Hadith #8130

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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,

الإستغفار أعظم جزاءً، وأسرع مثوبةً۔

This can be translated as,

Seeking forgiveness has the greatest recompense and the quickest reward.

In this enlightening saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance and benefits of seeking forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The word (istighfar) "الإستغفار" is derived from the Arabic root (ghafara) "غفر", which means to forgive or to cover. Istighfar refers to seeking forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for our sins and shortcomings. It is an act of humbling ourselves before our Creator, acknowledging our mistakes, and seeking His mercy and pardon.

The phrase (a'zam jazaa) "أعظم جزاءً" means the greatest recompense or reward. It highlights the immense benefits and blessings that come from seeking forgiveness. When we sincerely seek forgiveness, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) not only forgives our sins but also rewards us abundantly. This reward can manifest in various forms, such as increased blessings, protection from harm, and spiritual growth.

The phrase (wa asra'a mathwabah) "وأسرع مثوبةً" means the quickest reward. It emphasizes that seeking forgiveness brings immediate benefits and blessings. When we turn to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in repentance, He responds swiftly and showers us with His mercy and blessings. This highlights the urgency and importance of seeking forgiveness in our daily lives.

The concept of seeking forgiveness is deeply rooted in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly encourages us to seek His forgiveness and promises great rewards for those who do so. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:199)

And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse emphasizes Allah's willingness to forgive and His attribute of mercy.

Furthermore, in Surah Hud, Allah says, (Quran 11:52)

And O my people, ask forgiveness of your Lord and then repent to Him. He will send [rain from] the sky upon you in showers and increase you in strength [added] to your strength.

This verse illustrates the tangible rewards that come from seeking forgiveness, such as abundant provisions and increased strength.

Seeking forgiveness not only brings immediate rewards but also has long-term benefits. It purifies our hearts, strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and protects us from the harmful consequences of our sins. It is a means of attaining spiritual growth and attaining closeness to our Creator.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of seeking forgiveness. His statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of all backgrounds that seeking forgiveness is not only a means of attaining Allah's mercy and forgiveness but also a source of immense rewards and blessings.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance and benefits of seeking forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It emphasizes that seeking forgiveness has the greatest recompense and the quickest reward. By turning to Allah in repentance and seeking His forgiveness, we not only attain His mercy and forgiveness but also receive abundant blessings and protection. May we all strive to seek forgiveness sincerely and regularly, and may Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us His forgiveness and blessings.