Page 26 - The Importance of Patience in the Qur’an

24 THE IMPORTANCE OF PATIENCE IN THE QUR'AN

In another verse, Allah defines the faithful as "Those who give in
times of both ease and hardship, those who control their rage and
pardon other people" (Surah Al 'Imran, 134). All of these
characteristics can be experienced only through a heartfelt
acceptance of the Qur'anic concept of true patience.
Overcoming anger and remaining calm over a long period of
time is possible only by exercising patience. Those who help people
even when they themselves are experiencing hardship can do so
only because they are patient for the sake of Allah. They behave this
way because they know that helping others at such times will help
them earn Allah's approval. The ability of a just person to pardon an
unjust one also is a characteristic of true patience.
In the same way, lifelong obedience to Allah's commands and
prohibitions is possible only through patience. The faithful display
decisiveness in self-sacrifice, goodwill, modesty, forgiveness,
honesty, loyalty, and affection, and live out these moral
characteristics through patience.

As we have seen, patience opens the road for the faithful to a
superior morality of which Allah approves. For the faithful, living
this morality earns His endless blessing and a place in Paradise.
There can be no finer salvation.

Their patience is an intelligent patience

It would be a serious mistake to think that the believers' patience

is only a matter of waiting to remove obstacles and overcome
difficulties without making any effort. On the contrary, Allah
instructs them to make every effort to secure the people's tranquility
and comfort by making full use of their minds, consciences, and