The Impact of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a fundamental principle of Islam, established for its significant positive effects on both individuals and society. The following are some of its beneficial impacts:
Psychological Benefits
Behavioral scientists have observed numerous psychological benefits associated with forgiveness. These include reduced blood pressure and decreased stress levels. A study involving 107 university students assessed their capacity for forgiveness by recalling moments of perceived betrayal. The findings indicated that 20 students identified as less forgiving exhibited negative blood pressure results and increased muscle tension in the forehead, in contrast to 20 students identified as forgiving. Furthermore, forgiveness enhances mutual respect and love among individuals, fostering tranquility and prosperity within the community. Additionally, it is believed that God’s love is bestowed upon those who practice forgiveness, as expressed in the holy verse: (And let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like for Allah to forgive you? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful).
Social Benefits
The Prophets embodied the principle of forgiveness in their teachings, as it plays a crucial role in eliminating hatred and animosity among individuals, purifying hearts, and encouraging acceptance of others despite differences in beliefs and perspectives. Moreover, forgiveness is instrumental in fostering social relationships, strengthening connections among community members, and reinforcing the principles of mutual support and solidarity.
Examples of Forgiveness
Forgiveness can manifest in various actions individuals take in their daily lives, including:
- Exhibiting good moral character, which encompasses kind treatment of others, looking after neighbors, and interacting with compassion, empathy, and patience, while also forgiving them.
- Honoring and treating parents with kindness and obedience, even if they diverge from the ways of Allah, as stated in the verse: (And accompany them in this world with good conduct).
- Refraining from violence against the vulnerable, including women and children, during conflicts with adversaries.
- Restoring rights to their rightful owners and rejecting deceit and fraud in various transactions. A notable example from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is his fair treatment of a Jewish individual, ensuring all his rights were honored without any prejudice or diminishment.