The Prerequisite for Acceptance and Salvation

Abu Imraan Jowni (Rahmatullahi Alayh) narrates that Hazrat Umar (Radiyallahu Anhu) once passed by a monk engaged in worship. On seeing him Hazrat Umar (Radiyallahu Anhu) stopped and stood there for a while. The monk was notified that the Ameerul Mu’mineen is here. So he came forward. The effects of difficulty, exertion and forsaking the world were clearly visible on the monk.

On seeing him Hazrat Umar (Radiyallahu Anhu) broke out into tears. Someone commented: “But he is a Christian.” Hazrat Umar (Radiyallahu Anhu) replied: “I am well aware of that. The reason I am crying is because I pitty him when I recall the following verse of the Quran Karim: “Those who laboured hard and endured many difficulties (thinking that they were pleasing Allah Ta’ala whereas their beliefs and actions did not conform to the injunctions of Allah Ta’ala) they will enter the blazing fire.”

I feel sorry for him since despite his exertion and efforts in this world, he shall still end up in jahannam. (Hayatus Sahabah, Pg.72, vol1)

Lesson: The prerequisite for the acceptance of good deeds is Imaan, without which no good deed will be of any avail in the hereafter. Hence every effort should be made to safeguard and protect it against all incorrect influences.