Abu Hurayra reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "The person who is strong is not strong because he can knock people down. The person who is strong is the one who controls himself when he is angry."
The Essence of True Strength
In this profound narration from Al-Adab Al-Mufrad (1317), the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ redefines the very concept of strength, shifting it from physical dominance to spiritual mastery. The strong person is not measured by their ability to overpower others physically, but by their capacity to govern their own nafs (self) during moments of intense emotional provocation.
Scholarly Commentary on Anger Control
Imam Al-Nawawi explains that anger is a fiery emotion kindled by Shaytan, and controlling it represents one of the highest forms of jihad al-nafs (struggle against the self). The one who restrains anger demonstrates true iman (faith), as the Qur'an praises "those who restrain anger" (3:134) among the people of Paradise.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali notes that the strength of self-control surpasses physical strength because it requires constant vigilance over one's inner state. The physically strong may conquer bodies, but the spiritually strong conquer their own souls.
Practical Implementation
Scholars recommend specific practices when anger arises: changing one's physical position (if standing, sit down), performing wudu (ablution), seeking refuge in Allah from Shaytan, and remaining silent. These actions create space between impulse and action, allowing reason to prevail over emotion.
The ultimate strength lies not in the absence of anger, but in channeling it appropriately through the guidance of the Shariah, transforming potential destruction into constructive energy for truth and justice.