Hadith #6899

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, "العفو أعظم الفضيلتين" which translates to

Forgiveness is the greater of the two virtues.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the immense importance and superiority of forgiveness in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the significance of forgiveness, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the virtue of forgiveness and its rewards. In Surah Al-Imran (3:134), Allah says,

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

This verse highlights the connection between forgiveness and righteousness, as those who forgive are described as "doers of good" and are loved by Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Ash-Shura (42:40-43), Allah says,

The recompense for an evil is an evil like thereof; but whoever forgives and makes reconciliation, his reward is with Allah. Verily, He likes not the wrongdoers. And indeed whosoever is patient and forgives, that would truly be from the things recommended by Allah.

These verses emphasize that forgiveness is not only a virtuous act, but it also carries immense rewards from Allah. It is a means of seeking His pleasure and distancing oneself from wrongdoing.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us that forgiveness holds a higher rank than other virtues. This is because forgiveness requires a great deal of strength, humility, and selflessness. It is easy to hold grudges, seek revenge, or harbor resentment, but it takes a truly noble soul to forgive and let go of past grievances.

When we forgive others, we emulate the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself demonstrated this virtue throughout his life, even in the face of great injustice and betrayal. His forgiveness towards those who wronged him serves as a timeless lesson for all Muslims.

Forgiveness not only benefits the one who forgives but also has a transformative effect on the one who is forgiven. It creates an atmosphere of love, compassion, and unity within the Muslim community. It fosters reconciliation, healing, and growth, allowing individuals to move forward and rebuild relationships based on forgiveness and understanding.

Moreover, forgiveness is not limited to interpersonal relationships. It extends to seeking forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) as well. We are all fallible human beings who make mistakes, and seeking forgiveness from Allah is an essential part of our spiritual journey. Allah, in His infinite mercy, promises to forgive those who sincerely repent and seek His forgiveness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that forgiveness is the greater of the two virtues. It is a noble act that brings us closer to Allah and reflects the highest level of moral character. By forgiving others and seeking forgiveness from Allah, we embody the teachings of Islam and contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society. May Allah guide us all to embody the virtue of forgiveness and grant us His forgiveness and mercy.