Hadith #6966

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,

أحَقُّ النَّاسِ بِالإسْعافِ طالِبُ العَفْوِ۔

This can be translated as,

The person most deserving of having his request granted is one who seeks forgiveness.

Let us delve into the meaning of some important words in this Hadith. The word (is'āf) "إسْعافِ" refers to granting or fulfilling someone's request or need. It implies providing assistance or support to someone in their time of need. The word (tālib) "طالِبُ" means the one who seeks or asks for something. And (al-'afw) "العَفْوِ" means forgiveness or pardon.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness and the virtues associated with it. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 199, Allah says,

Then, when you have finished [your duties], remember Allah standing, sitting, or [lying] on your sides. But when you become secure, re-establish [regular] prayer. Indeed, prayer has been decreed upon the believers a decree of specified times.

This verse highlights the significance of seeking forgiveness from Allah after completing our obligations.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf, verse 56, Allah states,

And cause not corruption upon the earth after its reformation. And invoke Him in fear and aspiration. Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.

This verse encourages us to seek forgiveness from Allah and invoke Him with both fear and hope, recognizing that His mercy is close to those who do good.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sheds light on the importance of seeking forgiveness as the most deserving request to be granted. When a person seeks forgiveness, they acknowledge their own shortcomings and sins, humbling themselves before Allah. This act of humility and repentance demonstrates a sincere desire for self-improvement and a recognition of our dependence on Allah's mercy.

By seeking forgiveness, we acknowledge our need for Allah's assistance and support in overcoming our weaknesses and purifying our souls. It is through seeking forgiveness that we open the doors of mercy, blessings, and guidance in our lives. Allah, in His infinite mercy, promises to forgive those who sincerely seek His forgiveness, as mentioned in Surah An-Nisa, verse 110,

And whoever does a wrong or wrongs himself but then seeks forgiveness of Allah will find Allah Forgiving and Merciful.

Moreover, seeking forgiveness not only brings personal benefits but also has wider implications for society. When individuals seek forgiveness, they are more likely to refrain from harming others and strive towards establishing a just and harmonious society. It fosters a culture of empathy, compassion, and understanding, as individuals recognize their own faults and are more inclined to forgive others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of seeking forgiveness as the most deserving request to be granted. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging our own shortcomings, seeking Allah's mercy, and striving for self-improvement. By seeking forgiveness, we not only benefit ourselves but also contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah grant us the ability to seek forgiveness sincerely and continuously, and may He shower His mercy upon us all.