cannot progress far in life. That is why Islamic teachings strongly emphasize patience, so that one may overlook unpleasant situations and continue their journey toward a higher purpose.

The Quran repeatedly exhorts patience. For example, it says: “And be patient over what befalls you” (31:17); “And be patient. Indeed, God is with the patient” (8:46); and “Indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience” (103:2-3).

Similarly, patience is greatly emphasized in the Hadith literature. The Prophet of Islam is reported to have said: “Listen, obey, and be patient” (Musnad Ahmad, Hadith No. 8005). He also said: “God has commanded patience and forgiveness” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Hadith No. 3000). A Companion of the Prophet stated: “The Prophet and his Companions would always endure harm with patience” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 4566).

The truth is that patience forms the foundation of Islamic conduct. In this world of trials and tribulations, no one can uphold Islamic character without patience.