Meaning & Explanation
As-Sabur is the One who is infinitely Patient. He does not hasten punishment for the sinners, giving them time to repent. His patience is not due to inability but from wisdom and mercy. He is patient with His servants despite their continuous sins.
Quran References
2 versesContext: The virtue of patience
وَلَئِن صَبَرْتُمْ لَهُوَ خَيْرٌ لِّلصَّابِرِينَ
“But if you are patient - it is better for those who are patient”
Context: Divine companionship with the patient
إِنَّ اللَّهَ مَعَ الصَّابِرِينَ
“Indeed, Allah is with the patient”
Exemplifying Story
hadithAllah's Patience with Creation
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim
The Prophet ﷺ said: "No one is more patient in the face of harmful words than Allah. They attribute a son to Him, yet He provides them with health and provision." Allah is insulted daily - people deny Him, curse Him, attribute children to Him, worship others besides Him. Yet As-Sabur does not immediately destroy them. He continues to provide for them, send rain, grant health, and give opportunity after opportunity to repent. His patience extends across generations. This is not weakness - He could destroy all in an instant - but perfect patience combined with perfect power.
As-Sabur's patience is mercy. He gives countless chances to return to Him. Do not abuse this patience by persisting in sin, but use it as the opportunity it is.