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