Hadith #6917

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states: "بِالعَفْوِ تُسْتَنْزَلُ الرَّحْمَةُ۔" This can be translated into English as:

Through forgiveness [of others] divine mercy is invoked.

Let us now delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran.

The word (afw) "عَفْوِ" in the Hadith refers to forgiveness or pardon. It is an act of letting go of resentment, anger, or any negative feelings towards someone who has wronged us. It is an act of mercy and compassion, which brings about reconciliation and peace. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us to practice forgiveness in numerous verses of the Quran.

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 emphasizes the importance of forgiving others, even in difficult circumstances. It highlights that forgiveness is a characteristic of those who are righteous and beloved to Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nur (24:22), Allah states,

And let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allah should forgive you? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse reminds us that forgiving others is not only a means to invoke Allah's mercy upon them but also a way to seek Allah's forgiveness for ourselves. It is a reflection of our own desire to be forgiven by Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the profound connection between forgiveness and divine mercy. When we choose to forgive others, we are invoking the mercy of Allah upon ourselves and upon those who have wronged us. By letting go of grudges and resentments, we open the door for reconciliation, healing, and spiritual growth.

Forgiveness has transformative power. It can mend broken relationships, restore harmony, and bring about positive change. When we forgive, we release ourselves from the burden of anger and bitterness, allowing us to experience inner peace and tranquility. It is a reflection of our own strength and ability to rise above negativity.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, understood the significance of forgiveness in the light of divine mercy. He exemplified this quality throughout his life, even in the face of immense trials and tribulations. His forgiveness towards those who wronged him serves as an inspiration for all Muslims, regardless of their sect.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that forgiveness is not only a noble act but also a means to invoke divine mercy. It is a reflection of our own desire to be forgiven by Allah and a way to seek reconciliation and peace. Let us strive to embody this virtue in our lives, following the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and may Allah shower His mercy upon us all.