True Forgiveness

As they progressed toward the Promised Land, some of the people accused Moses of being an irresponsible leader. G-d punished these people by sending venomous snakes in their midst. They then repented, asking Moses’ forgiveness. Moses not only forgave the people, but prayed to G-d to heal them.

The people came to Moses and said, “We have sinned, for we have spoken against G-d and against you. Pray to G-d that He remove the snakes from us.” Moses prayed on behalf of the people. 

Num. 21:7

Moses’ wholehearted forgiveness of the people who slandered him is intended to serve as an example for us. When we forgive someone only “officially,” we indeed cause him to be spared any Divine punishment for his acts against us. But when, like Moses, we forgive him wholeheartedly, cleansing ourselves of any residual grudge against him, we are moved to pray for his overall well-being and spiritual betterment as well.

Furthermore, in the merit of our sincere forgiveness, G-d acts generously toward us, forgiving our transgressions and granting usmaterial and spiritual bounty.

— Daily Wisdom 3