Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
The International Scientific Conference Forgiveness and Spirituality, Ljubljana, Slovenya, 16 Aralık 2023, ss.10, (Özet Bildiri)
A classical theological dilemma, at least in the human space, still persists: mercy and justice, forgiveness and accountability for wrong cannot coexist; rather, they cancel each other out. However, we know from scriptures, narratives, and practices that these concepts can operate together, and in many cases they are necessary for one another. For instance, Jesus's interactions with the Pharisees and sinners provide us with a hint about this. Similarly, Muhammad's encounter with Wahshi, who killed his uncle Abu Talib in battle and later himself became a Muslim, also offers a clue that these concepts can operate together. How can we, then, extend forgiveness without forgetting, without thereby minimizing or negating wrong? With this question in mind, forgiveness remains an essential virtue in Islam, and it is highly encouraged in both personal and communal aspects of life. This virtue is deeply and particularly connected to Islamic spirituality, and considered as an effective way of helping to deepen one’s spiritual growth. This presentation aims to explore the correlation between forgiveness and spirituality in Islamic tradition, focusing on the role of “Istighfar”, an exemplary Islamic practice for forgiveness and spiritual journeys.