A Silent Enemy Within (Golden Words of Allah Episode 63)
“The strong person is not the one who can wrestle others, but the one who controls himself when he is angry.” (Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
By Abdullahi Yusuf
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful. All perfect praise be to Allah, may He be glorified and exalted, the Lord of the Worlds. We testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad, (pbuh), is His slave and Messenger.
Introduction
Anger is a silent enemy within, it is a natural human emotion, but when left unchecked, it can lead to harmful consequences both in this world and the Hereafter. The Quran acknowledges anger but provides guidance on how to manage it with patience, self-restraint, and faith. Islam teaches that controlling anger is a sign of strength, wisdom, and piety. Through divine verses and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), believers are encouraged to suppress anger, forgive others, and maintain emotional discipline to avoid regretful actions.
1. Anger as a Test of Character
The Quran reminds believers that anger is a test from Allah, and those who restrain it will be rewarded. Patience in moments of anger is a mark of true righteousness.
Quranic reference: And hasten to forgiveness from your Lord and a garden as wide as the heavens and the earth, prepared for the righteous 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. (Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:133-134)
Hadith Reference: The Prophet (pbuh) said, The strong person is not the one who can wrestle others, but the one who controls himself when he is angry.(Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
2. Uncontrolled Anger Leads to Injustice
Anger, when unchecked, can lead to unfair treatment of others, oppression, and unjust decisions. The Quran warns against allowing emotions to dictate actions.
Quranic reference: O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:8).
3. Anger and Regret
Uncontrolled anger often leads to hasty actions and words that bring regret. The Quran and hadith emphasize patience and reflection before responding in anger.
Quranic reference: And when they hear ill speech, they turn away from it and say, For us are our deeds, and for you are your deeds. Peace be upon you; we seek not the ignorant. (Surah Al-Qasas, 28:55).
Hadith Reference: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: When one of you gets angry, let him remain silent. (Musnad Ahmad). Silence prevents rash words that can cause irreversible damage in relationships.
4. Anger and Shaytan’s Influence
The Quran teaches that uncontrolled anger is a tool of Shaytan (Satan) to incite conflict and division. Seeking refuge in Allah helps calm anger.
Quranic reference: And if an evil suggestion comes to you from Satan, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is Hearing and Knowing. (Surah Al-Araf, 7:200).
Hadith Reference: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Anger comes from Shaytan, and Shaytan was created from fire. If one of you gets angry, let him perform ablution with water, for anger is extinguished by water. (Sunan Abu Dawood)
5. The Consequences of Uncontrolled Anger
The Quran provides examples of how uncontrolled anger leads to destruction. One of the most striking stories is that of Prophet Musa (Moses, pbuh), who became angry when he saw his people worshipping the golden calf.
Quranic reference: And when Moses returned to his people, angry and grieved, he said, What an evil thing you have done in my absence! Have you hastened the matter of your Lord? And he threw down the tablets and seized his brother by the head, dragging him toward him. (Surah Al-raf, 7:150)
Hadith Reference: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Do not become angry, and Paradise will be yours. (Sunan At-Tirmidhi)
6. How to Control Anger: Quranic Guidance
a. Seeking Refuge in Allah Quranic reference: “And if an evil suggestion comes to you from Satan, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is Hearing and Knowing.”(Surah Al-Araf, 7:200)
b. Changing One’s Position – Hadith Reference: The Prophet (pbuh) said, If one of you gets angry while standing, let him sit down. If he is still angry, let him lie down. (Sunan Abu Dawood).
c. Performing Wudu (Ablution) – Hadith Reference: The Prophet (pbuh) said, Anger is from Satan, and Satan was created from fire. Fire is extinguished with water, so if one of you becomes angry, let him perform ablution. (Sunan Abu Dawood)
Conclusion
Anger, if not managed properly, can lead to serious consequences, including injustice, regret, and broken relationships. The Quran teaches that true strength lies in self-control, patience, and forgiveness. While anger itself is a natural emotion, Islam encourages believers to channel it wisely, ensuring that it does not lead to sinful actions. By following the guidance of the Quran and Sunnah, we can transform anger into an opportunity for personal growth, mercy, and earning Allah’s reward. In the end, the best response to anger is to remember Allah, seek His guidance, and strive for patience in every situation.
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