Allah, Mighty and Majestic, said:
“And those who, when they do an evil thing or wrong themselves, remember Allah and implore forgiveness for their sins - Who forgiveth sins save Allah only? - and will not knowingly repeat (the wrong) they did.” (3:135)
“And those who, when they do an evil thing or wrong themselves, remember Allah and implore forgiveness for their sins - Who forgiveth sins save Allah only? - and will not knowingly repeat (the wrong) they did.” (3:135)
And on the authority of Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him), he said:
I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) say:
"There is no servant who commits a sin, then performs ablution thoroughly,
then stands and prays two rak'ahs, and then seeks forgiveness from Allah, except that Allah forgives him."
Then he recited this verse:
“And those who, when they do an evil thing or wrong themselves, remember Allah and implore forgiveness for their sins - Who forgiveth sins save Allah only? - and will not knowingly repeat (the wrong) they did.” (3:135)
to the end of the verse.
Narrated by Abu Dawud.
A point of benefit:
Dirt and stains on a white garment
strip away its luster and beauty,
which is why its owner hastens to wash it with water and soap,
eager to keep it clean.
Sins are the dirt of the hearts,
and their washing is seeking forgiveness.
If only we would adhere to it so that our hearts become pure,
receptive to hearing good,
and ready to act upon it.
And on the authority of Muhammad Ibn Wasi', he said:
"Sin upon sin
deadens the heart."