People strive for knowledge, wealth and honour but seldom think about correcting their own faults or preparing for the hereafter. Yet the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) called truly wise the person who takes account of himself and works for the life after death. Desh Rupantor's Islam desk explains the hadith.
The second part of the hadith, recorded in Sunan al-Tirmidhi (2459), says that the helpless one is he who follows his own desires and harbours false hopes of Allah.
The explanation notes that people are usually busy finding fault with others and look at themselves too little. Taking account of oneself means reviewing each day's words, deeds, conduct and intentions: how far Allah's commands were kept, whether anyone's rights were violated, whether anyone was hurt, whether any wealth was taken unjustly. When a mistake is found, the purpose is to admit it, repent and try to do better.
The piece cites verse 18 of Surah al-Hashr, which tells believers to fear Allah and consider what each has sent ahead for tomorrow. Worldly wealth, honour and influence will end, while good deeds remain provision for the hereafter.
The warning in the hadith is that ignoring Allah's law while simply hoping for forgiveness is self-deception. Hope in Allah's mercy must remain, but it must come with obedience, repentance and good deeds.
The truly wise, the piece concludes, remember death, value their time and try to fill each day with good deeds, knowing that every act of life will one day have to be answered for.
Source: Desh Rupantor
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