Hadith #6916

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

إذا جُنِيَ عَلَيْكَ فَاغْتَفِرْ۔

This can be translated as,

When you have been wronged, forgive.

Let us now delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (junya) "جُنِيَ" in the Hadith refers to being wronged or oppressed. It encompasses any form of injustice, whether it is physical, emotional, or verbal. The word (ighfir) "اغْتَفِرْ" means to forgive, to pardon, or to overlook the wrong that has been done to you.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:134),

Those who spend [in Allah's cause] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the virtue of forgiving others, even in difficult situations, and it is a quality that Allah loves.

Another verse that supports the concept of forgiveness is found in Surah Ash-Shura (42:40), where Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And the retribution for an evil act is an evil one like it, but whoever pardons and makes reconciliation - his reward is [due] from Allah. Indeed, He does not like wrongdoers.

This verse teaches us that forgiveness is not only a noble act, but it also brings about rewards from Allah, while holding grudges and seeking revenge is disapproved by Him.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement encourages us to forgive when we have been wronged. It is a call to rise above our ego and to respond to injustice with mercy and compassion. Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness, but rather a manifestation of strength and wisdom. It allows us to break the cycle of hatred and resentment, and it opens the door for healing and reconciliation.

When we forgive, we free ourselves from the burden of anger and bitterness. We liberate our hearts and minds from the negative emotions that can consume us. Forgiveness allows us to move forward and focus on personal growth and spiritual development. It is a means of purifying our souls and seeking closeness to Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified this teaching throughout his life. Despite facing numerous injustices and betrayals, he forgave those who wronged him. One notable example is the Battle of Jamal, where he forgave those who fought against him, including Aisha (رَضِيَ ٱللَّهُ عَنْهَا), the wife of the Prophet (ﷺ). This act of forgiveness not only demonstrated his magnanimity but also contributed to the unity and stability of the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of forgiveness when we have been wronged. It is a virtue that is highly regarded in Islam and is supported by numerous Quranic verses. Forgiveness allows us to transcend our own pain and seek the pleasure of Allah. By forgiving others, we not only free ourselves from the shackles of resentment but also contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society. May Allah grant us the strength and wisdom to forgive others and seek His mercy and forgiveness.