Forgive, For Your Own Sake

Those who forgive will be granted greater honor by Allah, and those who humble themselves will be elevated in people's esteem.

Book 32: Chapter 17: Number 6264

Muslim. (2018) Sahih Muslim. Translated by A. Hameed Siddiqui.

Forgiving is difficult. It can feel like you’re ‘losing’ or allowing those who hurt you to get away with it. However, forgiveness isn’t only about them; it’s about releasing yourself from the prison of hurt you’ve unknowingly built.

Forgiving for a Healthier Life

Forgiving people tend to build better relationships and feel more at peace, both emotionally and spiritually. Moreover, when someone is able to forgive, negative traits like anger and resentment decrease, while positive feelings increase. This shift encourages healthier lifestyle habits and better physical condition, leading to improved mental and physical health.

Illustration of how forgiveness improves health: forgiveness reduces negative emotions and increases positive feelings, leading to better mental and physical health.

Forgiveness to Release Painful Memories

Forgiving helps you let go of hurtful things. Once you forgive, it becomes easier to release memories of past mistakes. This makes forgiveness a powerful tool for healing and moving on with life more peacefully.

Visual showing forgiveness letting go of painful memories.

Holding grudges drains the heart and mind, and can even affect physical health and productivity. Forgiveness, on the other hand, creates space for peace, clear thinking, and personal growth.