It is related that when he was made to stand for the flogging, the waistband of his trousers snapped. Fearing that they might slip down and expose his nakedness, he moved his lips in supplication and the trousers stayed in place just as they had been.

Another narration states that he said: “O Helper of all who seek help, O Lord of the worlds! If You know that I am standing for Your cause in truth, then do not let my private parts be exposed.” (1)

When he was taken back to his house, the court surgeon (2) came and cut away the dead flesh from his body, tending to his wounds. The deputy [of the police] (3) would frequently send messengers to inquire about his condition, for al-Muʿtaṣim was overcome with deep remorse for what he had done to Aḥmad. He kept questioning the deputy, who in turn kept himself informed. When Aḥmad finally recovered, al-Muʿtaṣim—and the Muslims in general—rejoiced.

After Allah restored his health, his thumbs continued for some time to ache whenever they were exposed to the cold. He declared everyone who had had a hand in his ordeal to be absolved—except the people of innovation—reciting the divine words:

“Let them pardon and overlook. Would you not love that Allah should forgive you? And Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” ⦗24:22⦘

He would also say, “How will it benefit you that your Muslim brother is punished on your account?” and he would cite the verse:

“But whoever pardons and makes reconciliation—his reward is with Allah.” (4) ⦗42:40⦘

On the Day of Resurrection a caller will announce, “Let those whose reward is with Allah stand up,” and none will rise except those who had forgiven.

In Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim (5) it is narrated from Abū Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:

“Three things I swear to: charity never diminishes wealth; Allah increases the honor of a servant who forgives; and whoever humbles himself for Allah, Allah will raise him.”