Three Situations, Three Reactions

In life, sometimes a person finds themselves in situations where certain hidden aspects of their personality are revealed and become apparent.

“Contentment,” “anger,” and “power” are among these situations, and the way a person reacts in each of these three states reveals their inner character and level of self-discipline.

A person who is in a state of contentment and happiness may, at times, be led to sin or falsehood due to their excessive joy; however, if they are self-disciplined, they recognize the boundaries between obedience and sin, truth and falsehood. Such a person neither sins nor gravitates toward falsehood.

A person who is angry may, at times, say inappropriate and untrue things, or overstep the bounds of others, later feeling regretful. But a self-disciplined person, even in anger, remains in control of themselves, does not speak unjustly, and does not make rash decisions.

A person with power may, at times, become enamored with their power and authority, thus violating the rights of others. But if they are self-disciplined, they view power as a test and do not commit injustice or disrespect.

A believer, because they fear God and the Day of Judgment, possess piety, and are aware of the consequences of wrong actions, is neither led to sin during moments of contentment, nor does they speak unwisely in moments of anger, nor do they oppress others when in a position of power.

Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (peace be upon him), in a narration, addresses this subject and describes the behavior of a believer when they are in states of contentment, anger, and power. He says:

“The believer is one who, when content, is not led into sin or falsehood by their satisfaction. When angry, their anger does not divert them from speaking the truth, and when they gain power, their power does not cause them to transgress what is not rightfully theirs”[1].

(Taken from the book “Wisdoms of Baqir: Translation and Explanation of Forty Hadiths from Imam Baqir (peace be upon him),” written by: Hujjat al-Islam Jawad Modhaji)

Islamic – Shia Website: Roshd

Footnote: 

[1] Wasail al-Shi’ah, Volume 11, Page 149