Anger is an emotion, which is in creation. If it is used correctly then the results will be positive. On the other hand if it is used incorrectly, then the outcome would be negative or detrimental.
Everyday everyone experiences problems that can either strengthen or weaken us. Many things cause one to become angry. It is our responsibility to recognize and properly use anger in positive ways to benefit us.
Effects of Anger
Causes of Anger are Stress, Economic pressures of life, Not meeting emotional needs in a healthy way and Disappointments in life.
People look for victims and blame their parents, teachers, counselors, associates or friends, former sexual partners or spouse(s), etc. Various forms of exploitation, discrimination, injustices and abuses may have victimized them. These negative experiences result in people acquiring quick tempers and will shout at anyone in their immediate environment
As believers we must seek advice and protection from Allah SWT. We read in the Qur’an:
“If a suggestion from Satan assails thy (mind) seek refuge with the Creator, for He heareth and knoweth (all things).” [Surat Al-A`raf 7:200]
” Indeed, those who fear Allah – when an impulse touches them from Satan, they remember [Him] and at once they have insight.” [Surat Al-A`raf 7:201]
Anger Management According to Qur’an and Sunnah
This is the most important rule of behavior for a Muslim. In Surah Al-Imran 3:134, we learn that,
“…those who control their anger and are forgiving toward mankind; Allah loves those who do good.”
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
““Who is strong? He who controls himself when angry.” [Muslim]
It is very easy for us to let go of our tempers and blow into a rage. We should try to remain as calm as possible. The Prophet (peace be upon him) advises us:
“When one of you is angry while standing, let him sit down and if his anger goes away that is good; otherwise let him lie down.” (Abu Dawud)
Bukhari in his Sahih relates to us that the Prophet was present when a man became angry to the point that his jugular vein was swelled. He told this man, I know a word the saying of which relaxes he who says it,
“Seek refuge in Allah from Shaitan.”
Behavior of the Prophet
- His anger was never to defend himself but to ensure the dominance of Allah’s Word: Protection of boundaries.
- His character was the Qur’an
- He did not confront people with what he dislikes, but the anger shows on his face.
PREVENTION IS BETTER 🙂
Al Hassan said, “ If a person is able to control himself against the following four forces, Allah (SWT) will protect him from Shaytan:
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- Wishes / wants: trying always including haram
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- Fear: attempts to self defend in any way including the haram ways
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- Desire: examples are Zina (fornication and adultery) and stealing.
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- Anger: blood boiling to protect and / or take revenge.
Treatment
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Seek refuge in Allah (SWT)
Do wudu (washing specific parts of your body with water) according to the tradition of the Prophet.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said,
“ Anger from Shaytan; Shaytan from fire; fire is put out by water; so when angry do wudu”
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Change body positions
“ If one of you gets angry while standing he should sit. If he is still angry he should lie down”
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Cheek to the ground.
Since anger is a product of pride, the Prophet (PBUH) said,
“ whoever gets a little angry should stick his cheek to the ground.”
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Psycho-physical approach
Diverting attention away from the cause of anger and participate in strenuous physical activity aiming at letting steam out and relaxing of muscles.
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When angry be quiet, don’t speak, be silent.
“ Teach, simplify, don’t complicate and if you get angry be silent”.
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Positive interpretation of events.
In the story of a tribe called “ Nose of the She – Camel” Hazrat Omar (RA) changed events by reinterpreting the story from negative to positive.
Control Your Anger- Before It Controls You