Channelizing Emotions
Emotions: A Divine Gift from Allah
Emotions are indeed a divine blessing bestowed upon us by Allah. They are an intricate part of the human experience, designed to guide and enrich our lives. Each sentiment carries a unique purpose and significance, shaping our responses to the world around us.
The Beauty of Emotions
The beauty of emotions lies in their ability to serve as a compass for our souls. They are like signals that indicate the state of our hearts and minds. For instance, love, compassion, and empathy connect us with others, fostering unity and kindness. On the other hand, anger can be a powerful force to stand against injustice, and fear can prompt us to seek protection and guidance from Allah SWT.
Rasool Allah (SAW) said, “A strong man is not the one who wrestles, but a strong man is in fact the one who controls himself at times of anger” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 6114).
This Hadith teaches us to channel anger towards self-control, patience, and wisdom, hence leading us closer to the ideal character that Islam promotes.
Channeling Emotions for Positive Outcomes
Islam’s conduct of emotions through a comprehensive framework of prayer, reflection, gratitude, empathy, and seeking forgiveness is remarkable. As every emotion has a purpose, it’s our responsibility to harness them wisely. So, when faced with challenges, turn to Allah in supplication, pour your heart out to him, and seek his guidance. No doubt Allah says in the Quran:”And those who believe and whose hearts find rest in the remembrance of Allah, Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Qur’an, 13:28).
This verse emphasizes the importance of turning to Allah for emotional balance and peace.
The Power of Mindset
The most important thing for directing your emotions is directing your mind to a higher purpose. This means that once you change your mind and mindset, you can conquer everything. Because your emotions are associated with your mind, and your mind is the only thing you have when you’re going through sadness, hard times, anger, or overexcited moments. If you do not control your mind and properly channel your emotions, then you are doomed. For instance, you will take many wrong steps if you are angry and do not control it. Similarly, if you are very sad and depressed and do not control your mind at that time, you might even commit suicide; you need to control your mind before it controls you.
Aligning Emotions with Islamic Principles
Positive outcomes emerge when we align our emotions with the principles of Islam. For example, if you feel anger, channel it towards positive change and justice rather than destructive behavior, just like Umar (r.a). If you experience love, let it manifest in acts of kindness and compassion towards others, as Asma bint Abu Bakr (r.a) did.
A Shining Example: Umar Ibn Al Khattab
In this context, the greatest example is of Umar Ibn Al Khattab (r.a), the 2nd caliph.
It’s striking that pre-Islamic Umar was a fierce opponent of Islam where, whereas his conversion opened a new chapter of Islam in its strength. With the light of hidayah, he channeled his robust emotions like the previous anger was redirected towards advocating justice and empowering the muslim community.
His tremendous control over his emotions strengthened him to the point that his khilafat was known for its strong uphold and justice. He even implemented numerous public-friendly reforms and administrative changes, like introducing a public treasury (Bait ul Mal) and ensuring proper funding for the needy.
Historical Events
The Story of the Man Who Insulted the Caliph:
Once, a man insulted Umar (r.a) harshly with the intention of provoking him. Umar (r.a) didn’t punish him or react the same way as he did; instead, he said, “If what you are saying about me is true, may Allah forgive me. And if what you are saying about me is not true, may Allah forgive you.”
This profound response diffused the situation and demonstrated Hazrat Umar’s deep self-awareness and capacity to control his anger. By invoking Allah’s forgiveness, he showed that he prioritized spiritual well-being over personal pride or the need to assert his authority (documented in “Al-Bidaya wa’l-Nihaya” by Ibn Kathir and “Tarikh al-Tabari” by Al-Tabari).
This incident exemplifies Umar’s (r.a) ability to control and channel his emotions, embodying the principles of patience, forgiveness, and humility central to Islamic teachings.
The Story of the Woman and the Caliph Umar:
Once, while patrolling at night, Umar came across a sad, weeping woman who, unable to recognize the khalifa, complained about her troubles and crying, hungry children. He (r.a), moved by her plight, immediately went to Bait ul Mal to collect food bags. One of his companions, who was with him, offered to carry those bags. Still, Umar Ibn Al-Khattab refused, saying, “Will you carry my burden on the Day of Judgment?”
Umar (r.a) cooked and served the food to the woman and her children. Unaware of his identity, the woman thanked him and prayed for him, saying, “May Allah bless you. You are more deserving of the Caliphate than Umar himself.”
Hazrat Umar, maintaining his humility, did not reveal his identity.
He waited until the children were fed and asleep before he quietly left (this is documented in”Al-Bidaya wa’l-Nihaya” by Ibn Kathir and “The History of al-Tabari”).
It showcases Hazrat Umar’s empathy, humility, dedication to his people, and ability to control his emotions and channel them into actions that reflect his deep sense of responsibility and justice.
The Courage of Asma bint Abu Bakr (RA):
Asma bint Abu Bakr (RA), daughter of Abu Bakr (RA), played a crucial role during the Hijrah (migration) of the Prophet from Mecca to Medina.
The Event:
When the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Abu Bakr (RA) decided to leave Mecca for Medina, they needed provisions and a way to keep their departure secret. Asma, who was pregnant then, took it upon herself to prepare food and carry it to the cave of Thawr, where the Prophet and her father were hiding. She cut her belt into two pieces to tie the food and water, earning her the nickname “Dhat an-Nitaqayn” (the one with two belts).
One day, Abu Jahl, a fierce enemy of Islam, came to Abu Bakr’s house searching for him. He demanded to know his whereabouts. Asma, showing remarkable courage and composure, stood her ground and refused to disclose any information, even when Abu Jahl struck her hard enough to cause injury.
Significance:
Asma’s bravery, quick thinking, love and unwavering loyalty to the Prophet and her father were critical during a difficult time. Her actions exemplified courage, resilience, and intelligence, showing her ability to handle extreme pressure and danger gracefully and strength.
The Wisdom of Nusaybah bint Ka’ab (RA)
Nusaybah bint Ka’ab (RA), also known as Umm Ammarah. She was known for her bravery and participation in several battles, including the Battle of Uhud.
The Event:
During the Battle of Uhud, the Muslim army initially had the upper hand, but due to a critical mistake, the tide turned, and the
Muslims were under severe attack. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was in grave danger as the enemy forces advanced towards him.
Nusaybah, witnessing the Prophet’s peril, picked up a sword and a shield and rushed to his defense. She fought fiercely, sustaining several wounds, yet continued to shield the Prophet from the enemy. Her courage and determination were instrumental in protecting him during one of the most critical moments of the battle.
Significance:
Nusaybah’s actions on the battlefield demonstrated exceptional bravery, loyalty, and selflessness. Her willingness to risk her life for the Prophet highlighted her faith and commitment to Islam. Her story is an inspiring example of courage and strength, emphasizing women’s significant role in early Islamic history.
Conclusion
In essence, emotions are a divine gift, a powerful tool that, when guided by the teachings of Islam, can lead to personal growth, stronger relationships, and a society characterized by justice and compassion. May Allah grant us the wisdom to navigate our emotions and use them for the betterment of ourselves and those around us.