Whenever `Aisha (the wife of the Prophet) heard anything which she did not understand, she used to ask again till she understood it completely. Aisha said: "Once the Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Whoever will be called to account (about his deeds on the Day of Resurrection) will surely be punished." I said, "Doesn't Allah say: "He surely will receive an easy reckoning." (84.8) The Prophet (ﷺ) replied, "This means only the presentation of the accounts but whoever will be argued about his account, will certainly be ruined."
The Excellence of Seeking Knowledge
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 103 demonstrates the virtue of persistently seeking clarification in religious matters. Lady Aisha, known for her profound understanding of Islam, did not remain silent about matters she did not comprehend, exemplifying the Islamic principle that seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim.
Understanding Divine Reckoning
The Prophet's initial statement refers to those who will undergo detailed questioning about their deeds on Judgment Day. Such intensive accounting indicates shortcomings in their faith and actions that require examination.
Aisha's reference to Surah Al-Inshiqaq verse 8 shows her deep knowledge of the Quran and her courage in seeking clarification from the Prophet himself when apparent contradictions arose in her understanding.
Two Types of Reckoning
The Prophet clarified there are two types of reckoning: The "easy reckoning" mentioned in the Quran refers to believers whose good deeds outweigh their bad ones, and their accounting will be a mere presentation without detailed questioning.
The second type involves "argumentation" about one's account, where the person disputes or attempts to justify their sins. This indicates either denial or lack of sincere repentance, leading to ruin as such argumentation with the All-Knowing Creator is futile and demonstrates spiritual deficiency.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars explain that the "easy reckoning" is for the righteous whose scales of good deeds will be heavy. Their minor sins will be forgiven through Allah's mercy without detailed examination.
The "argumentative reckoning" is for those who need to be reminded of their sins because they failed to repent properly. Their disputation with Allah - though they know the truth in their hearts - will only increase their humiliation and punishment.
This hadith encourages Muslims to perform righteous deeds sincerely, repent continuously, and avoid the pride that leads to justifying sins before Allah on Judgment Day.