Hadith #6960

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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 الإحسان" which translates to

Forgiveness is the best of favours.

This wise utterance highlights the importance and superiority of forgiveness as an act of kindness and benevolence.

The word (al-'afw) "العفو" refers to forgiveness, pardoning, or excusing someone's faults or mistakes. It goes beyond merely overlooking an offense; it entails letting go of any resentment or desire for revenge. It is an act of mercy and compassion that emanates from a generous heart.

Imam Ali's statement is in perfect harmony with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the virtue of forgiveness and its superiority over retaliation. In Surah Al-Nur, verse 22, Allah says,

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

This verse encourages Muslims to forgive others, reminding them that Allah is the Most Forgiving and Merciful.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran, verse 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 importance of controlling one's anger and pardoning others, as it is an act that is beloved to Allah.

Imam Ali's statement serves as a reminder that forgiveness is not only a noble act but also a means of attaining Allah's pleasure and love. When we forgive others, we emulate the qualities of Allah, who is the Ultimate Forgiver. It is an act that reflects our faith and strengthens our relationship with Him.

Forgiveness has profound consequences in our personal and social lives. On a personal level, forgiving others brings inner peace and tranquility. It liberates us from the burden of holding grudges and allows us to move forward with a clear conscience. It also fosters humility and humility, as it requires us to let go of our ego and pride.

On a social level, forgiveness promotes harmony and unity within the Muslim community. It resolves conflicts, heals wounds, and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. It creates an environment of compassion and understanding, where individuals can learn from their mistakes and grow together.

Imam Ali's statement also serves as a motivation for us to forgive others. It reminds us that forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but rather a manifestation of strength and wisdom. It takes courage to let go of past grievances and extend a hand of forgiveness. By forgiving others, we break the cycle of resentment and contribute to a more compassionate and forgiving society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that forgiveness is the best of favours. It is a virtue that is highly regarded in Islam and is supported by numerous Quranic verses. Forgiveness brings us closer to Allah, brings peace to our hearts, and fosters unity within the Muslim community. Let us strive to embody this noble trait and forgive others, for in doing so, we attain Allah's pleasure and blessings. May Allah grant us the strength and wisdom to forgive others and may He forgive us all.