What do we do about evil thoughts striking our heart? Will we be held accountable for them?

Evil thoughts that strike the heart can indeed be distressing for a believer. However, Islamic teachings emphasize that individuals are not held accountable for these fleeting thoughts if they do not act upon them. The Qur'an reflects this understanding in several verses, indicating that accountability is primarily for actions rather than mere intentions or thoughts.

For example, Surah Al-Ankaboot states: Or do those who do ill-deeds imagine that they can outstrip Us? Evil (for them) is that which they decide. 29:4 This verse suggests that only those decisions that are firmly resolved upon lead to accountability. Similarly, Surah Al-Jaathiya reiterates: Or do those who commit ill-deeds suppose that We shall make them as those who believe and do good works, the same in life and death? Bad is their judgment! 45:21 This indicates that there is a distinction made between the actions of the righteous and those who commit wrongs.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also provided insight into this matter. He said: When a believer sins, a black spot appears on his heart. If he repents, removes it, and seeks forgiveness, his heart is polished. But if he increases in sin, the spot increases. This is the rust that Allah speaks of in His Book: ‘Nay, but on their hearts is the rust they used to earn.’ Sunan Ibn Majah 38:145SunniHasan (per Al-Albani) This narration illustrates that sinning can affect the heart, but repentance can cleanse it.

Both Sunni and Shia scholars agree that Allah’s mercy encompasses unexecuted thoughts and intentions. For instance, tafsir literature explains that Allah does not penalize individuals for mere thoughts of sinfulness, but for what they resolve to do sincerely and firmly in their hearts (Majma al-Bayan fi Tafsir al-Qur'an). Therefore, it is crucial for believers to seek forgiveness and strive for righteousness, as this purifies the heart and helps one remain steadfast against evil thoughts.