Surah Fussilat — Verse 35

Word Meanings:

• يُلَقَّاهَا (yulaqqaha): This refers to being granted or inspired with this praiseworthy quality—specifically, the ability to repel evil with good.
• صَبَرُوا (sabarū): Those who exercised patience and self-restraint.
• حَظٍّ عَظِيمٍ (hazzin ʿaẓīm): A great share or abundant portion of goodness and reward.

Explanation of the Verse:

This noble verse concludes the previous command to repel evil with what is better, stating that this magnificent quality—returning harm with kindness, and responding to hostility with gentleness and forgiveness—is not granted to everyone. It is a high station that only two types of people attain:

First, those who are patient—people who train their souls to endure hardship, who swallow their anger, and who persist in doing good even when faced with mistreatment. They do not let the provocations of others drag them down to the level of retaliation; rather, they rise above the offense and respond with virtue. This patience is not passive resignation but an active, disciplined choice to follow the path of Allah despite the difficulty.

Second, those who possess a great share—meaning those who have been given an abundant portion of goodness, wisdom, and divine success. Such people recognize the immense value of this character trait and the reward that awaits them for it. They are the ones whose hearts Allah has opened to true excellence, and whose ultimate destiny is great happiness in this world and the Hereafter.

This verse teaches us that the ability to forgive, to turn enemies into friends, and to overcome evil with good is not a small matter—it is one of the greatest achievements a human being can reach. It requires constant struggle against one's own ego and desires, and it is a sign of profound spiritual maturity.

A Call to the Reader:

Dear believer, do not underestimate the power of a kind word or a forgiving heart. When someone wrongs you, remember that your response is a reflection of your faith. Allah has promised that those who master this quality will be among the most fortunate—they will see their enemies transformed into close, affectionate friends. Imagine the peace that enters your heart when you let go of grudges, and the honor you gain in the sight of Allah when you choose patience over revenge. Strive for this noble trait, for it is the mark of the truly successful, and its reward is beyond measure. Let your character be a beacon of light that draws others to the beauty of Islam, and know that every act of forbearance is a treasure stored for you with your Lord.