merits and advantages of repentance

The messenger of Allah said "That person will be in a very good state who (on the day of Judgment) finds large number of istigfar (asking Allah's pardon) in his scroll of deeds." from ibnu majah

Explanation:

Since men continue to commit sins, big or small, and do not even perform good works in a proper manner and miss Namaz (solat) throught their lives and furthermore indulge in abomination and do not discharge their duties and obligations in full measure, it is absolutely neccessary that they should frequently ask Allah pardon.

Istigfar signifies asking pardon for sins. when a men ask pardon for sins several times, it will be reflected in his scroll of deeds on the day of judgment and consequently he will observe that his sisns have been forgiven and heaps of good deeds have beend credits to his account. At that time he will really appreciate the value of istigfar .

We learn that we should constantly engage ourself in namaz and asking for Allah's forgiveness. The hour of acceptance might come at any time when the goal might be achived. Luqman Hakim said "Form the habit of constantly imploring Allah's pardon, for there are some hours in which Allah Almighty does not reject the supplication of the beggar.

IF the forgiveness is asked from the heart, it is best. Even if it dose not come from the heart at least the tongue should frequently utter the prayer for forgiveness. This deed by Allah's will,will also bear good fruit. One should not be lethargic or negligent of asking pardon from Allah. Moreover, you should find occasions to offer repentance with sincere heart and full measure of shame, so that your prayer for pardon may not be always neglectful. Even if heart cannot be involved at all hours, at best sometimes its attention can be concerntrated on prayer.

A companion enquired from the Messenger of Allah : What is the sign of faith? He Observed : "When your good work delights you and your evil work strikes you as wrong ( You should understand that) you are a believer"