I want to know if this Hadith which mentions those who make istighfar will be granted safety from Allah’s punishment is authentic?
العبد آمن من عذاب الله، ما استغفر الله
Translation: A person will be safe from the punishment of Allah as long as he seeks Allah’s forgiveness.
Answer:
Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) has recorded this Hadith on the authority of Sayyiduna Fadalah ibn ‘Ubayd (radiyallahu ‘anhu) with a weak chain.
(Musnad Ahmad, vol. 6 pg. 20)
However, Allah Ta’ala not punishing those who make istighfar is mentioned in the Quran. Allah Ta’ala mentions: ‘Nor does Allah punish people while they are asking His forgiveness.’ (Surah Al Anfal, Verse: 33)
The Hadith in question is well corroborated and suitable to quote.
Also see a corroborating narration here.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar