Hadith #6152

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 and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

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

كَمْ مِنْ طامِع بِالصَّفْحِ عَنْهُ۔

This can be translated as,

How many a coveter covets pardon.

Let us delve into the profound meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (taamir) "طامِع" in this Hadith refers to someone who desires or covets something. In this context, it signifies someone who earnestly desires forgiveness and pardon. The word (safh) "صَّفْحِ" means pardon or forgiveness. It is an act of letting go of resentment and granting mercy to others.

This Hadith highlights the importance of seeking forgiveness and pardon from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the immense value of being forgiven. It reminds us that many people desire forgiveness, but not everyone takes the necessary steps to attain it. It serves as a reminder to Muslims to actively seek forgiveness and not just wish for it.

The Quran emphasizes the significance of seeking forgiveness in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:199)

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

This verse encourages Muslims to actively seek forgiveness from Allah, as He is the Most Forgiving and Merciful.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 11:90)

And ask forgiveness of your Lord and then repent to Him. Indeed, my Lord is Merciful and Affectionate.

This verse highlights the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allah, as it leads to His mercy and affection.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that seeking forgiveness is not merely a wishful desire, but a proactive effort. It urges Muslims to reflect upon their actions, seek forgiveness sincerely, and strive to rectify their wrongdoings.

When we covet pardon, it motivates us to introspect and acknowledge our mistakes. It encourages us to seek forgiveness from those we have wronged and to make amends. Seeking forgiveness not only purifies our souls but also strengthens our relationships with others and with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The consequences of seeking forgiveness are profound. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises His forgiveness to those who sincerely repent and seek His pardon. In Surah An-Nisa, Allah says, (Quran 4:116)

Indeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills. And he who associates others with Allah has certainly gone far astray.

This verse highlights that Allah's forgiveness is vast and encompassing, except for associating partners with Him.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that seeking forgiveness is not a sign of weakness, but rather a manifestation of humility and strength. It requires us to acknowledge our shortcomings, seek forgiveness from Allah and others, and strive to become better individuals. It is a means to attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to actively seek forgiveness and not merely desire it. It encourages us to reflect upon our actions, seek pardon from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and make amends with those we have wronged. Seeking forgiveness is a proactive effort that leads to spiritual growth, strengthens relationships, and ultimately attains the mercy and forgiveness of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May we all strive to be among those who sincerely seek forgiveness and are granted pardon.