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About this quote

What does it mean?
It is preferable for a leader to err on the side of forgiveness rather than on punishment.
In plain terms
Leaders should favor forgiveness over harsh punishment.
What can you take from it?
Practice mercy when disciplining.

Where it applies

  • managing a team
  • governing a community

Putting it to work

  • establish restorative practices
  • avoid excessive penalties

Questions to consider

  • When does forgiveness become detrimental?
  • How to balance mercy and accountability?

Another view

Over‑forgiveness may enable repeated offenses.

More from Holy Prophet Muhammad

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  2. It is a fine thing when a believer praises and thanks God if good comes to him, and praises God and shows endurance if smitten by affliction. The believer is r…

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  3. I heard Allah's Apostle saying, 'The reward of deeds depends upon the intentions and every person will get the reward according to what he has intended. So who…

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