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Letting Go of Grudge and Enmity: A Path to Inner Peace in Islam
“Do not hate one another, do not envy one another, do not turn away from one another, but rather be servants of Allah as brothers.”
— Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)
Introduction
Holding a grudge or harboring enmity might feel justified in the moment—especially when we’ve been wronged—but in the long run, it weighs down the soul, hardens the heart, and poisons relationships. Islam, being a religion of peace, mercy, and purification of the heart, strongly discourages such emotions.
The Spiritual Danger of Holding a Grudge
A grudge is a form of hidden anger—a feeling that refuses to heal. Enmity is its outward expression, often leading to broken ties, backbiting, and in severe cases, even violence. Islam teaches that such emotions are spiritually corrosive and can become a barrier between a person and Allah’s mercy.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The gates of Paradise are opened on Mondays and Thursdays, and every servant who does not associate anything with Allah is forgiven, except a man who has enmity with his brother. It will be said: Delay these two until they reconcile.”
(Sahih Muslim)
This hadith shows how unresolved conflicts can literally delay our forgiveness from Allah.
Why Do We Hold Grudges?
- Pride and ego prevent us from letting go.
- We seek revenge or validation.
- We feel that forgiving makes us weak.
But in reality, forgiveness is a strength, not a weakness. It reflects maturity, spiritual elevation, and reliance on Allah’s justice rather than personal vengeance.
The Virtue of Forgiveness in Islam
The Qur’an encourages believers to rise above resentment:
“And let not those of virtue among you and wealth swear not to give [aid] to their relatives and the needy and the emigrants for the cause of Allah, and let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allah should forgive you?”
(Surah An-Nur 24:22)
Forgiving others invites Allah’s forgiveness into our lives.
How to Let Go of Grudges
- Reflect on Allah’s Mercy: We sin daily, yet Allah forgives us. Shouldn’t we try to mirror that mercy?
- Make Du’a for the Person: The scholars mention that sincerely praying for someone you’re upset with can soften your heart.
- Take the First Step: Even if the other person was wrong, be the better one and initiate peace.
- Avoid Backbiting: Speaking ill of someone you’re upset with only worsens the grudge.
- Seek Help in Salah: Ask Allah to purify your heart from resentment.
Real-Life Example from the Prophet ﷺ
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ faced intense hatred and abuse from his enemies in Makkah. Yet when he entered the city victorious, he forgave them all, saying:
“Go, for you are free.”
If the Prophet ﷺ could forgive those who plotted his death, can we not forgive someone who wronged us in speech or action?
Final Thoughts
Grudges are heavy chains that bind us to pain and darkness. Islam calls us to break free from them—to heal, to forgive, and to love for the sake of Allah. The one who lets go, trusts in Allah, and chooses peace, gains not only freedom in this world but rewards in the Hereafter.
🕊️ Let your heart be light. Forgive. Reconnect. And witness the peace that only Allah can give.
