AI-Hassan once wrote the following short letter to Umar bn AbdulAziz:
Fear what Allaah told you to fear. Take what is in your hands, and use it for what is to come (i.e. the Hereafter]. At the moment of death, sure news will come to you and peace. Umar wrote back, saying AI-Hassan to advise him some more. This is the letter that AI-Hassan wrote back: "Indeed the terror (of the Day of Resurrection] is greater (than you might think].
Indeed, frightful matters are near at hand. You will have to face all of that, either by facing it all and being saved, or by facing it all and being destroyed. Know that he who takes account of his own deeds will succeed, and that he who is negligent in this regard will fail. Whoever looks at the outcome 0f his actions will be saved, while he who obeys his desires will be misguided. Whoever is patient and for bearing will gain profits. Whoever remains awake and vigilant (regarding his deeds] will be safe; whoever is safe reflects and sees; whoever sees understands and whoever understands, knows. Then if you slip, return (and repent]. And when you are remorseful, then refrain (from returning to your sin]. When you are ignorant ask. And when you are angry, restrain your anger"
This article was culled from the publications of Deen Communication Limited