Hadith #6959

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 زكاة القدرة" which translates to

Forgiveness is the alms-tax of power.

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of forgiveness and its relationship to one's strength and power.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (al-'afw) "العفو" refers to forgiveness, which encompasses pardoning, letting go, and showing mercy. It is an act of suppressing anger and resentment, and instead choosing to release the wrongdoings of others. The word (zakat) "زكاة" means alms-tax, which is a form of charity given by Muslims to purify their wealth and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Lastly, (al-qudrah) "القدرة" signifies power, capability, and strength.

To comprehend the essence of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:134),

Those who spend [in Allah's cause] 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 forgiveness and its connection to charity. It highlights that those who possess the strength to forgive are indeed the ones who are truly powerful in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Ash-Shura (42:40), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 wrongdoers.

This verse emphasizes the concept of forgiveness as a means of seeking reward from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It highlights that forgiveness is not only a virtuous act but also a means of rectifying relationships and promoting harmony within society.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Forgiveness is the alms-tax of power,

sheds light on the profound connection between forgiveness and strength. It implies that true power lies not in seeking revenge or holding grudges, but in the ability to forgive and let go. When one possesses the strength to forgive, they demonstrate their ability to rise above petty conflicts and embrace the noble qualities of mercy and compassion.

By forgiving others, we not only purify our hearts but also contribute to the betterment of society. Forgiveness fosters unity, reconciliation, and harmony among individuals, families, and communities. It allows for healing and growth, enabling us to move forward and build stronger bonds with one another.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautiful saying serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of forgiveness in our lives. It encourages us to reflect on our own capacity to forgive and seek forgiveness from others. It reminds us that true strength lies in the ability to let go of grudges and embrace the transformative power of forgiveness.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to embody the spirit of forgiveness, and may we strive to emulate the noble qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our daily lives.