Parenting Perspective 

Children learn about forgiveness most powerfully by observing how their parents handle hurt and reconciliation. If they see you holding grudges or refusing to move on, they are likely to imitate that behaviour. Conversely, when you model calm, respectful, and genuine forgiveness, you provide them with a living example of how mercy strengthens relationships. 

Forgive Your Child Sincerely 

When your child makes a mistake and offers a sincere apology, it is important to respond with equal sincerity. You could say, ‘I was upset by what happened, but I forgive you because I love you and I know you are trying to do better.’ This shows them that forgiveness is a real and meaningful act, not just a collection of empty words. 

Demonstrate Forgiveness in Your Own Relationships 

If disagreements arise with your spouse, relatives, or friends, allow your children to witness the reconciliation. Explaining afterwards, ‘We had a disagreement, but we forgave each other because our peace is more important than staying angry,’ helps to normalise forgiveness as a healthy part of life. 

Practise Forgiveness Consistently 

Children are quick to notice when parents demand apologies from them but refuse to forgive others themselves. By being consistent in your own life, whether by forgiving neighbours, relatives, or colleagues, you reinforce the idea that forgiveness is a universal principle, not just a lecture for children. 

Explain the Reasoning Behind Your Forgiveness 

After modelling the act of forgiveness, take a moment to explain the value behind it. You could say, ‘I choose to forgive because holding onto anger only makes my own heart feel heavy.’ This helps children to understand that forgiveness is a conscious choice made for one’s own well-being, rather than a mechanical or reluctant act. 

By consistently demonstrating forgiveness in your own actions, you help your child to see it as a natural, strong, and peaceful way of living. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places immense importance on the act of forgiving others, promising both honour in this world and a great reward in the Hereafter. Parents who practise forgiveness in front of their children are planting the seeds of mercy and compassion directly into their hearts. 

Quranic Guidance on the Command to Forgive 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Aa’raaf (7), Verse 199: 

‘(O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) adopt a forgiving approach, and encourage (the doing of) positive (moral) actions), and disregard those who are imbued in their ignorance.’ 

This verse reminds us that forgiveness is a command from Allah Almighty and a sign of wisdom in our dealings with other people. 

Prophetic Wisdom on the Honour of Forgiveness 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2588, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Charity does not decrease wealth, and no one forgives another except that Allah increases him in honour.’ 

This hadith teaches us that the act of forgiveness elevates, rather than diminishes, the person who practises it. 

When children see forgiveness modelled as an act of dignity and honour, they learn that forgiving is not a weakness but a sign of greatness. By linking your actions to the guidance of Allah Almighty, you show them that forgiveness is not only an example of good manners but also a profound form of worship and a path to a divine reward.