7 Ways a Muslim can say sorry

As Muslims, we can’t have healthy relationships if we don’t learn how to handle mishaps and humbly ask for forgiveness.

If you are willing to apologise, but are hesitating, below are some easy tips that should help you overcome this shyness to say sorry:

1. If you have wronged or oppressed the person, you should turn to Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala to ask for forgiveness.“Be quick in the race for forgiveness from your Lord, and for a Garden whose width is that (of the whole) of the heavens and of the earth, prepared for the righteous. Those who spend (freely), whether in prosperity, or in adversity; who restrain anger, and pardon (all) men, for Allah loves those who do good.” (3:133-134)

2. Push aside your ego; we have to remove any pride in order to humble ourselves to genuinely apologise. This shows that you value your relationship. Even if you don’t think you’re in the wrong, apologize and be kind for the sake of Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala.

3. Be quick to apologise and No malice“It is not lawful for a Muslim to desert (stop talking to) his brother beyond three nights, the one turning one way and the other turning to the other way when they meet, the better of the two is one who is the first to greet the other.” [Bukhari]

4. Admit to your shortcomings and take responsibility. Don’t sound insincere or cold. Muttering “I apologise” or a stern “sorry…” under your breath isn’t very genuine; be sincere and mean what you say – ‘I’m so sorry, [insert person’s name]’ sounds better, doesn’t it?

5. If the situation calls for it, talk it out and explain what happened. Try to restore their trust and confidence in you.

6. Show you care by asking the other person what could be done to amend it.

7. Learn a lesson from this incident. Set your morals and correct your behaviour. Our interactions with people are also a part of our deen, and our character will weigh heavily on the Day of Judgment.

The Prophet (SAW) said "Make your character good for the people’”

“Fear Allah wherever you may be; follow up an evil deed with a good one which will wipe (the former) out , and behave good-naturedly towards people.” [At-Tirmidhi]

Taking responsibility for our wrongdoings and/or mistakes is a sign of strength, humility, and wisdom – and at the end of the day, it’s just the basics of good manners, which are what every Muslim should strive for.