Hadith #6908

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, 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 profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the immense virtue and superiority of forgiveness in Islam.

The word (al-'afw) "العفو" refers to forgiveness, pardoning, or overlooking someone's faults or offenses. It encompasses the act of letting go of resentment and granting absolution to those who have wronged us. It is an act of mercy and kindness that reflects the noble character of a believer.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Imran (3:134), Allah says,

And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves, remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins - and who can forgive sins except Allah? - and [who] do not persist in what they have done while they know.

This verse encourages believers to seek forgiveness from Allah and to forgive others for their wrongdoings.

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

And let not those of virtue among you and wealth swear not to give [aid] to their relatives and the needy and the emigrants for the cause of Allah, and let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allah should forgive you? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse highlights the connection between forgiveness and seeking Allah's forgiveness. It reminds us that by forgiving others, we increase our chances of receiving Allah's forgiveness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement emphasizes the superiority of forgiveness as a form of kindness and benevolence. When someone wrongs us, our natural inclination may be to seek revenge or hold grudges. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that forgiveness is a higher virtue. It requires us to rise above our ego and respond with compassion and mercy.

By forgiving others, we not only release ourselves from the burden of anger and resentment but also create an environment of peace and harmony. Forgiveness has the power to heal relationships, mend broken hearts, and foster unity within the Muslim community. It is a means of purifying our souls and attaining spiritual growth.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified the quality of forgiveness throughout his life. Despite facing numerous betrayals and injustices, he forgave those who wronged him and even granted amnesty to his enemies. His forgiveness was not a sign of weakness but rather a manifestation of his profound knowledge and understanding of the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that forgiveness is the best form of favor we can extend to others. It is a virtue that is highly regarded in Islam and is supported by various Quranic verses. By forgiving others, we emulate the noble character of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to forgive and seek forgiveness, and may He shower His mercy upon us all.