'-f-w

Description

The Arabic root ع-ف-و ('afw) carries the core meaning of erasing, effacing, or wiping away offenses, indicating a complete removal of sin rather than merely overlooking it. In the Quranic context, it describes both Allah's attribute as the One who completely pardons and removes traces of transgression, and the human virtue of voluntarily relinquishing one's right to retribution. This concept emphasizes mercy and restoration of purity, often appearing alongside divine forgiveness (maghfirah) to stress Allah's abundant compassion and the believer's call to embody gracious pardon in human relationships.