Dear brothers and sisters, as-salaamu-alaikkum.


Anger is a healthy, normal emotion, but it’s one that creates devastating results when it’s out of control. Anger is another form of Shaytan, the forbidden, a concealed weapon that demolishes the noblest of characters.


Because of anger human beings can lose their wisdom, changing themselves into brutal beasts. Anger is the root cause of all evil— the Shaytan in our hearts comes out in the form of anger and weakens the iman.


The Source and Outcome of Anger


Out-of-control anger is the result of extreme annoyance, aggression, and displeasure and is a deadly malady. Our Prophet, peace be upon him, has told us anger is part of the flames of hellfire. It starts at home by breaking up families and grows to encompass war between nations.


An angry man loses his self-control and utters words that devastate. If the fire of anger is not controlled in time it progresses rapidly and because of this anger man suffers, both internally and externally.


Suppress or Express?


The Quran tells us to suppress anger whereas doctors tell us to express it. However, the effects of expressed anger can be


4


as negative as that of a real fire, which, when not smothered, results in great loss.


Anger Between Parents and Children


Anger begins at home, between children and their parents. Nowadays, due to the huge interest in worldly things, there arises a difference of opinion between parents and offspring. Though this unhappy situation existed in the early days, it was suppressed by the faith in and fear of God; in recent times, due to lack of faith and fear, this situation has grown worse and parents and children abuse each other. The home should be rooted in love, but how often does the home change into a place of pain and woe?


Anger in the Marriage Relationship


The other relationship where the possibility of enmity can be severe is the relationship between a husband and a wife. Sometimes mere differences of opinion result in dislike between the two and negative actions against each other. The mutual tolerance and suppression of their anger is replaced by day-to-day disputes, clashes which result in an overflow of divorce cases in family courts.


The Islamic Remedy


The Almighty has given us a great remedy for hell fire! Yes, it is the Holy Quran. It prescribes the medicine for this devastating malady. It gives the strength to overcome and


5


suppress anger. The Holy Quran says, And if an evil suggestion comes to you from Shaytaan, then seek refuge in Allah, He is hearing and knowing. [Quran, 7:200]


6 Ways to Deal With Anger


To reduce your anger, perform wudu, which cools you rapidly and brings down your temper.


When you are angry or when you come across an agitated person, at once say, “Auduthu Billahi Mina Shaytaan Nir Rajeem” (I seek refuge in Allah from the Shaitaan, the forbidden).


Avert your attention from the cause of your anger and involve yourself in vigourous physical activities so that your mind and your body can relax.


Forgive the wrongs done to you. Why? Because for all the sins we do, Allah forgives us and suppresses His anger. This is stated in the Holy Quran: . . . and He pardons much. [Quran, 42:30]


If you find your anger escalating, stop and remind yourself that if you don’t control your anger now, unhealthy circumstances like divorce, loss, and lifelong enmity are just around the corner.


Don’t move until your anger is suppressed.


6


Note: When you’re happy, don’t make promises; when you’re angry, don’t make decisions.


And don’t forget this: Anything and everything is watched


by Allah Subuhana watala.