Seven Powerful Movie Quotes On Forgiveness

Positive, uplifting messages are rarely delivered in today’s entertainment. With the focus of violence, theatrics and big budgets, the simple message of human kindness and emotion can be lost in translation. While the messages can go unnoticed, there are powerful messages of forgiveness and the healing that if we watch closely, can be found in movies. They are great at reminding us of what is important and what happens when we lose sight of forgiving- whether receiving it or asking for it. Below are some powerful quotes from films that demonstrate that virtue for us in dramatic ways that allow us to connect with each other through understanding and forgiveness.

1. “Forgiveness liberates the soul. It removes fear. That is why it is such a powerful weapon.”

NELSON MANDELA, Invictus (2009)

2. “When you forgive, you love. And when you love, God's light shines through you.”

RON FRANZ, Into the Wild (2007)

3. “I can’t fight anymore. I can’t hate anymore. All I can do is carry you. Oh, Judah, forgive me!” 

Messala Severus, Ben Hur (2016)

4. “You may have to declare your forgiveness a hundred times the first day and the second day, but the third day will be less and each day after, until one day you will realize that you have forgiven completely.”

PAUL YOUNG, The Shack (2017)

5. “Yes, I do. [pauses] Mr. Delacroix, I don't wanna leave this world with any hate in my heart. I ask your forgiveness for what I done. It was a terrible thing I done, taking your son away from you.”

MATTHEW PONCELET, Dead Man Walking (1996)

6. “Because you have been forgiven by God, You have the power to forgive, to choose to forgive. Let it go. Hatred is a burden you no longer need to carry. Only in forgiveness can you be free.”

PRIEST, October Baby (2011)

7. “I know we’re all weak,” “Not you” “No, I’ve been weak. Here’s the thing. I forgive you.”

ARLENE MCKINNEY AND HER MOM, Pay It Forward (2000)