We have to make a distinction between one who errs out of ignorance and one who errs despite his knowledge.
Mistakes Stemming from Ijtihad and Mistakes Done Deliberately
We need to make a distinction between mistakes stemming from an honest effort to find out what is right (ijtihad), and mistakes done deliberately, out of negligence or because of shortcomings.
Da`wah: Why Is the Prophet Our Best Example?
As the Prophet’s methods in dealing with people’s mistakes are wiser and more efficacious, using his approach is the best way to get people to respond positively.