By: Habeeba Husain

The Power of Repentance in Islam: Stories of Transformation

The stories of the Companions of the Prophet Muhammad (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him) are amazing accounts of what it really means to transform and leave the bad in the past. Muslims believe God gives many opportunities to repent for sins. From one prayer to the next, one ablution to the next, one Friday congregation to the next—are just some of the opportunities Muslims have for their sins to be washed away.

Islam: Repentance is Always Welcome

Aside from this routine cleansing, the doors for repentance are always open. The Quran says: “Say, ‘O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.’” (Q. 39:53)

In the stories of some Companions, we see those who were great enemies of Islam experience a change of heart and become role models for the ummah, or Muslim community. What is just as remarkable is the warm welcoming the person receives upon the acceptance of the faith. Previously held hard feelings fall to the wayside immediately, and life starts anew.

How Khalid ibn Walid, a Fierce Enemy of Islam, Became One of Its Greatest Generals

This is the case for one Companion, named Khalid ibn Walid. Khalid was a military mastermind and fiercely led armies in battle against the Muslims before his conversion to the faith. He delivered powerful blows to the Muslims, and he was celebrated amongst the disbelievers as a brave warrior. When the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him) and his Companions entered Makkah after many years of not being allowed, they performed a minor pilgrimage called umrah. During this time the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him) asked Khalid’s brother (a Muslim named Walid) where he was. Khalid was not Muslim yet at this point, but the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him) believed there was some good in him, and that because of his intelligence he would be able to see the truth of Islam. Khalid’s brother wrote all of this in a letter and sent it to him.

This letter planted a seed of questions in Khalid ibn Walid. He then had a dream, in which he saw a very dark area that opened up into a green pasture with a lot of light. He understood this darkness as disbelief and the light as Islam. He decided to travel to the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him) and accept the religion.

Prophet Muhammad Forgives Khalid ibn Walid, One of His Former Enemies

When Khalid ibn Walid reached the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him), he was praised. The Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him) told him that he knew he was a man of great intellect and that he hoped for this moment to happen. This scene illustrates how forgiving the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him) was and how ready he was to befriend even one of his former staunchest enemies.

Upon reciting the declaration of faith, Khalid ibn Walid realized he was among people he previously fought against. He asked the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him) to supplicate to God for his pardon. To this the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him) revealed to Khalid that accepting Islam wipes away a person’s previous sins, both big and small. They are reborn with a completely clean slate.

Islam Offers a New Beginning for All

This rebirth still applies to this day for anyone who wants to accept the religion of Islam. Becoming Muslim and following the faith is an act so beloved to God that an entire life of sin is wiped away, and the opportunity to start fresh is all that a person has in front of them.

Got Questions?

We have Answers. Get in touch now.