Hadith #10439

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and self-accountability. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that one who holds himself to account is able to recognize his faults and sins, and subsequently seeks forgiveness for his sins and strives to correct his faults.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (holds himself to account) "حاسَبَ" refers to the act of introspection and self-evaluation. It involves critically examining one's thoughts, actions, and intentions, and assessing them in light of the teachings of Islam. This process allows an individual to identify their faults and shortcomings.

The word (his faults) "عُيُوبِهِ" refers to the imperfections and weaknesses within oneself. It encompasses both major and minor flaws, whether they are related to one's character, behavior, or beliefs. Recognizing these faults is the first step towards self-improvement and spiritual growth.

The word (his sins) "ذُنُوبِهِ" refers to the sins and transgressions committed by an individual. It includes both the sins of commission, where one actively engages in prohibited actions, as well as the sins of omission, where one neglects their religious duties. Realizing one's sins leads to a sense of remorse and the desire to seek forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The word (seeks forgiveness) "اسْتَقالَ" signifies the act of repentance and seeking Allah's forgiveness. It involves acknowledging one's sins, feeling regret for them, and resolving to abstain from them in the future. Seeking forgiveness is an essential aspect of the Islamic faith, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the Most Merciful and Forgiving.

The word (corrects) "أصْلَحَ" refers to the process of rectifying one's faults and shortcomings. It involves making a conscious effort to improve oneself and align one's actions with the teachings of Islam. This includes seeking knowledge, practicing good deeds, and cultivating positive character traits.

To further understand the significance of self-accountability and seeking forgiveness, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13):

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights the importance of self-purification and righteousness. The noblest among us are those who are conscious of their actions, strive to improve themselves, and adhere to the teachings of Islam. Holding oneself to account allows us to become better individuals and fulfill our purpose of worshiping Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Additionally, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear...

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is aware of our capabilities and limitations. By holding ourselves accountable, we acknowledge our weaknesses and strive to overcome them within our capacity.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to engage in self-reflection and self-improvement. It encourages us to be honest with ourselves, recognize our faults and sins, seek forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and make a sincere effort to correct our shortcomings. By doing so, we can strive towards becoming better individuals and attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to hold ourselves accountable and continuously seek His forgiveness.