What is the “Desired” Level of Patience?
Well, you must be reflecting what does it mean to have the ”Desired” level of patience. To clarify, it is essential that we as Muslims understand the importance of patience in Islam. Further, we must realize its positive and beneficiary effects on humans and consequently the level of patience we need to attain in order to lead this life. Therefore, understand that we require patience to live this worldly life peacefully and pass through the tests successfully.
“…and be patient over what befalls you…” (31:17)
In short, the desired level of patience means a high level of patience such as that of the Prophets. But do not be discouraged by this statement because we Muslims begin with attaining patience. Therefore, first aim to be simply patient and tolerant in life. Consequently, gradually you shall possess a high level of patience close to the Prophets. However, I understand this well that the prophets were people of great character and patience, and reaching that state is not that easy, but we must encourage and motivate ourselves to reach that state.
In other words, our greatest prophets act as role models for us. Therefore, we can and we must strive to gain that level of patience and hence become close to Allah. In short, although it seems impossible to attain the patience of Hazrat Ayub (Job), Hazrat Ibrahim, Hazrat Musa (A.S.) and most importantly the patience of our Last and Final Prophet; Hazrat Muhammad (P.B.U.H.), but when I use the term “Desired Level of Patience,” I refer to the prophets’ level of patience.
In addition, by attaining such a level of patience, our love for Allah reaches a sacred level that cannot be defined without experiencing it. Consequently, this leads man to a state of eternal bliss and patience. As a result, the person does not get affected by such factors that get them down, because such people have Allah at their back. Allah says that he is with those who are patient (8:46). Allah further says that He loves the patient (3:146).
InshaAllah (if Allah wills it) by the end of this article, we shall be able to understand how to attain the desired level of patience.
Reflect on Your life
The most essential element that we lack in ourselves is our insight into our souls. We do not reflect on our actions and the way we perform. Consequently, once we start noticing how patient we are in our dealings, only then we shall be able to start taking steps towards its implementation. Therefore, the first thing that you need to do is to start noticing how patient you are in life. Moreover, how often do you get angry? Are you a short-tempered person or calm in general? By analyzing your character first and delving deep into your hearts, you can only transform and improve yourself.
Do you deal with calamities with patience?
Although it seems impossible or highly difficult to develop patience (Sabr), but with time and experience you shall be able to attain peace. However, the knowledge to know what your level of patience (Sabr) is, you need to pass through the calamities and hardships that befall you. Only then, you shall be able to realize patience inside you based on your reaction against those calamities.
Develop a Strong Foundation to Gain Patience
In the same vein, you need a strong foundation to develop the desired level of patience. To clarify, you need to develop the spiritual capacity to bear calamities and hardships calmly and wisely, with patience (Sabr). Therefore, this empowering spiritual capacity can be built by having a strong connection with Allah. That is to say, you can build a strong capacity to deal with trials with patience firstly by remembering Allah. For instance, through regular prayers, Allah’s Zikr (praise), remembering Allah in gatherings etc. Secondly, keep company with those people who are spiritually enlightened and who remember Allah day and night.
“And keep yourself patient [by being] with those who call upon their Lord in the morning and the evening, seeking His countenance. And let not your eyes pass beyond them, desiring adornments of the worldly life, and do not obey one whose heart We have made heedless of Our remembrance and who follows his desire and whose affair is ever [in] neglect.” (18:28)
Perform Righteous Deeds to Attain Patience
Moreover, give charity and do other righteous deeds, for example, fasting, abstaining from lying, pretense, and backbiting, treat people politely, have good character etc. As a result, with the will of Allah, you shall be able to build the spiritual capacity to achieve the desired level of patience. Additionally, you shall swiftly and easily pass through testing times and not get lost, crushed or fall into despair due to these calamities.
How does Quran help in Gaining the Desired Level of Patience
In addition, Quran is a very important factor when it comes to building a strong connection with Allah. Consequently, you shall be able to develop the desired level of patience. The only direct word that we have from Allah is the Quran. Therefore, we cannot emphasize enough on the importance of reciting Quran and the value it holds for us. There is absolutely no doubt about the significance of reciting the Quran and understanding its meaning. In other words, you must make it a regular practice to recite Quran daily, even if it is one Ayat (verse) because the peace and tranquility we soak in from Quran recitation is beyond all expectations.
“The ones who believe and their hearts are peaceful with the remembrance of Allah. Listen, the hearts find peace only in the remembrance of Allah.” (13:28)
Therefore a piece of advice for you is to make Quran recitation an essential part of your daily life. The peace and blessings it shall shower you with cannot be compared to all the material pleasures. In the same vein, another significant advice would be to understand Quran with Tafseer (Explanation) and translation. This way you shall also understand the in-depth meaning of Allah’s word and its context. However, I do understand that in today’s occupied life, there are times when we find it difficult to take time out for reciting Quran. However, Quran learning today has been made quite simple. To clarify, you can take Quran Classes Online which is very convenient. Because of the availability of Online Quran Academies, we must not falter anymore in reading the final word of Allah.