Hadith #1720

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, and his noble companions.

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

ما أقْبَحَ العُقُوبَةَ مَعَ الاِعْتِذارِ۔

This Hadith highlights the repulsiveness of punishment when it is inflicted despite a sincere apology. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (aqbah) "أقْبَحَ" in this Hadith means "repulsive" or "ugly." It emphasizes the negative and undesirable nature of punishment. The word (al-'uqubah) "العُقُوبَةَ" refers to punishment or retribution. And the word (al-i'tizar) "الاِعْتِذارِ" means apology or seeking forgiveness.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and mercy. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 199:

Then, when you have finished [your rites], remember Allah like your [previous] remembrance of your fathers or with [much] greater remembrance. And among the people is he who says, 'Our Lord, give us in this world,' and he will have in the Hereafter no share. But among them is he who says, 'Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.'

This verse highlights the importance of seeking goodness in this world and the Hereafter, as well as protection from the punishment of the Fire. It implies that punishment is something to be avoided, and seeking forgiveness is a means to attain goodness and protection.

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 encourages believers to restrain their anger and forgive others. It emphasizes the importance of pardoning people, which aligns with the concept of seeking forgiveness and avoiding punishment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the repulsiveness of punishment when it is inflicted despite a sincere apology. It sheds light on the importance of forgiveness, mercy, and reconciliation. Punishing someone who has genuinely apologized not only goes against the teachings of Islam but also creates a hostile environment and hinders the growth of relationships.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his vast knowledge and wisdom. His statement in this Hadith reflects his deep understanding of the Quranic teachings and his commitment to justice and compassion. He recognized the significance of forgiveness and the negative consequences of punishing someone who has sincerely sought forgiveness.

In practical terms, this Hadith encourages Muslims to prioritize forgiveness and reconciliation over punishment. It urges us to consider the consequences of our actions and the impact they have on individuals and society as a whole. By forgiving others and accepting their apologies, we contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the repulsiveness of punishment when it is inflicted despite a sincere apology. It aligns with the Quranic emphasis on forgiveness, mercy, and reconciliation. As Muslims, we should strive to embody these qualities in our interactions with others, fostering an environment of compassion, understanding, and forgiveness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to follow the teachings of the Quran and the noble examples set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny.