ABU DHABI // There are many verses in the Quran in which Allah orders people to demonstrate tolerance of others, worshippers will hear on Friday.
Referring to such verses, the sermon will say: “This is a call for tolerance and forgiveness towards those who have cause offence and damage, so one who wants Allah to pardon him should pardon those who did him wrong ... because as you forgive others, God will forgive you.”
This great reward was given because tolerance benefited the whole of society.
“How many long-year disputes have ended during a moment of tolerance?” the faithful will be asked. “Because Satan could interfere between brothers and cause division and hatred in their hearts.”
An example of the positive outcome of tolerance was when Prophet Mohammed entered Mecca after the Muslims’ victory. He pardoned the non-believers who had attacked, offended and hurt him. He treated them well and so they started calling him “kind brother” and they became fond of him.
As the Quran says: “Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better, and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.”
There are many forms of being tolerant, and it is especially important between husband and wife.
“One could unintentionally frustrate the other,” the sermon will say.
The sermon will cite another verse from the Quran that reminds spouses to forgive each others’ mistakes and to show compassion to each other.
“And do not forget graciousness between you. Indeed Allah, of whatever you do, is Seeing,” says the Quran.
hdajani@thenational.ae
