Hadith #6923

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of adopting a forgiving and tolerant attitude towards others. The key words in this Hadith are (al-'afw) "العَفْوَ" and (makroohah) "مَكْرُوهَهُ".

(al-'afw) "العَفْوَ" refers to forgiveness, pardon, and excusing others. It is an act of showing mercy and compassion towards those who have wronged us or have done something displeasing. It involves letting go of resentment and choosing not to hold grudges. The concept of forgiveness is deeply rooted in Islam and is highly encouraged in the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

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

And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves, remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins - and who can forgive sins except Allah? - and [who] do not persist in what they have done while they know.

This verse highlights the significance of seeking forgiveness from Allah and not persisting in wrongdoing.

Similarly, in Surah An-Nur (24:22), Allah says,

And let not those of virtue among you and wealth swear not to give [aid] to their relatives and the needy and the emigrants for the cause of Allah, and let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allah should forgive you? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse encourages believers to pardon and overlook the faults of others, reminding them of the mercy and forgiveness of Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further advises us not to extend our hand to that which is (makroohah) "مَكْرُوهَهُ", which means something that is disliked or displeasing to others. This implies that we should avoid engaging in actions or behaviors that may harm or offend others, even if they are not explicitly forbidden. It highlights the importance of considering the feelings and sensitivities of others in our interactions.

The Quran also emphasizes the importance of avoiding actions that are displeasing to others. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah says,

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This verse reminds us to refrain from mocking, insulting, or belittling others, as it can lead to the degradation of their dignity and self-worth. It encourages us to treat others with respect and kindness, recognizing that they may be better than us in the sight of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this Hadith encourages Muslims to adopt a forgiving and tolerant attitude towards others. By practicing forgiveness, we emulate the qualities of Allah, who is the Most Forgiving and Merciful. It also promotes harmonious relationships within society, as forgiveness and tolerance create an atmosphere of compassion and understanding.

When we choose to forgive others, we not only alleviate the burden of resentment from our hearts but also open the door for reconciliation and personal growth. Forgiveness allows us to break the cycle of negativity and promotes a healthier and more peaceful environment. It also strengthens our relationship with Allah, as we strive to embody His attributes of forgiveness and mercy.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to adopt a forgiving and tolerant attitude towards others. It encourages us to practice forgiveness and avoid engaging in actions that may be displeasing to others. By doing so, we strive to emulate the qualities of Allah and create a more harmonious and compassionate society. May Allah grant us the ability to forgive and pardon others, and may He shower His mercy upon us all.