25. UNDERESTIMATING SINS
Many people underestimate matters they find trivial and minor, while in fact they compromise the principle tenets of Islam. For example, how students of knowledge borrow a book but never return it, or when someone enters upon a person eating so that he could eat with him; or being lenient when it comes to backbiting enemies as this gives them self-satisfaction; or looking at what is unlawful to look at and giving a verdict (fatwa) without knowledge just so no one can say he does not know etc.
The least effect of such sins degrades the rank of one who commits them in the sight of Allah and among people.
It may be said to such a person, ‘O you who was entrusted to a small matter but betrayed it, how could you hope for the pleasure of the Judge while you are indulging in sins thinking you will be forgiven?’
One of the righteous predecessors said: ‘I underestimated a bite (of food) I had forty years ago and to this day I am suffering because of it.’
So take heed of the words of the experienced and be mindful of Allah in all your actions. Consider the consequences and realise the greatness of the Commander. Beware of a belittled blow or a little spark, as it may burn down a town.
The meanings I have pointed out are just a few indicating much, and a model by which you can identify all the belittled sins.
Knowledge {‘ilm) and being mindful of Allah (muraqaba) in all your affairs shall help you to realise what you have overlooked to remember, and teach you to avoid the evil effect of sins.
And there is neither might nor power except with the help of Allah.
(Source: al-Hafiz Abu’l-Faraj ibn al-jawzl [d. 597AH] “CAPTURED THOUGHTS being” a translation of his masterpiece ‘Sayd al-K hatir)
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