There is a famous incident about a headmaster who was assigned to a school as a teacher. During their tenure, they conducted a test for their class. At the end of the test, they checked everyone’s papers and instructed each student to hold their own paper in their hands and form a line, standing in a row.
The headmaster then made an announcement that for every mistake in the test, the student would receive a corresponding number of slaps on their hand. While known for their gentle nature and their preference for using the cane as a means of correction rather than punishment, the fear of this unusual consequence loomed.
All the students lined up, apprehensive of what was to come. The headmaster went along the line, asking each student how many mistakes they had made and delivering the agreed-upon number of slaps on their hand.
However, one particular student was visibly nervous. As the headmaster approached and inquired about their mistakes, fear overtook the student, causing them to drop their paper. Trembling, they stammered, “Sir, please forgive me, my toseb is quite wrong.”
The headmaster, who was accustomed to a softer approach and was taken aback by the student’s reaction, choked on his words. Overcome with emotion, he flung the cane aside and burst into tears, wailing loudly, “Oh my God! Please forgive me. My toseb is completely wrong!”
Tears streamed down his face as he repeated these words. The student’s sincere plea for forgiveness had touched a chord within him. The headmaster’s heart ached as he sobbed, repeating the phrase, “Please forgive me. My toseb is completely wrong!”
In the midst of his tears, he managed to speak to the student, saying, “You have said this, you have said this, my child!”
“Oh my God! Please forgive me. My toseb is completely wrong!”
The headmaster’s emotions were a mix of astonishment, remorse, and humility. He wished that he, too, could be blessed with divine wisdom and act solely for the sake of Allah, both in deeds and words. He wished for his heart and tongue to be aligned in such a way.
“Oh my God! Please forgive me. My toseb is completely wrong!”
The incident became a turning point for both the headmaster and the student. The lesson of humility and forgiveness left a lasting impact on them, reminding them of the importance of sincerity and the power of seeking forgiveness from Allah.
Indeed, this tale underscores the value of recognizing our shortcomings, seeking forgiveness with sincerity, and approaching life with humility and a willingness to learn and grow.