Hadith #6961

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "العفو أحسن الانتصار" which translates to

Forgiveness is the best revenge.

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance and superiority of forgiveness over seeking revenge.

The word (‘afw) "عفو" in Arabic refers to forgiveness, pardoning, or letting go of someone's wrongdoing. It is an act of mercy and compassion, where one chooses not to hold grudges or seek retribution for the harm caused by others. The word (intisar) "انتصار" means victory or triumph. In this context, it signifies gaining an upper hand or achieving success.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance for all Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the virtues of forgiveness and its superiority over revenge.

In Surah Al-Imran (3:134), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Those 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 qualities of those who are truly righteous. They are those who control their anger, forgive others, and spend in the way of Allah. By forgiving others, they demonstrate their ability to rise above personal grievances and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Ash-Shura (42:40-43), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 Zalimun (oppressors, polytheists, and wrongdoers). And indeed whosoever is patient and forgives, that would truly be from the things recommended by Allah.

These verses emphasize that while it is natural to feel anger or seek revenge when wronged, the act of forgiveness is highly commendable in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a means of attaining closeness to Allah and earning His reward. By forgiving others, we break the cycle of hatred and promote peace and harmony in society.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Forgiveness is the best revenge,

encourages Muslims to adopt a higher moral standard. Seeking revenge may provide temporary satisfaction, but it perpetuates a cycle of violence and harm. On the other hand, forgiveness brings about healing, reconciliation, and personal growth.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his extensive knowledge and wisdom. His statement reflects his deep understanding of the teachings of Islam and the importance of forgiveness in personal and societal relationships. By forgiving others, we emulate the noble character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who forgave even their staunchest enemies.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ),

Forgiveness is the best revenge,

serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize forgiveness over seeking revenge. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the virtues of forgiveness and its superiority in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By forgiving others, we not only attain personal growth but also contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to forgive others and seek His pleasure.