What is 'Anger?'

 

 

Anger is a powerful emotion marked by annoyance, displeasure, or hostility toward someone perceived to have wronged you or others. It can manifest as passive or overt aggression, while vengeance refers to the punishment or retribution for an injury or wrongdoing.

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Why is 'Anger' Important?

 

When driven by love and selflessness, anger and vengeance can promote unity, justice, and peace. However, if fueled by selfishness, they lead to destruction and division. True love for our Creator and fellow humans naturally evokes anger against injustice and oppression. This anger can motivate us to resist passivity and take responsibility against wrongdoing.

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Channeling anger into a passion for justice empowers us to confront oppression and corruption. It is unrealistic to expect humans to never feel anger, as even the prophets in Abrahamic Scriptures express divine anger against corruption. If we seek to align our will with that of our Creator, we must also allow ourselves to feel and express righteous anger.

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While anger can strain relationships, when directed positively, it fosters a deeper connection with our Creator and purpose. It can ignite our passion for unconditional love and transform darkness into light. Reflecting on the stories of prophets can guide us in managing our anger constructively, enabling us to better fulfil our higher purpose.

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How can Anger and Vengeance help us?

 

Self-reflecting on our anger and desire for vengeance can deepen our understanding of ourselves and others. When we feel anger towards someone, it's crucial to ask: "Why do I feel this way?" Is my anger rooted in insecurities, fears, selfish desires, or unfounded hatred? Or is it driven by love and a desire for justice? Am I angry because I want to control others for personal gain, or is my anger aligned with a higher purpose, reflecting a passion for truth that pleases our Creator?

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Consider these questions: Why do I get angry? Why do I seek vengeance? Am I judging others unfairly? Do I strive to understand their perspective, or do I act out of arrogance? Is my anger a product of insecurity or selfishness? These motivations often lead us away from peace, damaging our relationships and distancing us from our Creator. Uncontrolled anger can provoke divine anger, which, though rooted in love, serves as a reminder of our need for self-awareness.

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Alternatively, we can ask: Is my anger fuelled by love for others? Does it express a desire for divine justice? If so, what impact will my anger have on those I care about? Would patience, compassion, and mercy be more beneficial than vengeance? Scripture teaches that our Creator is slow to anger and compassionate. Is mercy not a higher form of justice than human retribution? Reflecting on how we judge others can reveal the true nature of our anger and help us choose mercy over vengeance.

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Anger is a natural emotion, but we can choose how to respond. Do we let it destroy our relationships, or do we channel it positively? Seeking peace rather than retaliation fosters unity and understanding. By reflecting on our emotions, we can learn from our mistakes and cultivate a sincere desire for self-purification and reconciliation with our Creator.

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According to Abrahamic Scripture, we have a duty to defend the rights of the oppressed and fight against injustice. In such cases, righteous anger can be justified. However, true strength lies in standing up against oppression without harbouring anger or grudges, allowing our actions to stem from love rather than vengeance. This approach can empower our pursuit of peace and justice while revealing our true essence of selflessness.

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How does 'Anger' and 'Vengeance' affect our well-being?

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Anger, when held as a grudge or desire for vengeance, can deeply harm our emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical health, consuming us and hindering our true nature of unity. It suffocates us, eroding inner peace, causing physical symptoms like palpitations and headaches, and leading to a loss of control. This loss can spiral into depression and anxiety, affecting self-esteem and creating a difficult cycle to break. Often, anger stems from a need to control situations or others, generating anxiety and stress that damage relationships. However, reflecting on past anger and vengeance can yield wisdom. By learning from mistakes and taking responsibility, we can find purpose in past wrongdoings and draw closer to our Creator.

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Physical Impact

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Anger triggers physiological responses, including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. While these responses can be beneficial in short bursts, chronic anger can lead to health issues such as cardiovascular problems, weakened immune function, and digestive disorders. Physical tension from anger may also result in pain, such as headaches or muscle tension.

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Emotional Impact

Anger and the desire for vengeance often arise from feelings of hurt or injustice, creating a cycle of negativity that can hinder joy and contentment. Holding onto these emotions can lead to bitterness and resentment, isolating individuals and resulting in emotional distress. This turmoil affects interactions with others, potentially leading to conflicts and misunderstandings.

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Mental Impact

Dwelling on grievances or seeking revenge can cloud judgment and decision-making, hindering concentration and creativity. This fixation may contribute to anxiety and depression, creating a feedback loop that diminishes motivation and fulfilment in personal and professional life.

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Spiritual Impact

Anger and vengeance can disconnect individuals from their sense of purpose and inner peace. Many spiritual traditions advocate for forgiveness and compassion as paths to healing. Clinging to anger can lead to feelings of guilt and shame, obstructing personal growth and spiritual evolution.

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Transforming anger and vengeance into constructive emotions can enhance overall well-being across all aspects of life.

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How does our 'Anger' and 'Vengeance' Harm Us?

 

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Selfish anger, often stemming from arrogance, leads to a false belief in our superior knowledge. Recognising that all knowledge belongs to a Higher Power can reduce our anger. Arrogance blocks our ability to seek forgiveness and serve beyond our own judgments, making us less open to understanding others, which stunts our spiritual growth. This lack of understanding confines us within self-imposed limitations, obstructing our path to Higher Truth.

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Misguided arrogance can result in hostility, an inability to forgive, and a disconnection from our Creator, leading to anxiety and depression. Uncontrolled anger, driven by ego, creates chaos in our lives and relationships, causing despair and a distorted perception of reality. Chasing fleeting pleasures distances us from our true potential, affecting our communities and leading us into darkness without self-awareness.

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The desire for vengeance often arises from a misguided need for justice rooted in ego and low self-esteem. This arrogance hides our vulnerabilities and compels us to judge others harshly. True humility allows us to connect with our inner selves and treat others with kindness. Anger can also stem from guilt over past mistakes, leading to self-protective behaviours that harden our hearts and perpetuate suffering.

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However, past expressions of anger and vengeance can hold value. By reflecting on these experiences, we can gain wisdom and transform our mistakes into lessons for growth, drawing closer to our Creator through repentance and accountability.

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How does our 'Anger/Vengeance' cause harm unto others?

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Anger and revenge are natural reactions to perceived injustices, but they can cause significant harm to both individuals and communities. When anger drives our actions, it often leads to irrational behaviour, diminishing our capacity for compassion and resulting in emotional, psychological, and physical pain.

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Anger can manifest in several ways, including:

• Verbal outbursts

• Aggressive behaviour

• Passive-aggressive actions

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These expressions can damage relationships, create lasting emotional wounds, and foster environments filled with fear and hostility.

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The desire for revenge, fuelled by feelings of injustice, can impair judgment and lead to excessively harmful actions, perpetuating a cycle of hostility that affects individuals and their communities.

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The repercussions of anger and vengeance also extend to societal issues, contributing to systemic violence and cycles of retribution that erode trust and safety within communities.

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Failing to control anger and seeking revenge leads to unnecessary suffering, disrupting peaceful relationships with both the Creator and the community. This breakdown fosters division and destruction, affecting families, friendships, and social bonds.

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The cycle of anger and vengeance instils fear and anxiety in others, causing them to erect emotional barriers that hide their true selves. This can result in feelings of mistreatment, misunderstanding, and lack of love, diminishing their ability to respond positively and engage in kindness.

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The doubt generated by our actions can lead others to question the unconditional love of the Creator, hindering their pursuit of a higher purpose rooted in peace and justice. Consequently, this cycle restricts both their and our ability to take responsibility for our actions, nurture faith, and fulfil our true purpose in serving the Creator.

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How does our "Anger' and 'Vengeance' affect our wellbeing?

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Anger and vengeance significantly affect our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. Understanding their impact is crucial for personal development and balance in life.

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Physical Wellbeing

Prolonged anger leads to a surge of adrenaline and stress hormones, resulting in increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and muscle tension. Chronic anger can cause serious health issues, including cardiovascular disease and digestive problems, alongside symptoms like headaches, insomnia, and fatigue.

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Emotional Wellbeing

Anger and vengeance often stem from feelings of hurt or injustice, leading to sadness, anxiety, and depression. Dwelling on these emotions can create a cycle of negativity that hinders joy and fulfilment, impacting relationships and potentially causing isolation or conflict.

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Mental Wellbeing

Fixation of anger clouds judgment and impairs cognitive functioning, reducing focus and productivity. This preoccupation with revenge distracts from constructive thinking and personal growth, stunting intellectual and emotional development.

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Spiritual Wellbeing

Holding onto anger disconnects individuals from their values and beliefs, straying from principles like forgiveness and compassion. This disconnection can lead to spiritual unrest and a lack of purpose, creating internal conflict.

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The effects of anger and vengeance on our overall well-being are profound. Recognising these emotions is essential for seeking healthier coping mechanisms. Embracing forgiveness and engaging in practices like mindfulness and therapy can transform anger into understanding, promoting healing and enhancing overall well-being.

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What does Abrahamic Scripture teach about 'Anger' and 'Vengeance?'

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Jewish Scripture, particularly the Hebrew Bible, offers profound insights into the concepts of anger and vengeance, emphasizing the importance of self-control and the moral implications of these emotions. In the Torah, anger is often depicted as a natural human emotion but one that must be managed wisely. For instance, in the Book of Proverbs, it is advised that "A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control" (Proverbs 29:11). This highlights the value placed on restraint and the wisdom in not allowing anger to dictate one's actions.

Furthermore, the concept of vengeance is addressed in the context of justice and divine retribution. The Torah states, "You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbour as yourself" (Leviticus 19:18). This directive underscores the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation over retribution, teaching that vengeance belongs to God alone, as expressed in Deuteronomy 32:35, where it is stated, "Vengeance is Mine, and recompense." Thus, Jewish Scripture encourages individuals to seek peace and understanding rather than succumbing to the destructive cycle of anger and revenge.

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In the teachings of Christ, anger is addressed with a focus on the heart's intentions and the consequences of unchecked emotions. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus states, "But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment" (Matthew 5:22). This teaching elevates the understanding of anger beyond mere external actions to include internal feelings, suggesting that harbouring anger can lead to spiritual consequences. Jesus advocates for reconciliation, urging individuals to resolve their conflicts swiftly and to approach others with love and humility.

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Regarding vengeance, Christ's teachings emphasise forgiveness as a fundamental principle. In the Lord's Prayer, believers are instructed to pray for forgiveness of their debts as they forgive their debtors (Matthew 6:12). This reciprocal nature of forgiveness highlights the Christian call to let go of grievances rather than seeking revenge. Additionally, in Romans 12:19, it is written, "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God," reinforcing the idea that vengeance is not the believer's role but rather God's prerogative. Through these teachings, Christ encourages a transformative approach to anger and vengeance, promoting peace, compassion, and a commitment to love.

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The Quran addresses the themes of anger and vengeance with a strong emphasis on patience, self-restraint, and forgiveness. Anger is recognised as a human emotion, yet believers are encouraged to control it. In Surah Al-Imran (3:134), it is stated, "And those who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good." This verse highlights the virtue of managing one's anger and the spiritual rewards that come from forgiving others. The Quran teaches that responding to anger with calmness and understanding is a sign of strength and piety.

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When it comes to vengeance, the Quran acknowledges the right to seek justice but places a strong emphasis on proportionality and forgiveness. In Surah Ash-Shura (42:40), it mentions, "And the retribution for an injury is an injury equal to it," but immediately follows with the encouragement to forgive, stating, "But whoever overlooks from his brother anything, then there is a reward for him." This dual approach illustrates that while justice is important, the higher moral ground lies in forgiveness and mercy. Ultimately, the Quran teaches that while anger and the desire for vengeance may arise, the preferred path is one of patience, compassion, and a commitment to peace, reflecting the divine attributes of mercy and grace.

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How can we 'Anger' and 'Vengeance' from Darkness to Light?

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To transform our feelings of anger and vengeance into positive actions, we can adopt several key principles:

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1. PATIENCE: Cultivating patience helps us manage our anger and prevent harmful expressions of it. By remembering the divine presence within us and seeking to align our desires with God's will, we can endure life's challenges with grace. Past struggles can enhance our patience, allowing us to better handle anger and the urge for vengeance in the future.

2. HUMILITY: Letting go of grudges requires humility. By striving to understand others' perspectives, we become more empathetic and less judgmental. Recognizing the inherent worth of every individual fosters a willingness to listen and learn, reducing the likelihood of anger.

3. FORGIVENESS: Understanding others' viewpoints enhances our capacity to forgive. This compassion enables us to release anger and grudges, allowing us to feel more deserving of forgiveness ourselves. Embracing forgiveness paves the way for personal growth and spiritual reconciliation.

4. RESPECT: Respecting others encourages us to treat them as we wish to be treated. This mutual respect diminishes rudeness and aggression, fostering love and understanding. True love cannot exist without respect.

5. COMPASSION: Cultivating compassion helps us release negative emotions and encourages us to respond to wrongdoing with kindness rather than retaliation.

6. TRUTH/INTEGRITY: Honesty with ourselves and others allows us to transform destructive anger into a passion for truth and justice. Integrity in our actions leads to better judgment and promotes peace in our relationships.

7. LOVE: Loving our Creator and one another enables us to recognize the good in others, minimizing negative feelings and fostering a more harmonious existence.

8. JUSTICE: Understanding true justice reminds us that our actions towards others reflect on us. By taking responsibility for our behavior, we can rise above selfish desires and promote mercy and kindness.

9. PEACE: Striving to create peace among others prevents us from responding to negativity with further negativity. Peaceful interactions are essential for nurturing positive relationships.

10. FAITH: Trusting in a higher power helps us surrender our anger and relinquish the need for control, allowing us to focus on spiritual growth and unity with divine will.

11. KNOWLEDGE, WISDOM, and UNDERSTANDING: Seeking truth through reflection, scripture, and shared experiences enables us to learn from our past and transform negativity into positivity.

12. SELF-DISCIPLINE: Engaging in prayer, meditation, and acts of kindness strengthens our resolve to act positively and resist negative impulses.

13. GRATITUDE: Expressing gratitude for life and sharing our blessings promotes peace and selfless love.

14. SACRIFICE: Sharing what we cherish with those in need fosters a higher purpose and service to our Creator.

15. OBEDIENCE: Following divine guidance with sincerity ensures a pure relationship with our Creator, free from distractions of false beliefs.

16. PERSEVERANCE and HOPE: Maintaining hope and resilience in the face of challenges allows us to continue striving for improvement and forgiveness.

17. AVOID INTOXICANTS AND ADDICTIVE SUBSTANCES: Steering clear of substances that cloud judgment helps us maintain control over our emotions and actions.

18. AVOID IDLE TALK AND SLANDER: Refraining from gossip and harmful speech protects our relationships and promotes a positive environment.

19. TRANSFORMING OUR EVIL INCLINATION: Through deep self-reflection and seeking divine guidance, we can learn from past mistakes and elevate our actions towards goodness.

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Let us remember that Our Creator is just, merciful, and compassionate. May we strive to draw closer to Him, abandon our negative tendencies, and embrace a life of goodness. All praise and gratitude belong to our Creator, the Master of all, to whom we ultimately return.

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Some Scripture quotes on Anger/Vengeance

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And the LORD said unto him, Therefore whosoever slayeth Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold. And the LORD set a mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him. Genesis 4:15

 

If I whet my glittering sword, and mine hand take hold on judgment; I will render vengeance to mine enemies, and will reward them that hate me. Deuteronomy 32:41

 

Rejoice, O ye nations, [with] his people: for he will avenge the blood of his servants, and will render vengeance to his adversaries, and will be merciful unto his land, [and] to his people. Deuteronomy 32:43

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The Lord said to Moses, “Take vengeance on the Midianites for the Israelites. After that, you will be gathered to your people. So Moses said to the people, “Arm some of your men to go to war against the Midianites so that they may carry out the Lord’s vengeance on them. Send into battle a thousand men from each of the tribes of Israel.” So twelve thousand men armed for battle, a thousand from each tribe, were supplied from the clans of Israel. 6 Moses sent them into battle, a thousand from each tribe, along with Phinehas son of Eleazar, the priest, who took with him articles from the sanctuary and the trumpets for signaling. They fought against Midian, as the Lord commanded Moses, and killed every man.Among their victims were Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur and Reba- the five kings of Midian. They also killed Balaam son of Beor with the sword. The Israelites captured the Midianite women and children and took all the Midianite herds, flocks and goods as plunder. They burned all the towns where the Midianites had settled, as well as all their camps. They took all the plunder and spoils, including the people and animals, and brought the captives, spoils and plunder to Moses and Eleazar the priest and the Israelite assembly at their camp on the plains of Moab, by the Jordan across from Jericho. Moses, Eleazar the priest and all the leaders of the community went to meet them outside the camp. Moses was angry with the officers of the army-the commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds—who returned from the battle. “Have you allowed all the women to live?” he asked them. “They were the ones who followed Balaam’s advice and enticed the Israelites to be unfaithful to the Lord in the Peor incident, so that a plague struck the Lord’s people. Now kill all the boys. And kill every woman who has slept with a man,but save for yourselves every girl who has never slept with a man. Numbers 31:1-15

 

And she said unto him, My father, [if] thou hast opened thy mouth unto the LORD, do to me according to that which hath proceeded out of thy mouth; forasmuch as the LORD hath taken vengeance for thee of thine enemies, [even] of the children of Ammon. Judges 11:36

 

The righteous shall rejoice when he seeth the vengeance: he shall wash his feet in the blood of the wicked. Psalms 58:10

 

O LORD God, to whom vengeance belongeth; O God, to whom vengeance belongeth, show thyself. Psalms 94:1

 

Thou answeredst them, O LORD our God: thou wast a God that forgavest them, though thou tookest vengeance of their inventions. Psalms 99:8

 

To execute vengeance upon the heathen, [and] punishments upon the people; Psalms 149:7

 

For jealousy [is] the rage of a man: therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance. Proverbs 6:34

 

For [it is] the day of the LORD's vengeance, [and] the year of recompenses for the controversy of Zion. Isaiah 34:8

 

Say to them [that are] of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come [with] vengeance, [even] God [with] a recompense; he will come and save you. Isaiah 35:4

 

Thy nakedness shall be uncovered, yea, thy shame shall be seen: I will take vengeance, and I will not meet [thee as] a man. Isaiah 47:3

 

For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance [for] clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak. Isaiah 59:17

 

To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; Isaiah 61:2

 

For the day of vengeance [is] in mine heart, and the year of my redeemed is come. Isaiah 63:4

 

But, O LORD of hosts, that judgest righteously, that triest the reins and the heart, let me see thy vengeance on them: for unto thee have I revealed my cause. Jeremiah 11:20

 

But, O LORD of hosts, that triest the righteous, [and] seest the reins and the heart, let me see thy vengeance on them: for unto thee have I opened my cause. Jeremiah 20:12

 

For this [is] the day of the Lord GOD of hosts, a day of vengeance, that he may avenge him of his adversaries: and the sword shall devour, and it shall be satiate and made drunk with their blood: for the Lord GOD of hosts hath a sacrifice in the north country by the river Euphrates. Jeremiah 46:10

 

Shout against her round about: she hath given her hand: her foundations are fallen, her walls are thrown down: for it [is] the vengeance of the LORD: take vengeance upon her; as she hath done, do unto her. Jeremiah 50:15

 

The voice of them that flee and escape out of the land of Babylon, to declare in Zion the vengeance of the LORD our God, the vengeance of his temple. Jeremiah 50:28

 

Flee out of the midst of Babylon, and deliver every man his soul: be not cut off in her iniquity; for this [is] the time of the LORD'S vengeance; he will render unto her a recompense. Jeremiah 51:6

 

Make bright the arrows; gather the shields: the LORD hath raised up the spirit of the kings of the Medes: for his device [is] against Babylon, to destroy it; because it [is] the vengeance of the LORD, the vengeance of his temple. Jeremiah 51:11

 

Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will plead thy cause, and take vengeance for thee; and I will dry up her sea, and make her springs dry. Jeremiah 51:36

 

Thou hast seen all their vengeance [and] all their imaginations against me. Lamentations 3:60

 

That it might cause fury to come up to take vengeance; I have set her blood upon the top of a rock, that it should not be covered. Ezekiel 24:8

 

Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because that Edom hath dealt against the house of Judah by taking vengeance, and hath greatly offended, and revenged himself upon them; Ezekiel 25:12

 

And I will lay my vengeance upon Edom by the hand of my people Israel: and they shall do in Edom according to mine anger and according to my fury; and they shall know my vengeance, saith the Lord GOD. Ezekiel 25:14

 

Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because the Philistines have dealt by revenge, and have taken vengeance with a despiteful heart, to destroy [it] for the old hatred; Ezekiel 25:15

 

And I will execute great vengeance upon them with furious rebukes; and they shall know that I [am] the LORD, when I shall lay my vengeance upon them. Ezekiel 25:17

 

And I will execute vengeance in anger and fury upon the heathen, such as they have not heard. Micah 5:15

 

Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. Jude 1:7

 

For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. Luke 21:22

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"Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it." Psalm 34:14

 

Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the bosom of fools. Ecclesiastes 7:9

 

The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the prudent ignores an insult. Proverbs 12:16

 

Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil. For the evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land. Psalm 37:8-9

 

Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:9

 

It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near and their doom rushes upon them.” Deuteronomy 32:35

 

‘Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD. Leviticus 19:18

 

And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” Mark 11:25

 

Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs. Proverbs 10:12

 

Do not say, “I’ll pay you back for this wrong!” Wait for the LORD, and he will avenge you. Proverbs 20:22

 

Do not say, “I’ll do to them as they have done to me; I’ll pay them back for what they did.” Proverbs 24:29

 

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. Mathew 18:21-22

 

The LORD is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth. Rise up, Judge of the earth; pay back to the proud what they deserve. Psalm 94:1-2

 

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’  But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. Mathew 5:38-39

 

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Luke 6:27-28​

 

Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on a wound, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart. If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you. Proverbs 25:20-22​

 

And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. Mathew 5:40-45

 

Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city. Proverbs 16:32

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Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offence. Proverbs 19:11

 

A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1

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“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. Mathew 5:7

 

What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you? James 4:1

 

A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends. Proverbs 16:28

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Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him. Proverbs 26:12

 

So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Mathew 5:23-24

 

Do not say, “I will repay evil”; wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you. Proverbs 20:22​

 

“If you love those who love you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful. ... Luke 6:32-42

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And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them. Luke 6:31

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“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. Mathew 7:1-5

 

And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” And he said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.” Luke 10:25-28

 

If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless. James 1:26

 

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Mathew 7:12

 

Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and shrewd in their own sight! Isaiah 5:21

 

“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Mathew 5:5-9

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And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” Mathew 9:10-13

 

Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38 

 

Whoever hates disguises himself with his lips and harbors deceit in his heart: when he speaks graciously, believe him not, for there are seven abominations in his heart; Proverbs 26:24-26

 

"Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil." Psalm 37:8

 

"But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness." Psalm 86:15

 

"Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly."Proverbs 14:29

 

"A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention." Proverbs 15:18

 

"Make no friendship with a man given to anger, nor go with a wrathful man." Proverbs 22:24

 

"Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger..."James 1:19

 

"...for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God." James 1:20

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"Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the heart of fools." Ecclesiastes 7:9

 

"If the anger of the ruler rises against you, do not leave your place, for calmness will lay great offenses to rest." Ecclesiastes 10:4

 

" 'There is no peace,' says my God, 'for the wicked.' " Isaiah 57:21

 

And those who avoid major sins and indecencies; and if they become angry, they forgive. And those who respond to their Lord, and pray regularly, and conduct their affairs by mutual consultation, and give of what We have provided them. And those who, when wronged, defend themselves. The repayment of a bad action is one equivalent to it. But whoever pardons and makes reconciliation, his reward lies with God. He does not love the unjust. As for those who retaliate after being wronged, there is no blame on them. Blame lies on those who wrong people, and commit aggression in the land without right. These will have a painful punishment.

But whoever endures patiently and forgives—that is a sign of real resolve. Quran 42:37-43

 

In the name of God, the Gracious, the Merciful. Praise be to God, Lord of the Worlds. The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Master of the Day of Judgment. It is You we worship, and upon You we call for help. Guide us to the straight path. The path of those You have blessed, not of those against whom there is anger, nor of those who are misguided. Quran:1

 

In his absence, the people of Moses adopted a calf made from their ornaments—a body which lowed. Did they not see that it could not speak to them, nor guide them in any way? They took it for worship. They were in the wrong. Then, when they regretted, and realized that they had erred, they said, “Unless our Lord extends His mercy to us, and forgives us, we will be among the losers.” And when Moses returned to his people, angry and disappointed, he said, “What an awful thing you did in my absence. Did you forsake the commandments of your Lord so hastily?” And he threw down the tablets; and he took hold of his brother’s head, dragging him towards himself. He said, “Son of my mother, the people have overpowered me, and were about to kill me; so do not allow the enemies to gloat over me, and do not count me among the unjust people.”He said, “My Lord, forgive me and my brother, and admit us into Your mercy; for you are the Most Merciful of the merciful.”  

Those who idolized the calf have incurred wrath from their Lord, and humiliation in this life. We thus requite the innovators. As for those who commit sins, and then repent afterwards and believe—your Lord, thereafter, is Forgiving and Merciful. When the anger abated in Moses, he took up the tablets. In their transcript is guidance and mercy for those in awe of their Lord. And Moses chose from his people seventy men for Our appointment. When the tremor shook them, he said, “My Lord, had You willed, You could have destroyed them before, and me too. Will you destroy us for what the fools among us have done? This is but Your test—with it You misguide whomever You will, and guide whomever You will. You are our Protector, so forgive us, and have mercy on us. You are the Best of Forgivers.” “And inscribe for us goodness in this world, and in the Hereafter. We have turned to You.” He said, “My punishment—I inflict it upon whomever I will, but My mercy encompasses all things. I will specify it for those who act righteously and practice regular charity, and those who believe in Our signs.” Those who follow the Messenger, the Unlettered Prophet, whom they find mentioned in the Torah and the Gospel in their possession. He directs them to righteousness, and deters them from evil, and allows for them all good things, and prohibits for them wickedness, and unloads the burdens and the shackles that are upon them. Those who believe in him, and respect him, and support him, and follow the light that came down with him—these are the successful. Quran 7: 148-157

 

Go, you and your brother, with My signs, and do not neglect My remembrance. Go to Pharaoh. He has tyrannized. But speak to him nicely. Perhaps he will remember, or have some fear.” They said, “Lord, we fear he may persecute us, or become violent.”

He said, “Do not fear, I am with you, I hear and I see. Quran 20:42-46

 

Once he entered the city, unnoticed by its people. He found in it two men fighting—one of his own sect, and one from his enemies. The one of his sect solicited his assistance against the one from his enemies; so Moses punched him, and put an end to him. He said, “This is of Satan's doing; he is an enemy that openly misleads.” He said, “My Lord, I have wronged myself, so forgive me.” So He forgave him. He is the Forgiver, the Merciful. He said, “My Lord, in as much as you have favored me, I will never be a supporter of the criminals.” Quran 28:15-17

 

Moses said to him, “May I follow you, so that you may teach me some of the guidance you were taught?” He said, “You will not be able to endure with me. And how will you endure what you have no knowledge of?” He said, “You will find me, God willing, patient; and I will not disobey you in any order of yours.” He said, “If you follow me, do not ask me about anything, until I myself make mention of it to you.” So they set out. Until, when they had boarded the boat, he holed it. He said, “Did you hole it, to drown its passengers? You have done something awful.” He said, “Did I not tell you that you will not be able to endure with me?” He said, “Do not rebuke me for forgetting, and do not make my course difficult for me.” Then they set out. Until, when they encountered a boy, he killed him. He said, “Did you kill a pure soul, who killed no one? You have done something terrible.” He said, “Did I not tell you that you will not be able to endure with me?” He said, “If I ask you about anything after this, then do not keep company with me. You have received excuses from me.” So they set out. Until, when they reached the people of a town, they asked them for food, but they refused to offer them hospitality. There they found a wall about to collapse, and he repaired it. He said, “If you wanted, you could have obtained a payment for it.” He said, “This is the parting between you and me. I will tell you the interpretation of what you were unable to endure. As for the boat, it belonged to paupers working at sea. I wanted to damage it because there was a king coming after them seizing every boat by force. As for the boy, his parents were believers, and we feared he would overwhelm them with oppression and disbelief. So we wanted their Lord to replace him with someone better in purity, and closer to mercy. And as for the wall, it belonged to two orphaned boys in the city. Beneath it was a treasure that belonged to them. Their father was a righteous man. Your Lord wanted them to reach their maturity, and then extract their treasure—as a mercy from your Lord. I did not do it of my own accord. This is the interpretation of what you were unable to endure.” Quran 18:66-82

 

And relate to them the true story of Adam's two sons: when they offered an offering, and it was accepted from one of them, but it was not accepted from the other. He Said, “I will kill you.” He Said, “God accepts only from the righteous.” “If you extend your hand to kill me, I will not extend my hand to kill you; for I fear God, Lord of the Worlds.” “I would rather you bear my sin and your sin, and you become among the inmates of the Fire. Such is the reward for the evildoers.” Then His soul prompted him to kill his brother, so he killed him, and became one of the losers. Then God sent a raven digging the ground, to show him how to cover his brother's corpse. He said, “Woe to me! I was unable to be like this raven, and bury my brother's corpse.” So he became full of regrets. Because of that We ordained for the Children of Israel: that whoever kills a person—unless it is for murder or corruption on earth—it is as if he killed the whole of mankind; and whoever saves it, it is as if he saved the whole of mankind…. Quran 5:27-32

 

O you who believe! Intoxicants, gambling, idolatry, and divination are abominations of Satan’s doing. Avoid them, so that you may prosper. Satan wants to provoke strife and hatred among you through intoxicants and gambling, and to prevent you from the remembrance of God, and from prayer. Will you not desist? Quran 5:90-91

 

And who is better in speech than someone who calls to God, and acts with integrity, and says, “I am of those who submit”?

Good and evil are not equal. Repel evil with good, and the person who was your enemy becomes like an intimate friend. But none will attain it except those who persevere, and none will attain it except the very fortunate. When a temptation from the Devil provokes you, seek refuge in God; He is the Hearer, the Knower. Quran 41:33-36

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