Hadith Text & Reference

The Messenger of Allah said: "(Real) Patience is at the first stroke of the calamity."

Source: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 987, The Book on Jana'iz (Funerals) by Imam at-Tirmidhi

Meaning & Context

This noble hadith addresses the profound Islamic concept of sabr (patience) during times of trial and loss, particularly relevant to funeral contexts. The "first stroke" refers to the initial moment when calamity strikes - the immediate shock of receiving distressing news.

True patience manifests in those first moments when the heart is tested, not later when emotions have settled. This distinguishes the patient believer from others who may eventually accept what has occurred but initially succumb to despair or complaint.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam at-Tirmidhi classified this hadith as hasan sahih (good and authentic). Scholars explain that the excellence of patience lies in restraining one's tongue from complaining against divine decree and the heart from discontent with Allah's judgment.

Al-Mubarakfuri comments in Tuhfat al-Ahwadhi that this hadith emphasizes the superiority of immediate patience over delayed acceptance. The believer who says "Indeed we belong to Allah and indeed to Him we will return" with sincere conviction at the moment of calamity receives the complete reward of patience.

Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali notes in Jami' al-Ulum wal-Hikam that this teaching is particularly relevant when receiving news of death, where the initial reaction reveals the strength of one's faith and trust in divine wisdom.

Practical Application

When hearing of a death or other calamity, the Muslim should immediately remember Allah and affirm belief in divine decree. The prescribed supplication "Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un" (To Allah we belong and to Him we shall return) should be recited with full consciousness.

This teaching encourages Muslims to train themselves to respond to difficulties with faith-based acceptance rather than emotional reaction, recognizing that true patience is a quality that distinguishes the believers and earns great reward from Allah.