Is it permissible to set a daily schedule for self-reckoning by evaluating deeds with points, with the aim of self-discipline and seeking Allah's pleasure, and is this method considered an innovation (bid‘ah)?
Introspection is lawful, as indicated by the Hadith: "The shrewd one is he who holds himself accountable and works for what comes after death." Al-Tirmidhi interpreted "holds himself accountable" to mean that he evaluates himself in this world before the Day of Judgment.
It is narrated that Umar ibn al-Khattab said: "Hold yourselves accountable before you are held accountable." And it is narrated from Maymun ibn Mihran that a servant cannot be pious until he holds himself accountable for his food and clothing.
Ibn Abi Shaybah also narrated from Masruq that it is fitting for a person to be alone with himself to remember his sins and seek Allah's forgiveness.
The scheduling method to achieve accountability is merely a means and not an innovation.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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