Abu Hurayra reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "The gates of the Garden are opened on Mondays and Thursdays. Every person who does not associate anything with Allah is forgiven except for someone who has enmity between existing between him and another man. It is said, 'Leave these two until they make peace.'"
Exposition of the Hadith on Abandonment
This noble tradition from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), recorded in Imam al-Bukhari's "Al-Adab Al-Mufrad" (Hadith 411), addresses the grave spiritual consequences of harboring enmity and abandoning reconciliation with fellow believers.
The Divine Opportunity for Forgiveness
The opening of Paradise's gates on Mondays and Thursdays signifies Allah's boundless mercy, when deeds are presented and forgiveness is generously bestowed upon the servants. This is a recurring divine invitation for spiritual purification.
The comprehensive pardon extends to all sins except shirk (associating partners with Allah), demonstrating Allah's willingness to forgive even major transgressions out of His infinite grace.
The Severity of Interpersonal Enmity
The exception made for those engaged in mutual hostility reveals the gravity of this sin in Islamic ethics. When the angels are commanded to "leave these two until they make peace," it indicates that reconciliation becomes a prerequisite for receiving divine forgiveness.
This suspension of mercy applies specifically to cases where both parties persist in animosity, highlighting the shared responsibility in resolving conflicts.
Practical Implications for the Believer
The hadith establishes that maintaining brotherly relations is not merely recommended but essential for spiritual salvation. The believer must actively seek reconciliation before these blessed moments arrive.
Scholars emphasize that this teaching applies even when one feels wronged, as the pursuit of peace takes precedence over personal grievances in the sight of Allah.
Timely Reflection and Action
Knowing that forgiveness opportunities occur weekly should motivate constant self-assessment and prompt resolution of conflicts. The wise believer reconciles before these blessed days approach.
This hadith serves as a powerful reminder that our relationship with Allah is intimately connected to our relationships with fellow human beings, particularly other Muslims.