31 – Chapter on Reconciling People

Allah the Exalted says, “There is no good in most of their private conversations except for those who enjoin charity, or goodness, or reconciliation between people” (4:114). He also says, “And reconciliation is best” (4:128); and, “So fear Allah and set matters right among yourselves” (8:1); and, “The believers are but brothers, so reconcile your two brothers” (49:10).

[Commentary]

The author—may Allah have mercy on him—entitles this section: Chapter on reconciling people.

Reconciling people is when two individuals harbor enmity and hatred toward one another, then a rightly guided person comes, reconciles them, and removes the animosity between them. The closer the relationship between the two parties, the more pressing and meritorious the reconciliation: making peace between a father and his son is superior to doing so between a man and an acquaintance; reconciling two brothers is better than reconciling an uncle and his nephew. In general, the greater the rupture, the more complete, virtuous, and emphatic the act of reconciliation between those who are estranged.

Know that reconciling people is among the finest of righteous deeds. Allah, mighty and majestic, says, “There is no good in most of their private conversations except for one who enjoins charity, goodness, or reconciliation between people” (4:114)—meaning: there is no good in any private counsel except that which urges charity.

Private conversation (najwā) is the subdued speech exchanged between a person and his companion; most such whisperings among