and forgetting our sins is a reason for falling into Satan’s trap. This is a reality. When a person forgets his own sins, he starts thinking he is better. He becomes fearless of the hidden plan of Allah Almighty and becomes satisfied. This satisfaction and fearlessness make Satan’s job easy. Therefore, we should always keep our sins in mind.

Remembering Sins is Worship

The famous commentator of the Quran, Hakeem-ul-Ummat Mufti Ahmad Yar Khan Na’eemi رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْه states: “Forgetting your pious deeds and remembering your sins is worship.” (Tafseer-e-Na’eemi, part. 1, verse 40, vol. 1, pp. 325)

Alas! It is the opposite with us. People remember their pious deeds but forget their sins. One might remember the Tahajjud prayer they offered for one day, but they do not remember the prayers of fifty days they missed. Some people proudly say, "I kept ten fasts this Ramadan." Someone should tell them, "Brother! You missed twenty fasts!" A person remembers ten rupees given to the masjid, but forgets the thousands earned by cheating in business. Remember! This is a matter of great concern. Forgetting one’s sins is a door for Satan. When a person forgets his sins, Satan gains control over him. Therefore, always remember your sins! This is the way our hearts will become soft, the fear of Allah Almighty will enter our hearts, and we will keep repenting while fearing the seizure of the Merciful Lord. We will also stay safe from sins in the future.

Remembering a Childhood Sin

It is mentioned in the life of Sayyiduna Imam Hasan Basri رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْه, who was a great Saint, that he once made a mistake in his childhood. Although the mistake of a child who has not yet become baligh is not a sin, he still remembered it. It was his habit that whenever he had new clothes made, he would write that sin on the collar. Then, he would look at it and cry out of shame.

 (Tazkirat-ul-Auliya, part. 1, pp. 39)

اللہ اکبر! What a unique way to live. We should also always remember our mistakes, shortcomings and sins. We should think about them and fear the