The Great and the Glorious Lord said (to angels): Whenever My bondsman intends to corn it an evil, do not record it against him, but if he actually commits it, then write it as one evil. And when he intends to do good but does not do it, then take it down is one act of goodness, but if he does it, then write down ten good deeds (in his record).
The Book of Faith - Sahih Muslim 128a
This divine tradition (hadith qudsi) from Sahih Muslim reveals Allah's profound mercy and generosity in recording human deeds. The Almighty addresses the recording angels concerning His servants' intentions and actions.
Divine Mercy in Recording Evil
When a servant merely intends evil, Allah commands the angels not to record it. This demonstrates Allah's covering of His servants' faults and His patience with human weakness.
Only when the evil intention is actually carried out is it recorded as a single sin. This reflects divine justice tempered with mercy.
Divine Generosity in Recording Good
When a servant intends good but is unable to perform it, Allah commands it be recorded as a complete good deed. This shows Allah's appreciation for pure intentions.
When the good deed is actually performed, Allah multiplies the reward tenfold. This exemplifies divine generosity beyond human measure.
Scholarly Commentary
This tradition teaches that Allah's mercy precedes His wrath. The disparity between recording evil (only when committed) and good (even when intended) reveals Allah's desire to forgive rather than punish.
Scholars note this encourages believers to maintain pure intentions and strive for good deeds, knowing Allah values both intention and action with unparalleled generosity.