Forgiveness is easy to ask from Allah. But to give it to others? That is a different story.
The sky blushed with the first light of dawn as the sound of the Adhan echoed through the quiet streets of the old neighborhood “Al Noor.” Bilal pulled his coat tightly around him and walked to the masjid, enjoying the peaceful morning.
But today felt different.
As he raised his hands for takbir, he saw a familiar face of Hamza.
A year had passed since their friendship ended due to a business dispute among them. The man he had once called a brother, but now he had promised never to forgive.
During salah, the imam recited:
“The servants of the most merciful walk humbly, and when spoken to harshly, they reply with peace.” (Surah Al-Furqan 25:63)
Peace. Bilal’s prayer felt incomplete. Was his heart holding him back?
After the prayer, Imam Kareem said:
“We ask Allah for mercy, but do we give it to others? On the Day of Judgment, what will we say when Allah asks why we held onto anger?”
Bilal’s heart felt heavy.
As he turned to leave, Hamza was standing there, looking almost…unsure. His eyes filled with regret. “I am sorry,” he said.
Silence. A thousand memories. A thousand emotions.
Bilal took a deep breath. “I can’t forget…but maybe I can forgive.”
Bilal simply extended his hand. Then, Hamza reached back. In that moment, the whole burden lifted.
A new day.
And maybe, a new beginning.
A Moment of Reflection for You:
“Indeed, the believers are brothers. So, make peace between your brothers and fear Allah that you may receive mercy.” (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:10)
If today was your last day on this earth, would there be someone you wish you had forgiven? Think of them. Think of the weight you’ve carried.
And then ask yourself, “If you’re hoping for Allah’s mercy, are you willing to show it to others?”
Forgiveness does not mean forgetting. It does not mean the past didn’t happen. But it means choosing peace over pride. It means letting go so your heart can be free.
Before you sleep tonight, say a prayer for the one who hurt you, even if your heart isn’t ready and the pain is still there. Isn’t Jannah worth more?
