The Book of Virtue, Enjoining Good Manners, and Joining of the Ties of Kinship

Sahih Muslim 2609 a

Hadith Text

"The strong-man is not one who wrestles well but the strong man is one who controls himself when he is in a fit of rage."

Commentary

This profound hadith redefines true strength, shifting the focus from physical prowess to spiritual and moral fortitude. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) teaches that real strength lies not in overpowering others but in mastering one's own self, particularly during moments of intense anger when the nafs (lower self) is most prone to rebellion.

True strength manifests when a person, despite having the capacity to retaliate, chooses restraint and patience. This requires greater courage than physical combat, as it involves battling one's inner desires and impulses. The one who controls anger demonstrates true iman (faith), for anger management is among the highest forms of spiritual discipline.

Scholars explain that this teaching aligns with the Quranic principle of "those who restrain anger and pardon people" (3:134). The strong believer is he who, when angered, remembers Allah and suppresses his rage, seeking the pleasure of his Lord rather than temporary satisfaction of emotions.

Practical Application

When anger arises, the believer should seek refuge in Allah from Satan, change physical position (sit if standing, lie down if sitting), perform wudu (ablution), or remain silent until the anger subsides. This practical guidance transforms theoretical strength into lived piety.