whereas countless sinful people attain the privilege of repenting. In this relation, let us listen to a faith-enlightening parable.

Strange event of ‘Utbah

It is stated on page no. 67 of the book Mukashafa-tul-Quloob, publication of Maktaba-tul-Madinah, the publishing department of Dawat-e-Islami: (Before his repentance), ‘Utba-tul-Ghulam was famously known as a drunkard and transgressor. One day, he attended the gathering of Sayyiduna Hasan Basri رَحْمَةُ اللهِ تَعَالٰی عَلَيْه who at that time was mentioning the commentary of the following blessed Ayah:

اَلَمْ یَاْنِ لِلَّذِیْنَ اٰمَنُوْۤا اَنْ تَخْشَعَ قُلُوْبُهُمْ لِذِكْرِ اللّٰهِ

Translation from Kanz-ul-Iman: Has the time not come for the believers to humble their hearts to Allah’s remembrance. (Part 27, Surah Al-Hadeed, Ayah 16)

He رَحْمَةُ اللهِ تَعَالٰی عَلَيْه delivered such effective and heart-touching Tafseer of this Ayah that attendees were moved to tears. Standing up, a young man said, ‘O believer! Will Allah Almighty also accept the repentance of a grave sinner like me if I repent?’ He رَحْمَةُ اللهِ تَعَالٰی عَلَيْه replied, ‘Yes. Allah Almighty will also forgive your sins.’ When ‘Utba-tul-Ghulam heard this, he began to scream with his body trembling and face turning pale. Then, he fell unconscious. After he regained consciousness, Sayyiduna Hasan Basri رَحْمَةُ اللهِ تَعَالٰی عَلَيْه approached him and recited the following couplets (whose translation is as follows):

1. O young man who has disobeyed Allah Almighty! Do you know what is the punishment for disobedience?

2. For disobedient people, there is Hell; and on the Day of Judgement, there will be severe wrath of Allah Almighty for them.

3. If you are satisfied upon the fire of Hell, then indeed keep committing sins. Otherwise, give up sins.

4. In exchange for your sins, you have pawned your life. Now strive to liberate it.