Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Today we discuss muhasaba – self-accountability – a practice essential for spiritual growth. Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) said: "Hold yourselves accountable before you are held accountable, and weigh your deeds before they are weighed for you."
Allah reminds us: "O you who believe, fear Allah and let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow." (Al-Hashr, 59:18)
The Practice of Self-Reflection
Before we sleep each night, let us review our day. Did we fulfill our prayers? Were we honest in our dealings? Did we harm anyone with our words? Did we waste our time? This honest self-examination is what prevents us from repeating mistakes and helps us grow closer to Allah.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The wise person is one who holds himself accountable and works for what comes after death." (Tirmidhi). Let us not wait until the Day of Judgment to face our deeds. Let us account for ourselves now, while we still have the chance to change. May Allah help us in our self-accountability. Amin.