Hadith #6709

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "إذا جَنَيْتَ فَاعْتَذِرْ۔" This can be translated into English as,

When you do wrong, apologize.

This short but thought-provoking Hadith holds a significant lesson for all Muslims, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging our mistakes and seeking forgiveness.

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (janayta) "جَنَيْتَ" is derived from the root word (janayah) "جَنَايَة", which means to commit a mistake or to do something wrong. It refers to any action or behavior that goes against the teachings of Islam or causes harm to oneself or others. The word (fa'atathir) "فَاعْتَذِرْ" is derived from the root word (aththara) "عَذَّرَ", which means to apologize or seek forgiveness. It implies taking responsibility for one's actions and expressing remorse for the wrong committed.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness and repenting for our sins. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 24:31)

And turn to Allah in repentance, all of you, O believers, that you might succeed.

This verse highlights the need for Muslims to constantly seek forgiveness from Allah for their wrongdoings.

Additionally, in Surah Al-A'raf, Allah says, (Quran 7:23)

And [mention] Adam, when he disobeyed his Lord and erred. Then he chose him and turned to him in forgiveness.

This verse reminds us of the story of Adam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and how he sought forgiveness from Allah after committing a mistake. It serves as a reminder that seeking forgiveness is not only a means of repentance but also a way to attain Allah's mercy and forgiveness.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. By advising us to apologize when we do wrong, Imam Ali emphasizes the importance of humility, accountability, and rectification. Apologizing requires acknowledging our mistakes, taking responsibility for our actions, and making a sincere effort to rectify the harm caused. It is a manifestation of our humility and recognition of our fallibility as human beings.

Apologizing not only mends relationships but also purifies our souls and strengthens our connection with Allah. It allows us to seek forgiveness from those we have wronged and seek Allah's forgiveness for our transgressions. By apologizing, we demonstrate our commitment to personal growth, self-improvement, and adherence to the teachings of Islam.

Furthermore, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this Hadith encourages a culture of accountability and forgiveness within the Muslim community. It fosters an environment where individuals are encouraged to admit their mistakes, seek forgiveness, and offer forgiveness to others. This promotes unity, harmony, and compassion among Muslims, strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

When you do wrong, apologize

serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to acknowledge their mistakes, seek forgiveness, and strive for personal growth. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of seeking forgiveness and repentance. By apologizing, we not only rectify our wrongs but also strengthen our relationship with Allah and foster a culture of accountability and forgiveness within the Muslim community. May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of Islam and seek forgiveness for our shortcomings.