Hadith:

🔹 أشَدُّ النّاسِ نَدامَةً و أكثَرُهُم مَلامَةً : العَجِلُ النَّزِقُ الّذي لا يُدرِكُهُ عَقلُهُ إلاّ بَعدَ فَوتِ أمرِهِ.

Imam ʿAlī (a.s.) said:

“The deepest regret and the greatest blame befall the one who is hasty and reckless—whose reason only reaches him after the matter has already slipped away.”

📚 Ghurar al-Ḥikam, 3308

Human psychology reveals that impulsive behavior often stems from emotional dominance over rational thinking. Modern neuroscience confirms that during emotional arousal—especially anger or excitement—the amygdala (the brain’s emotional center) can override the prefrontal cortex, which governs reason and judgment. This “amygdala hijack,” as Daniel Goleman describes, leads individuals to act before they think, only realizing their mistake once the emotional wave has subsided.

Imam ʿAlī (a.s.) expressed this same truth over a millennium ago: the ʿajil al-naziq—the hasty and impulsive person—acts before reflection, and his intellect arrives too late, only after the damage is done. This alignment between Islamic wisdom and psychological insight highlights the timeless human struggle between impulse and intellect.

The Qur’an, too, warns against haste and calls for deliberate reflection:

“وَكَانَ الإِنسَانُ عَجُولًا” — “Indeed, man is ever hasty.” (Surah al-Isra’, 17:11)

Human beings are naturally inclined toward impatience, but divine guidance teaches us to tame that impulse with ta’anni (deliberation) and ḥilm (forbearance).

In contrast to haste, the Prophet (ṣ) emphasized the virtue of calm decision-making:

“التأنّي من الله والعجلة من الشيطان”

“Deliberation is from Allah, and haste is from Shayṭān.”

This hadith provides a spiritual lens on what psychology calls self-regulation—the ability to pause, assess, and respond wisely instead of reacting impulsively. The one who cultivates this inner restraint lives with fewer regrets, because his reason governs his action before—not after—the event.

Imam ʿAlī (a.s.) therefore gives us more than a moral instruction; he offers a psychological remedy. By training the soul through patience (ṣabr) and reflection (tafakkur), one strengthens the intellect’s control over emotion. This discipline transforms the heart from a battlefield of impulses into a sanctuary of insight.

Conclusion:

Both Islam and psychology agree: true intelligence is not in the speed of our reaction, but in the depth of our reflection. The hasty person learns only after the loss, but the wise believer learns before the act. Thus, slowing down is not weakness—it is wisdom; it is the mark of a mind awake and a soul at peace.

إِنَّ اللَّـهَ اشْتَرى‏ مِنَ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ أَنْفُسَهُمْ وَ أَمْوالَهُمْ بِأَنَّ لَهُمُ الْجَنَّةَ يُقاتِلُونَ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّـهِ فَيَقْتُلُونَ وَ يُقْتَلُونَ وَعْداً عَلَيْهِ حَقًّا فِي التَّوْراةِ وَ الْإِنْجِيلِ وَ الْقُرْآنِ وَ مَنْ أَوْفى‏ بِعَهْدِهِ مِنَ اللَّـهِ فَاسْتَبْشِرُوا بِبَيْعِكُمُ الَّذِي بايَعْتُمْ بِهِ وَ ذلِكَ هُوَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِيمُ

Verily Allah has bought from the believers their souls and their Properties for Paradise to be theirs: they fight in the way of Allah, so they slay and they are slain, (this is) a promise binding on Him in the Turah, and the Evangel and the Qur’ān. And who is more faithful to his promise than Allah? Rejoice then in your bargain that you have made; and that is the great success.

At‑Tawba (التوبة) ‎- 111

*By Sayed Abazar Wahedy*

As the blessed month of Dhul Hijjah begins, we extend heartfelt congratulations to the believers. May Allah (SWT) grant us the tawfiq (divine success) to be among those who follow Allah SWT’s commands with obedience and sincerity. This month, rich with spiritual opportunity, calls for strength—not only physical strength for those performing Hajj but, more importantly, the spiritual strength of taqwa and iman (faith).

*The True Essence of Dhikr (Remembrance)*

In Surah Al-Ahzab, verses 41-42, Allah SWT commands:

> “O you who believe, remember Allah with much remembrance, and glorify Him morning and evening.”

There are two levels of dhikr:

Dhikr Lisani (verbal remembrance), such as reciting “La ilaha illallah” or “SubhanAllah.”

Dhikr Amali (remembrance through action) is the highest form of worship.

It is not enough to utter words of praise while indulging in sinful acts. The most powerful dhikr occurs when we act by Allah’s commands—even when difficult. A true believer restrains himself from sins like backbiting, even when surrounded by others indulging in it. Quran likens backbiting to eating the flesh of one’s dead brother—a vivid and revolting image meant to deter such behavior.

*Practical Ways to Avoid Sin*

When faced with sinful conversations:

Redirect the topic with positivity.

Share a hadith, joke, or Quranic verse.

If none of these work, respectfully leave the gathering.

Silence in the face of sin equals participation. Even listening passively to gossip makes one complicit. True remembrance is in resisting these temptations and maintaining spiritual integrity.

*Charity, Kindness, and Consistency in Action*

Every act done sincerely for Allah is dhikr:

Giving charity.

Praying on time.

Smiling at your parents or spouse.

Teaching your children the values of Islam.

As the Qur’an says in Surah Asr:

> “Indeed, mankind is in loss, except those who believe, do righteous deeds, enjoin each other to truth and patience.”

Iman (faith) and ‘amal (righteous deeds) are like wings—they must exist together for one to spiritually soar.

*Seeking Tranquility: The Human Quest*

Every human seeks peace—some look for it in wealth, others in power. But true tranquility lies in the remembrance of Allah:

> “Surely in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Qur’an 13:28)

Even the sight of the Kaaba fills one with serenity because it is the epicenter of Dhikr. This peace cannot be found in material gain—it is the gift of divine presence.

*Life Lessons from Amirul Mu’minin (Imam Ali AS)*

Imam Ali (AS) exemplified justice and humility. He treated all equally, based on divine justice—not tribal or personal affiliation. This spirit of fairness and integrity cost him supporters, but he remained firm on divine principles.

Even his poet, Najashi, who expected leniency after committing a crime, was not spared. Imam Ali AS upheld divine law, showing that true dhikr is in adherence, not favoritism.

*Our Connection with Allah SWT*

True du’a, like in Dua Kumayl, starts not with requests but with praise and acknowledgment of our weaknesses. Imam Ali AS wept in prayer, showing raw vulnerability, confessing he had nothing to take to the grave but brokenness and sincerity.

We must learn from children how to beg Allah SWT with persistence and humility, not entitlement. Du’a is our spiritual lifeline.

*A Call to Action*

This month of Dhul Hijjah and the events surrounding Hajj remind us to stay on the path marked by divine guidance. Like travelers in a vast cave, venturing away from the guided path can lead to being lost. The Qur’an, Prophetic teachings and Ahlulbayt are our ropes of safety, so do not experiment with shortcuts in religion. The risk is your soul.

Let us strive to be true followers of Imam Ali (AS), to embody justice, to resist sin, and to seek Allah SWT sincerely—not just with words, but with action.

May Allah SWT include us among the pilgrims in spirit and deed and grant us the intercession of Imam Ali AS on the Day of Judgment. Ameen.

Faith, Nature, and Inner Strength: A Scientific and Spiritual Reflection

In an age of constant noise and digital distraction, a quiet moment in nature—sunlight filtering through trees, a gentle breeze over water—offers more than aesthetic pleasure. It becomes a spiritual experience. Such serene settings symbolize the intersection of divine trust (Tawakkul), reflection, and inner strength, affirming a timeless truth: nature is a pathway to both psychological clarity and spiritual empowerment.

The Qur’an invites us to contemplate the natural world as a means of awakening the soul:
«إِنَّ فِي خَلْقِ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ وَاخْتِلَافِ اللَّيْلِ وَالنَّهَارِ لَآيَاتٍ لِأُولِي الْأَلْبَابِ…»
“Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and day are signs for those of understanding—those who remember Allah while standing or sitting or [lying] on their sides and give thought to the creation of the heavens and the earth…” (Qur’an 3:190–191). This verse calls not merely for passive observation, but for deep reflection—linking natural beauty with intellectual and spiritual awakening. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) and the Imams often sought solitude in nature to reconnect with Allah SWT. Imam Ali (AS) profoundly stated:
“Whoever trusts in Allah, difficulties become easy for him, and the burdens of life become light.” (Nahjul Balagha)

Modern psychology now affirms what faith traditions have long taught. Dr. Kelly McGonigal of Stanford University notes that trust in a higher power reduces anxiety and strengthens resilience. Likewise, Dr. Martin Seligman, founder of Positive Psychology, identifies spiritual engagement and time in nature as core contributors to psychological well-being.
Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt writes:
“Experiences of awe in nature reduce ego and open the heart to gratitude, community, and faith.” (University of Virginia)

Such moments of awe not only elevate our mood but also expand our consciousness—making space for humility, wonder, and trust. Placing ourselves in nature with hearts anchored in Tawakkul offers more than serenity—it fosters spiritual clarity, inner strength, and emotional renewal.

This alignment is not an escape from reality but a return to it, grounded in awareness of the Creator’s presence and power. In this harmony, we find courage to face life’s challenges, hope to carry forward, and purpose to thrive.

Sayed Abazar Wahedi / Californian

May/2025

A Moment of Divine Presence – Reflections from the Qur’an Competition in Seattle

In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate.

It was an honor beyond words to serve as a judge in the Qur’an competition held at the Zainab Islamic Center in Seattle — a gathering where hearts echoed the eternal melody of divine revelation. As the recitations filled the air, the verses of the Qur’an did not merely pass through our ears; they pierced the veils of heedlessness and stirred the soul’s yearning for its Creator.

Each young voice became a reminder of the verse:

إِنَّ هذَا الْقُرْآنَ يَهْدِي لِلَّتِي هِيَ أَقْوَمُ وَ يُبَشِّرُ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ الَّذِينَ يَعْمَلُونَ الصَّالِحاتِ أَنَّ لَهُمْ أَجْراً كَبِيراً

Verily, this Qur’an guides to that which is the most upright, and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that they shall have a great reward.

Al‑Israa (الإسراء) ‎- 9

The atmosphere was not simply one of competition, but of communion — a spiritual assembly where angels descended upon us, drawn by the beauty of God’s Word rising from sincere hearts. In those moments, time itself seemed to pause, allowing us to feel the nearness of the unseen world.

The light of the Qur’an, ancient yet ever new, moved through the gathering like a gentle breeze from paradise, breathing life into weary hearts and kindling sparks of divine love. I witnessed in their recitations the reflection of that eternal covenant we once made before time — a reminder of our souls’ origin and destination.

May Allah bless these gatherings and make the hearts of our youth ever connected to the Qur’an, and may He allow us all to be among

الَّذِينَ يَسْتَمِعُونَ الْقَوْلَ فَيَتَّبِعُونَ أَحْسَنَهُ أُولئِكَ الَّذِينَ هَداهُمُ اللَّـهُ وَ أُولئِكَ هُمْ أُولُوا الْأَلْبابِ

Those who listen to the Word and follow the best thereof, those are [the ones] whom Allah has guided and those are men of understanding.

Az‑Zumar (الزمر) ‎- 18

With gratitude, humility, and prayer,

[Sayed Abazar Wahedi]

Sayed Abazar Wahedy

🏴آه سوزان على (عليه السلام) در کنار قبر زهرا (عليها السلام)

#نهج‌_البلاغه

▫️فَلَقَدِ اسْتُرْجِعَتِ الْوَدِيعَةُ، وَ أُخِذَتِ الرَّهيِنَةُ! أَمَّا حُزْنِي فَسَرْمَدٌ وَ أَمَّا لَيْلِي فَمُسَهَّدٌ إلَى أَنْ يَخْتَارَ اللّهُ لِي دَارَکَ الَّتي أَنْتَ بِهَا مُقِيمٌ

▪️پس امانتى كه به من سپرده بودى برگردانده شد، و به صاحبش رسيد، از اين پس اندوه من جاودانه، و شبهايم، شب زنده دارى است، تا آن روز كه خدا خانه زندگى تو را براى من برگزيند.

✍اين عبارت که از شدّت اندوه على(عليه السلام) در برابر حادثه غم انگيز شهادت حضرت زهرا(عليها السلام) حکايت مى کند به خوبى نشان مى دهد که تا چه حد اين بانوى عزيز در نظر على(عليه السلام) گرامى بود و پيوند عاطفى و روحانى و معنوى آن دو به يکديگر عميق و ريشه داربود.

📘 #خطبه_202

🏴 The Burning Sigh of Ali (a.s.) at the Grave of Zahra (a.s.)

Nahj_al_Balagha

▫️فَلَقَدِ اسْتُرْجِعَتِ الْوَدِيعَةُ، وَ أُخِذَتِ الرَّهيِنَةُ! أَمَّا حُزْنِي فَسَرْمَدٌ وَ أَمَّا لَيْلِي فَمُسَهَّدٌ إلَى أَنْ يَخْتَارَ اللّهُ لِي دَارَکَ الَّتي أَنْتَ بِهَا مُقِيمٌ
▫️

▪️“The trust You had entrusted to me has been returned, and it has reached its rightful owner. From now on, my sorrow is everlasting, and my nights are sleepless, until the day when Allah chooses for me the abode where you dwell.”

✍️ These words, which convey the profound grief of Ali (a.s.) in the face of the heartrending tragedy of Lady Zahra’s (a.s.) martyrdom, vividly illustrate how dearly this noble lady was held in Ali’s (a.s.) heart. They reflect the deep emotional, spiritual, and sacred bond that connected them—a bond rooted in the core of their being.

📘 Sermon 202

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وَ اعْتَصِمُوا بِحَبْلِ اللَّـهِ جَمِيعاً وَ لا تَفَرَّقُوا وَ اذْكُرُوا نِعْمَتَ اللَّـهِ عَلَيْكُمْ إِذْ كُنْتُمْ أَعْداءً فَأَلَّفَ بَيْنَ قُلُوبِكُمْ فَأَصْبَحْتُمْ بِنِعْمَتِهِ إِخْواناً وَ كُنْتُمْ عَلى‏ شَفا حُفْرَةٍ مِنَ النَّارِ فَأَنْقَذَكُمْ مِنْها كَذلِكَ يُبَيِّنُ اللَّـهُ لَكُمْ آياتِهِ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَهْتَدُونَ

And hold fast by the cord of Allah all together, and do not separate; and remember Allah’s favour on you when you were enemies (of each other) then He united your hearts with (mutual) love, and thus you became brethren by His favour while you were on a brink of a pit of Fire then He delivered you from it! Even so Allah makes clear His Signs for you, so that you may be guided.

Aal‑i‑Imraan (آل عمران) ‎- 103

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هُوَ اللَّـهُ الْخالِقُ الْبارِئُ الْمُصَوِّرُ لَهُ الْأَسْماءُ الْحُسْنى‏ يُسَبِّحُ لَهُ ما فِي السَّماواتِ وَ الْأَرْضِ وَ هُوَ الْعَزِيزُ الْحَكِيمُ

He is Allah, the Creator, the Inventor of all things, the Bestower of forms. To Him belong the Best Names and Attributes. All that is in the heavens and the earth glorify Him. And He is the Unrivalled All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

Al‑Hashr (الحشر) ‎- 24

🌹❤️🌹