Riyad as-Salihin, 1370
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "There was a person who used to loan money to the people and he used to say to his servant: 'When an insolvent person comes to you, show him leniency so that Allah may forbear our faults.' So when he met Allah (i.e., when he died), Allah forgave him." <b>[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]</b>.
وعن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال:
كان رجل يداين الناس، وكان يقول لفتاه: إذا أتيت معسرا فتجاوز عنه، لعل الله أن يتجاوز عنا فلقي الله فتجاوز عنه
((متفق عليه))
References1 variant
- In-Book Reference
- Book 11, Hadith 86
Sharh · explanationclick to expand
<b>Guidance from the Hadiths:</b><br>
1) It points out the merit of giving respite to the insolvent debtor; it is an obligation. The creditor should not press an insolvent debtor to repay the debt.<br>
2) It encourages creditors to forgive the debts of insolvent persons; it is a recommended act of Sunnah that brings forgiveness of the Almighty Lord.<br>
3) Small deeds which are done sincerely for the sake of Allah expiate great sins and lead to winning His mercy.