Hadith #6951

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

أحْسَنُ العَفْوِ ما كانَ عَنْ قُدْرَة۔

This can be translated as,

The best forgiveness is that which is shown despite having power [to exact revenge].

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the virtue of forgiveness and its superiority when it is exercised by someone who possesses the ability to seek retribution.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us reflect upon the key words used. The term (ahsanu) "أحْسَنُ" means "the best" or "the most excellent." It emphasizes the highest level of forgiveness, indicating that there are varying degrees of forgiveness. The word (afwi) "عَفْوِ" refers to forgiveness, pardon, or overlooking someone's faults. It implies letting go of any resentment or desire for revenge. Lastly, the phrase (ma kana 'an qudrati)

ما كانَ عَنْ قُدْرَة

means "despite having power" or "despite being capable." It highlights the significance of forgiveness when one possesses the ability to retaliate or seek justice.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the concept of forgiveness and its superiority. 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 emphasizes the importance of restraining anger and pardoning others, which aligns with the essence of the Hadith. It is a reminder that forgiveness is an act of goodness and is beloved by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Ash-Shura (42:40-43), 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.

This verse emphasizes that forgiveness is not only an act of virtue but also a means of attaining a reward from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It highlights the superiority of forgiveness over seeking revenge or retribution.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement encourages Muslims to embody the highest level of forgiveness, even when they have the power to seek revenge. It teaches us that forgiveness is not a sign of weakness, but rather a manifestation of strength and nobility. By forgiving others despite having the ability to retaliate, we demonstrate our control over our emotions and our commitment to following the teachings of Islam.

The motivation behind such forgiveness lies in the desire to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to emulate the noble character of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified this virtue throughout his life. He forgave those who wronged him, even in the face of great adversity. His forgiveness was not a sign of weakness, but rather a reflection of his deep understanding of the teachings of Islam and his commitment to upholding justice and mercy.

The consequences of practicing such forgiveness are far-reaching. It fosters harmony and reconciliation within society, as it allows for the healing of relationships and the restoration of trust. It also prevents the cycle of violence and retaliation from perpetuating, leading to a more peaceful and just society. Moreover, forgiveness brings about personal growth and spiritual elevation, as it purifies the heart from negative emotions and cultivates a sense of empathy and compassion towards others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the excellence of forgiveness, particularly when it is exercised by someone who possesses the power to seek revenge. It encourages Muslims to embody the highest level of forgiveness, as it is an act of virtue and a means of attaining Allah's pleasure. By forgiving others despite having the ability to retaliate, we demonstrate strength, nobility, and a commitment to following the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to forgive others and to seek forgiveness for ourselves.