59. Leniency to Debtors

[ummtaalib]

Pearls of Wisdom: No.59

“Food for the Soul”

SUBJECT:  LENIENCY TO DEBTORS

 

Allaah, The Most Exalted, says:

“And if someone is in hardship, then (let there be) postponement until (a time of) ease. But if you give (from your right as) charity, then it is better for you, if you only knew.” (Quran 2:280)

The Messenger of Allaah (peace be upon him) is reported to have said; 

 “Whoever gives respite to his debtor or forgives the debt will be in the shade of the Throne (of Allaah) on the Day of Judgment.'' (Hadith - Muslim)

Note:  Postponing debts where the debtor is really in genuine difficulty is truly a generous act and displays excellent character. This is encouraged in Islam because it brings about humane standards in one's dealing with one's fellow human being. "There was a merchant who used to lend the people and, whenever his debtor was in straitened circumstances, he would say to his employees, 'Forgive him so that Allaah may Forgive us.' So, Allaah Forgave him." (Hadith Al-Bukhaari)

If you want others to be happy, practice leniency. If you want to be happy, practice compassion. True compassion means not only feeling another's pain but also being moved to help relieve it.

Remember being lenient can reach a wound that only compassion can heal!

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