How to Forgive Like the Prophet ﷺ
The following is an excerpt from Tarāshe by Muftī Taqī ʿUthmānī,
revealing the transformative power of prophetic forgiveness.
In Islām, forgiveness is not merely an act of kindness but a profound spiritual virtue that liberates the heart, mends relationships, and earns immense reward from Allāh. It is a quality that reflects divine mercy and is a cornerstone of a believer’s character. The life of the Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ serves as the ultimate blueprint for this noble trait. Despite facing unimaginable persecution, betrayal, and hostility, he ﷺ was the very embodiment of mercy and forgiveness, offering a timeless lesson for all of humanity.
A powerful illustration of his character unfolded during the conquest of Makkah. After years of exile and warfare, the Prophet ﷺ returned to his birthplace as a victor.
The very people who had driven him out, tortured his followers, and waged war against him now stood before him, powerless and expecting retribution. Among them was Hind bint ʿUtbah (raḍiya Allāhu ʿanhā), the woman who, after the Battle of Uḥud, had ordered the mutilation of his beloved uncle, Ḥamzah (raḍiya Allāhu ʿanhu). In a moment of intense hatred, she had even chewed his liver. When she came before the Prophet ﷺ., disguised and fearful, he recognized her but chose mercy over humiliation, accepting her pledge of allegiance and forgiving her completely. On that same day, as the people of Makkah gathered in the Sacred Mosque, trembling with fear, the Prophet ﷺ asked them, “What do you think I will do with you?” They replied, “You are a noble brother and the son of a noble brother.” The Prophet ﷺ then declared his timeless words of amnesty: “Go, for you are free.”
Practical Applications:
Control Anger and Seek Allāh’s Help:
When wronged, the natural human response is anger. The first step towards forgiveness is to manage this emotion and immediately turn to Allāh. Make sincere duʿāʾ for the strength to overcome your feelings and the ability to pardon the offender.
Understand the Spiritual Benefits:
Remind yourself that forgiveness is primarily for your own spiritual well-being. It frees you from the heavy burden of resentment and bitterness, bringing peace to your heart. More importantly, it is an act beloved by Allāh, who promises immense rewards for those who pardon others.
Prioritize Peace and Reconciliation:
Whenever possible, let forgiveness be a bridge to reconciliation. Restoring harmony is a noble act that heals not only personal relationships but entire communities. Remember that Allāh loves those who strive to make peace between people.
Forgive Solely for Allāh’s Sake:
The highest form of forgiveness is that which is done purely to seek the pleasure of Allāh, without expecting anything in return from the person who wronged you. This elevates the act from a worldly transaction to a profound act of worship.
Islamic Conclusion:
To forgive as the Prophet ﷺ did is to choose mercy over vengeance, peace over resentment, and eternal reward over worldly satisfaction. It is a transformative act of worship that purifies the soul and brings us closer to Allāh. By embracing this prophetic quality, we not only heal our own hearts but also reflect the boundless mercy that is central to our faith. May Allāh grant us the strength and wisdom to forgive those who have wronged us and to embody the merciful character of His beloved Prophet ﷺ. Āmīn.
