Muhammad (saw) – The Perfect Man — Page 541
Muhammad sa The Perfect Man 541 Chapter 23 Patience in Times of Affliction Literally the word " S abr" (Patience) means to hinder. This is a high moral value. It connotes and includes the control of one'sownself, ability to endure hardship, keeping one's wits and not complaining. With these characteristicsthis virtue becomes " S abr- e-Jam i l" (excellent form of patience) One important attribute of God is "A s - S ab u r" and " S abb a r". These terms carry connotations of exaggeration which mean extremely patient. God is patient towards the disobedient people and He does not punish them straight away. It is mentioned in the traditions that no one is more patient than God. People allege that He has a son, even then He over looks their iniquity and provides them subsistence. 1 To inculcate this Divine attribute in oneself is the highest degree of striving. When a person practises this quality of patience, he improves his morals in many respects. A person's control of one's own self in tribulations is patience, to stay firm while facing swords and arrows is bravery, to restrain from extravagance while being rich is asceticism, to protect one's private parts is chastity, to restrain from over eating is dignity and to control anger is tolerance.