and the feet—for this extinguishes anger. Therefore, whenever you sense anger rising within you, apply what the Prophet ﷺ has taught until it subsides. Otherwise, how many people have been driven by rage to abandon their households! Countless are those who later confess, “I grew angry with my wife and divorced her three times.” A man might flare up and beat his children severely; he might smash his utensils, tear his clothes, and commit similar acts that anger provokes. For this reason Allah, exalted is He, said: “those who suppress their anger” (Qur’an 3:134)—praising them because they master themselves when fury surges.

“And those who pardon people” (Qur’an 3:134) refers to those who, when wronged, choose to forgive. “Whoever overlooks and makes peace, his reward rests with Allah” (Surah Ash-Shura 42:40). Allah left forgiveness unrestricted in the first verse, but clarified in the second that pardon is praiseworthy only when it brings about reform.

If the offender is known for continual wrongdoing, rebellion, and transgression against Allah’s servants, it is better not to forgive him; rather, take your due, for your pardon would only embolden his evil. But if the one who wronged you rarely errs or aggresses—an isolated incident—then it is better to forgive.

Take, for example, the many traffic accidents today. Some people hastily waive their rights and forgive the party at fault, yet that is not the best course. The better approach is to reflect: is this driver reckless and heedless, disregarding both Allah’s servants and the traffic laws? If so, show him no leniency; claim your full right from him.