When someone wrongs another person, the first step is to rectify the wrongdoing with the affected individual before seeking forgiveness from Allah. Our faith teaches us to forgive others. If someone sincerely apologizes, the wronged party should forgive them. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Whoever endures harm and forgives (the responsible person), Allah will raise his rank and erase one of his sins.”If we seek Allah’s forgiveness, we too can forgive others. This highlights the significance and benefits of forgiveness in Islam.
Forgiveness is a profound virtue that allows individuals to move forward. The Arabic words “afham” and “tafahum”, which translate to “understanding” or “comprehension,” underscore the importance of respecting scholars, using appropriate language, and avoiding offense. Respecting diverse perspectives and fostering open dialogue can build bridges of understanding, even in religious discourse where beliefs are deeply personal and sensitive. Scholars are encouraged to choose their words carefully and promote diversity in thought, leading to constructive conversations and a more tolerant society.This discourse emphasizes that understanding and forgiveness are essential qualities that help individuals thrive. According to Islamic teachings, humans, as descendants of Adam, are prone to mistakes and sins. Many Quranic verses remind us of human frailty and the tendency to err. For instance, Surah Al-A’raf (7:23) states: “Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we forget or make a mistake. Our Lord, and lay not upon us a burden like that which You laid upon those before us. Our Lord, and burden us not with that which we have no ability to bear. And pardon us, forgive us, and have mercy upon us.”
This acknowledgment of human fallibility serves as a reminder for believers to turn to Allah, seek forgiveness, and strive for self-improvement. Through repentance, seeking Allah’s mercy, and righteous deeds, Muslims believe they can overcome their inherent weaknesses and lead a God-conscious life.
Islam not only recognizes the human tendency to make mistakes but also emphasizes the potential for spiritual growth and redemption through sincere repentance and adherence to Islamic principles. Seeking forgiveness from Allah and acknowledging one’s weaknesses keeps a person within the bounds of faith, but rejecting Allah’s commands and arguing against them can lead to sin.
Forgiveness in the Quran: Forgiveness is a noble virtue, especially when someone wrongs you or the community and seeks forgiveness. Islam encourages believers to be forgiving and merciful, recognizing that people can unintentionally cause harm or make mistakes. Forgiving others mirrors Allah’s attributes of mercy and compassion. The Quran emphasizes the significance of forgiveness in several verses: Forgive Graciously: “We have not created the heavens and the earth and all that is between them except with a purpose. And the Hour is surely coming, so forgive graciously.” (Quran 15:85)This verse reminds us that our time on earth is limited. If we hope for forgiveness for our own shortcomings, the least we can do is forgive and pray for others.
Reward in Reconciliation: “The recompense of an evil deed is its equivalent. But whoever pardons and makes reconciliation, his reward is [due] from Allah. Indeed, He does not like wrongdoers.” (Quran 42:40) Forgiving others with sincerity brings reward from Allah. Although reconciliation can be challenging, we should strive to forgive, even for the sake of Allah.
Patience and Forgiveness are Praiseworthy: “And whoever is patient and forgives – indeed, that is of the matters [requiring] determination.” (Quran 42:43)The Quran highlights that patience and forgiveness are interconnected, essential for building a unified community.
Forgiveness Ensures Allah’s Reward: Forgiving others and trusting in Allah, who sees everything, assures us of His just rewards. “So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you.” (Quran 3:159).Forgive to Be Forgiven by Allah. “And let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allah should forgive you? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Quran 24:22)
Patience in Hardship: “Kind speech and forgiveness are better than charity followed by injury.” (Quran 2:263)”Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the ignorant.” (Quran 7:199)
The Prophet’s (saw) Was Best Way:
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) exemplified forgiveness throughout his life. He forgave even those who personally harmed him or caused distress to the Muslim community. He said, “The strong person is not the one who can overpower others, but the one who controls himself when angry.”The Prophet also stated, “No one forgives except that Allah increases him in honor. And no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises him in status.” (Muslim)
Forgiveness is not always easy, but it is essential. Islam recognizes human imperfections and emphasizes acknowledging mistakes, seeking forgiveness, and striving for self-improvement. By practicing sincerity and clearing the heart of grudges, Muslims can embody the noble traits of compassion and mercy, as loved by Allah. As believers, we should make forgiveness a part of our lives, knowing that Allah values and rewards those who forgive.
Author besides being a Medical doctor at Mubarak Hospital Srinagar, is having POst Graduate degree in Islamic studies, his work has been published in National and international magazines. He can be reached at drfiazfazili@gmail.com
Discussion about this post