An individual wrote to Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi Sahib رحمه الله that he feels ashamed after committing a sin. He was advised that although having regret and remorse in the heart is part of repentance (Tawbah), he should verbally make Tawbah and at the same time exercise caution not to repeat the sin in the future.
The acceptance of Tawbah is dependent on the following conditions;
1. Acknowledging that one has committed a sin.
2. Having regret and remorse for indulgence in sin.
3. Make a sincere Tawbah for forgiveness of sins.
4. Promise Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله not to sin in the future.
Maseehul Ummah Hazrat Moulana Muhammad Maseehullah Khan Sahib رحمه الله has further added that we acknowledge that we are weak. We will definitely slip into error. Therefore, after making Tawbah, we must show absolute helplessness to Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله, plead for His Mercy and implore Him to keep us in His obedience. The Mashaa’ikh are unanimous that when a servant displays humility, this will attract the assistance of Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله.
Furthermore, Muhyis Sunnah Hazrat Moulana Abraarul Haq Sahib رحمه الله has mentioned that it would be extremely difficult to be accepted amongst the pious but it will indeed be a great favour from Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله if He included us amongst those who have repented.
It is extremely important for all of us to achieve an appropriate mindset when appealing to Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله to forgive us and to respond to our duaas.