Hadith #6949

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Better than seeking your right is to forgive [and forego] it.

This amazing Hadith emphasizes the virtue of forgiveness and the superiority of choosing forgiveness over seeking one's rights. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (isti'fa) "استيفاء" in the Hadith refers to seeking or demanding one's right or entitlement. It implies the act of claiming what is rightfully due to oneself. On the other hand, the word (afw) "عفو" means forgiveness or pardoning. It signifies the act of letting go of a right or forgiving someone for a wrongdoing.

The Quran beautifully emphasizes the virtue of forgiveness and its superiority over seeking retribution. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:134),

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 importance of forgiveness and the reward it holds in the sight of Allah. It encourages Muslims to control their anger and forgive others, even in difficult circumstances.

Furthermore, in Surah Ash-Shura (42:40), 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).

This verse emphasizes that forgiveness and reconciliation are not only virtuous acts but also carry immense rewards from Allah. It teaches us that responding to evil with forgiveness is a higher moral path than seeking revenge.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in the Hadith reflects his deep understanding of the Quranic teachings. He highlights the superiority of forgiveness over seeking one's rights. Choosing forgiveness over demanding what is rightfully ours is a manifestation of a noble character and a reflection of the teachings of Islam.

Forgiveness has numerous benefits and profound consequences. When we forgive others, we not only release ourselves from the burden of anger and resentment but also foster harmony and unity within the Muslim community. Forgiveness promotes empathy, compassion, and understanding, creating an environment of love and peace. It allows for personal growth and spiritual elevation, as it requires us to overcome our ego and exercise self-control.

Moreover, forgiveness has the power to transform relationships and heal wounds. It opens the door for reconciliation and the restoration of trust. By forgiving others, we create opportunities for personal and collective growth, paving the way for a more just and compassionate society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that forgiveness is superior to seeking our rights. It aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the virtue of forgiveness and its rewards. Choosing forgiveness over demanding what is rightfully ours not only reflects a noble character but also leads to personal growth, harmony within the community, and the establishment of a just and compassionate society. As Muslims, let us strive to embody the teachings of forgiveness and follow the example set by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to forgive and seek His pleasure.