Surah 24:5
"except for those who turn (in repentance) after that and set (things) right. Surely God is forgiving, compassionate."
Forgiveness for Slandering Chaste Women
Opposing Verses
Surah 24:23 → "Surely those who hurl (accusations) against chaste women – the oblivious (but) believing women – are accursed in this world and the Hereafter. For them (there is) a great punishment."
Surah 24:4 → "Those who hurl (accusations) against women of reputation, (and) then do not bring four witnesses, flog them eighty lashes, and do not accept their testimony ever (again). Those – they are the wicked,"
A perceived contradiction exists regarding whether those who slander chaste women can be forgiven. Certain verses indicate that those who slander chaste women are cursed in this world and the Hereafter, facing a severe punishment, and that their testimony should never be accepted. Conversely, other verses provide an exception, stating that they can be forgiven and their testimony accepted if they subsequently repent and reform.