Index:
1. ALLAH’s Attributes as the “Most Merciful”
2. His continuous giving and mercy to his servants
3. His commands not to harm ourselves or each others
4. His mercy on his servants in this life
5. His mercy on his servants in afterlife
6. His mercy on good doers even if they didn’t complete their work
7. Does not examine his servants that they may lose their faith
8. Does not request his servants to suffer so much
9. His mercy that he stops the punishment on his servants
10. His mercy by causing whether good or bad things to his servants
11. Warn his servants from the coming “Day of Judgment”
12. His mercy on his servants when commit sins unintentionally
13. His forgiveness for those who hold their revenge
14. Teaching his servants how to ask for his mercy
15. His mercy on those who suffered in this life
16. His mercy on the bad doers
17. His mercy on the unbelievers if they repent
18. His mercy on the infidels not to punish them twice
19. He can forgive and punish too
20. His mercy that he gave the most merciful prophet to Humanity
21. His mercy on humanity
22. His Mercy on the poor and needy
23. His Mercy on the parents
24. His Mercy by forbidding the abortion
25. His Mercy on the slaves
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Introduction
I was debating on an Arab Christian site that fight Islam, unfortunately (some of) those people use their knowledge in Arabic to read Quran and Hadith to twist the verses and Hadiths and interrupt them badly or translate them wrongly to show that Islam is bad for non-Muslims instead of thinking deeply so they may consider Islam !!
As Allah said, they want to deceive the others but they are deceiving themselves only, but they don’t even notice till day of Judgment, when they will see the truth...
ودت طائفة من اهل الكتاب لو يضلونكم وما يضلون الا انفسهم وما يشعرون [3: 69]
A party of the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) wish to lead you astray. But they shall not lead astray anyone except themselves, and they perceive not. (3:69)
The reason of writing this article, that someone of them started a discussion requesting at least one verse from Quran mentions that ALLAH is merciful !!
Of course, I couldn’t answer on their forum because shortly they banned me, as they don’t want to hear the “others” as usual, so I wrote the below article as an answer to his question.
1. ALLAH’s Attributes as the “Most Merciful”..
ALLAH described himself as the most merciful in plenty of verses, starting in the “Basmala” which is the beginning of each chapter in Quran where he mentions that he is the most Merciful, ALLAH says:
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم [1: 1]
- In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful (1:1)
Of course, there are many verses too but will not mention them all, only few samples:
- الرحمن الرحيم [1: 3] - والهكم اله واحد لا اله الا هو الرحمن الرحيم [2: 163] - نبىء عبادي اني انا الغفور الرحيم [15: 49] - قال سوف استغفر لكم ربي انه هو الغفور الرحيم [12: 98] - وهو الغفور الودود [85: 14] - انا كنا من قبل ندعوه انه هو البر الرحيم [52: 28]
- The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful (1:3)
- And your Ilâh (God) is One Ilâh (God - Allâh), Lâ ilâha illa Huwa (there is none who has the right to be worshipped but He), the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. (2:163)
- Declare (O Muhammad SAW) unto My slaves, that truly, I am the Oft-Forgiving, the Most-Merciful. (15:49)
- He said: "I will ask my Lord for forgiveness for you, verily He! Only He is the Oft-Forgiving, the Most Merciful." (12:98)
- And He is Oft-Forgiving, full of love (85:14)
- "Verily, We used to invoke Him (Alone and none else) before. Verily, He is Al-Barr (the Most Subtle, Kind, Courteous, and Generous), the Most Merciful." (52:28)
In the following verse, ALLAH by his mercy taught his angels to ask forgiveness for the believers on Earth, who are commenting sins day and night.
تكاد السماوات يتفطرن من فوقهن والملائكة يسبحون بحمد ربهم ويستغفرون لمن في الارض الا ان الله هو الغفور الرحيم [42: 5]
Nearly the heavens might be rent asunder from above them (by His Majesty), and the angels glorify the praises of their Lord, and ask for forgiveness for those on the earth, verily, Allâh is the Oft-Forgiving, the Most Merciful. (42:5)
ALLAH reminds his servants that he is the most merciful and most forgiving so to keep asking his forgiveness, and if they did he will be forgiving all their sins.
قل يا عبادي الذين اسرفوا على انفسهم لا تقنطوا من رحمة الله ان الله يغفر الذنوب جميعا انه هو الغفور الرحيم [39: 53] - وما ارسلنا من رسول الا ليطاع باذن الله ولو انهم اذ ظلموا انفسهم جاؤوك فاستغفروا الله واستغفر لهم الرسول لوجدوا الله توابا رحيما [4: 64]
- Say: "O 'Ibâdî (My slaves) who have transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins)! Despair not of the Mercy of Allâh, verily Allâh forgives all sins. Truly, He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful (39:53)
- We sent no Messenger, but to be obeyed by Allâh's Leave. If they (hypocrites), when they had been unjust to themselves, had come to you (Muhammad SAW) and begged Allâh's Forgiveness, and the Messenger had begged forgiveness for them: indeed, they would have found Allâh All-Forgiving (One Who forgives and accepts repentance), Most Merciful. (4:64)
2. His continuous giving and mercy to his servants
ALLAH reminds all humans about the bounties that he gave them as mercy from him like Earth, water, food, animals, cattle, Sun, atmosphere, etc… that we can’t even count them:
وان تعدوا نعمة الله لا تحصوها ان الله لغفور رحيم [16:18] - الم تر ان الله سخر لكم ما في الارض والفلك تجري في البحر بامره ويمسك السماء ان تقع على الارض الا باذنه ان الله بالناس لرؤوف رحيم [22: 65] - وهو الذي جعلكم خلائف الارض ورفع بعضكم فوق بعض درجات ليبلوكم في ما اتاكم ان ربك سريع العقاب وانه لغفور رحيم [6: 165] - ربكم الذي يزجي لكم الفلك في البحر لتبتغوا من فضله انه كان بكم رحيما [17: 66] - ان الله يمسك السماوات والارض ان تزولا ولئن زالتا ان امسكهما من احد من بعده انه كان حليما غفورا [35: 41]
- And if you would count the favours of Allâh, never could you be able to count them. Truly! Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (16:18)
- See you not that Allâh has subjected to you (mankind) all that is on the earth, and the ships that sail through the sea by His Command? He withholds the heaven from falling on the earth except by His Leave. Verily, Allâh is, for mankind, full of Kindness, Most Merciful. (22:65)
- And it is He Who has made you generations coming after generations, replacing each other on the earth. And He has raised you in ranks, some above others that He may try you in that which He has bestowed on you. Surely your Lord is Swift in retribution, and certainly He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (6:165)
- Your Lord is He Who drives the ship for you through the sea, in order that you may seek of His Bounty. Truly! He is Ever Most Merciful towards you. (17:66)
- Verily! Allâh grasps the heavens and the earth lest they should move away from their places, and if they were to move away from their places, there is not one that could grasp them after Him. Truly, He is Ever Most Forbearing, Oft-Forgiving. (35:41)
3. His commands not to harm ourselves or each others
ALLAH, by his great mercy, reminds the people not to harm each others, not to face dangers that can cause them injuries, damage or death.
وانفقوا في سبيل الله ولا تلقوا بايديكم الى التهلكة واحسنوا ان الله يحب المحسنين [2: 195] - يا ايها الذين امنوا لا تاكلوا اموالكم بينكم بالباطل الا ان تكون تجارة عن تراض منكم ولا تقتلوا انفسكم ان الله كان بكم رحيما [4: 29]
- And spend in the Cause of Allâh and do not throw yourselves into destruction and do good. Truly, Allâh loves Al-Muhsinûn (the good-doers). (2:195)
- O you who believe! Eat not up your property among yourselves unjustly except it be a trade amongst you, by mutual consent. And do not kill yourselves (nor kill one another). Surely, Allâh is Most Merciful to you. (4:29)
4. His mercy on his servants in this life
His mercy that he forgives to anyone who asks him for forgiveness, and it’s not like what it’s said in Christianity, ALLAH assures in the Holy Quran that he forgave to Adam his sin, and it was never inherited to his children, ALLAH says
فتلقى ادم من ربه كلمات فتاب عليه انه هو التواب الرحيم [2: 37]
Then Adam received from his Lord Words. And his Lord pardoned him (accepted his repentance). Verily, He is the One Who forgives (accepts repentance), the Most Merciful (2:37)
ALLAH forgives for the believers who accompanied prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in many occasions, and the Bedouins who supported him, and for all who may ask his forgiveness:
لقد تاب الله على النبي والمهاجرين والانصار الذين اتبعوه في ساعة العسرة من بعد ما كاد يزيغ قلوب فريق منهم ثم تاب عليهم انه بهم رؤوف رحيم [9: 117] - ان الذين امنوا والذين هاجروا وجاهدوا في سبيل الله اولئك يرجون رحمت الله والله غفور رحيم [2: 218] - ومن الاعراب من يؤمن بالله واليوم الاخر ويتخذ ما ينفق قربات عند الله وصلوات الرسول الا انها قربة لهم سيدخلهم الله في رحمته ان الله غفور رحيم [9: 99]- وعلى الثلاثة الذين خلفوا حتى اذا ضاقت عليهم الارض بما رحبت وضاقت عليهم انفسهم وظنوا ان لا ملجا من الله الا اليه ثم تاب عليهم ليتوبوا ان الله هو التواب الرحيم [9: 118] - واستغفروا ربكم ثم توبوا اليه ان ربي رحيم ودود [11: 90] - ربكم اعلم بما في نفوسكم ان تكونوا صالحين فانه كان للاوابين غفورا [17:25] - وهو الذي يقبل التوبة عن عباده ويعفو عن السيئات ويعلم ما تفعلون [42: 25]
- Allâh has forgiven the Prophet (SAW), the Muhajirûn (Muslim emigrants who left their homes and came to Al-Madinah) and the Ansar (Muslims of Al-Madinah) who followed him (Muhammad SAW) in the time of distress (Tabûk expedition), after the hearts of a party of them had nearly deviated (from the Right Path), but He accepted their repentance. Certainly, He is unto them full of Kindness, Most Merciful (9:117)
- Verily, those who have believed, and those who have emigrated (for Allâh's Religion) and have striven hard in the Way of Allâh, all these hope for Allâh's Mercy. And Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful. (2:218)
- And of the bedouins there are some who believe in Allâh and the Last Day, and look upon what they spend in Allâh's Cause as means of nearness to Allâh, and a cause of receiving the Messenger's invocations. Indeed these (spendings in Allâh's Cause) are a means of nearness for them. Allâh will admit them to His Mercy. Certainly Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (9:99)
- And (He did forgive also) the three [who did not join the Tabûk expedition whose case was deferred (by the Prophet SAW)] (for Allâh’s Decision) till for them the earth, vast as it is, was straitened and their ownselves were straitened to them, and they perceived that there is no fleeing from Allâh, and no refuge but with Him. Then, He forgave them (accepted their repentance), that they might beg for His pardon [repent (unto Him)] Verily, Allâh is the One Who forgives and accepts repentance, Most Merciful. (9:118)
- "And ask forgiveness of your Lord and turn unto Him in repentance. Verily, my Lord is Most Merciful, Most Loving." (11:90)
- Your Lord knows best what is in your inner-selves. If you are righteous, then, verily, He is Ever Most Forgiving to those who turn unto Him again and again in obedience, and in repentance. (17:25)
- And He it is Who accepts repentance from His slaves, and forgives sins, and He knows what you do. (42:25)
5. His mercy on his servants in afterlife
Mercy of ALLAH doesn’t stop on his servants in this life but in afterlife too, he will reward them more than what they may expect, or what they deserve for their work:
ليوفيهم اجورهم ويزيدهم من فضله انه غفور شكور [35: 30] - وقالوا الحمد لله الذي اذهب عنا الحزن ان ربنا لغفور شكور [35: 34] - وما تقدموا لانفسكم من خير تجدوه عند الله هو خيرا واعظم اجرا واستغفروا الله ان الله غفور رحيم [73: 20] - يا ايها الذين امنوا اتقوا الله وامنوا برسوله يؤتكم كفلين من رحمته ويجعل لكم نورا تمشون به ويغفر لكم والله غفور رحيم [57: 28] - والذين امنوا بالله ورسله ولم يفرقوا بين احد منهم اولئك سوف يؤتيهم اجورهم وكان الله غفورا رحيما [4: 152]
- That He may pay them their wages in full, and give them (even) more, out of His Grace. Verily! He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Ready to appreciate (good deeds and to recompense). (35:30)
- And they (People of heaven) will say: "All the praises and thanks are to Allâh, Who has removed from us (all) grief. Verily, our Lord is indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Ready to appreciate (good deeds and to recompense). (35:34)
- And whatever good you send before you for yourselves, (i.e. prayers, charity, fasting, Hajj and 'Umrah), you will certainly find it with Allâh, better and greater in reward. And seek Forgiveness of Allâh. Verily, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful (73:20)
- O you who believe [in Mûsa (Moses) (i.e. Jews) and 'Īsā (Jesus) (i.e. Christians)]! Fear Allâh, and believe in His Messenger (Muhammad SAW), He will give you a double portion of His Mercy, and He will give you a light by which you shall walk (straight), and He will forgive you. And Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (57:28)
- And those who believe in Allâh and His Messengers and make no distinction between any of them (Messengers), We shall give them their rewards, and Allâh is Ever Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (4:152)
6. His mercy on good doers even if they didn’t complete their work
ALLAH mercy is so great that he rewards his servants even if they didn’t complete their duties because of sickness, or death or even if they forget to do so !!.
ومن يهاجر في سبيل الله يجد في الارض مراغما كثيرا وسعة ومن يخرج من بيته مهاجرا الى الله ورسوله ثم يدركه الموت فقد وقع اجره على الله وكان الله غفورا رحيما [4: 100] - ليس على الضعفاء ولا على المرضى ولا على الذين لا يجدون ما ينفقون حرج اذا نصحوا لله ورسوله ما على المحسنين من سبيل والله غفور رحيم [9: 91] - ذلك الذي يبشر الله عباده الذين امنوا وعملوا الصالحات قل لا اسالكم عليه اجرا الا المودة في القربى ومن يقترف حسنة نزد له فيها حسنا ان الله غفور شكور [42: 23] - يا ايها الذين امنوا اذا ناجيتم الرسول فقدموا بين يدي نجواكم صدقة ذلك خير لكم واطهر فان لم تجدوا فان الله غفور رحيم [58: 12]
- He who emigrates (from his home) in the Cause of Allâh, will find on earth many dwelling places and plenty to live by. And whosoever leaves his home as an emigrant unto Allâh and His Messenger, and death overtakes him, his reward is then surely incumbent upon Allâh. And Allâh is Ever Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (4:100)
- There is no blame on those who are weak or ill or who find no resources to spend, if they are sincere and true (in duty) to Allâh and His Messenger. No ground (of complaint) can there be against the Muhsinûn (good-doers). And Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (9:91)
- That is (the Paradise) whereof Allâh gives glad tidings to His slaves who believe (in the Oneness of Allâh) and do righteous good deeds. Say (O Muhammad SAW): "No reward do I ask of you for this except to be kind to me for my kinship with you." And whoever earns a good righteous deed, We shall give him an increase of good in respect thereof. Verily, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Ready to appreciate (the deeds of those who are obedient to Him). (42:23)
- O you who believe! When you (want to) consult the Messenger (Muhammad SAW) in private, spend something in charity before your private consultation. That will be better and purer for you. But if you find not (the means for it), then verily, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (58:12)
7. Does not examine his servants that they may lose their faith
ALLAH by his mercy doesn’t test his servants so that they lose their faith, unless the person is hesitant and not sure about his faith, but ALLAH supports his servants to stay on their faith by descending angels on them or showing them his signs, to become after the test stronger and firmer on their belief:
وكذلك جعلناكم امة وسطا لتكونوا شهداء على الناس ويكون الرسول عليكم شهيدا وما جعلنا القبلة التي كنت عليها الا لنعلم من يتبع الرسول ممن ينقلب على عقبيه وان كانت لكبيرة الا على الذين هدى الله وما كان الله ليضيع ايمانكم ان الله بالناس لرؤوف رحيم [2: 143] - وما كان الله ليضل قوما بعد اذ هداهم حتى يبين لهم ما يتقون ان الله بكل شيء عليم [9: 115]- هو الذي ينزل على عبده ايات بينات ليخرجكم من الظلمات الى النور وان الله بكم لرؤوف رحيم [57: 9] - هو الذي يصلي عليكم وملائكته ليخرجكم من الظلمات الى النور وكان بالمؤمنين رحيما [33: 43]
- Thus We have made you [true Muslims], a (just) (and the best) nation, that you be witnesses over mankind and the Messenger (Muhammad SAW) be a witness over you. And We made the Qiblah (prayer direction towards Jerusalem) which you used to face, only to test those who followed the Messenger (Muhammad SAW) from those who would turn on their heels (i.e. disobey the Messenger). Indeed it was great (heavy) except for those whom Allâh guided. And Allâh would never make your faith to be lost. Truly, Allâh is full of kindness, the Most Merciful towards mankind. (2:143)
- And Allâh will never lead a people astray after He has guided them until He makes clear to them as to what they should avoid. Verily, Allâh is the All-Knower of everything. (9:115)
- It is He Who sends down manifest Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) to His slave (Muhammad SAW) that He may bring you out from darkness into light. And verily, Allâh is to you full of kindness, Most Merciful. (57:9)
- He it is Who sends Salât (His blessings) on you, and His angels too (ask Allâh to bless and forgive you), that He may bring you out from darkness (of disbelief and polytheism) into light (of Belief and Islâmic Monotheism). And He is Ever Most Merciful to the believers. (33:43)
8. Does not request his servants to suffer so much
ALLAH by his mercy doesn’t ask his servants to suffer too much in their life, nor in worshiping him by loading themselves by what they can’t afford:
ومن الناس من يشري نفسه ابتغاء مرضات الله والله رؤوف بالعباد [2: 207] - لا يكلف الله نفسا الا وسعها لها ما كسبت وعليها ما اكتسبت ربنا لا تؤاخذنا ان نسينا او اخطانا ربنا ولا تحمل علينا اصرا كما حملته على الذين من قبلنا ربنا ولا تحملنا ما لا طاقة لنا به واعف عنا واغفر لنا وارحمنا انت مولانا فانصرنا على القوم الكافرين [2: 286] - لينفق ذو سعة من سعته ومن قدر عليه رزقه فلينفق مما اتاه الله لا يكلف الله نفسا الا ما اتاها سيجعل الله بعد عسر يسرا [65: 7] - ولا تقربوا مال اليتيم الا بالتي هي احسن حتى يبلغ اشده واوفوا الكيل والميزان بالقسط لا نكلف نفسا الا وسعها واذا قلتم فاعدلوا ولو كان ذا قربى وبعهد الله اوفوا ذلكم وصاكم به لعلكم تذكرون [6: 152] - والذين امنوا وعملوا الصالحات لا نكلف نفسا الا وسعها اولئك اصحاب الجنة هم فيها خالدون [7: 42]
- And of mankind is he who would sell himself, seeking the Pleasure of Allâh. And Allâh is full of Kindness to (His) slaves. (2:207)
- Allâh burdens not a person beyond his scope. He gets reward for that (good) which he has earned, and he is punished for that (evil) which he has earned. "Our Lord! Punish us not if we forget or fall into error, our Lord! Lay not on us a burden like that which You did lay on those before us (Jews and Christians); our Lord! Put not on us a burden greater than we have strength to bear. Pardon us and grant us Forgiveness. Have mercy on us. You are our Maulâ (Patron, Supporter and Protector, etc.) and give us victory over the disbelieving people." (2:286)
- Let the rich man spend according to his means, and the man whose resources are restricted, let him spend according to what Allâh has given him. Allâh puts no burden on any person beyond what He has given him. Allâh will grant after hardship, ease. (65:7)
- "And come not near to the orphan's property, except to improve it, until he (or she) attains the age of full strength; and give full measure and full weight with justice. We burden not any person, but that which he can bear. And whenever you give your word (i.e. judge between men or give evidence), say the truth even if a near relative is concerned, and fulfill the Covenant of Allâh, This He commands you, that you may remember. (6:152)
- But those who believed (in the Oneness of Allâh), and worked righteousness - We tax not any person beyond his scope, such are the dwellers of Paradise. They will abide therein. (7:42)
In the following verse ALLAH reminds the Christians that they invented monasticism that they are suffering from a lot (e.g. hunger, tough work, not to marry and locking themselves in isolated, cold, dark monasteries), all these were not written on them by ALLAH, but they forced themselves on doing it:
ثم قفينا على اثارهم برسلنا وقفينا بعيسى ابن مريم واتيناه الانجيل وجعلنا في قلوب الذين اتبعوه رافة ورحمة ورهبانية ابتدعوها ما كتبناها عليهم الا ابتغاء رضوان الله فما رعوها حق رعايتها فاتينا الذين امنوا منهم اجرهم وكثير منهم فاسقون [57: 27]
- Then, We sent after them, Our Messengers, and We sent 'Īsā (Jesus) son of Maryam (Mary), and gave him the Injeel (Gospel). And We ordained in the hearts of those who followed him, compassion and mercy. But the monasticism which they invented for themselves, We did not prescribe for them, but (they sought it) only to please Allâh therewith, but they did not observe it with the right observance. So We gave those among them who believed, their (due) reward, but many of them are Fâsiqûn (rebellious, disobedient to Allâh). (57:27)
9. His mercy that he hold the punishment on his servants
In many occasions, ALLAH warns the early Muslims when doing unaccepted work, that sometimes they deserved a severe punishment, but by his mercy on them he didn’t punish them but remind them NOT to do it again:
لولا كتاب من الله سبق لمسكم فيما اخذتم عذاب عظيم [8: 68] - ولولا فضل الله عليكم ورحمته في الدنيا والاخرة لمسكم في ما افضتم فيه عذاب عظيم [24: 14] - ولولا فضل الله عليكم ورحمته وان الله رؤوف رحيم [24: 20]
- Were it not a previous ordainment from Allâh, a severe torment would have touched you for what you took. (8:68)
- Had it not been for the Grace of Allâh and His Mercy unto you in this world and in the Hereafter, a great torment would have touched you for that whereof you had spoken. (24:14)
- And had it not been for the Grace of Allâh and His Mercy on you, (Allâh would have hastened the punishment upon you). And that Allâh is full of kindness, Most Merciful. (24:20)
10. His mercy by causing whether good or bad things to his servants
Testing his servants through good things happen to them or bad things that they don’t know what the benefit for them. Because even bad things can lead to good things in future, like someone had a car accident and when was taken to the hospital doctors discovered a tumor in his body that must be removed otherwise it may kill him, such things happen, but normally the good believers must thank God for the good things, and be patient of the bad things.
وان يمسسك الله بضر فلا كاشف له الا هو وان يردك بخير فلا راد لفضله يصيب به من يشاء من عباده وهو الغفور الرحيم [10: 107] - كل نفس ذائقة الموت ونبلوكم بالشر والخير فتنة والينا ترجعون [21: 35]
- And if Allâh touches you with hurt, there is none who can remove it but He; and if He intends any good for you, there is none who can repel His Favour which He causes it to reach whomsoever of His slaves He wills. And He is the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (10:107)
- Everyone is going to taste death, and We shall make a trial of you with evil and with good, and to Us you will be returned. (21:35)
11. Warn his servants from the coming “Day of Judgment”
ALLAH by his mercy reminds his servants from not committing bad things whether to themselves or to others, and remind them through his words in Quran or through some events that happen to them during life that they must return back to the right path, because being punished in this life is much easier than being thrown in hell fire in life after:
يوم تجد كل نفس ما عملت من خير محضرا وما عملت من سوء تود لو ان بينها وبينه امدا بعيدا ويحذركم الله نفسه والله رؤوف بالعباد [3: 30] - واعلموا ان الله يعلم ما في انفسكم فاحذروه واعلموا ان الله غفور حليم [2: 235]
- On the Day when every person will be confronted with all the good he has done, and all the evil he has done, he will wish that there were a great distance between him and his evil. And Allâh warns you against Himself (His Punishment) and Allâh is full of Kindness to the (His) slaves. (3:30)
- And know that Allâh knows what is in your minds, so fear Him. And know that Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing. (2:235)
12. His mercy on his servants when committing sins unintentionally
Sometimes believers commit sins unintentionally or forced to do so by others or due to circumstances, ALLAH by his mercy forgives this for his servants too:
انما حرم عليكم الميتة والدم ولحم الخنزير وما اهل به لغير الله فمن اضطر غير باغ ولا عاد فلا اثم عليه ان الله غفور رحيم [2: 173] - واذا جاءك الذين يؤمنون باياتنا فقل سلام عليكم كتب ربكم على نفسه الرحمة انه من عمل منكم سوءا بجهالة ثم تاب من بعده واصلح فانه غفور رحيم [6: 54] - واخرون اعترفوا بذنوبهم خلطوا عملا صالحا واخر سيئا عسى الله ان يتوب عليهم ان الله غفور رحيم [9: 102] - ان الذين تولوا منكم يوم التقى الجمعان انما استزلهم الشيطان ببعض ما كسبوا ولقد عفا الله عنهم ان الله غفور حليم [3: 155] - وليس عليكم جناح فيما اخطاتم به ولكن ما تعمدت قلوبكم وكان الله غفورا رحيما [33: 5]
- He has forbidden you only the Maitah (dead animals), and blood, and the flesh of swine, and that which is slaughtered as a scrifice for others than Allâh (or has been slaughtered for idols, on which Allâh's Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering). But if one is forced by necessity without willful disobedience nor transgressing due limits, then there is no sin on him. Truly, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (2:173)
- When those who believe in Our Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) come to you, say: "Salâmun 'Alaikum" (peace be on you); your Lord has written (prescribed) Mercy for Himself, so that, if any of you does evil in ignorance, and thereafter repents and does righteous good deeds (by obeying Allâh), then surely, He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (6:54)
- And (there are) others who have acknowledged their sins, they have mixed a deed that was righteous with another that was evil. Perhaps Allâh will turn unto them in forgiveness. Surely, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (9:102)
- Those of you who turned back on the day the two hosts met (i.e. the battle of Uhud), it was Shaitân (Satan) who caused them to backslide (run away from the battlefield) because of some (sins) they had earned. But Allâh, indeed, has forgiven them. Surely, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing. (3:155)
- And there is no sin on you concerning that in which you made a mistake, except in regard to what your hearts deliberately intend. And Allâh is Ever Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (33:5)
13. His forgiveness for those who hold their revenge
ALLAH teaches us to forgive the others, even if they were enemies to us, maybe one day they become our friends, and teach us to forgive to others too:
عسى الله ان يجعل بينكم وبين الذين عاديتم منهم مودة والله قدير والله غفور رحيم [60: 7] - ان تعفوا اقرب للتقوى ولا تنسوا الفضل بينكم ان الله بما تعملون بصير [2: 237] - يا ايها الذين امنوا ان من ازواجكم واولادكم عدوا لكم فاحذروهم وان تعفوا وتصفحوا وتغفروا فان الله غفور رحيم [64: 14] - خذ العفو وامر بالعرف واعرض عن الجاهلين [7: 199] - قال لا تثريب عليكم اليوم يغفر الله لكم وهو ارحم الراحمين [12: 92] - الذين ينفقون في السراء والضراء والكاظمين الغيظ والعافين عن الناس والله يحب المحسنين [3: 134]
- Perhaps Allâh will make friendship between you and those whom you hold as enemies. And Allâh has power (over all things), and Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (60:7)
- And to forego and give is nearer to At-Taqwa (piety, righteousness). And do not forget liberality between yourselves. Truly, Allâh is All-Seer of what you do. (2:237)
- O you who believe! Verily, among your wives and your children are your enemies (who may stop you from the obedience of Allâh), therefore beware of them! But if you pardon (them) and overlook, and forgive (their faults), then verily, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (64:14)
- Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the foolish (i.e. don't punish them). (7:199)
- He said: "No reproach on you this day, may Allâh forgive you, and He is the Most Merciful of those who show mercy![] (92)
- Those who spend [in Allâh's Cause] in prosperity and in adversity, who repress anger, and who pardon people; verily, Allâh loves Al-Muhsinûn (the good - doers). (3:134)
Also, ALLAH gives great example to forgive even for those who reacted badly against us, the following verse descended because Abu Baker decided to stop giving his cousin the monthly aid that he used to give him after his cousin spoke badly on Abu Baker’s daughter “Aisha” which was prophet’s wife too.
ALLAH told Abu Baker to forgive him as God already forgave him before, and as he wishes that God forgives him (Abu baker) too.
- ولا ياتل اولوا الفضل منكم والسعة ان يؤتوا اولي القربى والمساكين والمهاجرين في سبيل الله وليعفوا وليصفحوا الا تحبون ان يغفر الله لكم والله غفور رحيم [24: 22]
- And let not those among you who are blessed with graces and wealth swear not to give (any sort of help) to their kinsmen, Al-Masâkîn (the poor), and those who left their homes for Allâh's Cause. Let them pardon and forgive. Do you not love that Allâh should forgive you? And Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (24:22)
14. Teaching his servants how to ask for forgiveness
ALLAH the greatest, teaches his servants by giving them plenty of examples on how to ask for help, mercy, and forgiveness from him, he mentioned many prayers of pervious prophets so we can say them too:
ربنا واجعلنا مسلمين لك ومن ذريتنا امة مسلمة لك وارنا مناسكنا وتب علينا انك انت التواب الرحيم [2: 128] - والذين جاؤوا من بعدهم يقولون ربنا اغفر لنا ولاخواننا الذين سبقونا بالايمان ولا تجعل في قلوبنا غلا للذين امنوا ربنا انك رؤوف رحيم [59: 10] قال رب اغفر لي ولاخي وادخلنا في رحمتك وانت ارحم الراحمين [7: 151] - وايوب اذ نادى ربه اني مسني الضر وانت ارحم الراحمين [21: 83] - انه كان فريق من عبادي يقولون ربنا امنا فاغفر لنا وارحمنا وانت خير الراحمين [23: 109] - وقل رب اغفر وارحم وانت خير الراحمين [23: 118] - قال رب اني ظلمت نفسي فاغفر لي فغفر له انه هو الغفور الرحيم [28: 16]
"Our Lord! And make us submissive unto You and of our offspring a nation submissive unto You, and show us our Manâsik (all the ceremonies of pilgrimage - Hajj and 'Umrah), and accept our repentance. Truly, You are the One Who accepts repentance, the Most Merciful. (2:128)
- And those who came after them say: "Our Lord! Forgive us and our brethren who have preceded us in Faith, and put not in our hearts any hatred against those who have believed. Our Lord! You are indeed full of kindness, Most Merciful. (59:10)
- Mûsâ (Moses) said: "O my Lord! Forgive me and my brother, and admit us into Your Mercy, for you are the Most Merciful of those who show mercy." (7:151)
- And (remember) Ayyûb (Job), when he cried to his Lord: "Verily, distress has seized me, and You are the Most Merciful of all those who show mercy." (21:83)
- Verily! there was a party of My slaves, who used to say: "Our Lord! We believe, so forgive us, and have mercy on us, for You are the Best of all who show mercy!" (23:109)
- And say (O Muhammad SAW): "My Lord! Forgive and have mercy, for You are the Best of those who show mercy!" (23:118)
- He said: "My Lord! Verily, I have wronged myself, so forgive me." Then He forgave him. Verily, He is the Oft-Forgiving, the Most Merciful. (28:16)
15. His mercy on those who suffered in this life
ALLAH confirms that whoever received unjust in this life ALLAH will surely help him them whether in this life or life after.
ذلك ومن عاقب بمثل ما عوقب به ثم بغي عليه لينصرنه الله ان الله لعفو غفور [22: 60] - ولا تقتلوا النفس التي حرم الله الا بالحق ومن قتل مظلوما فقد جعلنا لوليه سلطانا فلا يسرف في القتل انه كان منصورا [17: 33]
- That is so. And whoever has retaliated with the like of that which he was made to suffer, and then has again been wronged, Allâh will surely help him. Verily! Allâh indeed is Oft-Pardoning, Oft-Forgiving. (22:60)
- And do not kill anyone whose killing Allâh has forbidden, except for a just cause. And whoever is killed wrongfully (Mazluman intentionally with hostility and oppression and not by mistake), We have given his heir the authority [(to demand Qisâs, Law of Equality in punishment— or to forgive, or to take Diya (blood - money)]. But let him not exceed limits in the matter of taking life (i.e he should not kill except the killer). Verily, he is helped (17:33)
16. His mercy on the bad doers
ALLAH doesn’t forgive for the good people only but even the bad-doers, in case they repent and ask his forgiveness, then he will accept it:
الا الذين تابوا واصلحوا وبينوا فاولئك اتوب عليهم وانا التواب الرحيم [2: 160] - فان انتهوا فان الله غفور رحيم [2: 192] - واستغفر الله ان الله كان غفورا رحيما [4: 106] - ومن يعمل سوءا او يظلم نفسه ثم يستغفر الله يجد الله غفورا رحيما [4: 110] - فمن تاب من بعد ظلمه واصلح فان الله يتوب عليه ان الله غفور رحيم [5: 39] - والذين عملوا السيئات ثم تابوا من بعدها وامنوا ان ربك من بعدها لغفور رحيم [7: 153] - الم يعلموا ان الله هو يقبل التوبة عن عباده وياخذ الصدقات وان الله هو التواب الرحيم [9: 104] - ثم ان ربك للذين عملوا السوء بجهالة ثم تابوا من بعد ذلك واصلحوا ان ربك من بعدها لغفور رحيم [16: 119]
- Except those who repent and do righteous deeds, and openly declare (the truth which they concealed). These, I will accept their repentance. And I am the One Who accepts repentance, the Most Merciful. (2:160)
- But if they cease (their corruption or fighting Islam), then Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (2:192)
- And seek the Forgiveness of Allâh, certainly, Allâh is Ever Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful (4:106)
- But whosoever repents after his crime and does righteous good deeds (by obeying Allâh), then verily, Allâh will pardon him (accept his repentance). Verily, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (5:39)
- But those who committed evil deeds and then repented afterwards and believed, verily, your Lord after (all) that is indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (7:153)
- Know they not that Allâh accepts repentance from His slaves and takes the Sadaqât (alms, charity) and that Allah Alone is the One Who forgives and accepts repentance, Most Merciful? (9:104)
- Then, verily! Your Lord- for those who do evil (commit sins and are disobedient to Allâh) in ignorance and afterward repent and do righteous deeds, verily, your Lord thereafter, (to such) is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (16:119)
17. His mercy on the unbelievers if they repent
After forgiving for the believers the good and the bad ones who did intentionally the bad deeds or unintentionally, ALLAH the most merciful forgives for the unbelievers too if they returned back to him, to their only God, he’ll erase their bad deeds and writes them as good deeds:
قل ان كنتم تحبون الله فاتبعوني يحببكم الله ويغفر لكم ذنوبكم والله غفور رحيم [3: 31] - الا الذين تابوا من قبل ان تقدروا عليهم فاعلموا ان الله غفور رحيم [5: 34] - الا من تاب وامن وعمل عملا صالحا فاولئك يبدل الله سيئاتهم حسنات وكان الله غفورا رحيما [25: 70] - يا ايها النبي قل لمن في ايديكم من الاسرى ان يعلم الله في قلوبكم خيرا يؤتكم خيرا مما اخذ منكم ويغفر لكم والله غفور رحيم [8: 70]
- Say (O Muhammad SAW to mankind): "If you (really) love Allâh then follow me, Allâh will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (3:31)
- Except for those who (having fled away and then) came back (as Muslims) with repentance before they fall into your power; in that case, know that Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (5:34)
- Except those who repent and believe, and do righteous deeds, for those, Allâh will change their sins into good deeds, and Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful (25:70)
- O Prophet! (Muhammad SAW)Say to the captives that are in your hands: "If Allâh knows any good in your hearts, He will give you something better than what has been taken from you, and He will forgive you, and Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (8:70)
18. His mercy on the infidels not to punish them twice
For those who fight Islam whether because of their ignorance or arrogance, ALLAH knows what they are doing but sometimes he delay their deserved punishment till the life after, so they won’t be punished twice.
الم تر الى الذين نهوا عن النجوى ثم يعودون لما نهوا عنه ويتناجون بالاثم والعدوان ومعصيت الرسول واذا جاؤوك حيوك بما لم يحيك به الله ويقولون في انفسهم لولا يعذبنا الله بما نقول حسبهم جهنم يصلونها فبئس المصير [58: 8] - ولا تحسبن الله غافلا عما يعمل الظالمون انما يؤخرهم ليوم تشخص فيه الابصار [14: 42]
- Have you not seen those who were forbidden to hold secret counsels, and afterwards returned to that which they had been forbidden, and conspired together for sin and wrong doing and disobedience to the Messenger (Muhammad SAW). And when they come to you, they greet you with a greeting wherewith Allâh greets you not, and say within themselves: "Why should Allâh punish us not for what we say?" Hell will be sufficient for them, they will burn therein, and worst indeed is that destination! (58:8)
- Consider not that Allâh is unaware of that which the Zâlimûn (polytheists, wrong-doers) do, but He gives them respite up to a Day (of Judgment) when the eyes will stare in horror. (14:42)
19. He can forgive and punish too
Knowing that ALLAH is the most merciful doesn’t not mean that he can’t punish, or as Christians say wrongly “God is love”, because love is an act, but GOD is GOD, he loves the good persons and doesn’t love who do badly. Therefore, he will reward some and punish some, and he can do that very severely.
اعلموا ان الله شديد العقاب وان الله غفور رحيم [5: 98] - ولله ملك السماوات والارض يغفر لمن يشاء ويعذب من يشاء وكان الله غفورا رحيما [48: 14] - ليعذب الله المنافقين والمنافقات والمشركين والمشركات ويتوب الله على المؤمنين والمؤمنات وكان الله غفورا رحيما [33: 73] - ليجزي الله الصادقين بصدقهم ويعذب المنافقين ان شاء او يتوب عليهم ان الله كان غفورا رحيما [33: 24]
- Know that Allâh is Severe in punishment and that Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (5:98)
- And to Allâh belongs the sovereignty of the heavens and the earth, He forgives whom He wills, and punishes whom He wills. And Allâh is Ever Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (48:14)
- So that Allâh will punish the hypocrites, men and women, and the men and women who are Al-Mushrikûn (polytheists, idolaters, pagans, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh, and His Messenger Muhammad SAW ). And Allâh will pardon (accept the repentance of) the true believers of the Islâmic Monotheism, men and women. And Allâh is Ever Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (33:73)
- That Allâh may reward the men of truth for their truth (i.e. for their patience at the accomplishment of that which they covenanted with Allâh), and punish the hypocrites if He wills or accept their repentance by turning to them (in Mercy). Verily, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (33:24)
20. His mercy that he gave the most merciful prophet to Humanity
ALLAH by his mercy gave all humanity the most merciful prophet, Muhammad (Peace be upon him), he is the prophet who taught all his followers everything that they may need, and will support us on the day of Judgment where he will be the one who asks God to start the judgment on that horrible day:
لقد جاءكم رسول من انفسكم عزيز عليه ما عنتم حريص عليكم بالمؤمنين رؤوف رحيم [9: 128] - لقد من الله على المؤمنين اذ بعث فيهم رسولا من انفسهم يتلو عليهم اياته ويزكيهم ويعلمهم الكتاب والحكمة وان كانوا من قبل لفي ضلال مبين [3: 164] - -الذين يتبعون الرسول النبي الامي الذي يجدونه مكتوبا عندهم في التوراة والانجيل يامرهم بالمعروف وينهاهم عن المنكر ويحل لهم الطيبات ويحرم عليهم الخبائث ويضع عنهم اصرهم والاغلال التي كانت عليهم فالذين امنوا به وعزروه ونصروه واتبعوا النور الذي انزل معه اولئك هم المفلحون [7: 157] - يا اهل الكتاب قد جاءكم رسولنا يبين لكم على فترة من الرسل ان تقولوا ما جاءنا من بشير ولا نذير فقد جاءكم بشير ونذير والله على كل شيء قدير [5: 19] - وما ارسلناك الا كافة للناس بشيرا ونذيرا ولكن اكثر الناس لا يعلمون [34: 28]
- Verily, there has come unto you a Messenger (Muhammad SAW) from amongst yourselves (i.e. whom you know well). It grieves him that you should receive any injury or difficulty. He (Muhammad SAW) is anxious over you (to be rightly guided, to repent to Allâh, and beg Him to pardon and forgive your sins, in order that you may enter Paradise and be saved from the punishment of the Hell-fire), for the believers (he SAW is) full of pity, kind, and merciful. (9:128)
- Indeed Allâh conferred a great favour on the believers when He sent among them a Messenger (Muhammad SAW) from among themselves, reciting unto them His Verses (the Qur'ân), and purifying them (from sins by their following him), and instructing them (in) the Book (the Qur'ân) and Al-Hikmah [the wisdom and the Sunnah of the Prophet SAW (i.e. his legal ways, statements, acts of worship)], while before that they had been in manifest error. (3:164)
- Those who follow the Messenger, the Prophet who can neither read nor write (i.e. Muhammad SAW) whom they find written with them in the Taurât (Torah) (Deut, xviii 15) and the Injeel (Gospel) (John xiv, 16), - he commands them for Al-Ma‘rûf (i.e. Islâmic Monotheism and all that Islâm has ordained); and forbids them from Al-Munkar (i.e. disbelief, polytheism of all kinds, and all that Islâm has forbidden); he allows them as lawful At-Tayyibât (i.e. all good and lawful as regards things, deeds, beliefs, persons, foods), and prohibits them as unlawful Al-Khabâ’ith (i.e. all evil and unlawful as regards things, deeds, beliefs, persons and foods), he releases them from their heavy burdens (of Allâh’s Covenant with the children of Israel), and from the fetters (bindings) that were upon them. So those who believe in him (Muhammad SAW), honour him, help him, and follow the light (the Qur’ân) which has been sent down with him, it is they who will be successful. (7:157)
- O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Now has come to you Our Messenger (Muhammad SAW) making (things) clear unto you, after a break in (the series of) Messengers, lest you say: "There came unto us no bringer of glad tidings and no warner." But now has come unto you a bringer of glad tidings and a warner. And Allâh is Able to do all things. (5:19)
- And We have not sent you (O Muhammad SAW) except as a giver of glad tidings and a warner to all mankind, but most of men know not (34:28)
21. His mercy on humanity
ALLAH mercy that he doesn’t judge people immediately on their errors; otherwise he won’t leave anyone on this Earth, but delays them till the last day:
ولو يؤاخذ الله الناس بظلمهم ما ترك عليها من دابة ولكن يؤخرهم الى اجل مسمى فاذا جاء اجلهم لا يستاخرون ساعة ولا يستقدمون [16: 61] - وربك الغفور ذو الرحمة لو يؤاخذهم بما كسبوا لعجل لهم العذاب بل لهم موعد لن يجدوا من دونه موئلا [18: 58] - ولو يؤاخذ الله الناس بما كسبوا ما ترك على ظهرها من دابة ولكن يؤخرهم الى اجل مسمى فاذا جاء اجلهم فان الله كان بعباده بصيرا [35: 45]
- And if Allâh were to seize mankind for their wrong-doing, He would not leave on it (the earth) a single moving (living) creature, but He postpones them for an appointed term and when their term comes, neither can they delay nor can they advance it an hour (or a moment). (16:61)
- And your Lord is Most Forgiving, Owner of Mercy. Were He to call them to account for what they have earned, then surely, He would have hastened their punishment. But they have their appointed time, beyond which they will find no escape. (18:58)
- And if Allâh were to punish men for that which they earned, He would not leave a moving (living) creature on the surface of the earth, but He gives them respite to an appointed term, and when their term comes, then verily, Allâh is Ever All-Seer of His slaves. (35:45)
22. His Mercy on the poor and needy
In plenty of verses in the Holy Quran, ALLAH reminds his servants about doing good deeds, and in each verse he always starts with praying then helping the poor and needy.
Helping the Poor & Needy
Islam, is the only religion that differentiates between poor and the needy, where the poor who doesn’t have a constant income and they need aid from others always, and the needy (Miskin, pl. Masakin) are those who have an income but their expenses are more than their income, like a worker with have many children that his salary is not enough for his family needs, ALLAH asks us always to support them even if they are not named as poor.
واذ اخذنا ميثاق بني اسرائيل لا تعبدون الا الله وبالوالدين احسانا وذي القربى واليتامى والمساكين وقولوا للناس حسنا واقيموا الصلاة واتوا الزكاة ثم توليتم الا قليلا منكم وانتم معرضون [2: 83] - ليس البر ان تولوا وجوهكم قبل المشرق والمغرب ولكن البر من امن بالله واليوم الاخر والملائكة والكتاب والنبيين واتى المال على حبه ذوي القربى واليتامى والمساكين وابن السبيل والسائلين وفي الرقاب واقام الصلاة واتى الزكاة والموفون بعهدهم اذا عاهدوا والصابرين في الباساء والضراء وحين الباس اولئك الذين صدقوا واولئك هم المتقون [2: 177] - يسالونك ماذا ينفقون قل ما انفقتم من خير فللوالدين والاقربين واليتامى والمساكين وابن السبيل وما تفعلوا من خير فان الله به عليم [2: 215]
- And (remember) when We took a covenant from the Children of Israel, (saying): Worship none but Allâh (Alone) and be dutiful and good to parents, and to kindred, and to orphans and Al-Masâkîn (the poor), and speak good to people [i.e. enjoin righteousness and forbid evil, and say the truth about Muhammad Peace be upon him ], and perform As-Salât (Iqâmat-as-Salât), and give Zakât (charity). Then you slid back, except a few of you, while you are backsliders. (2:83)
- It is not Al-Birr (piety, righteousness, and each and every act of obedience to Allâh, etc.) that you turn your faces towards east and (or) west (in prayers); but Al-Birr is (the quality of) the one who believes in Allâh, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book, the Prophets[] and gives his wealth, in spite of love for it, to the kinsfolk, to the orphans, and to Al-Masâkin (the poor), and to the wayfarer, and to those who ask, and to set slaves free, performs As-Salât (Iqâmat-as-Salât), and gives the Zakât (charity), and who fulfill their covenant when they make it, and who are patient in extreme poverty and ailment (disease) and at the time of fighting (during the battles). Such are the people of the truth and they are Al¬Muttaqûn (pious) (2:177)
- They ask you (O Muhammad SAW) what they should spend. Say: Whatever you spend of good must be for parents and kindred and orphans and Al-Masâkin (the poor, needy) and the wayfarers, and whatever you do of good deeds, truly, Allâh knows it well. (2:215)
In addition to helping the poor, ALLAH advise us to give the poor in private and not in public, so they don’t feel shy or embarrassed, like delivering the help to their door steps without noticing who did this, and that among the best thing that we can do:
- ليشهدوا منافع لهم ويذكروا اسم الله في ايام معلومات على ما رزقهم من بهيمة الانعام فكلوا منها واطعموا البائس الفقير [22: 28] - ان تبدوا الصدقات فنعما هي وان تخفوها وتؤتوها الفقراء فهو خير لكم ويكفر عنكم من سيئاتكم والله بما تعملون خبير [2: 271]
- That they may witness things that are of benefit to them (i.e. reward of Hajj in the Hereafter, and also some worldly gain from trade), and mention the Name of Allâh on appointed days (i.e. 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th day of Dhul-Hijjâh), over the beast of cattle that He has provided for them (for sacrifice) (at the time of their slaughtering by saying: Bismillah, Wallâhu-Akbar, Allâhumma Minka wa Ilaik). Then eat thereof and feed therewith the poor who have a very hard time. (22:28)
If you disclose your Sadaqât (alms-giving), it is well, but if you conceal them, and give them to the poor, that is better for you. (Allâh) will expaite you some of your sins. And Allâh is Well-Acquainted with what you do. (2:271)
Helping the Orphans
Islam appreciates a lot helping the poor and the orphans, and consider the children who don’t have anyone to support them enough as the weaks, and Islam warned a lot from treating them badly, or take their inherited money unfairly, and promise those who do that they will eat fire in hell.
- في الدنيا والاخرة ويسالونك عن اليتامى قل اصلاح لهم خير وان تخالطوهم فاخوانكم والله يعلم المفسد من المصلح ولو شاء الله لاعنتكم ان الله عزيز حكيم [2: 220] - واتوا اليتامى اموالهم ولا تتبدلوا الخبيث بالطيب ولا تاكلوا اموالهم الى اموالكم انه كان حوبا كبير [4: 2] - وابتلوا اليتامى حتى اذا بلغوا النكاح فان انستم منهم رشدا فادفعوا اليهم اموالهم ولا تاكلوها اسرافا وبدارا ان يكبروا ومن كان غنيا فليستعفف ومن كان فقيرا فلياكل بالمعروف فاذا دفعتم اليهم اموالهم فاشهدوا عليهم وكفى بالله حسيبا [4: 6] - ان الذين ياكلون اموال اليتامى ظلما انما ياكلون في بطونهم نارا وسيصلون سعيرا [4: 10]
- In (to) this worldly life and in the Hereafter. And they ask you concerning orphans. Say: "The best thing is to work honestly in their property, and if you mix your affairs with theirs, then they are your brothers. And Allâh knows him who means mischief (e.g. to swallow their property) from him who means good (e.g. to save their property). And if Allâh had wished, He could have put you into difficulties. Truly, Allâh is All-Mighty, All-Wise." (2:220)
- And give unto orphans their property and do not exchange (your) bad things for (their) good ones; and devour not their substance (by adding it) to your substance. Surely, this is a great sin. (4:2)
- And try orphans (as regards their intelligence) until they reach the age of marriage; if then you find sound judgment in them, release their property to them, but consume it not wastefully, and hastily fearing that they should grow up, and whoever (amongst guardians) is rich, he should take no wages, but if he is poor, let him have for himself what is just and reasonable (according to his labour). And when you release their property to them, take witness in their presence; and Allâh is All¬Sufficient in taking account. (4:6)
- Verily, those who unjustly eat up the property of orphans, they eat up only a fire into their bellies, and they will be burnt in the blazing Fire! (4:10)
Helping the Relatives and the Stranger
ALLAH emphases a lot on giving the poor and the needy, especially if they are relatives, so we must start with them first before giving the far poor (irrelative).
Also the lost person named as “Ibn El Sabil” the wayfarer who can’t find his way or lost his money and can’t find a house or can’t afford to return back to his home city or country.
وآت ذا القربى حقه والمسكين وابن السبيل ولا تبذر تبذيرا [17: 26] - فات ذا القربى حقه والمسكين وابن السبيل ذلك خير للذين يريدون وجه الله واولئك هم المفلحون [30: 38]
And give to the kinsman his due and to the Miskîn (poor) and to the wayfarer. But spend not wastefully (your wealth) in the manner of a spendthrift (17:26)
So give to the kindred his due, and to Al¬Miskîn (the poor) and to the wayfarer; That is best for those who seek Allâh's Countenance, and it is they who will be successful. (30:38)
Also ALLAH gives a wonderful command that is: while dividing the inherited property (money, gold, land, etc..), and if a poor comes to your door or orphan, or relative who may not deserve to have from the division, ALLAH asks us to give them some even if they don’t deserve that (legally)!!
واذا حضر القسمة اولوا القربى واليتامى والمساكين فارزقوهم منه وقولوا لهم قولا معروفا [4: 8]
And when the relatives and the orphans and Al-Masâkin (the poor) are present at the time of division, give them out of the property, and speak to them words of kindness and justice. (4:8)
Is there more merciful than such GOD, ALLAH really is the most merciful !!
Helping the Neighbors & the slaves
ALLAH also reminds us to help our neighbors, especially if we know that they are in bad conditions, and to treat our slaves (previously) kindly, which can be applied today on our subordinates or home workers (housemaid, guardian, driver, etc..).
واعبدوا الله ولا تشركوا به شيئا وبالوالدين احسانا وبذي القربى واليتامى والمساكين والجار ذي القربى والجار الجنب والصاحب بالجنب وابن السبيل وما ملكت ايمانكم ان الله لا يحب من كان مختالا فخورا [4: 36]
- Worship Allâh and join none with Him (in worship), and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, Al-Masâkin (the poor), the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those (slaves) whom your right hands possess. Verily, Allâh does not like such as are proud and boastful; (4:36)
Helping the other even if they didn’t ask to
Some maybe poor or needy, or they may have work but it’s not enough to them or they are shy to ask others for help, and sometimes people think that they are rich and don’t know that in fact they are needy, but ALLAH the most merciful knows..
ALLAH asks us to help them if they didn’t ask, if we felt that our relative or neighbor is in bad condition then we have to help them, such as: we saw their children haven’t any new clothes for long time, or they sold their car, or they are selling some of their stuff, or their neighbor becomes unemployed, all these signs mean that they in need and we have to help them even if they didn’t ask for.
للفقراء الذين احصروا في سبيل الله لا يستطيعون ضربا في الارض يحسبهم الجاهل اغنياء من التعفف تعرفهم بسيماهم لا يسالون الناس الحافا وما تنفقوا من خير فان الله به عليم [2: 273]
- (Charity is) for Fuqarâ (the poor), who in Allâh's Cause are restricted (from travel), and cannot move about in the land (for trade or work). The one who knows them not, thinks that they are rich because of their modesty. You may know them by their mark, they do not beg of people at all. And whatever you spend in good, surely Allâh knows it well. (273)
Not helping the poor reason for entering the Hell fire
As shown above, ALLAH reminds us to help the poor by considering it as best thing to do after praying, but not that only, he considers not helping the poor as one of the things that causes to enter hellfire, all the following verses talk about the bad deeds of the people of hell:
- ولا يحض على طعام المسكين [69: 34] - ولم نك نطعم المسكين [74: 44] - ولا تحاضون على طعام المسكين [89: 18] - ولا يحض على طعام المسكين [107: 3]
- And urged not on the feeding of Al-Miskîn (the poor), (69:34)
- "Nor we used to feed Al-Miskin (the poor); (74:44)
- And urge not one another on the feeding of AlMiskîn (the poor)! (89:18)
- And urges not on the feeding of AlMiskîn (the poor) (107:3)
Helping without waiting for reward or thanks, helping the prisoners
The following verses show that we must help the prisoners, whether they were of our people or prisoners of war, we have to treat them kindly (i.e. muslims or non-muslims).
Finally, we have to do all this without seeking a reward or even a “thanks”, we must do all good deeds for God sake only:
ويطعمون الطعام على حبه مسكينا ويتيما واسيرا 8 انما نطعمكم لوجه الله لا نريد منكم جزاء ولا شكورا [76: 8-9]
And they give food, in spite of their love for it (or for the love of Him), to Miskin (the poor), the orphan, and the captive, (8) (Saying): "We feed you seeking Allâh's Countenance only. We wish for no reward, nor thanks from you. (9)
23. His Mercy on the parents
To be kind to the mothers specifically, and the parents in general, and not to harm a mother by her children, like taking them from her while they are so young, so it may cause her to lose her mind !!
والوالدات يرضعن اولادهن حولين كاملين لمن اراد ان يتم الرضاعة وعلى المولود له رزقهن وكسوتهن بالمعروف لا تكلف نفس الا وسعها لا تضار والدة بولدها ولا مولود له بولده وعلى الوارث مثل ذلك فان ارادا فصالا عن تراض منهما وتشاور فلا جناح عليهما وان اردتم ان تسترضعوا اولادكم فلا جناح عليكم اذا سلمتم ما اتيتم بالمعروف واتقوا الله واعلموا ان الله بما تعملون بصير [2: 233]
- The mothers shall give suck to their children for two whole years, (that is) for those (parents) who desire to complete the term of suckling, but the father of the child shall bear the cost of the mother's food and clothing on a reasonable basis. No person shall have a burden laid on him greater than he can bear. No mother shall be treated unfairly on account of her child, nor father on account of his child. And on the (father's) heir is incumbent the like of that (which was incumbent on the father). If they both decide on weaning, by mutual consent, and after due consultation, there is no sin on them. And if you decide on a foster suckling-mother for your children, there is no sin on you, provided you pay (the mother) what you agreed (to give her) on reasonable basis. And fear Allâh and know that Allâh is All-Seer of what you do. (2:233)
ALLAH teaches us to pray for our parents as thanking them for raising us, and treat them very nicely especially if they (or one of them) become old.
- ربنا اغفر لي ولوالدي وللمؤمنين يوم يقوم الحساب [14: 41] - وقضى ربك الا تعبدوا الا اياه وبالوالدين احسانا اما يبلغن عندك الكبر احدهما او كلاهما فلا تقل لهما اف ولا تنهرهما وقل لهما قولا كريما 23 واخفض لهما جناح الذل من الرحمة وقل رب ارحمهما كما ربياني صغيرا [17 :23-24] - فتبسم ضاحكا من قولها وقال رب اوزعني ان اشكر نعمتك التي انعمت علي وعلى والدي وان اعمل صالحا ترضاه وادخلني برحمتك في عبادك الصالحين [27: 19]
- "Our Lord! Forgive me and my parents, and (all) the believers on the Day when the reckoning will be established." (14:41)
- And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. (23) And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: "My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was young." (17:24)
- So he [Sulaimân (Solomon)] smiled, amused at her speech and said: "My Lord! Grant me the power and ability that I may be grateful for Your Favours which You have bestowed on me and on my parents, and that I may do righteous good deeds that will please You, and admit me by Your Mercy among Your righteous slaves." (27:19)
- ووصينا الانسان بوالديه حملته امه وهنا على وهن وفصاله في عامين ان اشكر لي ولوالديك الي المصير [31: 14] - ووصينا الانسان بوالديه احسانا حملته امه كرها ووضعته كرها وحمله وفصاله ثلاثون شهرا حتى اذا بلغ اشده وبلغ اربعين سنة قال رب اوزعني ان اشكر نعمتك التي انعمت علي وعلى والدي وان اعمل صالحا ترضاه واصلح لي في ذريتي اني تبت اليك واني من المسلمين [46: 15] - رب اغفر لي ولوالدي ولمن دخل بيتي مؤمنا وللمؤمنين والمؤمنات ولا تزد الظالمين الا تبارا [71: 28]
- And We have enjoined on man (to be dutiful and good) to his parents. His mother bore him in weakness and hardship upon weakness and hardship, and his weaning is in two years — give thanks to Me and to your parents, unto Me is the final destination. (31:14)
- And We have enjoined on man to be dutiful and kind to his parents. His mother bears him with hardship And she brings him forth with hardship, and the bearing of him, and the weaning of him is thirty months, till when he attains full strength and reaches forty years, he says: "My Lord! Grant me the power and ability that I may be grateful for Your Favour which You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents, and that I may do righteous good deeds, such as please You, and make my off-spring good. Truly, I have turned to You in repentance, and truly, I am one of the Muslims (submitting to Your Will)." (46:15)
- "My Lord! Forgive me, and my parents, and him who enters my home as a believer, and all the believing men and women. And to the Zâlimûn (polytheists, wrong-doers, and disbelievers) grant You no increase but destruction!" (71:28)
ALLAH tells us that even the prophets were good to their parents (John) or their mothers (Jesus).
- وبرا بوالديه ولم يكن جبارا عصيا [19: 14] وبرا بوالدتي ولم يجعلني جبارا شقيا [19: 32]
- And dutiful towards his parents, and he was neither an arrogant nor disobedient (to Allâh or to his parents). (19:14)
- "And dutiful to my mother, and made me not arrogant, unblest. (19:32)
ALLAH orders us firmly to obey our parents but in condition not to disobey our God, then we shall not obey, but keep treating them kindly.
- ووصينا الانسان بوالديه حسنا وان جاهداك لتشرك بي ما ليس لك به علم فلا تطعهما الي مرجعكم فانبئكم بما كنتم تعملون [29: 8]
- And We have enjoined on man to be good and dutiful to his parents, but if they strive to make you join with Me (in worship) anything (as a partner) of which you have no knowledge, then obey them not. Unto Me is your return, and I shall tell you what you used to do. (29:8)
24. His Mercy by forbidding the abortion
The Arab polytheists before Islam used to kill their children after their birth, sometimes even when they were few years old only, especially if they are girls. ALLAH orders not to do this, which it’s among the biggest crimes and sins ever. Unfortunately, some tribes in Amazon jungles still doing this till our days!!
In the following verses ALLAH commands not to kill our children because of poverty, ALLAH grants that he will feed us all (parents and children), this also applies on “abortion”:
- قد خسر الذين قتلوا اولادهم سفها بغير علم وحرموا ما رزقهم الله افتراء على الله قد ضلوا وما كانوا مهتدين [6: 140]
- قل تعالوا اتل ما حرم ربكم عليكم الا تشركوا به شيئا وبالوالدين احسانا ولا تقتلوا اولادكم من املاق نحن نرزقكم واياهم ولا تقربوا الفواحش ما ظهر منها وما بطن ولا تقتلوا النفس التي حرم الله الا بالحق ذلكم وصاكم به لعلكم تعقلون [6: 151]
- Indeed lost are they who have killed their children, foolishly, without knowledge, and have forbidden that which Allâh has provided for them, inventing a lie against Allâh. They have indeed gone astray and were not guided. (6:140)
- Say (O Muhammad SAW): "Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited you from: Join not anything in worship with Him; be good and dutiful to your parents; kill not your children because of poverty - We provide sustenance for you and for them; come not near to Al-Fawâhish (shameful sins, illegal sexual intercourse,) whether committed openly or secretly, and kill not anyone whom Allâh has forbidden, except for a just cause (according to Islâmic law). This He has commanded you that you may understand. (6:151)
25. His Mercy on the slaves
ALLAH commands us to treat our slaves (previously) very kindly, that even asks us to help them marry if they are not able to do so, because they are poor, or don’t have house or room enough. Currently, we can apply this on home staff or low-paid workers who can’t afford to marry, so we have to help them:
وانكحوا الايامى منكم والصالحين من عبادكم وامائكم ان يكونوا فقراء يغنهم الله من فضله والله واسع عليم
And marry those among you who are single (i.e. a man who has no wife and the woman who has no husband) and (also marry) the Sâlihûn (pious, fit and capable ones) of your (male) slaves and maid-servants (female slaves). If they be poor, Allâh will enrich them out of His Bounty. And Allâh is All-Sufficent for His creatures' needs, All-Knowing (about the state of the people). (32)
Finally,
رَبَّنَا إِنَّكَ مَن تُدْخِلِ النَّارَ فَقَدْ أَخْزَيْتَهُ وَمَا لِلظَّالِمِينَ مِنْ أَنصَارٍ
رَّبَّنَا إِنَّنَا سَمِعْنَا مُنَادِيًا يُنَادِي لِلإِيمَانِ أَنْ آمِنُواْ بِرَبِّكُمْ فَآمَنَّا رَبَّنَا فَاغْفِرْ لَنَا ذُنُوبَنَا وَكَفِّرْ عَنَّا سَيِّئَاتِنَا وَتَوَفَّنَا مَعَ الأَبْرَارِ
رَبَّنَا وَآتِنَا مَا وَعَدتَّنَا عَلَى رُسُلِكَ وَلاَ تُخْزِنَا يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ إِنَّكَ لاَ تُخْلِفُ الْمِيعَادَ
"Our Lord! You have not created (all) this without purpose, glory to You!. Give us salvation from the torment of the Fire. (191)
"Our Lord! Verily, whom You admit to the Fire, indeed, You have disgraced him, and never will the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers) find any helpers. (192)
"Our Lord! Verily, we have heard the call of one (Muhammad SAW) calling to Faith: ‘Believe in your Lord,’ and we have believed.
Our Lord! Forgive us our sins and expiate from us our evil deeds, and make us die (in the state of righteousness) along with Al-Abrâr (the pious believers). (193)
"Our Lord! Grant us what You promised unto us through Your Messengers and disgrace us not on the Day of Resurrection, for You never break (Your) Promise." (3:194)
Amen.
Thanks to ALLAH, Lord of the Worlds.
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