Hadith #6938

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,

لاتَنْدَمَنَّ عَلى عَفْو، ولاتَبْهَجَنَّ بِعُقُوبَة۔

This impactful Hadith holds great wisdom and guidance for all Muslims. Let us delve into its exegesis in light of the Quran.

The word (afw) "عَفْو" in this Hadith refers to forgiveness, pardoning, or overlooking someone's mistake or wrongdoing. It is an act of mercy and compassion, demonstrating the noble character of a person. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us to forgive others in numerous verses of the Quran. For example, in Surah Al-Imran, Allah says, (Quran 24:22)

And let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allah should forgive you?

This verse emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and highlights the reciprocal nature of forgiveness. By forgiving others, we open the doors of Allah's forgiveness for ourselves.

On the other hand, the word (uqubah) "عُقُوبَة" in the Hadith refers to punishment or retribution. It is a consequence of one's actions, often intended to rectify and deter wrongdoing. While punishment serves a purpose in maintaining justice and order, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us not to be gladdened by it. This means that we should not take pleasure or find joy in the suffering of others, even if they have wronged us. Islam teaches us to be compassionate and merciful, even towards those who have harmed us. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah, (Quran 5:8)

And let not the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.

This verse reminds us to uphold justice and fairness, even in the face of animosity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement carries profound implications for our personal and societal interactions. When we forgive others, we demonstrate humility, empathy, and a desire for reconciliation. Forgiveness has the power to heal relationships, mend broken hearts, and foster a sense of unity within the Muslim community. It also reflects the teachings of the Quran, where Allah repeatedly emphasizes the virtues of forgiveness. In Surah An-Nur, Allah says, (Quran 24:22)

Let them pardon and overlook. Would you not love for Allah to forgive you?

This verse encourages us to forgive others, reminding us of the immense reward that awaits us in the Hereafter.

Conversely, finding joy or satisfaction in the punishment of others contradicts the principles of Islam. Islam teaches us to be compassionate and merciful, even towards those who have wronged us. Allah says in Surah Al-A'raf, (Quran 7:156)

And My mercy encompasses all things.

This verse reminds us that Allah's mercy is all-encompassing, and as His servants, we should strive to emulate His mercy in our interactions with others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) guidance in this Hadith encourages us to embody the qualities of forgiveness and mercy. By forgiving others, we not only follow the teachings of the Quran but also cultivate a sense of inner peace and tranquility. Forgiveness liberates us from the burden of resentment and allows us to move forward with love and compassion in our hearts. It also sets an example for others, inspiring them to seek forgiveness and reconciliation.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of forgiveness and the need to refrain from finding joy in the punishment of others. By forgiving, we emulate the mercy of Allah and open the doors of His forgiveness for ourselves. Let us strive to embody these noble qualities in our lives, fostering harmony and unity within the Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to forgive and seek forgiveness.