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What are the guidelines for forgiveness, and does a Muslim forgive injustice absolutely without conditions? And is continuous forgiveness considered an act of benevolence or humiliation? And is it the highest rank of benevolence? And is it always obligatory to be patient, forgive, and relinquish rights in the event of repeated injustice, and is there Allah’s pleasure in that? And is it better not to seek victory for oneself and suffice with supplication, and is it desirable to supplicate against the oppressor in certain cases or is it always permissible?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

Forgiveness is recommended if it entails a benefit, and it is recommended to withhold it if withholding it is more beneficial. Thus, forgiveness is not always recommended unconditionally. For one known for wickedness and corruption, whose wickedness is exacerbated by forgiveness, it is not recommended to forgive him. Forgiveness is good when one has the power to do so, not when one is incapable. It is recommended concerning the rights of the servant, but not concerning the rights of Allah Almighty. If a person will only be deterred by retribution, then retribution is more appropriate. The Sharia came to achieve and perfect benefits and to minimize harms. Therefore, where forgiveness is more beneficial, it is recommended, otherwise not.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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