Forgiveness

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And since God Himself has described us as among the best of communities He has created, it is incumbent to exhibit the traits of such a community as commanded by God. One of the main examples is about forgiveness. 
God tells us: [42:43] Resorting to patience and forgiveness reflects a true strength of character. Forgiveness demonstrates strength. It has been said that a weak person cannot forgive.

Forgiveness with kindness, compassion and mercy are key attributes of our Almighty Creator. He is the Most Merciful. He has given us this final chance to ask for forgiveness and to redeem our souls.

[4:96] The higher ranks come from Him, as well as forgiveness and mercy. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[4:106] You shall implore GOD for forgiveness. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[4:110] Anyone who commits evil, or wrongs his soul, then implores GOD for forgiveness, will find GOD Forgiving, Most Merciful.

If it were not for God’s Mercy and Forgiveness towards us, we would have all been banished to Hell forever. Yet, God gave us another chance. So, even when we are grievously wronged, we need to consider forgiveness and overlooking the wrong done to us.

Shri Dinkar, hailed as a national poet of India, says that a snake without poison or teeth that doesn’t bite someone that’s not a great feat. But a snake with fangs and poison who decides not to bite, that is genuine forgiveness.

 

Many a criminal after being punished in the harshest, cruelest and most severe manner becomes even more hardened and dangerous. A criminal offered rehabilitation may get to the root cause of their behavior and repent and reform. And we know that reforming and changing our behavior, is an important component of forgiveness. [11:52] “O my people, seek forgiveness from your Lord, then repent to Him. He will then shower you with provisions from the sky, and augment your strength. Do not turn back into transgressors.”

So besides asking Forgiveness from God for our Original Sin and the many other sins, mistakes and wrongs we commit during our test on Earth, we also ask forgiveness from each other. And we ask God to forgive all the Believers (71:28). Even the angels ask forgiveness for us, but ultimately it is only up to God to forgive. 

Angels Pray for the Believers

[40:7] Those who serve the throne and all those around it glorify and praise their Lord, and believe in Him. And they ask forgiveness for those who believe: “Our Lord, Your mercy and Your knowledge encompass all things. Forgive those who repent and follow Your path, and spare them the retribution of Hell.

All our lives, we will come across all kinds of people, challenges, circumstances, and experiences. Some will cause pain, making it difficult to forget and forgive. But there are also those souls we meet who, by showing us the good in the world, help negate the wrongs done to us. We know that ultimately, God is the Best Advocate and the Best Judge. All matters are controlled by God alone.

Some people bring out the best in you and show you kindness and compassion, while some bring out the worst in you. Since God is in control of everything, the latter may be placed by God in your life to teach you patience and forgiveness and not to treat others like they have treated you. 

 

We need to keep learning through all stages of our lives. We want to become a peaceful person. Forgiveness can rid us of negativity, jealousy, and sorrow. If we don’t forgive someone, then we are carrying a grudge and giving that person too much importance in our life. You become trapped in ego, pride and hate. It can become a disease. On the other hand, when you forgive someone, God allows you to unload that burden from your back. It’s God’s blessing.

[94:1] Did we not cool your temper? [94:2] And we unloaded your load (of sins). [94:3] One that burdened your back. [94:4] We exalted you to an honorable position. [94:5] With pain there is gain. [94:6] Indeed, with pain there is gain. [94:7] Whenever possible you shall strive. [94:8] Seeking only your Lord.

So, we need to be forgiving and always pray for God to forgive us.

[51:18] At dawn, they prayed for forgiveness.

[23:118] Say, “My Lord, shower us with forgiveness and mercy. Of all the merciful ones, You are the Most Merciful.”

[110:3] You shall glorify and praise your Lord, and implore Him for forgiveness. He is the Redeemer.

Ayaz

Reference:
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/soul-search/how-forgiveness-helps-in-spiritual-growth/articleshow/106455481.cms