The Power of Patience (Sabr) in Times of Conflict

[Fatima]

Conflict is a natural part of life—whether it arises in our homes, at work, or within the community. Yet as Muslims, we are guided to meet such challenges not with anger, but with Sabr (patience). In fact, patience is one of the most praised qualities in the Qur’an and Sunnah. It’s not a weakness, but a profound strength and a key to peace, both internal and external.

Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account-(Surah Az-Zumar, 39:10)

Examples of Patience from the Sunnah

1.The Prophet ﷺ at Ta’if

One of the most powerful demonstrations of the Prophet’s ﷺ patience was during his experience in Ta’if. After facing rejection and hostility in Makkah, he traveled to Ta’if in search of support. Instead of kindness, he was met with mockery and violence—the people insulted him and pelted him with stones until his feet bled. Despite this cruel treatment, when the Angel Jibreel offered to crush the town between the mountains, the Prophet ﷺ declined and responded with mercy.

I pray that from their descendants, Allah will raise a people who worship Him alone— Sahih Bukhari

2. Patience with Hypocrites and Enemies

Throughout his life in Madinah, the Prophet ﷺ was surrounded by hypocrites who constantly tried to sabotage his mission. Rather than exposing or punishing them harshly, he showed remarkable restraint, always prioritizing peace and community stability over personal anger.

3. Forgiving His Enemies in Makkah

During the Conquest of Makkah, the Prophet ﷺ entered the city with an army but did not seek revenge on those who had tortured and oppressed him and his followers for years. Instead, he declared:

Go, for you are free.

This was sabr in its most powerful form: forgiveness when you have the power to retaliate.

Why Patience is Powerful in Conflict

(a) It prevents escalation and violence.
(b) It allows time for reflection and wise decision-making.
(c) It earns Allah’s love and support.
(d) It sets a powerful example for others to follow.

The life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ teaches us that true strength lies not in retaliation, but in restraint. His patience during some of the most painful moments in history reminds us that Sabr is not simply waiting—it is enduring with dignity, hoping in Allah, and choosing peace over pride.

In times of conflict—whether big or small—let us strive to embody the same patience shown by our beloved Prophet ﷺ. By doing so, we not only earn Allah’s pleasure but also become agents of peace in a world that desperately needs it.

So remain patient, for surely Allah never lets the reward of the doers of good go to waste-(Surah Hud, 11:115)

May Allah grant us the strength to endure challenges with firmness, the wisdom to respond with patience, and the honour of reflecting the noble character of our beloved Prophet ﷺ.