Embracing Patience in Decision-Making: The Islamic Perspective on Commitment and Sabr al-Qarar

Mohamed, Ph.D
3 min readFeb 19, 2024

In the ever-evolving world we live in, decision-making has become a crucial skill that shapes our personal and professional lives. Islam, as a comprehensive way of life, offers valuable guidance on how to approach decision-making and the importance of commitment once a choice is made.

The Concept of Sabr al-Qarar

Sabr al-Qarar, or Patience in Decision, is an essential concept in Islam that emphasizes the significance of accepting and persevering through the consequences of one’s decisions.

It is an integral part of the Islamic belief system, as it reflects the importance of trusting in Allah’s will and understanding that every decision made has a purpose, even if it may not be immediately apparent.

Photo by Vladislav Babienko on Unsplash

The Quran and the Hadiths provide valuable insights into the Islamic perspective on decision-making and Sabr al-Qarar.

Some of the verses and Hadiths that highlight the importance of these principles include:

1. Quran 3:159 — “And whoever submits his face (himself) to Allah while he is a believer, he has grasped the most trustworthy handhold. And to Allah return all matters for decision.”

2. Quran 42:38 — “And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely (upon Him).”

3. Hadith — The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever seeks a decision through my tradition (Sunnah) and does not find it, let him act according to what is in the Quran.” (Sahih Muslim)

4. Hadith — The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Do not wish to be in a state in which you are not, for verily, one of you might wish for something and he will be thrown into the Fire.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

These verses and Hadiths emphasize the importance of relying on Allah and making informed decisions based on the guidance provided by the Quran and the Sunnah.

They also highlight the significance of patience and trust in Allah’s plan, even when faced with challenging situations or unfavorable outcomes.

The Role of Sabr al-Qarar in Decision-Making

Sabr al-Qarar plays a pivotal role in the decision-making process from the Islamic perspective. It encourages individuals to make informed choices based on the guidance provided by the Quran and the Sunnah. Once a decision is made, Sabr al-Qarar requires Muslims to patiently accept the outcome, whether it is positive or negative, and continue striving in their journey towards achieving their goals and objectives.

This concept fosters resilience and teaches Muslims to face challenges with determination and perseverance. By embracing Sabr al-Qarar, individuals can develop a stronger connection with Allah as they learn to trust in His plan and understand that every decision made has a purpose, even if it is not immediately evident.

Implications for Personal and Professional Growth

The Islamic perspective on decision-making and Sabr al-Qarar can significantly contribute to personal and professional growth. By adopting these principles, individuals can cultivate a mindset that encourages critical thinking, thoughtful decision-making, and the ability to navigate through the consequences of their choices.

This can lead to increased self-awareness, improved problem-solving skills, and enhanced resilience in the face of adversity.

In a professional context, Sabr al-Qarar can help individuals make well-informed decisions that align with their personal and organizational values. It can also foster a culture of accountability, as team members are encouraged to stand by the decisions they make, regardless of the outcomes.

In the end, the Islamic concept of Sabr al-Qarar offers valuable insights into the decision-making process and the importance of commitment once a choice is made.

By embracing this principle, Muslims can develop a strong sense of resilience, trust in Allah’s will, and a deeper understanding of the purpose behind their decisions.

As a guiding light for individuals in both personal and professional spheres, Sabr al-Qarar can contribute significantly to personal and collective growth, fostering a more resilient and compassionate society.

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