AI General Studies - Lesson 2 - Patience intro

Patience- introduction

1. Patience Introduction

2. Agenda 2

3. Patience & Gratitude Introduction

4. The Author Sheikh ul Islam Ibn Taymiyya

5. The Workbook Pages 18 - 24

6. Summary Types of Patience 6

7. Types of Patience Today, we’ll discuss the types of patience as mentioned by Ibn Taymiyyah in his famous book Patience and Gratitude . Patience, or Sabr , is a core virtue in Islam, emphasized both in the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Ibn Taymiyyah divides patience into three essential categories, each reflecting a different aspect of life where a Muslim must practice endurance and restraint. 7

8. Types of Patience 1. Patience in Obeying Allah ( Sabr ‘ala Ta’ah ) The first type of patience is patience in obeying Allah . This refers to the endurance and persistence required to fulfill the commands of Allah. Acts of worship such as Salah (prayer), fasting, giving charity, and performing Hajj require ongoing commitment, which might be difficult due to laziness, worldly distractions, or hardships. For example, waking up for Fajr prayer early in the morning or fasting during the long summer days requires a high level of patience and determination. Ibn Taymiyyah emphasizes that patience in performing these acts of obedience, despite the challenges, brings great reward from Allah. Qur’anic Reference: “And seek help in patience and prayer; and truly it is extremely heavy and hard except for the humble.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:45) 8

9. Types of Patience 2. Patience in Refraining from Sin ( Sabr ‘anil Ma’siyah ) The second type is patience in refraining from sin . Temptations to engage in sinful actions, such as illicit desires, wealth gained through unlawful means, or speaking ill of others, are part of human nature. This patience is required when one faces the temptation to disobey Allah. It involves controlling one’s desires, resisting urges, and avoiding actions that lead to sin. Ibn Taymiyyah explains that the struggle to resist what is forbidden is a lifelong challenge, but the one who succeeds is promised Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. Qur’anic Reference: "And as for him who feared standing before his Lord, and restrained himself from impure evil desires and lusts, verily, Paradise will be his abode." (Surah An- Nazi’at , 79:40-41) 9

10. Types of Patience 3. Patience in Facing Hardships and Trials ( Sabr ‘ala al- Balaa ’) The third type is patience in the face of hardships . Life is filled with trials such as loss of wealth, death of loved ones, illness, and other difficulties. Enduring these with patience is essential. Ibn Taymiyyah highlights that a Muslim should accept such trials as part of Allah’s divine wisdom and trust that they lead to spiritual growth and purification. Maintaining patience in times of calamity, without questioning Allah’s decree, is a sign of true faith. Qur’anic Reference: "And certainly, We shall test you with something of fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives, and fruits, but give glad tidings to the patient." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:155) Hadith Reference: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: "How wonderful is the affair of the believer, for his affairs are all good, and this applies to no one but the believer. If something good happens to him, he is thankful for it and that is good for him. If something bad happens to him, he bears it with patience and that is good for him." (Sahih Muslim) 10

11. Final tips & takeaways Ibn Taymiyyah’s explanation of these three types of patience—obedience to Allah, avoiding sin, and enduring trials—offers a comprehensive guide to living a life of perseverance. Each type addresses a different dimension of life, reminding Muslims that patience is not passive endurance but an active, conscious choice to remain steadfast in all circumstances. By embodying patience in these forms, a believer strengthens their connection with Allah and moves closer to the ultimate goal: success in the Hereafter. Seek feedback Reflect on performance Explore new techniques Set personal goals Iterate and adapt 11

12. Thank you Discussion segment