Page 151 - The Importance of the Ahl Al-Sunnah

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The Virtue in Being Forgiving
It is stated in the Qur’an: “… But if you pardon, exoner-
ate, and forgive, Allah is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful”
(Surat at-Taghabun, 14). Thus, Muslims should be very toler-
ant and forgiving of each other.
The Prophet (saas) stressed the importance of forgiving oth-
ers and said that doing so would help consolidate feelings of
mutual goodwill among believers. In addition, he did not bear
any grudge toward anyone and forgave even his enemies.
Indeed, the Prophet (saas) said:
“Modesty increases one’s ranks. Be modest so that Allah
may increase your ranks. Forgiveness only increases one’s
honor. Forgive, so that Allah may give glory to you.” (al-
Isbahani)
Muslims should waive their rights over each other. Thoughts
of animosity and revenge should have no place among them.
Forgiveness, which increases one’s rank in both worlds, helps
to develop feelings of solidarity. Allah’s Messenger (saas) said:
“Maintain your relationship with one who cut it off from
you, give to one who disappointed you, and pardon one
who oppressed you.” (al-Bayhaqi)
“Show mercy, and you will be shown mercy. Forgive, and
Allah will forgive you. Woe to the vessels that catch words
(i.e., the ears). Woe to those who persist and consciously
continue in what they are doing.” (Ahmad Dhiya’ al-Din,
Ramuz al-Ahadith, 1:70/10)
Encouraging Commerce and the Virtue of
Truthfulness
Great Islamic scholars present the Prophet’s (saas) truthful-
ness as a major quality of his prophethood. Both the Muslims
and the Makkan polytheists accepted the truth of his honesty.
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