Assalamu Alaikum, war amotullahi Wabarakatuh

We are currently in the midst of Ramadan’s days of Forgiveness. The first 10 days of this blessed month have passed, which are noted for Mercy. Now it is time for us to not only seek God’s forgiveness through sincere prayers and a commitment to change for the better. It is also an excellent opportunity to forgive others. And there is plenty we can forgive others for.

Start by forgiving all those personal slights that have been thrown at you. Whether from you neighbours, friends, associates, family members, or even at work place, your boss, colleagues or subordinate, no matter who and what these days of the blessed month are a time to forgive.

Let us reflect from the example of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w). He personifies forgiveness. He was a leader who understood the value of this virtue not only because of he had nothing to gain in hatred, but he also took into account the long-term consequences of actions like revenge. so, he all the time chose to forgive. Consider the example of Banu-Taif, whose people chased him out, all the prominent clan in Makkah including collectively chased him out of Makka with the children throwing stones at him, leaving him bleeding. He found a resounding welcome in Madinah. Not too long after, Allah offered him the alternative of crushing its angry enemies in Makkah (the conquest of Makkah).

Instead, he chose forgiveness and ordered Muslims never to harm any one even including the animals. They entered Makkah back with songs and jubilation.

Several years later, and among the Banu Taif, (people of Taif) came Muhammad bin Qasim who championed the cause of Islam in Indian. If you forgive even the most heinous crime, it could be an inspiration for the person to change and turn a new leaf. Besides, that is the basis we can as well seek forgiveness from Almighty Allah whom we all transgressed. Forgiveness is one of the traits of righteousness.

Let us embrace this virtue in these blessed days of forgiveness this Ramadan.

Prayer of the day

Alhumma innaka afuwwun tuhibbul afwa fa’fu anni

Oh Allah! You are Forgiving and love forgiveness so forgive me.

Rabbanaa faghfir lana thunoobana wa kaffir ‘anna sayyiaatinaa wa tawaffanaa ma ‘al abraar

Our Lord! Forgive us our sins and efface our bad deeds and take our souls in the company of the righteous (Quran 3:193).