"The clever person ids the one who subjugates his soul, and works for what is after death. And the incapable is the one who follows his desires and merely hopes in Allah." The meaning of his saying: "Who subjugates his soul",
is to say the one who reckons with
his soul in the world, before he is
reckoned with, on the Day of
Judgement.
It has been related that 'Umar bin
Al-Khattäb said: "Reckon with
yourselves before you are reckoned
with, and prepare for the Greatest
Inquisition. The reckoning of the
Day of Judgement is only light for
the one who reckoned with himself
in the world."
And, it has been related that
Maimun bin Mihran said: "The
slave (of Allah) will not be a Taqi
until he has reckoned himself, just
as he would account for where his
business partner got his food and
clothing."
Narrated by Shaddad bin Aws narrated that the Prophet (s.a.w) said:
Context
In this hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasizes the importance of self-accountability and preparation for the afterlife. He describes the wise person as one who evaluates their actions and prepares for what comes after death, while the foolish person merely follows their desires without taking responsibility. This teaching encourages believers to reflect on their lives and actions in this world to ensure a favorable outcome in the hereafter.
Modern Application
In today's fast-paced world, self-reflection is often overlooked. This hadith encourages individuals to regularly assess their actions and intentions, fostering a mindset of accountability. By doing so, people can make more conscious choices that align with their values and beliefs.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Day of Judgment and Good Deeds because it highlights the necessity of self-evaluation in preparation for the accountability one will face after death.
And whoever submits his face to Allah while he is a doer of good - then he has grasped the most trustworthy handhold. And to Allah will be the outcome of [all] matters.
Is one who is devoutly obedient during periods of the night, prostrating and standing [in prayer], fearing the Hereafter and hoping for the mercy of his Lord, [like one who does not]? Say, "Are those who know equal to those who do not know?" Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding.
So fear Allah as much as you are able and listen and obey and spend [in the way of Allah]; it is better for your selves. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.
This hadith is #2529 from Jami` at-Tirmidhi, in the Book of Chapters on the description of the Day of Judgement, Ar-Riqaq, and Al-Wara'. It is graded Da'if and narrated by Shaddad bin Aws narrated that the Prophet (s.a.w) said:.
